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Pregnancy Podcast

The Pregnancy Podcast provides information that goes way beyond the typical “pregnancy instruction manual” by sharing research-backed, evidence-based information. Vanessa Merten designs every episode to give you all the evidence, research, pros, cons, risks, and benefits. You will have all of the knowledge you need to decide the best options for you and feel confident about your decisions during your pregnancy and beyond. This podcast covers everything from trying to conceive, pregnancy, prenatal care, labor, birth, postpartum recovery, breastfeeding, newborns, and being a new parent.
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Now displaying: October, 2024
Oct 30, 2024
You probably know that taking a prenatal vitamin during pregnancy is important, but there’s more to it than just that simple advice. I’ve received a lot of questions recently, including: When should you start taking a prenatal vitamin? Is a prenatal really that different from a multivitamin? What can you do if you have trouble swallowing pills or experience nausea? And how long should you continue taking one after having your baby? Tune in to this episode to get answers to these essential questions and more, and ensure you and your baby are getting the right nutrients at the right time.
 
 
Thank you to our sponsor
 
Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin. In October 2024, you can save 40% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD40. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.
 
 
Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.
 
 
Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.
 
 
Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.
 
 
For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website. https://pregnancypodcast.com
Oct 27, 2024
The COVID-19 pandemic was the most significant global health crisis since the 1918 Spanish Flu. Fortunately, the severity and lethality of COVID-19 have greatly diminished. The overall risk of severe illness or death from COVID-19 is now low, including for pregnant women. However, there is evidence that contracting COVID-19 during pregnancy may increase the risk of adverse outcomes such as preterm birth, cesarean delivery, preeclampsia or eclampsia, and blood clots. To reduce these risks and provide passive immunity to the baby, healthcare professionals recommend the COVID-19 vaccine for pregnant women. Deciding whether to get vaccinated during pregnancy can be challenging, as it requires weighing the potential risks and benefits. 
 
This can be even more challenging with new vaccines that use innovative technology, where there is limited data and no long-term research yet available. Additionally, if you opt in to the COVID-19 vaccine you have choices regarding the type of vaccine and when to receive it. Learn about the available evidence on the safety, risks, and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines during pregnancy so you can make an informed and confident decision.
 
 
Thank you to our sponsors
 
Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin. In October 2024, you can save 40% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD40. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.
 
For a limited time only, you can get the 8 Sheep Pregnancy Survival Kit at $30 off, with free shipping within the US! Plus, save an additional 10% with the promo code PREGNANCYPODCAST. The Pregnancy Survival Kit includes a set of four handcrafted products that help with common pregnancy pains like pregnancy insomnia, restless legs, lower back and hip pains, leg cramps, swollen and achy legs and feet, and stretch marks. The amazing products from 8 Sheep are made with safe ingredients for you and your baby during pregnancy. Every product from 8 Sheep Organics comes with a 100-Day Happiness Guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.
 
Try AG1 and get a FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE AG1 travel packs with your first purchase. That’s a $48 value for FREE! Just one daily scoop provides whole-body benefits like gut, immune, and stress support. AG1 sources bioavailable ingredients that actually work with your body. Plus, their formula has all non-GMO ingredients and contains no added sugar. With AG1, I know I am filling any nutrient gaps and supporting my gut for healthy digestion.
(As a friendly reminder, pregnant or nursing women should seek professional medical advice before taking this or any other dietary supplement.)
 
 
Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.
 
 
Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.
 
 
Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.
 
 
For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.
Oct 23, 2024
This episode responds to a listener facing constant morning sickness and the conflicting emotions of wanting to be excited about pregnancy while struggling with uncomfortable symptoms. Morning sickness affects 60-80% of expecting mothers, and while the good news is that it typically subsides over time, there’s no one-size-fits-all cure. Finding relief can be a trial-and-error process. In this episode, we explore a variety of evidence-based remedies that may help alleviate nausea, including dietary changes, supplements, essential oils, and physical interventions.
 
 
Thank you to our sponsor
 
Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin. In October 2024, you can save 40% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD40. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.
 
 
Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.
 
 
Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.
 
 
Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.
 
 
For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.
Oct 20, 2024
RSV stands for respiratory syncytial virus, a common respiratory virus that usually causes upper respiratory illness with mild, cold-like symptoms. For some groups, like infants, RSV can be a severe lower respiratory tract illness. With no licensed vaccine available for babies, there are two options for protection against RSV. One option is a maternal RSV vaccine during pregnancy between 32 and 37 weeks from September through January. The other option is monoclonal antibodies administered to newborns within a week after birth. The vaccine and antibodies for RSV are both relatively newly approved treatments. This episode examines the available research to evaluate the safety and efficacy of these options so you can make an informed decision for yourself and your baby.
 
 
Thank you to our sponsors
 
Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin.In October 2024, you can save 40% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD40. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.
 
Try AG1 and get a FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE AG1 travel packs with your first purchase. That’s a $48 value for FREE! Just one daily scoop provides whole-body benefits like gut, immune, and stress support. AG1 sources bioavailable ingredients that actually work with your body. Plus, their formula has all non-GMO ingredients and contains no added sugar. With AG1, I know I am filling any nutrient gaps and supporting my gut for healthy digestion.
(As a friendly reminder, pregnant or nursing women should seek professional medical advice before taking this or any other dietary supplement.)
 
 
Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode. 
 
 
Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.
 
 
Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.
 
 
For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.
Oct 16, 2024
Vaccines can be a complex and controversial topic, especially for new parents. In this episode, we answer a listener's question about whether family members and visitors should be vaccinated before being around a newborn. We review the official vaccine recommendations and explore key considerations for your specific situation. Plus, we provide guidance on how to approach this conversation and handle any disagreements if you do request that close friends or family get vaccinated. Like any parenting decision, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Tune in to get the information you need to make an informed and confident decision for you and your baby.
 
 
Thank you to our sponsor
 
Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin.In October 2024, you can save 40% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD40. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.
 
 
Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.
 
 
Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.
 
 
Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.
 
 
For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.
Oct 13, 2024
Tdap is an inactivated vaccine that protects you against three different illnesses: tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. Pertussis is commonly known as whooping cough. The Tdap vaccine is recommended between 27 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. The main reason any vaccine is recommended during pregnancy is for the passive immunity your baby receives. Vaccines are a complex and often controversial topic. This episode follows a systematic approach that includes thorough research to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the Tdap vaccine.
 
 
Thank you to our sponsor
 
Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin. In October 2024, you can save 40% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD40. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.
 
 
Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.
 
 
Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.
 
 
Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.
 
 
For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.
Oct 9, 2024
You're not alone if you've ever worried about your baby's safety while performing everyday movements. Pregnancy is a time filled with questions and concerns; sometimes, the most minor actions can lead to big worries. This episode addresses a common concern about whether it's possible to pop something or break your water by bending over wrong. Thankfully, your baby is very safe and protected by the amniotic sac and your uterus during pregnancy. However, the physical changes that occur during pregnancy can make you more prone to injury. Learn how the body protects your baby and discover tips on how to keep yourself safe and injury-free.
 
 
Thank you to our sponsor
 
Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin. In October 2024, you can save 40% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD40. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.
 
 
Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.
 
 
Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.
 
 
Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.
 
 
For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.
Oct 6, 2024
Flu, or influenza, is a contagious disease caused by the influenza virus. In most healthy adults, flu symptoms are typically mild and resolve within about a week. However, during pregnancy, the body's heightened inflammatory response can increase the risk of complications from the flu. To reduce these risks and provide passive immunity to babies, healthcare professionals recommend the flu vaccine for pregnant women. Deciding whether to get vaccinated during pregnancy can be challenging, as it involves weighing the potential risks and benefits. Additionally, you have choices regarding the type of flu vaccine and the timing of administration. This episode reviews the research and considerations for making an informed decision about the flu vaccine during pregnancy.
 
This episode is up to date for the 2023-24 flu season.
 
 
Thank you to our sponsor
 
Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin. In October 2024, you can save 40% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD40. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.
 
 
Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.
 
 
Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.
 
 
Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.
 
 
For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.
Oct 2, 2024
Deciding to supplement with formula can be a challenging decision for many new parents, especially when it comes to selecting the right one. With so many options available, it can be tough to decipher what truly represents the best quality for your baby. This episode discusses the intricacies of choosing an infant formula that prioritizes high-quality ingredients, evaluating organic options, and avoiding corn syrup and seed oils.
 
 
Thank you to our sponsor
 
Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. The Zahler Prenatal +DHA is my #1 recommendation for a high-quality prenatal vitamin. In October 2024, you can save 40% off the Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD40. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by clicking here.
 
 
Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.
 
 
Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.
 
 
Check out the 40 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners.
 
 
For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.
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