Healthy As A Mother

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

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

Getting pregnant again after a C-section comes with unique physical, emotional, and hormonal considerations that many women are never told about. In this episode, we break down what to know about fertility after cesarean birth, scar tissue healing, adhesions, secondary infertility, VBAC considerations, pelvic floor recovery, and the emotional impact a C-section can leave on the body.We discuss how scar tissue and C-section healing may affect implantation, why some women experience difficulty conceiving after a cesarean, and the importance of supporting your core, pelvic floor, nervous system, and microbiome before trying for another baby. We also dive into placenta previa and accreta risks, uterine rupture statistics, spacing pregnancies after C-section, and how trauma can remain stored in the body long after birth.Whether you’re preparing to conceive after a cesarean, considering a VBAC, healing from birth trauma, or simply wanting to better understand your body after a C-section, this episode offers both practical guidance and compassionate support.00:00 Trailer & Intro01:43 How C-Sections Can Affect Future Fertility03:52 Scar Tissue & Adhesions Explained05:25 Placenta Previa & Accreta Risks After Cesarean10:25 Antibiotics, Microbiome & Secondary Infertility11:41 Birth Trauma & Nervous System Healing15:25 Body Image, Desire & Emotional Recovery18:54 How Long Should You Wait Before Another Pregnancy?22:46 Pregnancy Spacing, Core Strength & Recovery24:29 Signs Your Scar May Need More Support26:15 Pelvic Floor Therapy & Core Healing29:19 Scar Massage, Gua Sha & Red Light Therapy32:18 Supplements & Nutrients for Scar Healing36:35 Preparing for a VBAC After C-Section38:38 Multiple C-Sections & Birth Decisions43:05 VBAC Statistics & Uterine Rupture Risks49:15 Why Birth Decisions Aren’t One-Size-Fits-All50:25 Preconception Support After a C-Section51:30 Encouragement for Your Next Pregnancy JourneyResources From This Episode:Get $10 off Evvy Vaginal Test here!Bloom MethodThrive Physical Therapy (Dr. Lauren Mallari Snyder in San Diego)Restore PT - Sarah Grahm (local in Boise)Treasure Valley Pelvic Health Other Related Episodes:All About VBAC Part 1 EpisodeAll About VBAC Part 2 EpisodeVaginal Bugs and the Essential Role They Play Episode The Secret Fertility Factor No One Talks About EpisodeHome Birth Turned C-Section: Dr. Leah's Birth Story EpisodeDr Leah's Second Birth Story EpisodeDetoxing Before Pregnancy: What Actually Matters (And What Doesn't) EpisodeWhen Sex Hurts: The Root Cause No One Talks About EpisodePreconception: What It Is and Why It Matters EpisodeComing Off Birth Control: What Your Body Needs Before Pregnancy EpisodeBreastfeeding While Trying To Conceive EpisodeHealthy 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

What if hormone imbalances aren’t just physical?In this episode, we sit down with women’s health and hormone coach Sam “The Hormone Goddess” to explore the deeper emotional, nervous system, and societal roots behind so many women’s health struggles.We dive into the connection between trauma, stress, suppressed anger, feminine energy, and hormone health, and why so many women feel disconnected from their bodies in modern culture.From painful periods and burnout to nervous system dysregulation and people-pleasing, this conversation unpacks the hidden layers influencing women’s health and healing.We also discuss female rage, womb work, joy, pleasure, circadian rhythm, somatic healing, and what it actually means to reconnect with yourself as a woman.If you’ve ever struggled with PMS, anxiety, exhaustion, hormone imbalances, fertility challenges, or feeling disconnected from your body, this episode is for you.00:00 Intro + Trailer01:36 Meet Samantha Hadadi01:56 Sam’s Hormone Healing Journey04:46 Trauma, Stress & Hormone Imbalances05:51 Why Women Aren’t Taught About Their Bodies07:36 Shame Around Periods & Womanhood08:46 Why Society Fears Women’s Power13:41 Female Anger & Hormonal Health17:36 Suppressed Anger, Liver Health & Hormones20:56 Somatic Practices for Releasing Anger23:56 Trauma Release & Emotional Processing25:51 The Healing Power of Movement & Community26:46 Nervous System & Hormone Connection29:56 Trauma, Stress & Women’s Health32:16 Root Causes of Hormonal Imbalances36:06 What Is Womb Work?40:16 The Missing Piece in Hormone Healing40:46 Joy, Pleasure & Feminine Energy42:36 Productivity Culture & Women’s Health47:36 Healing Through Dance & Movement50:06 Hormones as Messengers51:36 Reconnecting to Your Authentic Self52:41 Final Message for Women54:26 Supporting the Next Generation of Girls57:36 Where to Find SamResources From This Episode:Dr. Leah's Womanhood Wellness MembershipFollow Samantha on InstagramHealthy 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

Detoxing before pregnancy is one of the most misunderstood topics in the health space. In this episode, we break down what detox actually means in the body, why it matters for fertility, and how to approach it safely without creating more harm than good.You’ll learn how toxins impact hormones, ovulation, and pregnancy, and why your body’s ability to eliminate toxins matters more than simply “detoxing.”We also walk through the most important systems involved in detoxification including the liver, lymphatic system, and organs of elimination, plus the biggest mistakes people make when trying to detox while actively trying to conceive.If you’ve ever wondered whether you should detox before pregnancy, this episode gives you a clear, realistic framework.0:00 Trailer & Introduction 2:44 What Is a Toxin? Internal vs. External Explained 6:27 Endocrine Disruptors & Their Impact on Fertility 7:55 The Overflowing Sink Analogy 8:51 Why Some People Can "Get Away With" Anything (Genetics & Drain) 11:43 Epigenetics — Why You & Your Grandma Are Different 13:29 The 3-Part Detox Framework: Faucet, Drain & Liver 13:58 The Knife Factory Analogy (How Your Liver Works) 14:52 The Poop Train & Pee Train Explained 17:44 Critical Rule: No Active Detox During Your Two-Week Wait 21:51 Ideal Timeline: 3–6 Months Before Trying to Conceive 24:12 Step 1 — Getting Your Organs of Elimination Working (Poop, Pee, Sweat) 26:31 Sauna & Sweating: When It's Safe & When to Stop 29:17 The Sperm Factor — Why Men Need to Stop Sauna 3 Months Early 30:41 The Lymph System — Trash in New York City Analogy 31:46 Dry Brushing, Rebounders & Vibration Plates 36:35 Breast Massage & Electrolymphatic Drainage 38:27 The Liver Deep Dive: Phase 1 vs. Phase 2 Detox 41:13 Cruciferous Vegetables, DIM & Food-Based Liver Support 42:37 Key Herbs: Dandelion, Burdock, Milk Thistle, Artichoke 47:18 What Liver Enzymes on Blood Work Actually Tell You (And What They Don't) 48:52 Bile, Gallbladder Health & Bitter Herbs 53:20 Castor Oil Packs — How, When & Where 56:57 The Nervous System as a Detox Organ 58:55 Social Media, News & EMFs as "Energetic Toxins" 60:51 Protecting Yourself From Information Overload During TTC 62:59 The Energetic Sink: Why Some People Spiral & Others Don't 70:29 Boundaries With News & Social Media in the Preconception Window 74:05 How to Go Deeper: Courses, Membership & Working with a PractitionerResources From This Episode:Dr. Leah's Womanhood Wellness MembershipLiver SauceThe Toxin Solution by Dr. Joe Pizzorno Healthy As A Mother Episode #161 - Boundaries In MotherhoodHealthy As A Mother Episode #22 - Detoxing Before PregnancyHealthy 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 HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

In this episode of Healthy As A Mother, we’re pulling back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood parts of IVF: embryo selection.Because here’s the truth most people don’t realize…Even today, many IVF labs still rely on visual grading methods developed over 50 years ago to choose which embryo becomes your baby. And that could be the reason so many “perfect-looking” embryos fail.Today, Dr. Leah sits down with Cara Wells, PhD, a reproductive physiologist and founder of a groundbreaking fertility technology that uses non-invasive video analysis to assess embryo health in real time.Instead of just looking at embryos… Her technology measures how they behave.And what they’ve discovered could completely change IVF outcomes.0:00 Trailer + Intro0:55 Meet Cara Wells, PhD + Her Background2:15 The Problem with IVF Embryo Grading6:25 Why IVF Feels Like a “Black Box”10:47 The Technology That Inspired a Breakthrough13:04 How Embryo Video Analysis Works18:15 Why This Technology Matters for IVF Patients20:49 Can We Improve Egg + Sperm Quality?22:20 Why “Perfect” Embryos Still Fail24:36 What Animal Research Reveals About Fertility29:15 Why Animal Health Research Matters for Humans32:12 What This Tech Reveals About Sperm Quality40:25 How This Impacts Endangered Species47:35 The Rhino Fertility Discovery53:02 What Animals Reveal About Human Conditions59:35 PGT Testing vs Non-Invasive Embryo Testing1:03:25 How to Learn More + Closing ThoughtsResources From This Episode:Dr. Leah's Womanhood Wellness MembershipEmgenisys WebsiteCara Well's LinkedInHealthy 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 HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

Epidurals are one of the most common, and most misunderstood, parts of modern birth.In this episode, we break down everything you actually need to know: what’s in an epidural, how it works, when it helps, and when it can create more complications than expected.We also get honest about the parts most people don’t talk about, including side effects, the cascade of interventions, and why so many women feel blindsided after the fact.This isn’t about telling you what to do.It’s about giving you the clarity to make the right decision for your birth.00:00 — Trailer & Intro01:33 — Why This Conversation Matters03:33 — Epidural vs Spinal: What’s the Difference06:03 — “Do No Harm” Framework for Birth Decisions08:03 — The History of Pain Management in Birth11:33 — What’s Actually In an Epidural15:33 — What It Feels Like to Get One19:33 — When You Can (and Can’t) Get an Epidural23:33 — The Timing Mistake Most Women Make26:33 — When an Epidural is Actually Helpful30:33 — Guilt, Shame & Birth Expectations35:33 — Common Side Effects Explained41:33 — The Cascade of Interventions45:33 — What Happens When It Doesn’t Work49:33 — Effects on Baby (Myths vs Reality)53:33 — Why Women Feel Misinformed57:33 — Epidurals & Postpartum/Bonding01:00:33 — How to Decide What’s Right for YouResources From This Episode:The Vital Importance of Baby's Position During Birth with Ann Gilligan, RN, LNC, RYPT | #325 Things That Ruin Breastfeeding | #146Dr. Morgan's Pregnancy Call LessonsHealthy 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 HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

What actually happens to your baby in the first 24–48 hours after birth, and which newborn interventions should you say yes or no to?In this episode, we break down 14 common newborn interventions and procedures parents may be offered right after delivery. From delayed cord clamping and suctioning to vitamin K, hepatitis B, erythromycin eye ointment, newborn metabolic screening, hearing and heart tests, circumcision, jaundice, early bathing, and pediatric follow-up, we explain what these interventions are, why they’re offered, and what parents should understand before birth.Whether you’re planning a hospital birth, home birth, or birth center delivery, this conversation will help you make informed decisions about newborn care and know what questions to ask when creating your birth plan.00:00 Trailer + intro01:13 Why newborn interventions matter03:44 Delayed cord clamping09:23 Rubbing and suctioning after birth14:26 Swaddling, hats, and skin-to-skin18:37 The golden hour and delaying newborn exams21:10 Vitamin K shot vs oral vitamin K29:44 Hepatitis B vaccine at birth34:07 Erythromycin eye ointment36:57 Newborn metabolic screening / heel prick / PKU test39:19 Newborn blood sugar testing41:42 Hearing test and congenital heart disease screening46:36 Circumcision considerations47:32 Early bath and newborn microbiome52:31 Newborn jaundice explained56:39 Breastfeeding jaundice vs breast milk jaundice59:04 Pediatrician visits and delayed vaccine schedules01:05:39 Closing thoughtsResources From This Episode:Vax Dilemmas: Hesitancy, Studies, and Alternate Schedules with Dr. Joel Gator Warsh | Ep. 109 - https://youtu.be/d72t0Dv18Ok?si=OawY6xJOcWhy0w44Vaccines From A Neurodevelopmental Perspective with Dr. Ari Calhoun | Ep. 52 - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/healthy-as-a-mother/id1663942916?i=10006483825895 Things That Ruin Breastfeeding | Ep 146 - https://youtu.be/BQgB9rQ_Msk?si=fwrB0QJ1DvfzrrUmBreastfeeding and Trying To Conceive | Ep 113 - https://youtu.be/vRXXioExVh8?si=epAYIrJeqe197ftJBreastfeeding: What to KNOW before your baby is born | Ep 10 - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/healthy-as-a-mother/id1663942916?i=1000601146225Dr. Morgan's Pregnancy Call LessonsHealthy 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 HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

Your menstrual cycle isn’t random; it’s a monthly hormone report card.In this episode, Dr. Leah breaks down how to decode your cycle from bleed to bleed and what common symptoms may be telling you about progesterone, estrogen, inflammation, ovulation, and fertility.If you’ve ever wondered whether your spotting, PMS, heavy bleeding, dry cycles, painful periods, or irregular timing are “normal”, this episode will help you understand what your body may actually be communicating.In this episode, we cover:• Spotting before your period & what it means for progesterone• Light or short periods & signs of low estrogen or under-fueling• Heavy bleeding & estrogen dominance• Ovulation pain: normal vs red flag• PMS, PMDD & progesterone deficiencies• Mood shifts right after ovulation• Low cervical mucus / dry cycles• Long cycles & PCOS clues• Short cycles, luteal phase defects & egg reserve• Brown blood & blood stagnation• Severe cramping & endometriosis• Breast tenderness, prolactin & fibrocystic changes00:00 – Trailer & Intro02:06 – Your cycle as a “report card”06:14 – Spotting before your period (low progesterone clues)08:53 – Mid-luteal spotting: infection, polyps, implantation13:54 – Light or short periods (low estrogen & under-fueling)18:54 – Heavy bleeding (estrogen dominance & growth conditions)23:47 – Ovulation pain explained26:05 – PMS & PMDD (progesterone, nutrients, blood sugar)30:19 – Mood changes after ovulation33:38 – Low cervical mucus / dry cycles36:46 – Long cycles & PCOS42:47 – Short cycles & ovarian reserve47:25 – Brown blood & stagnation48:50 – Severe cramping & endometriosis53:09 – Breast changes & lymph support57:06 – Final thoughtsResources From This Episode:Episode #31: The Power of ProgesteroneEpisode #151: When Sex HurtsHormone & Cycle Health Episode PlaylistDr. Leah's Womanhood Wellness MembershipIf you want step-by-step hormone education, cycle tracking guidance, and root-cause protocols, explore the Womanhood Wellness Membership for deeper support: https://drleahgordon.com/joinHealthy 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 HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

Part 1 of a 2-Part Series: Fertility Over 40Fertility over 40 is becoming more common than ever, but with it comes confusion, fear, and a lot of outdated information.In this episode of Healthy As A Mother, we begin a two-part fertility series focused on conception after age 40. We break down what actually changes with age, what matters most for fertility, and — most importantly — what you can influence.Because chronological age is only one piece of the picture.You’ll learn why egg quality matters more than egg count, how lifestyle and metabolic health impact fertility outcomes, and how women can support ovulation, hormone balance, and mitochondrial health as they age. If you’ve been told your age alone determines your fertility, this episode offers a more nuanced and hopeful perspective.In this episode, we cover:• Why chronological age doesn’t equal ovarian health• The real role of egg quality vs. egg count (AMH explained)• How mitochondrial health impacts fertility• Environmental toxins and hidden fertility stressors• Blood sugar balance and metabolic health after 40• Inflammation, oxidative stress, and hormone disruption• Ovulation strength and progesterone production• Short luteal phases and why they matter for implantation• Signs of low progesterone you shouldn’t ignore• How lifestyle changes can meaningfully improve fertility outcomes00:00 — Trailer & Podcast Intro03:25 — Episode begins: Fertility over 40 overview05:10 — Chronological age vs ovarian environment21:30 — Egg quality, lifestyle, and metabolic health23:58 — Inflammation, stress & nutrient deficiencies explained24:25 — Progesterone, luteal phase & cycle changes after 4025:10 — Signs of low progesterone to watch for48:43 — IVF myths: why optimization matters first49:12 — Why IVF doesn’t bypass egg or sperm quality49:42 — Rethinking fertility decisions after 4050:51 — Fertility as a marker of overall healthHealthy 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 HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

The placenta is one of the most misunderstood organs in pregnancy, yet it plays a central role in implantation, miscarriage risk, fetal growth, preeclampsia, birth complications, and postpartum recovery.In this episode of Healthy As A Mother, Dr. Morgan delivers a clear, grounded crash course on the placenta: what it is, how it forms, how it functions, and what can go wrong. We unpack common myths, explain real risks without fear, and clarify why the placenta quietly determines so many pregnancy outcomes.This conversation is designed to replace anxiety with understanding and confusion with clarity, so parents can make informed decisions throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.Educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare provider for personal medical care.00:00 – Why the placenta matters more than people think03:00 – Placenta development and implantation09:00 – Male fertility, sperm health, and pregnancy outcomes15:00 – Placental anatomy explained simply18:30 – Cord insertions and placental variants22:00 – Velamentous cord insertion and vasa previa27:00 – Placental positioning and placenta previa32:00 – Placenta accreta and surgical risks37:00 – Subchorionic hemorrhage and first-trimester bleeding42:00 – Placental insufficiency and fetal growth restriction45:00 – Preeclampsia explained48:30 – Placental abruption50:00 – Retained placenta and postpartum hemorrhage53:30 – Birthing the placenta (third stage of labor)56:00 – Pitocin and hospital management59:00 – What to do with the placenta after birthResources From This Episode:Dr. Morgan's Pregnancy Call LessonsHealthy 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 HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

Our culture and systems have failed many women who want to be mothers, not through malice, but through neglect, misalignment, and outdated priorities.In this episode, we explore how education, feminism, medicine, and career culture shaped a generation of women who were never truly prepared for motherhood. This is a nuanced, honest conversation about how our culture and systems have failed many women who want to be mothers.We want to say this clearly up front: this conversation reflects our lived experiences and what we see in our work. It is not meant to invalidate women who had supportive, empowering paths to motherhood, nor does it represent every experience across different socioeconomic or cultural backgrounds.What we explore here is a pattern. For decades, women were encouraged to prioritize education, career, and productivity, often with little to no preparation for health, fertility, or motherhood. Feminism brought women freedom, opportunity, and choice, and we honor that deeply. But like all cultural movements, there were unintended consequences that many women are only now grappling with.In this conversation, we discuss:• Why motherhood was treated as an afterthought rather than a life path• How feminism empowered women — and where systems failed to evolve alongside it• The lack of reproductive and health education for young women• How birth control often masked dysfunction instead of addressing root causes• Why so many women feel blindsided by fertility struggles in their 30s• The cost of prioritizing weddings, careers, and productivity over preparation for motherhood• Maternal burnout, postpartum strain, and the lack of systemic support• What a more integrative, honest, and compassionate approach could look likeThis is not about blame. It’s about awareness because we can’t change what we don’t acknowledge. Our hope is that by having these conversations openly, we can support women now and create better systems for future generations. If this episode resonated with you, please consider subscribing, sharing, or leaving a review. These conversations matter. 00:00 — Why We’re Having This Conversation02:45 — This Isn’t Everyone’s Experience But It’s a Real Pattern05:30 — Feminism Gave Women Choice... And Then the Pendulum Swung09:45 — When Motherhood Became an Afterthought13:20 — Career First, Motherhood “On the Side”17:40 — The Lie We Were Sold About Fertility & Birth Control22:10 — Why So Many Women Are Struggling to Conceive in Their 30s27:15 — “Our Society Is Not Set Up for Women to Become Mothers”31:00 — We Prepare for College & Sports — But Not Health34:30 — Imagine a World Where Girls Are Taught About Their Bodies38:20 — The Cost of Ignoring Motherhood (Burnout, Infertility, Trauma)42:45 — Weddings, Nurseries & Misplaced Priorities47:30 — What the Medical System Gets Wrong About Fertility52:10 — How This Could Change for the Next Generation56:00 — This Isn’t About Blame, It’s About What’s Broken59:00 — Final Thoughts, Hope & Why These Conversations MatterResources Mentioned in This Episode:Join Womanhood WellnessSocial Studies DocuseriesThe Time Machine MovieHealthy 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 HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

Breastfeeding is often framed as natural, yet so many mothers struggle, feel overwhelmed, or are told their bodies are failing them. In this episode, we break down five major factors that can sabotage breastfeeding and why women are rarely prepared for them.We explore how birth interventions, IV fluids, epidurals, misinformation, lack of postpartum support, and unrealistic expectations around sleep and feeding can deeply impact milk supply, confidence, and the breastfeeding relationship. We also unpack why phrases like “fed is best” can sometimes shut down honest conversations about the real challenges mothers face.This conversation is not about shame or blame. It’s about education, context, and holding nuance. Tools like formula, C-sections, and IVF can be life-saving and necessary, but they should not be treated as the first or only option without addressing root causes and the systemic gaps in maternal care.00:00 Introduction & Why this conversation matters02:15 How birth influences breastfeeding07:10 IV fluids, engorgement & supply panic12:30 Epidurals & interventions18:45 The worst breastfeeding advice24:10 Bottles, pacifiers & nipple confusion30:05 Where “fed is best” falls short36:40 Systemic gaps in breastfeeding education43:20 Formula, IVF & C-sections51:10 Sleep pressure & breastfeeding58:30 Compassion, context & informed choice1:03:30 Final reflectionsIn This Episode, We Cover:• How birth experiences influence breastfeeding success• Common breastfeeding myths and harmful advice• Why supply-and-demand is rarely explained clearly• How sleep pressure disrupts maternal instincts• Why breastfeeding struggles are not a personal failureResources From This Episode:Dr. Morgan’s Mastitis Manual Dr. Morgan's Pregnancy Call LessonsHealthy 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 HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER