Realfoodology Natural Birth, Epidurals, + The Real Risks of Formula | Lindsey Meehleis
244: This week, I’m joined by Lindsey Meehleis, a certified midwife, doula, lactation consultant, EMT, CPR instructor, and neonatal resuscitation provider. Lindsey brings a truly holistic approach to birth, and our conversation dives deep into the importance of honoring the natural physiology of labor. As someone on my own fertility journey, I asked all the questions I’ve been curious about — from how to find a midwife to what real support during birth looks like.
We explore the over-medicalization of birth in the Western world, how to prepare for a more empowered and informed birthing experience, and why individualized care matters so much. Lindsey’s wisdom and passion for supporting women through this rite of passage is incredibly inspiring — I left this conversation wanting her by my side when I give birth someday.
Topics Discussed:
- What is the difference between a midwife and a doula?
- How can I prepare for a natural birth in a medicalized world?
- Are epidurals and Pitocin necessary for every labor?
- What are the risks of relying on baby formula over breastfeeding?
- How to find a trustworthy midwife or doula?
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Timestamps:
- 00:00:00 – Introduction
- 00:03:42 – How birth became medicalized
- 00:06:51 – The "PuberTea" and early health education
- 00:08:17 – Navigating pregnancy in the Western world
- 00:13:18 – Epidurals, fentanyl, and early latching challenges
- 00:18:10 – The risks of baby formula
- 00:22:25 – The impact of high fructose corn syrup
- 00:24:14 – Maternity leave and postpartum support
- 00:26:34 – Latching tips & working with lactation consultants
- 00:31:51 – The truth about breastfeeding
- 00:33:46 – A brief history of birth practices
- 00:35:01 – C-sections, vaginal seeding, and gut health
- 00:37:40 – Learning to trust your body
- 00:39:31 – Pitocin, natural birth, and informed choices
- 00:44:11 – Advocacy and the MAHA Mom Coalition
- 00:48:44 – Environmental toxins: Glyphosate and fertility
- 00:51:52 – Understanding gestational diabetes
- 00:55:40 – Birth centers vs. hospitals
- 01:00:04 – How to find a midwife or doula
- 01:02:13 – Managing emergencies during birth
- 01:07:10 – Why individualized birth care matters
- 01:09:10 – Midwife vs. Doula: What's the difference?
- 01:10:53 – Addressing concerns about home birth
- 01:13:58 – Where to find Lindsey Meehleis
Show Links:
- Sperm counts have declined by over 50% globally
- The U.S. fertility rate has dropped from 2.48 in 1970 to just 1.64 toda
- The U.S. maternal mortality rate has increased by over 60% in two years
- Black women are 2.6 times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women.
- Hispanic maternal mortality rates The World Needs 900,000 More Midwives
- Breastfeeding rates
- Worker protections need to be implemented
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Produced By: Drake Peterson