#215 | May Q&A: NSTs, Short Cords, Boundaries, Fetal Ejection Reflex, Decels in Labor, Artificial Rupture of Membranes, VBAC, Postpartum Doulas

Hello! We are back with the May Q&A.  This month we kick things off with a short conversation on obstetrical rhetoric around the risks of cesarean birth and induction, followed by your excellent  questions on:Short cords and small placentasSetting boundaries with well-meaning parenting advice-giversThe necessity or not of Non-stress tests (NST) in late pregnancyTrue medical indications for artificial rupture of membranes (AROM)VBAC labor contractions and an interesting tidbit on the impact of eating dairy in pregnancy Supporting the fetal ejection reflex (FER)Can coffee (yep, you read that right) prevent tearing in labor?And in our extended version of this episode, we dive into:Ultrasounds in late pregnancyPap smear recommendationsFetal heart rate decelerations in laborPostpartum doulas and how they can best support breastfeedingUmbilical cords as bungee cords or not?And of course, everyone's favorite, a round of quickies!Pitocin Episode #134 here.Join us over on Patreon or subscribe on Apple podcasts for the extended version of this episode. Down to Birth is sponsored by:Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty.Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply with nourishing protein powder, hydration boosters and lactation bites.Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort after vaginal birth. Send us Fan Mail Support the showAccess our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs RhetoricNeeded <-- for 20% off DrinkLMNT <--  for FREE 8-day supplyPrimally Pure Skincare: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Use code DOWNTOBIRTHENERGYBits Superfood<--for 20% offJoin Patreon hereIG @downtobirthshowCall 802-GET-DOWN. Watch us on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice.