Flat on your back isn’t the only way to give birth- but it’s the one most people expect. So how did that position become the standard, and what happens when you try something different?In this episode, we unpack the history behind why “back-only” became the norm, what the evidence actually shows about different pushing positions, and how things like gravity and mobility can make a big difference. We also talk about what this means for tearing, comfort, and feeling in control of your birth.If you’re preparing for labour- or just curious about how we got here- you’ll come away with a new perspective on what it really means to have options when it comes to pushing.
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48:46
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48:46
Postpartum Survival Kit: Your Fourth Trimester Must-Haves
You’ve packed your hospital bag, now let’s talk about what happens after baby arrives. In this quick mini-episode (Part Two of our birth prep series), OB/GYN Dr. Meghan McGrattan and L&D nurse Sydney share our ultimate Postpartum Survival Kit. From recovery essentials to the little comforts that make a big difference in those first few weeks, we’ll help you stock up on the items you’ll actually use- and skip the ones you won’t. Whether you’re preparing for your first postpartum experience or looking to make this time smoother than last, this list will help you heal, rest, and focus on your new arrival.If you missed Part One — Hospital Bag Essentials: Pack Like a Pro — go back and give it a listen!
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22:19
Pack Like a Pro: Hospital Bag Essentials
It’s almost go-time! This quick mini-episode is the first in our two-part series on getting ready for birth and postpartum recovery. Today, OB/GYN Dr. Meghan McGrattan and L&D nurse Sydney break down exactly what to pack in your hospital bag for labor and delivery- and what you can definitely leave at home. We cover the must-haves, the nice-to-haves, and the items that will just take up space (looking at you, three extra outfits!). Whether you’re a first-time parent or prepping for your next birth, this checklist will help you feel ready, calm, and confident when it’s time to meet your baby.Up next: Part Two- our Postpartum Survival Kit.
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26:24
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26:24
The Bounce Back Trap
Why are we still so obsessed with “baby weight”?In this episode, we break down the science and the societal pressure behind pregnancy weight gain and postpartum weight loss. From weekly weigh-ins at prenatal visits to the unrealistic timelines for “bouncing back” after birth, we’re asking: what’s the evidence, and what’s just expectation?Dr. Meghan and Nurse Sydney unpack why pre-pregnancy BMI is actually a much stronger predictor of outcomes than weight gain alone, what the guidelines really say, and how postpartum bodies became a cultural battleground. We also explore the emotional toll of treating recovery like a weight loss program, and what it means to shift the conversation toward healing instead of shrinking. If the scale has ever felt heavier than just a number, let’s unpack it together.
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54:53
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54:53
Beyond "Breast is Best"
Why the real goal is support in breastfeeding- not shame. World Breastfeeding Awareness Week kicks off August 1st, and we’re getting in early with the equally messy and miraculous truth about postpartum feeding.From leaky boobs to latch stress, nipple shields to formula shame- and yes, whether or not you can have that glass of wine- we’re breaking down the biology, busting the myths, and asking why everyone from your barista to your great-aunt thinks they get a say in how you feed your baby.Meghan shares what the research actually says (and what it doesn’t), Sydney brings the real talk from the bedside, and together we unpack things like DMER (yes, that sudden wave of dread is real), low supply anxiety, and why combo feeding is not a dirty word.If you've ever cried while washing pump parts, cursed a clogged duct, or just wanted someone to say “you’re doing great,” this episode is for you.
Hosted by Nurse Sydney and OB/GYN Meghan, The Push Podcast is the women’s health podcast that tackles the internet’s most viral misconceptions with evidence, empathy, and a lot of fun. Each week, we break down the science behind trending topics in obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive health- debunking myths, challenging outdated norms, and pushing back on misinformation.Whether you're a curious patient, a new parent, or a healthcare provider tired of bad TikTok takes, we’ve got you covered. No fear-mongering, no fluff- just honest conversations about the facts behind your body.The information shared on this account and in The Push Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice and is not a substitute for professional medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The views expressed are our own and do not represent those of our employers or affiliated institutions. We recognize that not everyone who experiences menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause identifies as a woman. While we sometimes use gendered language to reflect the terminology used in studies or clinical guidelines, The Push Podcast is committed to inclusivity and acknowledges the diverse identities of people affected by OB/GYN and reproductive health issues.
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