Welcome to True Birth, where we provide raw, honest insights into pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Dr. Yaakov Abdelhak, a Perinatologist, and Certified Nurse Midwife Kristin Mallon are here to share their professional perspectives straight from the trenches of the labor floor. Episode Overview: In this special episode, we delve into the sensitive topic of coping with perinatal loss. We recognize the profound impact that pregnancy loss can have on individuals and families, and our goal is to offer compassionate guidance and support. Discussion Points: Understanding Perinatal ..read more

When expecting a baby, among the flurry of decisions to be made, choosing where to deliver stands out as one of the most significant. It's a choice that goes beyond mere geography or convenience; it's about where you'll welcome your child into the world and the first level of care both of you will receive. It's about safety, support, and a positive birth experience. Today, we're spotlighting Hackensack University Medical Center (HUMC) as an exemplary choice for families looking to ensure the best start for their newborns. The Importance of the Right Location The location you choose for deliver ..read more

A typical day for an OB/GYN on the labor floor in Labor and Delivery (L&D) is dynamic and multifaceted, blending clinical acumen with compassionate patient care. Their day begins with rounding on patients who are in various stages of labor, assessing their progress, and managing any complications that arise. Throughout the day, the OB/GYN is constantly on the move, alternating between the labor ward, the operating room for cesarean sections, and the antepartum unit for high-risk pregnancies. They collaborate closely with nurses, midwives, and other healthcare professionals to develop care ..read more

Easing Back Pain During Pregnancy: Tips and Insights Pregnancy is a beautiful journey filled with anticipation and joy, but it can also bring about a less welcomed companion: back pain. Many expectant mothers experience back pain, particularly in the second and third trimesters. This discomfort arises from the natural changes your body undergoes to accommodate the growing baby. However, the good news is there are several strategies to manage and reduce back pain during this special time. Let’s explore some effective ways to find relief and enjoy your pregnancy with more comfort. Understanding ..read more

Navigating the Path toward a Successful VBAC: Essential Questions for Your Healthcare Provider As strong advocates for informed and empowered childbirth, this episdoe addresses a topic close to the hearts of many expectant parents: Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC). Choosing a VBAC-friendly provider is a critical step in this journey, not just for the success of the procedure, but for the overall experience of childbirth. Here are key aspects to consider and questions to ask your healthcare provider: Understanding VBAC Success Rates: The first and perhaps most crucial question to ask is ab ..read more

The No Surprises Act: A Much-Needed Shield in the Healthcare Battlefield In the labyrinth of American healthcare, where the Minotaur of unexpected costs lurks around every corner, the No Surprises Act emerges as a beacon of clarity and protection. Enacted in 2022, this legislation represents a crucial step in untangling the Gordian knot of medical billing, a maze that has perplexed and overwhelmed patients for far too long. Unmasking the Menace of Surprise Medical Bills For years, Americans have navigated the perilous waters of healthcare, often finding themselves blindsided by 'surprise bills ..read more

True Birth discusses new tech in pregnancy. Pregnancy is a time of wonder and anticipation, but it also comes with its share of medical checkups and monitoring. Traditional prenatal care often involves frequent visits to the doctor's office, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient for expectant mothers. However, with advancements in technology, a revolutionary change is underway in obstetrics, ushering in the era of fetal monitoring at home. In this episode, we'll delve into a groundbreaking company that has paved the way for this transformation, offering the first FDA-cleared, remote mon ..read more

Bringing a new life into the world is a miraculous and life-changing experience. The 24 hours following childbirth are a crucial time for both mother and baby, as they require specialized care and support. In this episode of True Birth, we will take you through what to expect during this period, from the delivery of the placenta to the early stages of postpartum recovery in the immeidate hours after birth, learning about breastfeeding, receiving help with your newborn, and preparing for discharge. Let's embark on this journey of the first days after giving birth. The immeidate postpartum hou ..read more

Obstetrics and Gynecology can be a wonderful beautiful experiene as a place to work but also have its fair share of challenges. In this episode, Dr. Yaakov Abdelhak, Maternal Fetal Medicne Specilaist, and Kristin Mallon, Certified Nurse Midwife, disucss why someone chooses the field of OB/GYN.  The choice of a medical specialty is a significant decision for physicians, influenced by a combination of personal interests, experiences, lifestyle considerations, and professional goals.  Why someone might choose a particular field in medicine: Personal Interest and Passion: Many doctors ..read more

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that can cause respiratory infections in people of all ages, including pregnant women. RSV infections are more prevalent during the fall and winter months. While RSV infections are usually mild and cold-like in healthy adults, they can lead to more severe respiratory symptoms in certain populations, including young infants and individuals with weakened immune systems. In the context of pregnancy, RSV infections are generally considered a concern primarily because of the potential impact on the health of the mother and the developing fetus. He ..read more