Rhode To Pregnancy

Season 2 Episode 7: Gestational Diabetes (GDM)

In this episode of the Rhode to Pregnancy podcast, Malia and Ashley break down gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in a clear, easy-to-understand way. They explain what gestational diabetes is, why it happens during pregnancy, how testing works, and what management looks like, including checking blood sugar, having a healthy diet, and insulin use. They also discuss delivery considerations, postpartum follow-up, and long-term health for both parent and baby. Common myths are addressed, helping you feel informed, supported, and empowered.
 
Key Topics Covered
What gestational diabetes is and why it happens
Who is at higher risk for GDM
Glucose screening and 3-hour diagnostic tests
What “failing” the glucose test really means
Blood sugar monitoring and target levels
Nutrition tips and portion guidance
Management and insulin 
Effects on baby and delivery considerations
Postpartum follow-up and reducing future diabetes risk
Myths and common misconceptions
Local Rhode Island Resources
Affordable Diabetes Supplies (GoodRx): Compare prices for test strips and glucose monitors: https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/diabetes/diabetic-test-stripshttps://www.goodrx.com/conditions/diabetes-type-2/monitoring-blood-sugar-at-home-how-to-choose-glucose-monitor
Diabetes Management Info (GoodRx): Learn about medications and tips for managing diabetes: https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/diabetes#treatments
Ready for Health Diabetes Prevention Program (RI): Free programs to help prevent diabetes and stay healthy: https://health.ri.gov/diabetes/services/ready-health-diabetes-prevention-program
Diabetes in Pregnancy Support: High-risk pregnancy care and education at Women & Infants Hospital: https://www.womenandinfants.org/services/pregnancy/high-risk/diabetes-in-pregnancy
Gestational Diabetes Info (RI Department of Health): Learn about screening, management, and local resources: https://health.ri.gov/diabetes/gestational-diabetes
 
Important Links & Sources
American Diabetes Association - Diabetes Plate Method:  https://diabetesfoodhub.org/blog/what-diabetes-plate 
American Diabetes Association - Gestational Diabetes: https://diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/pregnancy/gestational-diabetes 
ACOG - Gestational Diabetes FAQ: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/gestational-diabetes 
ACOG Updated Guidance Overview (The OB-G Project): https://www.obgproject.com/2023/01/02/acog-releases-updated-guidance-gestational-diabetes/ 
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Season 2 Episode 6: Endometriosis

SHOW NOTES
Episode Title: Endometriosis
Hosts: Ashley and Malia
Summary:
In recognition of Endometriosis Awareness Month, this episode of the Rhode to Pregnancy Podcast dives into all things endometriosis. Ashley and Malia break down what endometriosis is, common symptoms, possible causes, and why diagnosis can take years. They discuss treatment options, how the condition can affect fertility and pregnancy, and the emotional toll of living with chronic pain. The episode also highlights the importance of self-advocacy and shares local and national resources for support. Whether you’re trying to conceive, navigating a diagnosis, or simply want to learn more, this episode provides clear, accessible information to help you feel informed and empowered.
Key Topics Covered:
What endometriosis is and how it develops
Symptoms and causes
How endometriosis is diagnosed and delays in diagnosis
Treatment options: pain management, hormonal therapy, and surgery
Endometriosis and infertility
How endometriosis may impact pregnancy
Mental health and quality-of-life effects
The importance of self-advocacy
Support resources
Resources:
Women and Infants: https://www.womenandinfants.org/services/obstetrics-gynecology-care#gynecological
Providence Community Health Centers: https://www.providencechc.org/services/medical-services/
Thundermist: https://www.thundermisthealth.org/
Endometriosis Alliance: https://endometriosisalliance.com/groups/
The Endometriosis Foundation of America: https://www.endofound.org/

[Español] Temporada 2, Episodio 5: Ultrasonidos Prenatales

En este episodio del podcast Rhode to Pregnancy, Ashley y Malia guían a los oyentes a través de todo el panorama de las ecografías o ultrasonidos prenatales durante el embarazo, explicando cómo funciona la tecnología, cuándo se suele realizar cada ecografía y qué información recopilan los profesionales sanitarios durante el proceso. Hablan de la ecografía de confirmación del primer trimestre, la ecografía opcional de translucencia nucal y la ecografía anatómica detallada del segundo trimestre, que evalúa los órganos, el crecimiento, la posición, la placenta y el líquido amniótico del bebé, señalando tanto lo que esta ecografía puede detectar como sus importantes limitaciones. Las presentadoras advierten sobre las clínicas de ecografías no médicas que pueden malinterpretar las imágenes y crear una falsa seguridad o ansiedad, y enfatizan la importancia de obtener imágenes a través de proveedores médicos calificados. El episodio termina con recursos adicionales y una invitación a seguir el podcast para obtener más información sobre el embarazo.
Temas Clave Tratados
¿Qué son las ecografías?
¿Cuándo se realizan ecografías durante el embarazo?
¿Son perjudiciales para mi bebé?
¿Cuándo se suele realizar la ecografía del segundo trimestre y por qué?
¿Qué estructuras o características fetales se evalúan durante esta ecografía?
¿Qué tipo de anomalías o afecciones puede ayudar a identificar? ¿O descartar?
¿Cómo influyen los resultados de esta ecografía en la atención futura o en la toma de decisiones?
¿Cuáles son las limitaciones de las ecografías del segundo trimestre para detectar anomalías fetales o placentarias?
¿Por qué se considera un hito tan importante en el embarazo?
¿Cuáles son las directrices profesionales actuales (ACOG) con respecto a las ecografías del segundo trimestre?
¿En qué se diferencian las ecografías de seguimiento de la ecografía anatómica inicial?
¿Qué papel desempeña la ecografía en la preparación para el tercer trimestre y el parto?
¿Qué grado de precisión tienen las mediciones del crecimiento y las estimaciones de la fecha prevista del parto?
¿Qué factores pueden afectar a la calidad de la imagen o a su interpretación?
¿Cómo ha evolucionado la tecnología ecográfica en los últimos años?
Dónde realizar ecografías prenatales
Enlaces y Fuentes Importantes
https://www.womenandinfants.org/services/ogcc  
https://www.thundermisthealth.org/ 
https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/ultrasound-exams 
https://www.childrenshospital.org/treatments/prenatal-ultrasound#related 
Síguenos en Instagram: @RhodetoPregnancy
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Season 2 Episode 5: Prenatal Ultrasounds

In this episode of the Rhode to Pregnancy Podcast, Ashley and Malia walk listeners through the full landscape of pregnancy ultrasounds, explaining how the technology works, when each scan typically happens, and what information providers gather along the way. They cover the first-trimester confirmation scan, the optional NT scan, and the detailed second-trimester anatomy scan that assesses the baby’s organs, growth, position, placenta, and amniotic fluid, noting both what this scan can detect and its important limitations. The hosts caution against non-medical ultrasound boutiques that may misinterpret images and create false reassurance or anxiety, emphasizing the importance of getting imaging through qualified medical providers. The episode closes with additional resources and an invitation to follow along for more pregnancy insights.
Key Topics Covered
What are ultrasounds?
When do you get ultrasounds during pregnancy?
Are they harmful to my baby?
When is the second-trimester ultrasound typically performed, and why?
What fetal structures or features are evaluated during this scan?
What kinds of abnormalities or conditions can it help identify? Or rule out?
How do results from this scan influence future care or decision-making?
What are the limitations of second-trimester ultrasounds in detecting fetal or placental abnormalities?
Why is it considered such an important milestone in pregnancy?
What are the current professional guidelines (ACOG) regarding second-trimester ultrasounds?
How do follow-up scans differ from the initial anatomy scan?
What role does ultrasound play in preparing for the third trimester and delivery?
How accurate are growth measurements and due date estimates?
What factors can affect image quality or interpretation?
How has ultrasound technology evolved in recent years?
Where to get prenatal ultrasounds
Important Links & Sources
https://www.womenandinfants.org/services/ogcc  
https://www.thundermisthealth.org/ 
https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/ultrasound-exams 
https://www.childrenshospital.org/treatments/prenatal-ultrasound#related 
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Season 2 Episode 4: Diagnostic Genetic Testing

SHOW NOTES
Season 2 Episode 4: Diagnostic Genetic TestingHosts: Ashley & Malia
Special Guest: Dr. Margie Thorsen, MD
Episode SummaryIn this episode of Rhode to Pregnancy, Ashley and Malia welcome maternal–fetal medicine specialist Dr. Margie Thorsen to explain what happens after a positive prenatal screening result. They review how care teams and genetic counsellors support patients, discuss the differences between diagnostic tests like CVS and amniocentesis, and explore the benefits, risks, and decision-making factors involved. Dr. Thorsen also covers coping with difficult news, understanding inconclusive or unexpected results, and learning what options and resources exist in Rhode Island. The episode highlights the role of ultrasounds, especially the mid-pregnancy anatomy scan, in genetic evaluation and offers reassurance and practical advice for managing anxiety during waiting periods.
Key Topics Covered
What happens after receiving a positive prenatal screening result
Roles of the care team and genetic counselors
Diagnostic testing options: chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and amniocentesis
How each diagnostic test works and when it can be done
Benefits and risks of diagnostic testing
Factors that guide choosing between CVS and amniocentesis
Options for patients who decline diagnostic testing
Coping with difficult or unexpected results
Understanding inconclusive or borderline results
Overview of Rhode Island-specific resources and patient options
Role of ultrasound, including the 18-22 week anatomy scan, in genetic evaluation
Counseling when screenings show increased risk, but ultrasounds are normal
Advice for managing anxiety during waiting periods
Important Links & Sources
RIPIN: https://ripin.org/about/
Family Services of RI: https://www.familyserviceri.org/programs/
Early Intervention Program: https://eohhs.ri.gov/Consumer/FamilieswithChildren/EarlyIntervention.aspx
Katie Beckett Program: https://eohhs.ri.gov/Consumer/FamilieswithChildren/ChildrenwithSpecialNeeds/KatieBeckett.aspx
Easterseals RI: https://morc.easterseals.com/
Perspectives Corporation: https://www.perspectivescorporation.com/ 
Seven Hills Foundation: https://www.sevenhills.org/
Follow us on Instagram: @RhodetoPregnancy
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Season 2 Episode 3: Exercise in Pregnancy

SHOW NOTES
Episode Title: Season 2 Episode 3: Exercise in Pregnancy
In this episode of the Rhode to Pregnancy Podcast, Ashley and Malia dive into everything you need to know about exercising safely during pregnancy. They break down the benefits of staying active, while also discussing what types of movement are safest—like walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, and low-impact strength training. The hosts explain which activities to avoid, important warning signs to watch for, and how exercise needs can shift across each trimester. They also highlight accessible, budget-friendly workout options and the importance of pelvic floor health. The episode wraps up with guidance on when to talk to your provider and encouragement to approach movement with flexibility, safety, and self-compassion throughout pregnancy.
Key Topics Covered:
Safety of exercise during pregnancy
What exercise can look like 
Why exercise matters for physical + mental health
Recommended amount and intensity
Safe and effective exercise types
Activities to avoid
Warning signs to stop exercise
How exercise changes across each trimester
Pelvic floor health and Kegels
Budget-friendly ways to stay active
When to talk to your provider for clearance
 
Important Links and Sources:
OpenCircle RI: https://opencircleri.com/pregnancy-birth/
Full Radiance Yoga: https://www.fullradianceyoga.com/pricing
YMCA: https://ymcagreaterprovidence.org/program/health-wellness
Prenatal yoga channel: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP7Ou7uUiYzCNqFEYEZcPxHifLzqAacIj
Kegel Instructions: https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/labor-and-birth/kegel-exercises/
ACOG Guidelines: https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2020/04/physical-activity-and-exercise-during-pregnancy-and-the-postpartum-period
CDC Guidelines: https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/guidelines/healthy-pregnant-or-postpartum-women
 
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[Español] Temporada 2, Episodio 2: Conoce a Tu Equipo de Atención en el Embarazo

En este episodio de Rhode to Pregnancy, Malia y la invitada Leslie explican quién puede cuidarte durante el embarazo, el parto y el período posparto. Describen los roles de los doctores OB/GYN, médicos de familia, enfermeras parteras (midwives), Asistentes Médicos (PA), Enfermeras Practicantes (NP) y especialistas en Medicina Materno-Fetal, y destacan cómo estos profesionales trabajan juntos como tu equipo de atención durante el embarazo. El episodio también revisa dónde recibir cuidado prenatal en Rhode Island, en qué hospitales puedes dar a luz y quién te apoyará en el hospital durante el trabajo de parto y después del nacimiento. Al final del episodio, tendrás una idea clara de tu posible equipo de cuidado y qué esperar en cada etapa del embarazo.
Temas Clave Tratados
Quién brinda cuidado prenatal: OB/GYNs, médicos de familia, enfermeras parteras, PAs/NPs
Qué es la Medicina Materno-Fetal (MFM) y por qué podrías recibir una referencia
Dónde recibir cuidado durante el embarazo en Rhode Island (centros de salud comunitarios y prácticas privadas)
Dónde puedes dar a luz en Rhode Island
Quién formará parte de tu equipo hospitalario: enfermeras, doulas, consultoras de lactancia, etc.
Recursos Mencionados de Rhode Island
Providence Community Health Centers
Blackstone Valley Community Health Center
Thundermist Health Center
OGCC en Women & Infants Hospital
Programas de Parto y Crianza de Women & Infants Hospital
Rhode Island Community Health Centers– Women’s health services and referrals
Centros de Salud Comuntarios en RI – servicios de salud para mujeres y derivaciones
Dónde dar a luz al bebé:
Women & Infants Hospital en Providence, RI
Kent Hospital en Warwick, RI
Newport Hospital, en Newport, RI
South County Hospital en Wakefield, RI
Landmark Medical Center en Woonsocket, RI
Enlaces y Fuentes Importantes
Cobertura de doulas por Medicaid (Ley de Doulas de RI 2021)
Síguenos en Instagram: @RhodetoPregnancy
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Season 2 Episode 2: Understanding Your Pregnancy Care Team

In this episode of Rhode to Pregnancy, Malia and special guest Leslie break down who may care for you throughout pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. They explain the roles of OB/GYNs, Family Physicians, Midwives, PAs/NPs, and Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialists, and they highlight how these professionals work together as your pregnancy care team. The episode also reviews where to receive prenatal care in Rhode Island, where you can deliver your baby, and who will support you in the hospital during labor and after birth. By the end of the episode, you’ll have a clear picture of your potential care team and what to expect throughout your pregnancy.
Key Topics Covered 
Who provides prenatal care: OB/GYNs, Family Physicians, Midwives, PAs/NPs
What Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) is and why you might be referred
Where to get pregnancy care in Rhode Island (community health centers & private practices)
Where you can deliver your baby in RI
Who will be part of your hospital care team: nurses, doulas, lactation consultants, etc.
Rhode Island Resources
Providence Community Health Centers
Blackstone Valley Community Health Center
Thundermist Health Center
OGCC at Women & Infants Hospital
Women & Infants Hospital Childbirth & Parenting Programs
RI Medicaid Doula Coverage (RI Doula Bill 2021)
Where to Deliver:
Women & Infants Hospital in Providence, RI
Kent Hospital in Warwick, RI
Newport Hospital, in Newport, RI
South County Hospital in Wakefield, RI
Landmark Medical Center in Woonsocket, RI
Important Links & Sources
RI Medicaid Doula Coverage (RI Doula Bill 2021)
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[Español] Temporada 2, Episodio 1: Resumen del Segundo Trimestre

En este primer episodio de la temporada 2 del podcast Rhode to Pregnancy, Ashley y Malia comienzan con un resumen completo del segundo trimestre, a menudo llamado la “fase de luna de miel” del embarazo. Explican qué semanas definen el segundo trimestre, los cambios físicos y emocionales que pueden experimentar las personas embarazadas y el rápido crecimiento y desarrollo del bebé durante esta etapa. Las presentadoras también hablan de las visitas y pruebas prenatales más importantes, como la ecografía anatómica, la prueba cuádruple y la prueba de diabetes gestacional, y comparten consejos prácticos para controlar síntomas comunes como el dolor de espalda, el dolor del ligamento redondo y los calambres en las piernas. El episodio termina con una mirada hacia el futuro para prepararse para el tercer trimestre, planificar el parto y mantenerse sana y con apoyo durante esta emocionante etapa intermedia del embarazo.
Temas Clave Tratados
Qué semanas definen el segundo trimestre (directrices de la ACOG)
Por qué se conoce como la “fase de luna de miel” del embarazo
Cambios físicos y emocionales comunes en el cuerpo
Hitos del desarrollo fetal entre las semanas 14 y 27
Resumen de las visitas prenatales y las pruebas clave
Ecografía anatómica (semanas 18-22).
Prueba cuádruple y prueba de diabetes gestacional.
Control de los síntomas: dolor de espalda, mareos, cambios en la piel y calambres en las piernas.
Importancia de la hidratación, la nutrición y las vitaminas prenatales.
Bienestar emocional y creación de un sistema de apoyo.
Planificación para el tercer trimestre y más allá.
Enlaces y Fuentes Importantes
https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/routine-tests-during-pregnancy
https://www.womenandinfants.org/services/ogcc
https://www.thundermisthealth.org/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/second-trimester/art-20046449
Síguenos en Instagram: @RhodetoPregnancy 
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Season 2 Episode 1: Trimester 2 Overview

In this first episode of Season 2 of the Rhode to Pregnancy podcast, Ashley and Malia kick things off with a full overview of the second trimester— often called the “honeymoon phase” of pregnancy. They explain what weeks define the second trimester, the physical and emotional changes pregnant people may experience, and the baby’s rapid growth and development during this stage. The hosts also discuss key prenatal visits and screenings, including the anatomy scan, quad screen, and gestational diabetes testing, while sharing practical tips for managing common symptoms like back pain, round ligament pain, and leg cramps. The episode closes with a look ahead to preparing for the third trimester, birth planning, and staying healthy and supported through this exciting middle stretch of pregnancy.
Key Topics Covered
What weeks define the second trimester (ACOG guidelines)
Why it’s known as the “honeymoon phase” of pregnancy
Common physical and emotional body changes
Fetal development milestones between 14–27 weeks
Overview of prenatal visits and key screenings
Anatomy ultrasound (18–22 weeks)
Quad screen and gestational diabetes testing
Managing symptoms: back pain, dizziness, skin changes, and leg cramps
Importance of hydration, nutrition, and prenatal vitamins
Emotional well-being and building a support system
Planning for the third trimester and beyond
Important Links & Sources
https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/routine-tests-during-pregnancy
https://www.womenandinfants.org/services/ogcc
https://www.thundermisthealth.org/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/second-trimester/art-20046449
Follow us on Instagram: @RhodetoPregnancy
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