In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Britta Bushnell shares her insights on the transformative journey of parenthood, emphasizing the importance of mythology and psychology in understanding childbirth. She discusses the illusion of control that many expectant parents face, the significance of childbirth as a rite of passage, and the dynamics of family roles as new parents navigate their identities. Dr. Bushnell also highlights the critical role of partners during the birth and postpartum periods, advocating for the practice of receiving help and the power of storytelling in reframing birth experiences for healing and resilience.

"Stories are how we remember."
"Partners need to embody 'bank' energy."
"Practicing receiving help is crucial."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Britta Bushnell
02:58 The Illusion of Control in Parenthood
05:41 The Intersection of Mythology, Psychology, and Childbirth
11:52 Childbirth as a Rite of Passage
17:33 The Transformative Family Wheel
29:23 Partner Support During Birth and Postpartum
44:50 Reframing Birth Stories for Healing

Keywords

birth, parenthood, transformation, mythology, psychology, childbirth education, rites of passage, family dynamics, partner support, healing

About Britta Bushnell
Britta Bushnell, PhD, is a childbirth educator, birth advocate, and author known for her work on the neurobiology of birth and the mind–body connection in labor. She holds a doctorate in Mythological Studies with an emphasis in Depth Psychology, and she brings a unique, research-informed perspective to understanding how physiology, environment, and emotional safety influence birth outcomes.

Britta is the author of Transformed by Birth, a widely respected book that explores how birth experiences shape women neurologically and psychologically. Her work bridges neuroscience, psychology, and childbirth education, helping parents and providers better understand how to support labor in ways that promote safety, confidence, and optimal outcomes.

Through teaching, writing, and speaking, Britta Bushnell continues to challenge fear-based narratives around birth and advocates for care models that honor the intelligence of the birthing body and brain.
https://brittabushnell.com/

About Materna Healthcare:

Materna Healthcare is a first-of-its-kind medical practice dedicated to early pregnancy care. From preconception through the earliest stages of pregnancy, we provide expert, compassionate, same-day care designed to keep women out of the emergency room and connected to the support they need.

Learn more at www.maternahealthcare.com or reach out at hello@maternahealthcare.com

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In this episode of Pregnant-ish, host Kristen Williams speaks with genetic counselor Ushta Davar Canteenwalla about the complexities of genetic testing during pregnancy. They discuss the importance of genetic counseling, the different types of genetic tests available, and the emotional and ethical considerations surrounding these tests. Ushta emphasizes the need for accessible genetic counseling and the benefits of preconception testing to help parents prepare for potential complications. The conversation highlights the advancements in prenatal genetic testing and the importance of informed decision-making for expecting parents.

• Genetic counseling is essential for informed decision-making during pregnancy.
• Many OBs do not work with genetic counselors, leading to gaps in information.
• Preconception genetic testing can provide valuable insights for future parents.
• Emotional support is crucial when navigating genetic testing results.
• NIPT is a non-invasive test with high detection rates but has limitations.
• Amniocentesis provides definitive answers but comes with risks.
• Advancements in genetic testing technology are rapidly evolving.
• Expecting parents should approach genetic testing with a positive mindset.
• Understanding family history can guide additional testing needs.
• Genetic counseling should feel like a supportive conversation, not a clinical obligation.

About Ushta: Ushta is a board-certified genetic counselor with over 20 years of experience guiding individuals and families through their genetic health. In 2018, she founded FiND Genetics, a telemedicine consulting practice dedicated to making genetics more clear, accessible, and empowering. Her work spans reproductive, adult, and general genetics, as well as clinical operations, education, and mentorship. Previously, she led a collaborative fetal care center at Columbia University Medical Center and directed the national genetic counseling team at CooperGenomics.

For more information on Ushta Davar Canteenwalla and Find Genetics you can find information at https://www.findgenetics.com/. Join the priority list for her upcoming Prenatal Testing with Confidence workshop series: self-paced learning experience with ongoing live support from me to help you understand genetic testing in pregnancy. Sign up here. And Follow Ushta on Instagram @findgenetics

Materna Healthcare is a first-of-its-kind medical practice dedicated to early pregnancy care. From preconception through the earliest stages of pregnancy, we provide expert, compassionate, same-day care designed to keep women out of the emergency room and connected to the support they need.

Learn more at www.maternahealthcare.com or reach out at hello@maternahealthcare.com. Follow us on instagram @materna_health

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/materna_health_

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@maternahealth

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/maternahealthcare

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