In this episode of the Breath and Birth co podcast, Vanessa, a hospital-based, DONA-certified birth doula, and childbirth educator, delves into the topic of endometriosis. She answers common questions about the signs, symptoms, and diagnosis of the disease, and discusses various treatment options, including excision surgery. She also discusses how endometriosis affects pregnancy, birth, and postpartum experience. Vanessa shares insights from her own 15-year journey to diagnosis and encourages listeners to advocate for themselves. The episode emphasizes the importance of having a supportive care team and the impact of lifestyle adjustments on managing symptoms. For more details, listeners are encouraged to check the show notes and previous podcast Episode 1 Beginning, Middle, Endo and Episode 7 One Good Egg, Perfect Timing, and a Clear Path.

In this episode of the Breath and Birth Co. podcast, Vanessa, a Certified Birth Doula and Childbirth Educator, addresses key questions about labor and birth. Vanessa explores essential topics including informed consent, the importance of cervical checks, and what constitutes a Bishop score. She explains your rights throughout the birthing process, stressing the significance of bodily autonomy and informed decision-making. Additionally, Vanessa provides insights into the three crucial measurements taken during a cervical check—dilation, effacement, and station—and how they can affect labor. The episode concludes with a detailed look at the Bishop score and how it can predict the likelihood of a successful induction. Vanessa also highlights the value of comprehensive childbirth education and introduces her online course, 'Metamorphosis'.

In this episode of the Breath and Birth Co. podcast, Vanessa, a Certified Birth Doula and Certified Childbirth Educator, answers common questions from expecting parents. She provides an explanation on how to find hospital C-section rates, the implications of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) on your care plan, and what to consider if your provider schedules a 39-week induction without proper discussion. Vanessa emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making, discussing the use of the BRAINS acronym to evaluate medical procedures and interventions. Tune in for resources, advice, and encouragement to help you navigate your pregnancy and birth journey.

Vanessa distinguishes between the non-medical support of doulas and the medical care provided by midwives and obstetricians, explaining various midwife credentials. Vanessa also discusses when to head to the hospital during labor, what VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) entails, and stresses the importance of informed decisions and finding the right provider.