Driven by Faith Doula Podcast

In episode 3 of the Driven by Faith Podcast, we explore the often misunderstood and misdiagnosed issues of "Failure to Progress" and "Failure to Descend" in childbirth. These diagnoses are some of the leading causes of cesarean sections, but they are often preventable with a deeper understanding of fetal cardinal movements, patience, and support during labor. We break down how misinterpretation of labor progression and rushing the birth process can lead to unnecessary interventions, exhaustion for the birthing mother, and avoidable complications.Through this discussion, we offer insight into how doulas and healthcare providers can better support laboring mothers by recognizing the natural phases of birth and allowing adequate time for fetal movements. Patience is key in avoiding hasty decisions and ensuring a smoother, more empowered birth experience.Key Points:The definitions of "Failure to Progress" and "Failure to Descend" and how they are often overused or misapplied.Understanding the natural process of fetal cardinal movements and why rushing labor can hinder progress.How diagnosing "Failure to Progress" too early can lead to unnecessary interventions such as cesarean sections, forceps, or vacuum-assisted deliveries.The importance of recognizing the body’s need for time to allow the baby’s head and shoulders to rotate and descend naturally.Why proper positioning and patient support during labor can prevent common misdiagnoses.How doulas and birth workers can help reduce the likelihood of premature interventions by empowering the mother and advocating for a more patient approach to labor.Quote from this episode: "Mislabeling 'Failure to Progress' or 'Failure to Descend' often stems from a lack of understanding of the baby’s cardinal movements, especially with respect to the head and shoulders. Premature pulling on the baby’s head before the shoulders have rotated can lead to compaction, increasing the risk of shoulder dystocia and unnecessary interventions."Takeaways:Education is Key: Misdiagnosing “Failure to Progress” often results from a lack of understanding about the phases of labor. Parents, Providers and doulas must be educated on the natural timeline of birth to prevent unnecessary interventions.Patience Pays Off: Allowing labor to progress at its own pace often results in smoother births and fewer complications. Avoid rushing the process based on arbitrary timelines.Support the Birthing Person: Doulas play a vital role in supporting mothers through labor, informing them about the birth process while encouraging patience and non-invasive approaches through education and emotional support.Change the Narrative: Reducing the over-diagnosis of "Failure to Progress" and "Failure to Descend" requires a shift in how we view labor progression—trusting the body’s natural ability to birth & the babies role in this process, rather than adhering to rigid timelines.Connect with Us:Instagram: @thepositivepregnancyjourney and @faithdrivendoulaFaith Driven Doula Facebook GroupDoula/CBE Directory: FDD DirectorySpecial Announcement: There’s still time to join our Fall 2024 Training Cohort, DOORS CLOSE AUGUST 25TH!Our final remote Doula/CBE training of the year starts on September 3rd, Sign up today!

Welcome to Episode 1 of the Driven by Faith Doula Podcast, where we discuss essential practices for expecting mothers as they approach the end of their pregnancy. Moving beyond the common advice, we focus on what mothers should actually be doing to prepare for a positive birth experience.Episode Highlights:Introduction:Brief overview of the common advice on engaging, cervical dilation, and consuming specific foods and drinks.Transition to the main focus: practical actions expecting mothers should take.Segment 1: Focusing on Maternal AlignmentImportance of maternal alignment for optimal fetal positioning.Practical tipsSegment 2: Rest, Nourish, Hydrate Like Prepping for a MarathonEmphasize self-care in the final weeks of pregnancy.Rest:Getting adequate sleep and rest.Listening to the body’s signals and taking breaks when needed.Nourishment:Eating a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, proteins, calories and low carbs.Focus on foods that provide sustained energy and support overall health.Hydration:Staying well-hydrated to support bodily functions and prevent dehydration.Importance of drinking water and electrolyte-balanced fluids.Segment 3: Worship in the WaitFinding peace and mindfulness in the waiting periodWorship music, dancing, daily devotionals, scripture affirmations Meditation and prayerCreating a peaceful environment at home/in the labor spaceConnecting with a support community or faith groupExtra Tip Segment: Review Resources and Childbirth EducationImportance of being informed and prepared for childbirth.Overview of key topics:Pelvic Levels: Understanding different levels of the pelvis and their effect on labor.Fetal Navigation: Techniques to help the baby navigate through the pelvis.Pelvic Mobility: Exercises and movements to increase flexibility and ease of movement.External Hand Placement: Tips for using hands to support and guide during labor.Maternal Positions and Movements: Effective positions and movements to facilitate labor progress.Connect with Us:Instagram: @thepositivepregnancyjourney and @faithdrivendoula Faith Driven Doula Facebook group.Doula/CBE Directory: FDD DirectorySpecial Announcement:Last but not least, you can join our last remote doula/CBE training of the year to become a part of the Faith Driven family and offer this extraordinary support. Doors are closing soon, and class begins on September 3rd, online via Zoom. Don’t miss this opportunity to make a difference. Enroll in the Fall 2024 Training Cohort.For more information about our Faith Driven Doula Program, visit our website.