#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 placentas Setting boundaries with well-meaning parenting advice-givers The necessity or not of Non-stress tests (NST) in late pregnancy True 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 pregnancy Pap smear recommendations Fetal heart rate decelerations in labor Postpartum doulas and how they can best support breastfeeding Umbilical 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 a text Needed <-- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT <-- this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure: ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe : Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGY Bits : <--this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube ! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.