Welcome to The Push Podcast, where we break down the big (and sometimes bizarre) topics in obstetrics, gynecology, and women’s health, no medical degree required.

In this introductory episode, we- Meghan McGrattan, OB/GYN, and Sydney Fuller, RN- share who we are, how our friendship and professional paths brought us to this podcast, and why we felt it was time to start pushing back on myths, misinformation, and outdated medical norms.

We’ll talk about what you can expect from future episodes, how we choose our topics, and why we're obsessed with making research and critical thinking in medicine accessible to everyone.

Thanks for being here, we’re so excited to get started.

Part myth, part medicine, the “husband stitch” has long haunted conversations about childbirth and consent. In the first full episode of the Push Podcast, Meghan and Sydney unpack the origins of the term, what the research actually says, and why this story still strikes a nerve today. From perineal repair to power dynamics, they explore how a single stitch became a symbol, and what it reveals about the stories we tell (and don’t tell) in women’s health.

Hormones, hype, and how the pill really works.

The birth control pill is one of the most studied- and most misunderstood- drugs in modern medicine. In this episode, we unpack what it actually does to your body, mood, and menstrual cycle, while also tracing its roots as a revolutionary tool in the fight for reproductive freedom. Whether you’ve been on it for years, just started, or are pill-curious, we're cutting through the noise to explore the science and the cultural impact of the pill with nuance, evidence, and zero judgment.

Why the real goal is support in breastfeeding- not shame.

World Breastfeeding Awareness Week kicks off August 1st, and we’re getting in early with the equally messy and miraculous truth about postpartum feeding.

From leaky boobs to latch stress, nipple shields to formula shame- and yes, whether or not you can have that glass of wine- we’re breaking down the biology, busting the myths, and asking why everyone from your barista to your great-aunt thinks they get a say in how you feed your baby.

Meghan shares what the research actually says (and what it doesn’t), Sydney brings the real talk from the bedside, and together we unpack things like DMER (yes, that sudden wave of dread is real), low supply anxiety, and why combo feeding is not a dirty word.

If you've ever cried while washing pump parts, cursed a clogged duct, or just wanted someone to say “you’re doing great,” this episode is for you.

Why are we still so obsessed with “baby weight”?

In this episode, we break down the science and the societal pressure behind pregnancy weight gain and postpartum weight loss. From weekly weigh-ins at prenatal visits to the unrealistic timelines for “bouncing back” after birth, we’re asking: what’s the evidence, and what’s just expectation?

Dr. Meghan and Nurse Sydney unpack why pre-pregnancy BMI is actually a much stronger predictor of outcomes than weight gain alone, what the guidelines really say, and how postpartum bodies became a cultural battleground. We also explore the emotional toll of treating recovery like a weight loss program, and what it means to shift the conversation toward healing instead of shrinking. If the scale has ever felt heavier than just a number, let’s unpack it together.

It’s almost go-time! This quick mini-episode is the first in our two-part series on getting ready for birth and postpartum recovery. Today, OB/GYN Dr. Meghan McGrattan and L&D nurse Sydney break down exactly what to pack in your hospital bag for labor and delivery- and what you can definitely leave at home. We cover the must-haves, the nice-to-haves, and the items that will just take up space (looking at you, three extra outfits!). Whether you’re a first-time parent or prepping for your next birth, this checklist will help you feel ready, calm, and confident when it’s time to meet your baby.

Up next: Part Two- our Postpartum Survival Kit.

You’ve packed your hospital bag, now let’s talk about what happens after baby arrives. In this quick mini-episode (Part Two of our birth prep series), OB/GYN Dr. Meghan McGrattan and L&D nurse Sydney share our ultimate Postpartum Survival Kit. From recovery essentials to the little comforts that make a big difference in those first few weeks, we’ll help you stock up on the items you’ll actually use- and skip the ones you won’t. Whether you’re preparing for your first postpartum experience or looking to make this time smoother than last, this list will help you heal, rest, and focus on your new arrival.

If you missed Part One — Hospital Bag Essentials: Pack Like a Pro — go back and give it a listen!

Flat on your back isn’t the only way to give birth- but it’s the one most people expect. So how did that position become the standard, and what happens when you try something different?

In this episode, we unpack the history behind why “back-only” became the norm, what the evidence actually shows about different pushing positions, and how things like gravity and mobility can make a big difference. We also talk about what this means for tearing, comfort, and feeling in control of your birth.

If you’re preparing for labour- or just curious about how we got here- you’ll come away with a new perspective on what it really means to have options when it comes to pushing.

Why is it still so hard for women to get permanent birth control? Across TikTok, Reddit, and even news stories, young people are sharing their frustration at being turned away by providers when they ask for sterilization. At the same time, a growing movement is pushing for elective salpingectomy- the complete removal of the fallopian tubes- as the gold-standard surgical option for contraception.

In this episode, we dig into what salpingectomy actually involves, why many gynecologists now recommend it over traditional “tube tying,” and the evidence behind its effectiveness, safety, and recovery. We also explore the added benefit that’s changing the conversation entirely: the potential to lower the risk of ovarian cancer.

If you’ve ever wondered why doctors hesitate, what the research really says, or whether permanent contraception could be right for you, this episode is a deep dive into autonomy, evidence, and the future of surgical birth control.

Epidurals are one of the most common ways people manage pain in labour, but they’re also one of the most debated. Are they safe? Do they slow labour? Will you still be able to push? In this episode, we take a deep dive into both the science and the lived experience of epidurals. We’ll walk you through how they work, what the procedure looks like, and what the latest research says about their impact on birth outcomes.

From myths about paralysis to questions about birth experience, we’re separating fact from fiction so you can feel informed, not fearful. Whether you’re planning your first birth, supporting someone through theirs, or just curious about the role of epidurals in modern obstetrics, this episode is your comprehensive guide.

When our Beyond “Breast is Best” episode came out, one part of the conversation sparked a flood of questions: substance use while breastfeeding. From alcohol and cannabis to caffeine and smoking, the comments section lit up with “Is this safe?,” “What about just once in a while?,” and “Does it really get into breastmilk?”

In this follow-up episode, we’re digging into those questions head-on. We’ll walk through what the science actually says, where the myths come from, and what’s still uncertain. As always, our goal is to give you clear, evidence-based answers so you can make choices that feel right for you and your baby.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you need to pump and dump after a glass of wine, if your morning coffee matters, or how cannabis or smoking can affect milk, this episode is for you.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects 1 in 10 people with ovaries, but if you’ve ever Googled it or scrolled #PCOS on TikTok, you know the information out there is confusing at best. Is it really all about having cysts? Do you need to cut carbs forever? Can supplements “cure” it?

In this episode, we break down what PCOS actually is- the hormones that get out of balance, the common symptoms (from irregular cycles to acne and hair changes), and why diagnosis isn’t as straightforward as people think. We’ll talk about fertility, long-term health considerations, and what treatments really work.

Whether you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS, suspect you might have it, or just want to understand it better, this episode cuts through the confusion and gives you clear, practical information without the diet-culture spin.

Birth plans have become a staple of modern maternity care. You can find endless templates online and TikToks debating what should (or shouldn’t) go on them. But what’s the real purpose of a birth plan, and do they actually make a difference in your experience?

In this episode of The Push Podcast, Sydney and Meghan unpack the history of birth plans, how they’re used in hospitals today, and what the research says about their impact on outcomes. We talk through what birth plans can do well—like helping you communicate your preferences, and where they can sometimes fall short, especially if expectations don’t match real-world circumstances.

If you’re pregnant and considering writing one, or supporting someone who is, this conversation will help you think about birth plans in a practical way: not as a guarantee, but as a tool to spark conversations, clarify your values, and prepare for the unexpected.

In this bonus episode of The Push Podcast, we respond to the viral TikTok out of Santa Barbara where staff at Sansum Clinic under Sutter Health mocked patients by posting photos of bodily fluids left behind after exams. We want to start by saying we are deeply sorry if this video made you feel embarrassed, ashamed, or hesitant to seek care. Patient trust and dignity should never be compromised, and our hope with this episode is to help repair some of the damage by reminding you that your body is normal — and nothing you bring to the OBGYN’s office should ever make you feel ashamed.

We walk through what happened at the clinic, what was posted, and the fallout that followed, while also opening up an honest conversation about the very real feelings of embarrassment many patients carry into appointments — whether it’s being on your period, having had intercourse beforehand, body hair, discharge, or even something as small as hiding your underwear under your clothes. These experiences are common, human, and absolutely nothing to be embarrassed about. We also share how medical professionals actually view these situations — and the truth is, they’ve seen it all, and it’s completely normal.

The original photos and video have since been deleted, and several staff were placed on leave or terminated after the clinic launched an internal investigation. The incident has sparked an important conversation online about medical professionalism and patient dignity, and we hope this episode offers reassurance, compassion, and perspective at a time when it’s needed most.

Stretch and sweeps are one of the most common procedures offered near the end of pregnancy — but do they actually help bring on labour? In this mini bonus episode of The Push Podcast, Nurse Sydney and Dr. Meghan break down what to expect, how it’s done, and whether it’s truly effective.

If you’re nearing your due date and wondering if a stretch and sweep is worth it, this quick listen will give you the clarity you need.

What does it really take to be the best support in the delivery room? In this episode of The Push Podcast, Nurse Sydney and Dr. Meghan share the secrets every partner needs to know — from calming words and simple comfort measures, to advocacy tips that help create a positive birth experience.

Whether it’s your first time supporting a birth or you’re preparing for another baby, this conversation will leave you feeling confident, prepared, and ready to show up as the best possible birth partner.

In honor of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, Nurse Sydney and Dr. Meghan open an honest conversation about miscarriage and early pregnancy loss — topics that are often left unspoken. Together, they share medical insight, emotional realities, and ways to support yourself or someone you love through loss.

If you’ve experienced loss, please know you are not alone.

Let’s talk Pap tests, HPV, and what cervical cancer screening really means for you. In this episode, Nurse Sydney and Dr. Meagan break down when to start screening, how often to do it, and what those results actually mean.

We’re cutting through the confusion, busting myths about HPV, and diving into how the Gardasil vaccine helps protect against cervical cancer.

Because knowledge is power — and your Pap is part of that.

In this episode of The Push Podcast, Nurse Sydney and Dr. Meghan continue their deep dive into inductions of labor — this time focusing on what happens after cervical ripening. They break down how Pitocin (artificial oxytocin) is used to stimulate contractions, what to expect when your provider suggests artificial rupture of membranes (AROM), and how these methods work together to help labor progress. Tune in to learn the risks, benefits, and what it actually feels like when your water is broken during an induction.

🎧 Part 1 on cervical ripening is live now — listen first if you haven’t yet!

Before contractions or Pitocin even start, there’s one crucial step in an induction — cervical ripening.

In this episode, we break down exactly how the cervix is prepared for labor and what to expect during this process.

We cover:

• What cervical ripening actually means
• The most common methods, including Cervidil, Foley and Cook catheters, and Misoprostol (Cytotec)
• What each option feels like, how they’re used, and what the evidence says about their effectiveness
• Tips for comfort, expectations, and how your care team decides which method is right for you

This is Part 1 of our Inductions of Labor series — tune in next week to hear what happens after your cervix is ripe, in Part 2: Pitocin and Active Labor.

From “vaginal rejuvenation” ads to viral vulva masks, the wellness industry is full of promises about women’s bodies. In this episode, Nurse Sydney and Dr. Meghan unpack what cosmetic gynecology actually means, the procedures that are evidence-based (and the ones that aren’t), and why no two vulvas should ever look the same.

They break down common myths, talk about labiaplasty research, and explain how to navigate online trends safely and confidently—with facts, clarity, and compassion.

In this episode, Nurse Sydney and Dr. Meghan sit down with three of BirthTok’s most-loved creators — Kara the Baby Nurse, Mama Nurse Tina, and Labor Junkie RN — for an unfiltered roundtable on what it’s really like being nurse creators online. The conversation dives into why they share their stories, what keeps them motivated, and the harder parts of creating content that most people never see. A must-listen for anyone curious about the world of BirthTok and the reality behind scrubs-to-social media.

In today’s episode, we’re answering your top questions from our Instagram Q&A (@the.push.podcast). We cover everything from pregnancy and birth to postpartum, women’s health, and even a few nursing-related questions you’ve been curious about.

Nurse Sydney and Dr. Meghan break it all down with evidence-based insight, real-life experience, and the supportive, no-judgement vibe you expect from The Push Pod.

Whether you’re pregnant, preparing for birth, navigating postpartum, or just love learning about women’s health, this episode is full of practical tips, honest perspectives, and reassuring guidance.

Have a question for a future Q&A? Send us a DM on Instagram @the.push.podcast

If your period pain wipes you out every month, makes you miss work, or has you curled over in agony — welcome to Cramp Camp. In this episode, Nurse Sydney (L&D nurse) and Dr. Meghan (OB-GYN) break down what’s actually normal, what’s not, and when painful periods deserve a closer look.

We cover:

• Why cramps happen and why some cycles hurt more

• Primary vs. secondary dysmenorrhea

• Common causes like endometriosis, adenomyosis, fibroids, and ovarian cysts

• The biggest red flags: pain outside your period, heavy bleeding, vomiting, and pain that disrupts daily life

• What actually helps — from NSAIDs and timing, to heat, TENS, and hormonal options

• When to see your doctor and how to advocate for your pain to be taken seriously

This episode is validating, myth-busting, and designed to help you understand your pain — not just push through it.

Thinking about getting an IUD? In this episode, Dr. Meghan (OBGYN) and Nurse Sydney break down everything you need to know before deciding if this birth control option is right for you.

We cover the basics — how IUDs work, hormonal vs. copper, benefits, side effects, and who might be a good candidate. With social media filled with scary or extreme IUD insertion stories, it can be hard to know what’s real and what’s not. We talk honestly about:

• What insertion can feel like

• Why people have such different pain experiences

• Practical pain-management options before and during the appointment

• How to advocate for yourself

We also share real patient experiences, debunk myths, and give you the questions we encourage every person to ask their provider before choosing an IUD.

Whether you’re considering birth control for the first time or thinking about switching methods, this episode will help you feel informed, confident, and supported in making the decision that’s right for your body.

This episode is for educational purposes only and not medical advice.

If you’re pregnant and suddenly questioning every skincare product in your bathroom—this episode is for you.

In this episode of The Push Podcast, Nurse Sydney and OB-GYN Dr. Meghan are joined by Caroline Watson, licensed medical aesthetician and skincare specialist from St. Thomas Aesthetics Med Spa in Toronto, to break down pregnancy-safe skincare without fear or overwhelm.

We talk about what actually happens to your skin during pregnancy, which ingredients are safe to use, which ones to avoid, and how to care for common concerns like acne, pigmentation, dryness, and sensitivity—without falling into misinformation from social media.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why your skin changes so much during pregnancy

• Common pregnancy skin concerns (acne, melasma, sensitivity, rashes)

• Skincare ingredients that are safe vs. ones to avoid

• How to simplify your routine during pregnancy

• Professional tips for choosing products without panic

• When to check in with your healthcare provider

This episode is educational, reassuring, and evidence-informed, designed to help you feel confident caring for your skin while pregnant.

You can find Caroline at the following links:

St. Thomas Aesthetics Med Spa: https://www.fordplasticsurgery.com/

Caroline Watson Beauty: https://carolinewatsonbeauty.com/

New Year’s Eve can be fun, flirty, and full of unexpected moments — but it’s also one of the busiest nights of the year for unplanned pregnancies and STI exposure.

In this quick mini-episode, Dr. Meghan (OB-GYN) and Nurse Sydney (L&D Nurse) break down what safe sex actually looks like on New Year’s Eve, including:

• Common myths about condoms & birth control
• How alcohol can affect protection
• STI risks people don’t think about in the moment
• What to do after sex if protection failed or wasn’t used

No shame, no scare tactics — just honest, evidence-based advice so you can start the new year informed and protected.

Happy New Year from The Push Podcast! See you in 2026!

As always, this is not medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider.

Is it the eggnog… or is your uterus just choosing chaos?

In this holiday mini episode of The Push Podcast, Nurse Sydney, a labor & delivery nurse, and Dr. Meghan, OB-GYN, break down why your period might feel late, heavier, crampier, or totally off during the holidays.

From stress and travel to sleep disruption, routine changes, food, and alcohol, they explain how holiday life can impact your hormones and menstrual cycle — and why this happens even if your periods are usually predictable.

They cover:

• Why stress can delay or worsen your period

• How travel and poor sleep affect ovulation

• Why cramps and bleeding can feel worse this time of year

• When holiday cycle changes are normal — and when to check in with your provider

If your period always seems to act up in December, you’re not imagining it. This quick, informative mini episode explains what’s going on.

As always, this episode cannot be taken as medical advice and we always recommend checking with your healthcare provider if something feels off.

Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is not just severe morning sickness — it’s a serious pregnancy condition that can be physically, emotionally, and mentally devastating.

In this episode of The Push Podcast, we’re joined by Maria and Julia from Hyperemesis Gravidarum Canada (@hg.canada), who share their powerful lived experiences navigating HG. They speak honestly about being dismissed, debilitated, and struggling to survive pregnancy — and what ultimately helped them through.

Created in collaboration with Hyperemesis Gravidarum Canada, this episode brings lived experience and clinical expertise together to push for better understanding and better care for HG.

After hearing their stories, Nurse Sydney and Dr. Meghan McGrattan break down the medical side of hyperemesis gravidarum, including:

• What HG is — and how it differs from typical nausea and vomiting of pregnancy
• Current understanding of HG pathophysiology
• Evidence-based treatments, including medications, IV therapy, and nutritional support
• Red flags, advocacy, and when to seek care
• Where to find support and reliable resources

This episode is for anyone affected by HG — those experiencing it, supporting someone who is, or wanting to better understand a condition that is too often misunderstood.

Support & Resources:

• Hyperemesis Gravidarum Canada
  • Private Facebook Support Group
  • Instagram: @hg.canada
  • LinkedIn: Professional Network for Hyperemesis Gravidarum in Canada
  • Beyond the Birth Story Podcast — Episode 13
• HER Foundation: @hgmoms
• Healthy Pregnancy Hub: @healthypregnancyhub | @grossesseensante
• HG Art exhibition - "Voices of HG: Canadians Speak Through Art"August 2026 in Ontario