This week, Dr. Lauryn continues her recent exploration into the world of birth care, this time joined by Dr. Rebecca Dekker, founder of Evidence Based Birth, to discuss what the research actually says regarding some of the biggest talking points (and as we find out, myths) around birth. This convo is jam packed with great info to pass along to any expecting mothers in your practice, and many of the research fact sheets referenced are listed below, so be sure to print some out and have them handy the next time a pregnant mom has questions!

Rebecca L. Dekker, PhD, RN, is the founder and CEO of Evidence Based Birth®, and author of the bestselling book, “Babies Are Not Pizzas: They’re Born, Not Delivered.” Dr. Dekker received her Master of Science in Nursing and her Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing from the University of Kentucky. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Dr. Dekker has built a strong reputation in maternal and infant health circles for her pioneering work as the founder of Evidence Based Birth.® The mission of EBB is to raise the quality of childbirth care globally, by putting accurate, evidence based research into the hands of families and communities, so they can make informed, empowered choices.

During their discussion, Dr. Dekker shares her own birthing story and lessons learned from it that spurred her work in this field, why the birthing model is backwards, where and who are doing the best work, and then goes topic by topic giving some of the latest research results on many of the most common talking points around birth.

EBB Reports and other information referenced by Dr. Dekker during the episode:

EBB Signature Article + Handout on Due Dates

EBB Handout on the ARRIVE trial

EBB Signature Article + Handout on PROM

EBB Signature Article + Handout on Big Babies

EBB Podcast about Kick Counting and Stillbirth Prevention

Directory of Research by Count the Kicks

WHO Info on preventing stillbirth

Blog article about research on preventing stillbirth

Evidence Based Birth Podcast: Apple | Spotify

Follow EBB: Instagram | YouTube

Get Dr. Dekker’s book,