EBB 321 - An Empowering, Trauma-Informed Home Birth with First-Time Mom and EBB Childbirth Class Graduate Iris Casey

07/31/24 • 56 min

Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class graduate Iris Casey is sharing her inspiring home birth story with Dr. Dekker. Iris opens up about her journey to motherhood, after grappling with the decision to become a parent and overcoming past traumas. She recounts the unexpected onset of labor, navigating the early stages with her supportive partner, and utilizing the knowledge gained from the EBB Childbirth Class and Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas," to create a tailored birth plan. Tune in to hear Iris's story of resilience, preparation, and the emotional experience of bringing her daughter, Roselle, into the world in the safety and comfort of her own home. Resources:

Check out Iris' birth and postpartum support website, Mother Essence

For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Check out Iris' birth and postpartum support website, Mother Essence

Previous Episode

EBB 320 - Evidence on the Impact of Epidurals on the Pushing Phase of Labor

The impact of epidurals on the second stage of labor has sparked a lot of discussion. Research suggests that epidurals can prolong this stage... and a prolonged second stage can be associated with increased risks of infection, severe tears and the need for interventions like forceps-assisted delivery or Cesarean. But does an epidural mean that you are higher risk for complications during the second stage of labor, or are there ways to lessen your risks? In this episode, Dr. Dekker explores the physiological effects of epidurals (and how they impact your body's birthing reflexes), the correlation between epidurals and the duration of the second stage of labor, and nuanced perspectives from professional guidelines worldwide— including a brief discussion of "laboring down" (aka delayed pushing). References:

To access all the scientific references that go along with this episode, visit our blog article here.
Access the rest of our EBB Pain Management series go to this page and click on “Pain Management Series.”
Check out the EBB Pocket Guide to Comfort Measures here.
Find an EBB Childbirth Class near you here.

Next Episode

EBB 322 - Harnessing the Power of the Mind to Enhance Joy and Comfort in Childbirth with Kerry Tuschhoff, Founder of Hypnobabies®️

Kerry Tuschhoff, founder and director of Hypnobabies®, brings a wealth of experience as a childbirth educator, doula, speaker, and hypnotherapist to the realm of hypnobirthing. Inspired by her own challenging birth experiences and a TV show about hypnosis for childbirth, she meticulously studied hypnotherapy and pain management to develop Hypnobabies®, which integrates hypno-anesthesia techniques for effective pain relief during labor. Her program not only empowers expectant parents to make informed decisions regarding interventions such as epidurals and episiotomies but also emphasizes the role of birth partners in maintaining a calm and supportive environment. Kerry champions the idea that consistent practice of hypnosis techniques, paired with a positive mindset and self-advocacy, can significantly enhance the birthing experience, making it more comfortable and holistic. Resources:

To learn more about Hypnobabies and the techniques mentioned in the episode, visit the Hypnobabies website here.
Follow Hypnobabies on Facebook, YouTube, TikTok and Instagram.