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#481: Microbirth, A Film Explains How We Birth Matters

September 2, 2026 · 1 h 18 min

Show notes

What if the way we enter the world has consequences that reach far beyond the day we're born?

This week, Blyss and Stu dive into “Microbirth”, the 2014 documentary exploring the human microbiome and what happens during the extraordinary biological transition of birth. From exposure to maternal bacteria during vaginal birth to skin-to-skin contact, breastfeeding, antibiotics, cesarean delivery, and the hormonal physiology of labor.

At the heart of the conversation is a much bigger question: When we intervene in birth, are we considering only the immediate outcome, or the ripple effects that may follow a baby for years, and perhaps even generations?

Because birth isn't simply the moment a baby arrives. It may be one of the most important biological programming events of our lives.

Listen now and join us as we ask: How much does the way we birth really matter?


References:

Microbirth Film

https://play.xumo.com/free-movies/microbirth/XM0KT28KHM1VCA


Do Antibiotics Given to Pregnant Women Harm the Baby's Brain? By Jennifer Margulis

https://jennifermargulis.substack.com/api/v1/post/pdf?postId=192562195


Impact of maternal intrapartum antibiotics, method of birth and breastfeeding on gut microbiota during the first year of life: a prospective cohort study

https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1471-0528.13601


Allowed to Birth Ashland Screening

birthinginstincts.com/events/allowed-to-birth


Intentional Birth Pro Advocacy Training

https://community.intentionalbirth.co/a/2147925238/HUkqrEuo


Discussed in This Episode

  • Microbirth documentary
  • Humans as Living Ecosystems
  • What Happens to the Microbiome During Birth?
  • Ripple Effects of Antibiotics
  • The Incredible Biology of Breast Milk
  • The Gut-Brain Axis
  • What Is Vaginal Seeding?
  • Does Too Much Protection Hurt the Microbiome?


Podcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care


This show is supported by


Connect with Dr. Stu and Blyss



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