Rhode To Pregnancy

[Español] Temporada 3, Episodio 2: Creando un Plan de Parto

En este episodio del podcast Rhode to Pregnancy, Ashley y Malia explican qué es un plan de parto y cómo puede ayudar a las pacientes a prepararse para el trabajo de parto y el nacimiento. Hablan sobre las preferencias en el manejo del dolor, el parto y el cuidado del recién nacido, así como sobre la importancia de mantener la flexibilidad ante cambios inesperados. También comparten consejos sobre cómo comunicar estas preferencias al equipo de atención médica y utilizar el plan de parto como una herramienta para promover una atención informada y centrada en la paciente.
Temas Principales:
Qué es un plan de parto
Cómo crear un plan de parto
Preferencias durante el trabajo de parto y el nacimiento
La importancia de la flexibilidad
El papel de las personas de apoyo y las doulas
Comunicación con el equipo de atención médica
Recursos:
Plan de parto de ejemplo de ACOG:https://www.acog.org/womens-health/health-tools/sample-birth-plan
Asociación Americana del Embarazo:https://americanpregnancy.org/giving-birth/creating-your-birth-plan/
Doulas de Rhode Island:https://www.doulasri.org/

Season 3 Episode 2: Creating a Birth Plan

In this episode of the Rhode to Pregnancy Podcast, Ashley and Malia explore what a birth plan is and how it can help guide expectations for labor and delivery. They break down the key components of a birth plan, including labor preferences, pain management options, delivery wishes, and newborn care decisions. The hosts emphasize that while birth plans are helpful tools for communication and preparation, flexibility is essential because labor can be unpredictable. They also discuss how patients can implement their birth plan in real time by working with their care team, support person, and/or doula. Ultimately, the episode focuses on using birth plans as a way to support informed, patient-centered care.
 
Key Topics:
What a birth plan is and its purpose in prenatal care
How to structure a birth plan (labor, anesthesia, delivery, newborn care)
Examples of preferences (movement, monitoring, cord cutting, feeding, etc.)
Importance of flexibility and adapting to unexpected changes in labor
When and how to create a birth plan during pregnancy
Implementing the birth plan in the hospital setting
Role of support people and doulas in advocating during labor
Communication and shared decision-making during interventions
Resources
ACOG sample birth plan: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/health-tools/sample-birth-plan
American Association of Pregnancy: https://americanpregnancy.org/giving-birth/creating-your-birth-plan/
Doulas of Rhode Island: https://www.doulasri.org/
 

[Español] Temporada 3, Episodio 1: Introducción al Tercer Trimestre del Embarazo

En el primer episodio de la temporada 3 del podcast Rhode to Pregnancy, Malia y Ashley ofrecen una visión general del tercer trimestre del embarazo y de lo que las pacientes pueden esperar a medida que se acercan al parto y al alumbramiento. Hablan de los principales hitos en el desarrollo fetal, los síntomas físicos habituales que se experimentan durante el tercer trimestre, las citas prenatales importantes, las vacunas y pruebas de detección recomendadas, y las formas de prepararse para el parto y el posparto. Las presentadoras también destacan los signos de alerta que requieren atención médica y comentan cómo las parejas y las personas de apoyo pueden brindar un apoyo significativo durante esta etapa del embarazo. Este episodio sirve de base para el resto de la temporada, en la que se explorarán con mayor profundidad temas relacionados con el parto, el alumbramiento y el posparto.
Temas Principales:
Definición y cronología del tercer trimestre
Principales hitos del crecimiento y desarrollo fetal
Síntomas comunes del tercer trimestre
Cambios en los movimientos fetales y cuándo comunicarse con un profesional de la salud
Señales de alerta de parto prematuro y otros síntomas que requieren atención médica
Frecuencia y propósito de las visitas prenatales durante el tercer trimestre
El papel de las parejas y las personas de apoyo durante el tercer trimestre
Recursos:
Colegio Americano de Obstetras y Ginecólogos (ACOG): https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/how-your-fetus-grows-during-pregnancy
Guía Semana a Semana del Embarazo de Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/pregnancy/art-20046767
Johns Hopkins Medicine – El Tercer Trimestre: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/the-third-trimester
Cleveland Clinic – Tercer Trimestre: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/third-trimester

Season 3 Episode 1: Third Trimester Overview

In the first episode of Season 3 of the Rhode to Pregnancy podcast, Malia and Ashley provide an overview of the third trimester of pregnancy and what patients can expect as they approach labor and delivery. They discuss major milestones in fetal development, common physical symptoms experienced during the third trimester, important prenatal appointments, recommended vaccines and screenings, and ways to prepare for birth and the postpartum period. The hosts also highlight warning signs that warrant medical attention and discuss how partners and support people can provide meaningful support during this stage of pregnancy. This episode serves as a foundation for the rest of the season, which will explore labor, delivery, and postpartum topics in greater depth.
Key Topics:
Definition and timeline of the third trimester
Major fetal growth and developmental milestones
Common third-trimester symptoms
Changes in fetal movement and when to contact a healthcare provider
Warning signs of preterm labor and other symptoms that require medical attention
Frequency and purpose of third-trimester prenatal visits
The role of partners and support people during the third trimester
Resources
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG): https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/how-your-fetus-grows-during-pregnancy
Mayo Clinic Pregnancy Week-by-Week Guide: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/pregnancy/art-20046767
Johns Hopkins Medicine – The Third Trimester: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/the-third-trimester
Cleveland Clinic – Third Trimester: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/third-trimester

Season 2 Episode 8: Headaches & Fatigue in Pregnancy

In this episode of the Rhode to Pregnancy podcast, Ashley and Malia are joined by Dr. Srilakshmi Mitta, an obstetric medicine specialist, to break down two very common second-trimester symptoms: headaches and fatigue, including fatigue related to anemia.
They explain why the second trimester is often called the “easier” trimester, while highlighting that symptoms like headaches and low energy are still very common. The conversation covers what causes these symptoms, how to tell what’s normal versus concerning, and when to reach out to your healthcare provider.
Dr. Mitta also walks through safe treatment options for headaches, lifestyle strategies to improve energy levels, and how anemia is screened and treated during pregnancy. This episode is designed to help you feel informed, reassured, and empowered as you navigate the second trimester.
 
Key Topics Covered
Why the second trimester feels “easier”
Common symptoms: headaches & fatigue
Normal vs concerning headaches (red flags)
Safe treatments for headaches
Causes of fatigue and how to spot anemia
Anemia screening and treatment
Iron-rich foods and supplement tips
Local Rhode Island Resources
Rhode Island WIC Program: Free nutrition support, prenatal counseling, and access to iron-rich foods – https://health.ri.gov/wic
Women & Infants Hospital: High-risk pregnancy care and anemia management services – https://www.womenandinfants.org
Thundermist Health Center: Affordable prenatal and primary care – https://www.thundermisthealth.org
Providence Community Health Centers: Accessible prenatal care and lab testing – https://www.providencechc.org
Rhode Island Department of Health: Pregnancy health information and statewide resources – https://health.ri.gov/pregnancy 
Important Links & Sources
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists – Headaches During Pregnancy FAQs: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/headaches-and-pregnancy 
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists – Acetaminophen and Pregnancy FAQs: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/acetaminophen-and-pregnancy 
Follow us on Instagram: @RhodetoPregnancy
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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/ 
Follow us on Instagram: @RhodetoPregnancy
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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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