Episodes

  • Hyperemesis Gravidarum 101: Why Severe Pregnancy Sickness Can Become Life-Threatening | #175

    Hyperemesis Gravidarum 101: Why Severe Pregnancy Sickness Can Become Life-Threatening | #175
    Jul 29 2026

    Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is far more than morning sickness. In this episode, we break down the science behind severe pregnancy nausea and vomiting, including how it's diagnosed, why it happens, potential genetic causes, treatment options, and what current research says.


    Dr. Morgan explains the latest evidence surrounding GDF-15, risk factors, medications, IV therapy, nutritional deficiencies, and recovery, while Leah shares her own experience with debilitating pregnancy sickness. Whether you've experienced HG yourself, love someone who has, or simply want to better understand this often misunderstood condition, this episode offers education, compassion, and practical resources.


    00:00 Introduction

    02:17 What Is Hyperemesis Gravidarum?

    03:26 Signs & Diagnostic Criteria

    05:50 HG vs Severe Morning Sickness

    07:41 Risk Factors & Who Is Most Likely to Develop HG

    11:55 Health Risks for Mom

    18:00 Mental Health & The Emotional Toll

    23:16 Effects on Baby

    25:33 What Causes Hyperemesis Gravidarum?

    27:50 The GDF-15 Gene Explained

    30:29 Histamine, Mast Cells & Other Possible Causes

    33:31 Recurrence & Future Pregnancies

    36:20 Medical Treatment Options

    42:04 Natural & Integrative Therapies

    46:21 Chinese Medicine vs Acupuncture

    50:38 Additional Support Strategies

    52:58 Recovery After Hyperemesis

    54:53 Final Takeaways & Encouragement


    Resources From This Episode:

    • Sick - The Battle Against HG - https://www.primevideo.com/detail/0PUSG6EOZI4HTVVAWY18JE66WC
    • HER Foundation https://www.hyperemesis.org/
    • https://herhomeopathy.ca/homeopathy-for-morning-sickness/
    • Gill homeopath - https://consultanthomeopath.com/homeopathy
    • Sean Chinese Medicine Herbs https://www.folkwiseherbalmedicine.com/
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Mini IVF vs Traditional IVF: A Personalized Fertility Approach with Dr. Lyndon Chang | #174

    Mini IVF vs Traditional IVF: A Personalized Fertility Approach with Dr. Lyndon Chang | #174
    Jul 22 2026

    If you've been told IVF is your only option, or you've already gone through failed IVF cycles, this episode may completely change the way you think about fertility treatment.


    Dr. Leah sits down with her personal reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Lyndon Chang, founder of Hanabusa IVF and a pioneer in minimal stimulation IVF, to discuss why fertility treatment shouldn't be one-size-fits-all. Together, they break down the differences between traditional IVF and Mini IVF, why more medications don't always mean better outcomes, how individualized protocols can improve care, and why understanding the root cause of infertility matters just as much as creating embryos.


    Whether you're just beginning your fertility journey or searching for answers after unsuccessful IVF cycles, this conversation offers a refreshing perspective on personalized fertility care.


    00:00 Trailer & Introduction

    00:53 How Dr. Chang Became an IVF Specialist

    04:52 Mini IVF vs. Traditional IVF

    08:52 Understanding Your IVF Options

    13:27 Why Personalized IVF Matters

    18:20 Why IVF Can Fail: Looking Beyond the Embryo

    23:20 Natural vs. Medicated Embryo Transfers

    27:42 When It's Time to Change IVF Clinics

    29:20 Who Can Benefit Most from Mini IVF

    30:52 Final Thoughts & Fertility Advice


    Resources From This Episode:

    • Dr. Chang's Clinic: https://www.hanabusaivf.com/
    • Dr. Leah's Womanhood Wellness Membership: www.womanhoodwellness.com
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    38 mins
  • Baby Registry Supplies: What's in My Postpartum Cart | #173

    Baby Registry Supplies: What's in My Postpartum Cart | #173
    Jul 15 2026

    Preparing for postpartum doesn't have to be overwhelming. In this episode, Dr. Morgan shares everything she's putting in her postpartum cart as she prepares for baby number five, including the products she swears by, the items she skips, and why less is often more.


    From breastfeeding essentials, perineal healing, baby gear, and postpartum supplements to nutrition, mental health, and recovery, this episode is a practical guide for building a postpartum setup that truly supports both mom and baby.


    Whether you're expecting your first baby or your fifth, you'll walk away knowing what actually deserves a spot on your registry, and what doesn't.


    00:00 Trailer + Intro

    02:15 Why You Don't Need Everything

    07:46 Breastfeeding Essentials

    09:41 Best Products for Nipple Healing

    13:44 When to Use a Nipple Shield

    21:07 Milk Collection & Breast Pads

    27:24 Active Skin Repair

    29:47 Electrolytes for Recovery

    32:23 Milk Supply Support

    34:29 Nursing Bras

    35:09 Perineal Healing Essentials

    39:48 Baby Essentials You Actually Need

    41:15 Favorite Diapers & Wipes

    44:35 Baby Clothes & Sleep Setup

    48:29 Pacifiers & Baby Carriers

    54:09 Postpartum Comfort & Recovery

    56:44 Best Postpartum Supplements

    58:37 Nourishing Herbs & Tonics

    60:59 Stress & Mental Health Support

    68:56 Nutrition & Meal Planning

    74:16 What I Don't Buy


    Resources From This Episode:

    • Get all of the supplies mentioned in this episode here: https://milkmedicine.com/postpartum-cart-links/


    Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTube

    Healthy As A Mother Podcast | Instagram

    Healthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTok

    Healthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch Store


    Find more from Dr. Leah:

    Dr. Leah Gordon | Instagram

    Dr. Leah Gordon | Website

    Womanhood Wellness | Website


    Find more from Dr. Morgan:

    Dr. Morgan MacDermott | Instagram

    Dr. Morgan MacDermott | Website


    Use code HEALTHMOTHER and save 10% at Ninni Co.

    Use code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at Earthley

    Use code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at Redmond

    For 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHER

    Save $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

    Use code HAAM and save 10% at Fond
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    1 hr and 27 mins
  • The Hidden Signs of Endometriosis: Infertility, Painful Periods & What Actually Helps with Cindy Dabrowska | #172

    The Hidden Signs of Endometriosis: Infertility, Painful Periods & What Actually Helps with Cindy Dabrowska | #172
    Jul 8 2026
    Endometriosis affects an estimated 1 in 10 women, yet many spend years searching for answers before receiving a diagnosis. In this episode, Leah sits down with endometriosis and fertility dietitian Cindy Dabrowska to unpack the often-overlooked signs of endometriosis, its connection to infertility, painful periods, digestive issues, hormone imbalances, and chronic inflammation.Together, they discuss why endometriosis is frequently missed, emerging diagnostic tools, the role of surgery, how pregnancy impacts symptoms, and the nutrition and lifestyle strategies that can help improve quality of life. Whether you've been diagnosed with endometriosis, suspect you may have it, or are navigating unexplained infertility, this conversation offers practical insights and hope.00:00 Trailer & Introduction01:52 Cindy's Endometriosis Journey04:32 How Long Does It Take to Get Diagnosed?05:32 Common & Unexpected Endometriosis Symptoms07:39 Silent Endometriosis & Infertility09:22 Subtle Signs Women Often Miss11:45 Estrogen, Hormones & Endometriosis16:42 How Endometriosis Is Diagnosed Today20:35 Should You Start Treatment Before Diagnosis?23:52 Birth Control, Surgery & Individualized Care27:18 Can Diet & Lifestyle Reverse Endometriosis?31:42 Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Endometriosis Symptoms38:23 Is Endometriosis Similar to Cancer?41:39 Cindy's 4-Part Endometriosis Healing Framework44:06 Why Progesterone Matters47:06 The Nervous System's Role in Endometriosis49:26 Trauma, Stress & Chronic Pain50:43 How to Work with Cindy52:34 Final ThoughtsResources From This Episode:The Endo Thrive Masterclass - https://supportiveendord.ewebinar.com/webinar/the-endo-thrive-masterclass-23717Cindy's website: https://www.endometriosisdietitian.ca/Follow Cindy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endo.fertility.dietitian/Subscribe to Cindy's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@theendofertilityspaceDr. Leah's Womanhood Wellness Membership: https://drleahgordon.com/join Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at EarthleyUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHERUse code HAAM and save 10% at Fond
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    59 mins
  • Hospital Transfer During Birth: Why It Happens, What to Expect & How to Stay Empowered | #171

    Hospital Transfer During Birth: Why It Happens, What to Expect & How to Stay Empowered | #171
    Jul 1 2026
    Planning a home birth or birth center birth? While most out-of-hospital births go as planned, hospital transfers are more common than many families realize. In this episode, we break down the most common reasons a transfer may happen before or during labor, including prolonged labor, maternal exhaustion, fetal positioning concerns, post-dates pregnancy, ruptured membranes, and more.We also discuss the emotional side of transfer, why it is not a failure, how to prepare mentally and practically for the possibility of a hospital birth, and ways to stay empowered if your birth plan changes. Whether you're planning an out-of-hospital birth or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers valuable education, reassurance, and practical tools for navigating unexpected changes during birth.00:00 Trailer & Introduction02:21 Why Hospital Transfer Isn't Failure05:46 Letting Go of Guilt & Self-Blame11:49 Home Birth Transfer Statistics15:11 Most Common Reasons for Transfer16:54 Reasons You May Transfer Before Labor19:36 Going Past Your Due Date21:41 Fear of Hospital Births & COVID Experiences24:20 Why You Should Prepare for Transfer26:31 Low Fluid, Blood Pressure & Other Risks28:23 Breech Babies & Other Pregnancy Complications33:16 Reasons for Transfer During Labor33:45 Water Breaking Without Labor35:40 Stalled Labor & Baby Positioning37:35 Maternal Exhaustion & Pain Relief Requests41:56 Medical Complications During Labor43:20 Fetal Concerns & Meconium44:44 How to Mentally Handle a Transfer46:46 What Happens When You Arrive at the Hospital53:56 Practical Tips & Your Hospital Backup Plan55:59 Processing Your Birth Experience Afterwards58:13 Homeopathic Support for Fear & Shock58:46 Healing, Perspective & Birth Trauma59:39 Final ThoughtsOther Related Episodes:#32: The Vital Importance of Baby's Position During Birth with Ann Gilligan - https://open.spotify.com/episode/2IMXN6PmYDZBUcm78G3QeX?si=yNNZH5-sQDG3OaKeRlXD6A#40: The Wisdom in Waiting - https://open.spotify.com/episode/19MTWQjyEHl804m4UEcvT8?si=KuMgrblvSmy3HzQHKO9pGw#136: How The Hospital System Manipulates Moms with Dr. Stuart Fischbein MD - https://youtu.be/iKj69MpgmD0?si=ADEsze8RNtRCKkqO#168: Hospital Birth 101 Part 1 - https://youtu.be/8AohlC6Rc_E#169: Hospital Birth 101 Part 2 - https://youtu.be/Zracs5-cytEHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HEALTHMOTHER and save 10% at Ninni Co.Use code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at EarthleyUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHERUse code HAAM and save 10% at Fond
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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • Low Progesterone & Fertility: Luteal Phase Defects, Miscarriage Risk + Natural Hormone Support with Sophia Pavia | #170

    Low Progesterone & Fertility: Luteal Phase Defects, Miscarriage Risk + Natural Hormone Support with Sophia Pavia | #170
    Jun 24 2026
    Progesterone is one of the most important hormones for fertility, healthy ovulation, and sustaining early pregnancy, yet so many women are never taught how it actually works.In this episode, Dr. Leah and Dr. Morgan sit down with fertility nutritionist Sophia Pavia to break down the truth about low progesterone, luteal phase defects, ovulation quality, and why so many women today are struggling with hormone imbalances, infertility, and pregnancy loss.We unpack how progesterone is made, why ovulation is essential for healthy hormone balance, what “unopposed estrogen” really means, and the signs your luteal phase may need support. Sophia also explains why conventional medicine can be hesitant about progesterone supplementation, when it may be appropriate, and how nutrition, stress, blood sugar balance, and cycle tracking can help support stronger ovulation and healthier progesterone production naturally.If you’re trying to conceive, navigating recurrent loss, or simply want to better understand your hormones, this episode is packed with practical education and empowering insight.00:00 Intro + Sophia Returns To The Podcast01:24 Why Low Progesterone Matters for Fertility02:34 Why So Many Women Struggle with Progesterone Today13:17 How PCOS, Endometriosis & Hypothalamic Amenorrhea Affect Progesterone15:49 How Progesterone Is Actually Made in the Body19:59 Estrogen vs Progesterone: What Balance Really Means25:49 Can You Have a Weak Ovulation?33:40 Egg Quality vs Progesterone: Which Comes First?35:24 Why Doctors Often Hesitate to Prescribe Progesterone41:59 When Progesterone Supplementation May Help46:16 Signs Your Luteal Phase Needs Support47:56 How to Support Progesterone Naturally50:42 Where to Find Sophia + Final EncouragementResources From This Episode:Sophia's Website - https://www.ttcnutritionist.com/Follow Sophia on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ttc.nutritionistOther Related Episodes:Episode #31: The Power of Progesterone - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/healthy-as-a-mother/id1663942916?i=1000625679300Episode #108: Surviving a Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancy with Sophia Pavia - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/healthy-as-a-mother/id1663942916?i=1000703730128Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at EarthleyUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHERUse code HAAM and save 10% at Fond
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    59 mins
  • Home Birth 101, Part 2: Midwives, Transfers, Cost, Prep + What Actually Happens During a Home Birth | #169

    Home Birth 101, Part 2: Midwives, Transfers, Cost, Prep + What Actually Happens During a Home Birth | #169
    Jun 17 2026
    What actually happens during a home birth?In part two of this Home Birth 101 conversation, Dr. Morgan walks through what makes home birth safe, the role of midwives, what labor looks like at home, when transfers happen, newborn care, cost considerations, and how to prepare physically and mentally.If you’ve ever wondered what home birth looks like behind the scenes, or what happens if things don’t go according to plan, this episode gives you the practical breakdown.00:00 Trailer + Introduction01:26 What Makes Home Birth Safe?06:36 Different Types of Midwives Explained11:56 Why Candidate Selection Matters15:11 What Actually Happens During a Home Birth20:56 Common Reasons for Hospital Transfer26:11 Emergency vs Non-Emergency Transfers29:06 Newborn Care After Home Birth33:46 Finding the Right Midwife39:36 Home Birth Cost & Insurance45:41 Birth Prep & Classes51:56 Managing Labor Pain at Home57:46 Common Home Birth Fears1:01:36 Final Thoughts: Is Home Birth Right for You?Resources From This Episode:Birthing from Within bookBradley MethodHypnobirthing40 Blinks EyemaskNew Earth Mama Spotify PlaylistOther Related Episodes:Birth Plan EpisodeBirth Episode PlaylistHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at EarthleyUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHERUse code HAAM and save 10% at Fond
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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • Home Birth 101, Part 1: Is Home Birth Safe? Research, Risks, Myths + Who It’s For | #168

    Home Birth 101, Part 1: Is Home Birth Safe? Research, Risks, Myths + Who It’s For | #168
    Jun 10 2026
    Thinking about a home birth but unsure whether it’s actually safe?In part one of this Home Birth 101 series, Dr. Morgan breaks down the biggest myths around home birth, who is actually a good candidate, why some women choose home birth over hospital birth, and what the research says about safety outcomes for low-risk pregnancies.We also unpack intervention rates, C-sections, epidurals, transfers, and why birth environment matters more than most people realize.If you’ve been curious about home birth but overwhelmed by fear-based messaging, this episode is a must-listen.00:00 Introduction + Trailer02:39 Why We Needed a Home Birth Episode09:05 What We’re Covering in This Series09:54 Home Birth vs Birth Center vs Hospital Birth13:19 Why Women Choose Home Birth20:09 Who Is a Good Candidate for Home Birth?23:05 The Mindset Required for Home Birth26:32 COVID & The Shift Toward Home Birth28:09 Is Home Birth Actually Safe?36:47 What Research Says About Home Birth Outcomes44:37 Part 1 Wrap-UpResources From This Episode:Maternal Outcomes StudyOther Related Episodes:Dr. Morgan's First Three Home Birth StoriesDr. Morgan's 4th Birth StoryDr. Leah's 1st Birth StoryDr. Leah's 2nd Birth StoryEverything You Need to Know About Hospital Birth with Care MesserHow Breech Birth Exposes Hospital Dysfunction with Dr. Stuart FischbeinHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at EarthleyUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHERUse code HAAM and save 10% at Fond
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    52 mins