What happens when we monitor birth too much?

In this episode, Blyss and Stu pull back the curtain on one of the most normalized, and least questioned, practices in modern obstetrics: continuous monitoring. What starts as “safety” can quietly become interference, and the consequences aren’t small.

Together, they break down how over-monitoring can derail physiologic birth, increase unnecessary interventions, and shift trust away from a woman’s body and into machines. From hospital protocols to real-world birth room dynamics, this conversation challenges the narrative that more data always equals better outcomes.

If you’ve ever been told “we just want to keep an eye on things,” this episode will make you ask: at what cost?

References:

Birthing Instincts Podcast Episode #416: Disentangling Mono-chorionic Twins

Dr. Stu’s Mind Attic: Routine Use of Color Flow Doppler: Who Benefits? (youtube.com/@birthinginstinctspodcast)

Birthing Instincts Podcast Episode #433: Q & A with Dr. K, Pregnancy Specialist

Birthing Instincts Podcast Episode #294 Group B Strep: Prioritizing Agenda Over Science

Birthing Instincts Podcast Episode #408: Neonatal Jaundice. Be Vigilant, Not Overzealous

Discussed in This Episode

How monitoring became synonymous with safety

The unintended consequences of continuous fetal monitoring

Friedman’s Curve: The outdated standard still running birth

What the research actually says about EFM

How liability and fear shape birth practices

Breaking down the glucose drink, thresholds, and alternatives

When NSTs are useful, and when they’re just routine

Biophysical Profiles: What Are We Really Looking For?

Color Flow Doppler: More Information…or More Intervention?

How “abnormal” findings can fast-track induction

Practical, empowering questions for parents navigating hospital birth

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

This show is supported by

WeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order, or wenatal.com/birthinginstinctswnp for the new Protein + offer.
LMNT | Got to lmnt.com/birthinginstincts to get a free sample pack with any order
Christian Hypnobirthing | Go to christianhypnobirthing.com and use the code BI50 for 50% off the first three months of your monthly subscription.
Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 off
Girls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use code INSTINCTS for 15% off

Connect with Dr. Stu and Blyss

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#459: Over-Monitoring & Outcomes, How Are We Doing & Who Benefits.

Birthing Instincts

#459: Over-Monitoring & Outcomes, How Are We Doing & Who Benefits.