Join us in this enlightening episode as we explore the world of breastfeeding from multiple angles. As a breastfeeding champion, we delve into the myriad benefits that breastfeeding offers both mothers and infants, from bolstering immune systems to fostering maternal-infant bonding. Discover the essential steps to prepare for breastfeeding, including education, support networks, and creating a comfortable environment.



We debunk three prevalent myths surrounding breastfeeding, shedding light on misconceptions that may hinder mothers' breastfeeding journeys. From cultural influences to family traditions, we navigate the unique challenges faced by women of color in breastfeeding. Explore how societal norms, limited access to resources, and workplace policies intersect with cultural beliefs, impacting breastfeeding decisions and experiences.



Learn why social support is paramount for breastfeeding success and how employers can better support breastfeeding women in the workplace. Explore the reasons behind the decline in breastfeeding rates after the first 6 months and delve into the practicalities and benefits of pumping. Join us for an insightful discussion on breastfeeding that aims to empower and inform.

25. Breaking Taboos: Navigating Breastfeeding Myths and Realities for Women of Color with Lakshmi Natarajan

In this deeply touching episode of Maternal Health 911, we delve into the inspiring story of Jonelle Reynoso, a multifaceted individual whose journey through motherhood is nothing short of remarkable. Jonelle wears many hats - a dedicated social worker, a proud Air Force veteran, and above all, a loving mother. Join us as Jonelle opens up about her experiences, challenges, and triumphs during her maternity journey.



As a social worker, Jonelle brings a unique perspective to the table. She reflects on how her professional background influenced her approach to motherhood, offering invaluable insights into the complexities of balancing work, family, and self-care. Through her work, Jonelle has encountered a myriad of stories and situations, each contributing to her understanding of resilience and compassion - qualities she draws upon daily in her role as a mother.

Maternity Health From a Lense of a Social worker, Mother, Air Force Veteran with Jonelle Reynoso

In this crucial episode, we confront a maternal health 911 emergency that demands our urgent attention. Shockingly, American women face a higher rate of maternal mortality than any other developed country, with pregnancy-related deaths more than doubling over the past 25 years. Every 12 hours, a woman loses her life due to complications from pregnancy, and a staggering 80 percent of these deaths are preventable, according to new data.



The disparities become even more pronounced when we examine the maternal mortality rates for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) women. The current statistics reveal a stark reality - BIPOC women experience a maternal mortality rate more than double that of White women, with 37.1 deaths per 100,000 live births compared to 14.7. What's alarming is that this heightened risk persists across income, insurance, and education levels, as indicated by CDC data.



Zooming into New York City, a stark revelation awaits us. In 2018, 41 women in New York State lost their lives within one year of being pregnant, directly linked to their pregnancy, resulting in a rate of 18.2 pregnancy-related deaths per 100,000 live births.



To navigate through this complex issue and shed light on the urgent need for maternal mortality advocacy, we are joined by experts and advocates in the field who are working tirelessly to raise awareness, effect policy changes, and bridge the gaps in maternal care. Join us as we unravel the silent crisis, amplify the voices of those affected, and explore tangible steps towards a future where no woman loses her life due to preventable maternal complications. It's time to turn the spotlight on maternal mortality and advocate for change.

23. A Day in the Life of a Reproductive Health Advocacy Warrior with Shawnee Benton

In this episode, we delve into the often overlooked and critical issue of perinatal and neonatal birth inequities, shining a spotlight on the experiences of families who navigate the challenging journey of having preemie babies. A maternal health 911 emergency is declared as we unveil the startling statistic that 1 in 10 babies (10.5% of live births) is born preterm in the United States. However, the disparities are even more glaring when we examine the rates by ethnicity, with black infants facing the highest risk at 14.2%, followed by American Indian/Alaska Natives at 11.6%.



To guide us through this complex landscape, we are joined by the brilliant and compassionate Dr. Jess Daigle, a gamechanger in the field of maternal health. Dr. Daigle brings her expertise to the table as we explore the underlying reasons behind these disparities, unpacking why certain communities are disproportionately affected. Together, we strive to uncover tangible solutions and shed light on what can be done to address this critical issue.



Join us for a conversation that goes beyond statistics, as we aim to raise awareness, foster understanding, and ignite actionable change in the realm of perinatal and neonatal care. It's time to empower families, support mothers, and champion the well-being of our tiniest fighters.

22. Perinatal and Neonatal Birth Inequities and The Experiences Of Families Who Have Preemie Babies with Dr. Jess Daigle

In this episode, we address the often silent struggles of maternal grief in the face of infertility and loss. Join our compassionate hosts as we engage in a heartfelt conversation with experts and individuals who have experienced the unique challenges of maternal grief in the context of infertility and death. Our guests share personal stories and professional insights to shed light on the emotional toll of infertility and the heartbreaking reality of losing a child. We explore the complex journey of navigating motherhood when faced with the challenges of conception and the profound impact it has on individuals and couples. Tune in as we discuss coping strategies, support systems, and the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding these sensitive topics. Whether you're on your own journey or looking to support a loved one, this episode aims to provide understanding, empathy, and a sense of community for those navigating the intricate landscape of maternal grief in infertility and loss. Join us for a conversation that seeks to offer comfort, dispel isolation, and foster a deeper understanding of the silent struggles many face on the path to motherhood. You are not alone, and your story matters.

20. Maternal Death Grief and Loss with Dr Angela Clack, Real Hamilton Romeo and Dr. Jill Baker

In this inspiring episode, our host engages in a heartfelt conversation with the incredible Dr. Candace Robertson-James. Join us as Dr. Robertson-James shares her personal journey, navigating the challenges of living with fibroids and the transformative steps she took to realize her dream of starting a family.



Our special guest opens up about her experiences, shedding light on the impact fibroids had on her life and fertility. Dr. Robertson-James discusses the emotional and physical toll of dealing with fibroids, providing a candid look at the hurdles she faced.



As we delve into the steps she took to overcome these challenges, listeners will gain valuable insights into the resilience of the human spirit. Dr. Robertson-James shares the empowering story of how she navigated the complexities of fertility treatments, highlighting the importance of advocacy, self-care, and perseverance on the path to parenthood.



Join us for an episode filled with hope, resilience, and practical advice for those facing similar challenges. Whether you are on your own fertility journey or seeking to support someone you care about, this conversation with Dr. Candace Robertson-James is sure to inspire and uplift.

21. Disparities of Fibroids and The Effects On Fertility Outcomes of BIPOC Women with Dr. Candace Robertson-James

In this episode, we address the often silent struggles of maternal grief in the face of infertility and loss. Join our compassionate hosts as we engage in a heartfelt conversation with experts and individuals who have experienced the unique challenges of maternal grief in the context of infertility and death.



Our guests share personal stories and professional insights to shed light on the emotional toll of infertility and the heartbreaking reality of losing a child. We explore the complex journey of navigating motherhood when faced with the challenges of conception and the profound impact it has on individuals and couples.



Tune in as we discuss coping strategies, support systems, and the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding these sensitive topics. Whether you're on your own journey or looking to support a loved one, this episode aims to provide understanding, empathy, and a sense of community for those navigating the intricate landscape of maternal grief in infertility and loss.



Join us for a conversation that seeks to offer comfort, dispel isolation, and foster a deeper understanding of the silent struggles many face on the path to motherhood. You are not alone, and your story matters.

In this episode, we delve into the complex realm of infertility and its disparities, particularly focusing on the racialized lens through which it is often viewed. Join us as we explore the research, statistics, and perspectives that shed light on the impact of ethnicity on fertility outcomes. Infertility is a prevalent issue affecting 10% of women aged 15-44 in the U.S. (CDC, 2019). Approximately 7.4 million women and their partners grapple with fertility-related challenges in the U.S. Dr. Meera Shah, a double board-certified OB GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, joins us to discuss the significance of ovarian reserve, measured by AMH (anti-Mullerian hormone). A study conducted at UCSF in 2013 examined AMH levels across different ethnic groups, revealing notable differences. Striking variations in IVF outcomes were observed among Black, Hispanic, Asian, and white women. Studies comparing Caucasians and East Asians adjusted for key factors, yet East Asian women exhibited significantly lower live birth rates. Dr. Sandra Bärnreuther's research highlights how South/Asian-ness is framed as an independent risk factor in infertility and IVF practice (Social Science & Medicine, 2021). Narratives such as Indian women experiencing a rapid decline in ovarian reserve contribute to a racialized reproductive panic. The Hindustan Times' 2015 article amplifies the urgency around ovarian aging in India, although it relies on non-scientific data. Dr. Bärnreuther emphasizes the need to broaden perspectives on infertility, moving beyond biomedical and racial/ethnic lenses to address and explain disparities. As we conclude this episode, we reflect on the importance of dismantling racialized perspectives in infertility research and practice. Understanding the broader context and embracing a more inclusive approach is crucial for addressing and rectifying disparities in fertility outcomes. Stay tuned for more discussions on health, science, and society in future episodes.

19. Infertility Disparities: Unpacking Racialized Perspectives with Swetha Armruthur Khan

In this episode, Gavin and Jemma shed light on some common misconceptions about twins that people often have. Here are some key points they discussed:

 * Twins are not always identical: While identical twins share the same DNA and physical appearance, fraternal twins come from two different eggs and can look very different from each other. It's a common misconception that all twins are identical.
 * Twins do not have telepathic abilities: Many people believe that twins have some sort of telepathic connection and can communicate with each other without speaking. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
 * Twins can have different personalities: Another misconception is that twins have the same personality. While twins may share some traits and interests, they are still individuals with their own unique personalities.
 * Twins do not always have a special bond: While some twins may have a close relationship, others may not get along or have any special connection. It's important not to make assumptions about the relationship between twins based on their status as twins.

Overall, it's important to remember that twins are individuals and should be treated as such. Just because they share a birthday and may look alike, it doesn't mean they are the same in every way.

18. Misconceptions About Twins with Gavin & Jemma

Grab your favorite drink and snack, draw your bath and light the candles as we chillax with Dr. Jill and Tonya in this episode where they discussed motherhood as a black woman, taking care of their own mothers and every thing else in between.



Learn more:

17. Black Motherhood: The good, The Bad and Everything In Between with Tonya Mollineau of MOMS Film Fest

Maternal Health 911 is an innovative podcast hosted by community health researcher and fertility coach- Dr. Jill Baker who suffered from her own infertility in silence. To support those who need it, this show is a platform to bring awareness to infertility, fertility, and maternal health disparities among BIPOC women and couples. The mission of this show is to provide support and possible solutions to decrease birth disparities for Black and Brown babies and maternal mortality outcomes for BIPOC women.