The Baby Tribe Podcast

Join us for an insightful episode of the Baby Tribe podcast as we welcome Professor Jennifer Donnelly, a renowned consultant Obstetrician and Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist. With an impressive career trajectory that includes her recent role as Clinical Director at the Rotunda Hospital, Jennifer shares her journey of balancing clinical duties with leadership responsibilities. She opens up about the transformative changes she implemented during her directorship and the newfound free time she anticipates will enrich her future roles. Listen in as Jennifer reflects on her experiences in maternal fetal medicine and the evolution of healthcare services at the Rotunda Hospital.



Explore the critical topics of postpartum haemorrhage, thromboembolism, and infection as we highlight the increased risks faced by pregnant women and the importance of systematic risk assessments. We underscore the necessity of continually reviewing and improving risk scores to incorporate new data and enhance patient care. The conversation also sheds light on advancements in managing comorbid conditions during pregnancy and the positive impact of new treatments on pregnancy outcomes.



Discover the rewarding aspects of maternal medicine through Jennifer's perspective, as she shares the emotional journey of guiding individuals through their pregnancies. We touch upon the significance of investing in high-quality maternity care and the dedication of multidisciplinary teams in specialized maternity hospitals. The conversation also addresses advancements in cardiac care for pregnant women with congenital and acquired heart disease, offering hope and insight into the future of maternal and cardiac care. With heartfelt stories and a focus on comprehensive care, this episode promises to enlighten and inspire listeners about the intricacies of maternal health. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Obstetric anaesthesiologist Dr Anne Doherty steps into the guest spotlight on the Baby Tribe Podcast, ready to dismantle myths and address the intricacies of weight issues in pregnancy with candour and empathy. Anne shares her wealth of knowledge on the medical implications of obesity during pregnancy, from maternal morbidity to the complexities of labour analgesia and anaesthesia. With our previous episode sparking spirited debate, particularly among those with strong opinions on weight management, this episode aims to further the conversation with a focus on empathetic communication and understanding the emotional landscape that accompanies these discussions.

Anne, alongside Afif, navigates through the sensitive terrain of weight-related topics with precision and care. They tackle the role of language in healthcare discussions, the importance of factual communication, and the nuances of weight gain during pregnancy. From enhanced recovery to GLP-1 agonists and the potential role of bariatric surgery, this episode equips listeners with valuable insights to make informed healthcare decisions. Tune in for a compassionate exploration of a complex issue, where informed choices and sensitive dialogue are at the forefront.

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Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Dr. Mick Crotty, a GP with a keen specialization in obesity medicine. We explore the multifaceted nature of obesity, going beyond the superficial metrics of BMI to consider it as a chronic neuroendocrine disease impacting overall health. Dr. Crotty shares his insights on the societal biases tied to body size and underscores the need for a shift in focus from achieving thinness to improving health. As we navigate this complex topic, we reveal the challenges faced by healthcare professionals, especially in places like Ireland where defined training pathways for obesity medicine specialists are scarce.

The episode culminates in a re-evaluation of traditional weight management approaches. From the challenges of maternal health care linked to weight stigma to the promising role of GLP-1 receptor agonists in treating obesity, we discuss the importance of understanding the biological and hormonal underpinnings of weight. Dr. Crotty advocates for a compassionate, individualized approach to obesity, treating it as a chronic illness that requires nuanced care, much like other long-term health conditions. This conversation not only debunks common misconceptions but also offers a fresh perspective on health, emphasizing quality of life over mere numbers on a scale.

Find Dr Crotty: https://www.instagram.com/mybestweight.ie/

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Dr. Geraldine Connolly and Paula Herbert are here to revolutionize the way we think about young girls' gynaecological health. As a trailblazer in obstetrics and gynaecology, Dr. Connolly teams up with seasoned yoga teacher and Ayurvedic practitioner Paula Herbert to create My Girl's Gynae. This initiative is all about educating and supporting young girls and their parents through the sometimes daunting phases of puberty and periods. Together, we explore the fusion of Western medicine with holistic practices, providing invaluable insights into how these approaches can harmonize to address the unique needs of adolescent girls.



Our conversation uncovers the often misunderstood experience of early puberty, revealing societal perceptions and environmental factors that may contribute. By comparing Ayurvedic perspectives to traditional Western views, we seek to illuminate how girls can better understand their menstrual cycles. We also discuss practical advice for parents preparing their daughters for their first periods, underscoring the importance of early education and open communication. From understanding the roles of hormones to recognizing the signs of heavy periods and anaemia, we cover it all with a focus on empowering families to break the cycle of shame around menstruation.



We emphasize the significance of including fathers in the conversation and highlight resources like online courses and social media engagement to make these discussions more accessible. With humour and relatable anecdotes, we strive to foster a supportive environment where young girls can thrive and embrace their transformative years with confidence. Join us for a rich dialogue that aims to change the conversation around gynaecological health for the better.



Check them out at:

https://mygirlsgynae.com/

https://www.instagram.com/mygirlsgynae/



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Chartered psychologist Allison Keating joins us to unravel the intricacies of parental anxiety during the perinatal and postnatal periods. Together, we explore how this often-overlooked topic can profoundly impact identity and emotional well-being for new parents. By examining societal pressures and the tendency towards shame, we aim to offer comforting insights and practical advice, reminding parents that anxiety is a common, human experience.

Throughout our conversation, we address the daunting transition into parenthood and the pressures that come from societal expectations and misleading advertising. Allison provides expert guidance on navigating these challenges, emphasizing the importance of recognizing one's limits and prioritizing mental health over the pursuit of perfection. With personal anecdotes and expert reflections, we aim to reassure parents that experiencing anxiety is normal, regardless of one's expertise or background.

We also discuss the dynamic relationship between parental anxiety and children's behaviour, offering strategies for emotional regulation and self-care. From understanding the impact of anxiety on kids to managing overstimulation, we introduce techniques like the three "I's" and three "C's" to help parents maintain their own well-being. By advocating for a supportive network and open conversations about mental health, we underscore the value of compassion and understanding on the parenting journey.



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