#266 | The ARRIVE Trial Reaches Overseas: Birth Culture in France with Nicola Thompson and Her Daughter

Today's episode is a four-way conversation between us and a mother and daughter who are living in France. Nicola Thompson is a former L&D nurse of 30 years who worked in the U.S., and is now working in France as a traditional birth attendant, full-spectrum doula and IBCLC. Sasha Sharif, her daughter, is a mother of two with a third on the way. Sasha explains the impact her mother's life's work has had on her, and how that wisdom ultimately guided her away from birthing in the French maternity system. Instead, she (and her sister as well) have repeatedly opted to give birth at home attended by their mother. In this episode, we dive into the birth culture in France including what it is like to be a midwife in France, the country's 87% epidural rate in hospitals, how the ARRIVE Trial has influenced birth across the Atlantic, and the fact that the French consider the "due date" to be at 41 weeks! ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Vitality: An athleisure brand made for women, by women, designed with style and comfort for pregnancy and beyond. Davin & Adley- - The perfect nursing and pumping bra combined Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all of the above sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and receive a free 8-day supply. Be sure to use the unique link to buy yours today. 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.