Black Birth Stories

Bleeding in early pregnancy can feel terrifying-but is it always a warning sign?

In this video, board-certified OBGYN Dr. Tiffany Woodus breaks down what's normal, what's not, and how to know when to call your doctor. You'll leave informed, calm, and confident about what's happening with your body.

In this episode, you'll learn:

What does a healthy early pregnancy really look like — especially when you don’t feel pregnant yet?

In this episode, Dr. Tiffany Woodus — board-certified OBGYN and founder of Melanin Maternity — breaks down the real early signs your pregnancy is going well: from tender breasts and fatigue to subtle emotional shifts and mindset changes that matter most.

Whether you’re a first-time mama or adding another blessing to your family, this episode will help you trust your body, silence the fear, and recognize the quiet signs that life is unfolding exactly as it should.

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Tylenol in Pregnancy: The Truth About Autism Risk (OBGYN Explains)

Summary

Dr. Tiffany Woodus addresses the recent claims linking Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism. She emphasizes the importance of separating fact from fiction, highlighting that scientific evidence does not support these claims. Dr. Woodus discusses the risks associated with untreated fever during pregnancy and the importance of using Tylenol appropriately. She reassures mothers who have taken Tylenol and encourages trust in medical advice and science to ensure safe maternal health outcomes.

In this...

First Prenatal Visit: Tests Your OB Won’t Tell You About

In this episode of the Black Birth Stories podcast, Dr. Tiffany Woodus discusses the essential aspects of the first prenatal visit, including the importance of choosing the right OB provider, understanding the various tests and screenings that will be conducted, and the significance of genetic testing and vaccinations. She emphasizes the need for open communication with healthcare providers and the management of pre-existing conditions during pregnancy. The episode aims to empower expecting mothers with knowledge and confidence as they navigate their prenatal care jo...

I’ve delivered over 3,000 babies as an OBGYN — and here’s what I tell every mama who gets a positive pregnancy test.

That little pink line can bring up a lot of feelings: joy, anxiety, fear, excitement, or all of the above. If you just found out you’re pregnant, you might be wondering: Now what? In this video, I walk you through the first steps you need to take — both emotionally and practically — so you can start your pregnancy journey feeling informed, empowered, and supported.

In this episode, you’ll learn...

Too many mamas walk into Labor & Delivery unprepared, unheard, and left with trauma instead of joy. As an OBGYN, I’ve seen how the right knowledge can change everything. That’s why I created this 38-minute compilation: my most important advice to help you protect your health, prepare for the unexpected, and experience a birth where you feel seen, heard, and respected.

Inside, you'll learn

In this week’s episode of The Black Birth Stories Podcast, Dr. Tiffany Woodus reacts to a powerful birth story that every mama can learn from.

We cover:✅ What happens when your induction of labor is cancelled✅ How to know when it’s really time to head to the hospital✅ The role of doulas and why every mama deserves one✅ What it means to get your bag of water broken (and if it’s safe)
✅ How to prepare for and lower your risk of postpartum hemorrhage

Whether you’re pregnant now or...

In this episode of the Black Birth Stories podcast, Dr. Tiffany Woodus discusses a unique case involving a vulvar hematoma that occurred during a natural delivery. The episode highlights the challenges faced during labor, the importance of timely medical intervention, and the resilience of the female body in recovery. Dr. Woodus emphasizes the need for awareness of such complications and the empowerment of women in their birthing experiences.

Takeaways

In this episode, Dr. Tiffany Woodus discusses a case of a ruptured ectopic pregnancy, emphasizing the importance of recognizing severe pain and seeking immediate medical attention. She explains the medical procedures involved in treating ectopic pregnancies and highlights the significance of listening to one's body, especially in the context of black maternal health. The episode aims to empower women by sharing knowledge and experiences related to pregnancy complications and recovery.

Takeaways

In this episode, Dr. Tiffany Woodus emphasizes the critical role of advocacy in maternal health, particularly for Black women. She discusses the importance of choosing the right healthcare provider and the positive outcomes associated with Black patients receiving care from Black doctors. The conversation highlights the necessity of building a supportive community or 'village' to aid in the birthing process and the importance of being prepared for medical appointments. Dr. Woodus provides practical tips for self-advocacy, including preparing questions and understanding medical terminology to ensure better communication with healthcare providers.

Takeaways

Summary

In this episode of the Black Birth Stories podcast, Dr. Tiffany Woodus reacts to a birth story complicated by severe preeclampsia, highlighting the unexpected challenges faced with high blood pressure and preeclampsia, risk factors, warning signs, treatment, and recovery. She emphasizes the importance of routine prenatal care, understanding family health history, the impact of pre-existing medical problems, and the need for a supportive community. The conversation also covers the emotional and physical aspects of an unplanned C-section and the postpartum recovery process, underscoring the significance of advocacy and support for black women in maternal health.

In this episode of the Black Birth Stories podcast, Dr. Tiffany Woodus discusses the importance of celebrating Black families and maternal health. She emphasizes the need for Black women to navigate their choices in OBGYN care effectively, particularly in avoiding common pitfalls. The conversation covers critical topics such as low amniotic fluid and its implications for induction, the significance of fetal heart rate monitoring during labor, and the importance of informed consent regarding epidurals. Additionally, Dr. Woodus addresses the common experience of labor shakes and how to manage them effectively.

Takeaways

In this episode of the Black Birth Stories podcast, Dr. Tiffany Woodus discusses the importance of celebrating Black families and maternal health. She emphasizes the need for Black women to advocate for themselves when choosing an OBGYN and navigating the complexities of labor and delivery. The conversation covers various topics including labor inductions, pain management options, and the significance of personalizing the birth experience. Dr. Woodus also addresses potential complications during delivery, such as nuchal cords, and encourages listeners to be informed and prepared for their birthing journey.

Takeaways

In this episode of the Black Birth Stories podcast, Dr. Tiffany Woodus and Mosunmola Ajenikoko discuss the importance of celebrating Black families and maternal health. They explore the challenges faced by Black women in choosing OBGYNs, navigating pregnancy, and dealing with conditions like hyperemesis gravidarum. Mosun shares her personal experiences with labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery, emphasizing the significance of community support and cultural traditions in parenting. The conversation concludes with valuable advice for expecting mothers on how to advocate for their health and well-being during pregnancy.

Takeaways

In this episode of the Black Birth Stories podcast, Dr. Tiffany Woodus engages in a heartfelt conversation with Toneka, who shares her profound journey through two pregnancies marked by grief, healing, and the celebration of life. They discuss the importance of community, the challenges of high-risk pregnancies, and the emotional complexities of motherhood. Toneka's story highlights the resilience of Black women and the significance of advocating for oneself in healthcare. The episode concludes with empowering words of wisdom for mothers navigating their own journeys.

Takeaways

In this episode of the Black Birth Stories podcast, Dr. Tiffany Woodus and guest Toneka discuss the complexities of Black maternal health, focusing on Toneka's personal experiences with two pregnancies. The conversation highlights the importance of community support, the challenges of severe preeclampsia, and the emotional journey of healing after the loss of a child. Toneka shares her NICU experience, the impact of her health complications, and the ongoing process of grief and recovery.

Takeaways

In this episode of the Black Birth Stories podcast, host Dr. Tiffany Woodus speaks with Toneka about her two pregnancies, highlighting the complexities of her first pregnancy, which involved severe preeclampsia and the loss of her first child. Toneka shares her experiences navigating pregnancy during the COVID-19 pandemic, the emotional challenges of family dynamics, and the eventual emergency delivery due to HELLP syndrome. The conversation emphasizes the importance of support, understanding, and advocacy in maternal health, particularly for Black women.

Takeaways

In this episode of the Black Birth Stories podcast, Dr. Tiffany Woodus discusses the topic of elective cesarean deliveries. She reacts to a personal experience with an elective C-section (courtesy of Because I Love You Podcast with Bria Jones, watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/wzojPqwChq8?si=eYFNrkQQmsQTYB8b), addressing the stigma surrounding it and the importance of trusting one's own decisions in the face of societal pressures. The conversation delves into the medical aspects of elective C-sections, including indications, risks, and the preparation process. Dr. Woodus emphasizes the significance of being informed and prepared for childbirth...

In this episode of the Black Birth Stories podcast, Dr. Tiffany Woodus reacts to a positive birth story while addressing the unique challenges faced by Black women in maternal health. She emphasizes the importance of advocacy, informed decision-making, and the role of support systems like doulas. The conversation covers various aspects of pregnancy, labor, and delivery, including the emotional and physical realities, the significance of choosing the right healthcare provider, and the impact of systemic issues on Black maternal health.

Takeaways

In this heartfelt episode of the Black Birth Stories podcast, Dr. Tiffany Woodus reflects on the significance of Mother's Day and leads a powerful prayer for mothers from all walks of life. She emphasizes gratitude, the importance of community, and the divine support available to mothers as they navigate their unique journeys. The episode concludes with blessings and encouragement for mothers to embrace their roles and trust in their purpose.

Takeaways

In this episode of the Black Birth Stories podcast, Dr. Tiffany Woodus engages with Dr. Charmeka, who shares her unique pregnancy journey, highlighting the challenges faced by Black women in maternal healthcare. The conversation covers the implications of high risk pregnancies, the impact of race and culture on care, and the resilience required in motherhood. Dr. Charmeka's story emphasizes the need for self-advocacy and the power of faith in overcoming obstacles during pregnancy and childbirth.

Takeaways

In this episode of the Black Birth Stories podcast, Dr. Tiffany Woodus discusses the critical issues surrounding Black maternal health, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy, community support, and empowerment during pregnancy. Guest Mrs. Annie Allen shares her personal journey, highlighting the emotional complexities of pregnancy, the significance of having a supportive village, and the need for open communication with healthcare providers. The conversation aims to uplift and encourage new mothers, reminding them of the strength found in community and faith.

Takeaways

In this episode of the Black Birth Stories podcast, Dr. Tiffany Woodus and Doula Bitengo discuss the critical aspects of choosing an OBGYN, the importance of intentional birth planning, and the need for support systems during childbirth. They share personal experiences and insights on how to advocate for oneself in the healthcare system, especially for Black women, and emphasize the significance of feeling heard and supported during the birthing process.

Takeaways

In this episode of the Black Birth Stories podcast, Shannon Hart-Powell shares her unique journey of motherhood through adoption. She discusses the emotional challenges of supporting her children's birth mothers, the importance of advocacy in maternal health, and the need for open communication. Shannon emphasizes the significance of community support and encourages other mothers to advocate for themselves and their health. Her story highlights the complexities of adoption and the empowerment that comes from sharing experiences and knowledge.

Takeaways

In this episode of the Black Birth Stories podcast, Dr. Tiffany Woodus engages in a heartfelt conversation with her mother, Ms. Cecelia Allen, about the journey of pregnancy, motherhood, and the importance of community support. They discuss the emotional and physical changes during pregnancy, the significance of faith and decision-making, and the vital role of advocacy in healthcare. Ms. Allen shares her personal experiences, the challenges she faced, and the joy of celebrating milestones with her family. The conversation emphasizes the need for a supportive village, the importance of postpartum care, and the transformative nature of motherhood.

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In the inaugural episode of the Black Birth Stories podcast, Dr. Tiffany Woodus introduces her mission to improve black maternal health outcomes and eliminate health disparities. She shares her personal journey of stepping into this calling and the importance of being prepared during pregnancy. The podcast aims to provide a platform for sharing birth stories and education, emphasizing community support and empowerment for black mothers.