Epidurals are one of the most common ways people manage pain in labour, but they’re also one of the most debated. Are they safe? Do they slow labour? Will you still be able to push? In this episode, we take a deep dive into both the science and the lived experience of epidurals. We’ll walk you through how they work, what the procedure looks like, and what the latest research says about their impact on birth outcomes.

From myths about paralysis to questions about birth experience, we’re separating fact from fiction so you can feel informed, not fearful. Whether you’re planning your first birth, supporting someone through theirs, or just curious about the role of epidurals in modern obstetrics, this episode is your comprehensive guide.

Why is it still so hard for women to get permanent birth control? Across TikTok, Reddit, and even news stories, young people are sharing their frustration at being turned away by providers when they ask for sterilization. At the same time, a growing movement is pushing for elective salpingectomy- the complete removal of the fallopian tubes- as the gold-standard surgical option for contraception.

In this episode, we dig into what salpingectomy actually involves, why many gynecologists now recommend it over traditional “tube tying,” and the evidence behind its effectiveness, safety, and recovery. We also explore the added benefit that’s changing the conversation entirely: the potential to lower the risk of ovarian cancer.

If you’ve ever wondered why doctors hesitate, what the research really says, or whether permanent contraception could be right for you, this episode is a deep dive into autonomy, evidence, and the future of surgical birth control.

Flat on your back isn’t the only way to give birth- but it’s the one most people expect. So how did that position become the standard, and what happens when you try something different?

In this episode, we unpack the history behind why “back-only” became the norm, what the evidence actually shows about different pushing positions, and how things like gravity and mobility can make a big difference. We also talk about what this means for tearing, comfort, and feeling in control of your birth.

If you’re preparing for labour- or just curious about how we got here- you’ll come away with a new perspective on what it really means to have options when it comes to pushing.