In this episode of "The Good, The Bad and The Vagina," host Tess Lovely welcomes Jeanette Faulkner, known as Doula by the Sea, to discuss the evolving landscape of maternity care and the role of doulas. Jeanette shares her extensive background as a nurse midwife, detailing her experiences in community midwifery and the significant changes she has observed over the years, particularly the shift towards a more medicalized approach to childbirth. The conversation delves into the impact of COVID-19 on maternity services, the erosion of midwifery autonomy, and the increasing fear surrounding childbirth, which has led to a disempowerment of women during their birthing experiences.

As they explore the nuances of modern maternity care, Tess and Jeanette highlight the importance of supporting women in reclaiming their sovereignty during childbirth. They discuss the significance of intuition in midwifery, the natural rhythms of birth, and the need for a more holistic approach to maternity care. The episode emphasizes the beauty and power of physiological birth, advocating for a return to practices that honor women's instincts and experiences, while also addressing the challenges posed by current healthcare systems. In this engaging conversation, Jeanette and Tess delve into the intricacies of childbirth, emphasizing the importance of understanding physiological processes and the emotional aspects of birthing experiences. Jeanette shares a gripping story about a birth where she had to act quickly to resuscitate a newborn, highlighting the resilience of babies and the critical role of doulas in supporting mothers during emergencies. They discuss the instinctive nature of mothers in crisis situations and the varying responses to adrenaline during labor, illustrating how each woman's experience is unique.

The dialogue transitions into a broader discussion about the challenges faced by midwives and doulas in the current healthcare system, particularly the fear-driven practices that often overshadow the natural process of childbirth. They advocate for a return to a more holistic approach, where the focus is on the mother’s well-being and empowerment rather than solely on the baby. The conversation culminates in a reflection on the emotional toll of traumatic births and the importance of support systems for both mothers and fathers, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding in the birthing process.

In this engaging conversation, Tess Lovely and Claire Horn explore the multifaceted journey of women through menopause, emphasising the importance of nutrition, education, and community support. Claire shares her personal experiences as a menopause advocate and the founder of the Atomic Wellness Company, highlighting how small dietary changes can lead to significant improvements in wellbeing. The discussion also touches on the challenges of motherhood, the impact of hormonal changes, and the need for a supportive community to empower women during these transformative stages of life.