MaternalRx

Birth Rights, Medical Bills & Legal Advocacy with Andi Orwoll, Esq. | MaternalRx

Birth Rights, Medical Bills & Maternal Advocacy with Andi Orwoll, EsqIn this powerful episode of MaternalRx, Dr. Danielle Plummer sits down with Nevada attorney and founder of Your Legal Doula, Andi Orwoll, to discuss the often-overlooked legal and financial realities families face during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum recovery.From navigating IVF paperwork and unexpected C-sections to battling insurance denials and understanding birth rights, Andi shares how her own journey into motherhood inspired her to create a legal advocacy practice specifically for pregnant and postpartum families.This conversation explores the intersection of maternal health, patient advocacy, legal protections, informed consent, workplace rights, and the emotional toll of navigating the U.S. healthcare system during one of life’s most vulnerable seasons.In this episode, we discuss:- Why birth rights matter- The legal gaps in maternal healthcare- Insurance denials and surprise medical bills- IVF, fertility care, and the hidden administrative burden- Informed consent and patient advocacy during labor- The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA)- The midwifery model of care vs. traditional obstetric care- Maternal mental load and postpartum vulnerability- Why tracking medical records, bills, and receipts matters- Navigating medical bills and insurance appealsKey Takeaways:“Policy never overrides your rights.”Andi explains how many patients are intimidated in medical settings and may not realize they have the legal right to informed consent, respectful care, and bodily autonomy during pregnancy and birth.Birth experiences matter.Even when outcomes are medically positive, the emotional and psychological experience of birth can have lasting effects. Advocacy, education, and support can profoundly shape those experiences.The paperwork burden is real.Pregnancy often comes with overwhelming administrative tasks: insurance appeals, billing disputes, maternity leave paperwork, provider reimbursements, and more — all during an emotionally and physically vulnerable time.Midwives, doulas, OBs, pharmacists, and lawyers all have a role.Maternal healthcare works best when it’s collaborative. This episode highlights the importance of interdisciplinary support systems for pregnant families.Track everything.One of the biggest practical pearls from this episode: keep copies of:- Medical bills- Insurance explanations of benefits (EOBs)- Receipts- Appointment dates- Correspondence with insurance companies- Workplace accommodation requestsDocumentation can make all the difference if problems arise later.About the Guest:Andi Orwoll is a Nevada-licensed attorney and founder of Your Legal Doula, a legal advocacy practice focused on supporting families navigating pregnancy, birth, postpartum recovery, workplace accommodations, and healthcare systems in the United States.Inspired by her own experience with IVF, an unexpected hospital birth, and overwhelming postpartum paperwork, Andi created Your Legal Doula to help families understand their rights and confidently advocate for themselves during pregnancy and birth.* Follow Andi:- https://yourlegaldoula.com/- Instagram @yourlegaldoulaAbout the Host:Danielle Plummer is a pharmacist, antepartum doula, and founder of Obstet-Rx. Through education, advocacy, and pharmacogenetics, she helps women navigate hyperemesis gravidarum and manage medications through complex pregnancy-related conditions.* Follow Danielle:- www.HGPharmacist.com- linkedin.com/in/daniellerplummerMemorable Quotes“We are not playing. We are here to have the birth experience that we want.”“Policy never overrides your rights.”“The most important work you are doing during your perinatal season should not be paperwork.”“The way we are treated during birth matters.”Resources Mentionedhttps://yourlegaldoula.com/https://hgpharmacist.com/Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (EEOC): www.eeoc.gov/Disclaimer:This podcast episode is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. The opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not reflect the views of their employers or affiliated organizations.

Confused About Medications in Pregnancy? Why Pharmacists Are the Essential Experts | MaternalRx

“My doctor says it’s safe, but Google says it’s not… what do I do?” It’s the reality so many pregnant and breastfeeding moms face when they’re given conflicting medication advice. In this episode, consulting pharmacist Dr. Danielle Plummer and clinical pharmacist Dr. Tara Birch pull back the curtain on pregnancy medication confusion and why it happens. As Tara puts it, “Pharmacists need to be utilized more than they are. We are medication specialists.” The core message is clear: every mom needs a pharmacist as part of her care team. From preconception through the postpartum period, pharmacists bring the medication expertise that is often missing and can prevent confusion, errors, and unnecessary risk. From the overwhelm of choosing a prenatal vitamin to navigating mixed messages from providers and “Dr. Google,” they walk through what’s actually happening behind the scenes and how to make safer, more confident decisions.You’ll hear why “there is no one-size-fits-all prenatal vitamin,” how postpartum needs can increase during breastfeeding, and why a truly collaborative care team leads to better outcomes for both mom and baby. If you’ve ever second-guessed a medication, felt confused by conflicting advice, or wished you had a clear, trusted voice guiding you, this conversation will change how you approach your care.What You’ll Learn:- Why pharmacists are underused in maternal care- How to handle conflicting medication advice- How to choose the right prenatal vitamin- Why postpartum nutrition matters- The risks of relying on Google or AI for medication decisions- How collaborative care improves outcomesExpert Insights:- Pharmacists in Maternal Care: Pharmacists are medication experts but are often excluded from care teams. Including them improves safety and outcomes.- Conflicting Advice: Patients often receive mixed guidance from providers. Pharmacists help clarify evidence-based decisions.- Prenatal Vitamins: Not one-size-fits-all. Needs vary by diet, genetics, and symptoms.- Postpartum Nutrition: Nutrient needs may increase after delivery, especially during breastfeeding.- Gaps in Care: Hospital care is collaborative. Outpatient care is fragmented, creating safety risks.- Preconception Planning: Medication review before pregnancy can prevent first-trimester risks.Connect with Dr. Tara Birch:https://themotherbabypharmacist.comwww.instagram.com/themotherbabypharmacist/Phone/Text: 321-609-5424Connect with Dr. Danielle Plummer:www.HGPharmacist.comlinkedin.com/in/daniellerplummer
 

Why Dental Care During Pregnancy Is Critical; Dr. Michael Duboff | MaternalRx

Dental care during pregnancy is often overlooked in routine prenatal counseling, yet hormonal changes, frequent vomiting, dehydration, and acid exposure can significantly impact oral health in pregnancy.In this episode of the MaternalRx Podcast, host Dr. Danielle Plummer, PharmD speaks with Dr. Michael Duboff, DMD, about the critical importance of dental care during pregnancy and how pharmacists and healthcare providers can help prevent long-term complications.From enamel erosion caused by hyperemesis gravidarum to pregnancy gingivitis and periodontal disease, this conversation explores what happens inside the mouth during pregnancy, when tooth damage becomes irreversible, and what practical steps patients and healthcare providers can take to protect oral health.Dr. Duboff also addresses common misconceptions about the safety of dental treatment during pregnancy, including fluoride use, dental X-rays, anesthetics, and the importance of preventive dental care. The episode also highlights insurance and access issues, including how some insurance plans and Medicaid programs may expand dental coverage during pregnancy, an important opportunity for patients to receive needed care.This episode emphasizes the critical role pharmacists can play in maternal health education, early identification of oral health risks, and patient counseling.You'll Learn:• How repeated gastric acid exposure from vomiting can weaken tooth enamel during pregnancy• Why brushing immediately after vomiting can worsen enamel erosion• Safe oral care strategies for pregnant patients with severe nausea or hyperemesis gravidarum• What pregnancy gingivitis is and why hormonal changes increase gum inflammation and bleeding• How fluoride varnish and high-fluoride toothpaste help protect enamel during pregnancy• Why dental cleanings every 3 months may benefit pregnant patients• The link between periodontal disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth and low birth weight• Why dental treatment—including X-rays and local anesthetics—is generally safe during pregnancy• Restorative treatment options for enamel erosion and tooth decay, including fillings, crowns, and bonding• How insurance coverage and Medicaid policies may provide expanded dental benefits during pregnancy• The important role pharmacists can play in oral health counseling for pregnant patientsKey Clinical Takeaways1. Gastric Acid Damages Tooth EnamelFrequent vomiting exposes teeth to stomach acid, which erodes enamel and exposes the underlying dentin, increasing the risk of decay and sensitivity.2. Do NOT Brush Immediately After VomitingBrushing immediately after vomiting can scrub away weakened enamel.Instead:Rinse with water or a baking soda solutionWait about 30 minutes before brushing3. Pregnancy Increases Risk of GingivitisHormonal changes during pregnancy increase gum inflammation and bleeding, making good oral hygiene and professional cleanings even more important.4. Dental Care During Pregnancy Is SafePreventive care and many dental treatments—including dental X-rays with shielding and local anesthetics—are considered safe, particularly during the second trimester.5. Preventive Care Is EssentialRegular dental visits, fluoride treatments, and proper oral hygiene can help prevent irreversible enamel damage and periodontal disease.6. Insurance Coverage May Improve During PregnancySome insurance plans and Medicaid programs expand dental coverage for pregnant patients, providing an important opportunity to receive preventive care and necessary dental treatment.Practical Counseling Tips for PharmacistsPharmacists can support pregnant patients by recommending:• Rinsing with water or baking soda solution after vomiting• Waiting 30 minutes before brushing teeth• Using fluoride toothpaste or prescription high-fluoride toothpaste if appropriate• Maintaining hydration whenever possible• Scheduling regular dental visits during pregnancy• Seeking evaluation for bleeding gums, tooth sensitivity, or oral painBecause pharmacists are often the most accessible healthcare professionals, they play an important role in identifying oral health risks early and encouraging patients to seek dental care.Connect With Our GuestsDr. Michael Duboff, DMDPractice: AXIS Dental – Las VegasEmail: SmileDesignersLV@yahoo.comDr. Danielle Plummer, PharmDWebsite:www.Obstet-Rx.comLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellerplummer/

Empowered Motherhood and the Fight for Maternal Health Equity with Dr. Eboni January | MaternalRx

In this must-listen episode of MaternalRx, host Danielle Plummer, PharmD, sits down with Dr. Ebony January (AKA Dr. EJ), award-winning board-certified OBGYN, bestselling author, and America’s Maternal & Women’s Wellness Expert, to unpack what’s really driving the maternal mortality crisis in the U.S.With more than 8,000 babies delivered, Dr. EJ brings frontline clinical insight, cultural competence, and a prevention-first approach to a conversation that moves beyond headlines and into actionable change. Together, Dr. Plummer and Dr. EJ explore why most maternal deaths are preventable, what clinicians often miss, and how healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, can help save lives through earlier intervention, equity-focused care, and better patient education.Episode Highlights:- Why the U.S. has the highest maternal mortality rate among high-income countries- The reality that 80%+ of maternal deaths are preventable- Critical red flags during pregnancy and postpartum that should never be dismissed- Preventive conversations every woman deserves before pregnancy- How health equity shows up (or fails) in real-world clinical care- One pregnancy myth Dr. EJ is ready to retire for goodAbout the Guest:Dr. Ebony January, MD (Dr. EJ) is a nationally recognized OB-GYN, maternal health advocate, and media expert. She is the author of three bestselling books, including Empowered Motherhood, and the founder of multiple women-centered wellness initiatives focused on maternal safety, preventive care, and whole-woman health.Connect with Dr. January:Website: www.doctorej.comSocial: @doctorebonijanuaryConnect with Danielle Plummer, PharmD: www.linkedin.com/in/daniellerplummer/www.Obstet-Rx.comPlease subscribe, rate, and share MaternalRx. Elevating these conversations helps protect mothers and saves lives.

Infertility, IVF, Foster Care, and Adoption: A Pharmacist’s Journey to Building a Family | MaternalRx

In this powerful episode of MaternalRx on the Pharmacy Podcast Network, host Danielle Plummer, PharmD, speaks with pharmacist Willie Bawarski and his wife, Olivia, about their deeply personal journey through infertility, IVF treatment, foster care, and adoption.Willie and Olivia share the emotional, physical, and financial realities of trying to conceive, navigating fertility treatments, and facing the grief that often accompanies infertility. When their path to parenthood changed, they chose to open their hearts and home through foster care and adoption, ultimately building a beautiful family in ways they never expected.This conversation highlights the critical role pharmacists and healthcare professionals play in supporting patients experiencing infertility and those considering foster care or adoption. Listeners will gain practical insight into using compassionate language, empathy, and trauma-informed care to support individuals and couples during some of the most vulnerable seasons of their lives.Whether you are facing infertility, exploring IVF, considering adoption, working within maternal health, or caring for patients on these journeys, this episode offers hope, validation, and a reminder that family is defined by love, not biology.🔗 Learn more about adoption: https://adoptuskids.org/🔗 Connect with Danielle Plummer, PharmD: www.linkedin.com/in/daniellerplummer/

Pregnancy and Diabetes: New Insights on Autoantibody Testing, OGTT, and Genetic Diagnosis with Dr. Tadeh Vartanian | MaternalRx

In this episode of the MaternalRX podcast on the Pharmacy Podcast Network, Danielle sits down with Dr. Tadeh Vartanian, a Pharmacist and Medical Lead with deep expertise in autoimmune diabetes. Drawing on years of clinical practice and research, Dr. Vartanian explains why early detection and precise diabetes classification can dramatically shift outcomes for people who are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or managing complex metabolic risks.This conversation delivers a practical, up-to-date overview of diabetes types, maternal risk considerations, screening strategies, and the emerging science behind autoimmune and genetic diabetes. And if you have never heard of monogenic diabetes, you will want to hear this episode! Understanding this category can immediately change how clinicians diagnose and treat patients.Diabetes types explained- How to differentiate type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes, and monogenic diabetes- Why type 1 is autoimmune and what loss of 80 to 90 percent of beta cells means for patient management- The phases of type 1 diabetes and the predictive power of autoantibodies- How monogenic diabetes presents differently and when to consider genetic testing- Which diabetes types can improve with targeted lifestyle interventionsDiabetes screening and diagnostic testing- Why early screening is the most impactful action clinicians can take- When to use hemoglobin A1C, fasting glucose, and the oral glucose tolerance test- A clear explanation of the 50-gram and 100-gram Glucola tests used in gestational diabetes screening and diagnosis- How to identify autoimmune diabetes using autoantibody testingAutoantibody screening programs- TrialNet: the NIDDK-supported program offering at-home screening for people with a first-degree relative with type 1 diabetes- ASK (Autoimmunity Screening for Kids): now expanded to adults, with nationwide access through the University of Colorado laboratory- How these programs detect autoimmune diabetes before symptoms developGenetics, autoimmunity, and diabetes research- How new genetic testing is reshaping the identification of monogenic diabetes- What autoimmune activity means in type 1 diabetes and why early detection matters- Current research, evolving guidelines, and clinical trial insights relevant to maternal health and diabetes careDiabetes and pregnancy- How diabetes influences pregnancy outcomes and why classification accuracy is critical- The long-term significance of gestational diabetes and its link to future type 2 diabetes- Clinical considerations for preconception counseling, prenatal care, and postpartum metabolic health- How maternal diabetes affects the long-term health trajectory of both parent and childKey takeaway from Dr. Vartanian: Screen early and use the right tools. Identifying diabetes risk before symptoms appear can change the course of care at every stage of pregnancy.Connect with our guest and host:- Dr. Tadeh Vartanian: www.linkedin.com/in/tadehvartanian/- Dr. Danielle Plummer: www.linkedin.com/in/daniellerplummer/

Endometriosis Explained: Dr. Elif Polat on Advocacy and Empowerment | MaternalRx

In this episode of MaternalRx, Dr. Elif Polat, MD, researcher, endometriosis advocate, and Turkey representative for Worldwide EndoMarch, joins Dr. Danielle Plummer to discuss the often misunderstood and deeply complex condition of endometriosis.Dr. Polat unpacks what endometriosis truly is, explaining how it’s both an inflammatory and hormone-dependent disease that can affect any organ in the body, even beyond the reproductive system. She reveals why diagnosis can take up to ten years, why standard tests often miss it, and how its symptoms can extend far beyond pelvic pain, sometimes presenting in surprising ways.The conversation dives into how endometriosis impacts fertility, pregnancy, and the risk of ectopic pregnancy, and clarifies when tools like hysteroscopy may be appropriate. Dr. Polat also dispels common myths, such as the belief that pregnancy or hysterectomy can cure the disease, and emphasizes the importance of continued research and advocacy.Listeners will gain insight into how endometriosis affects not only patients but their families and communities, and how global initiatives like Worldwide EndoMarch (@endomarch) are driving awareness and change.Stay through the end for Dr. Plummer’s “Final Thoughts,” where she reflects on how pharmacists can better support patients through empathy, education, and collaboration.Connect with Dr. Elif Polat:www.linkedin.com/in/elif-polat-md-a20a0b18b/Connect with WorldWide EndoMarchInstagram: @wwendomarchhttps://endomarch.org/Connect with Dr. Plummer:www.linkedin.com/in/daniellerplummer/

OvaryIt: Breaking Barriers to Birth Control with Pharmacists at the Center | MaternalRx

On this episode of MaternalRx on the Pharmacy Podcast Network, host Dr. Danielle Raiman Plummer, PharmD, consulting pharmacist, sits down with Mary Kucek, PMP, and Dr. Devin Bustin, MD, co-founders of OvaryIt, creators of the PRISM EHR platform and the OvaryIt Foundation for survivors of domestic abuse and human trafficking.Mary shares her powerful and life-threatening experience with a telemedicine platform that failed to follow contraceptive safety guidelines, an event that changed the course of her career and mission. Together, Mary and Dr. Bustin explain how their NIH-funded research led to the creation of OvaryIt and PRISM: an innovative, pharmacist-centered platform that bridges the safety of in-person care with the accessibility of telehealth.Tune in to hear how retail pharmacists can now lead the next evolution in family planning access, overcoming the barriers to scaling these services, and how technology and policy can empower safer, more equitable reproductive care for all.“Prism will help retail pharmacies become public health access points for central health services.” 💡 Stay Connected & Take Action!- Follow OvaryIt on all social platforms to stay updated on their mission to expand safe, pharmacist-led access to reproductive care.- For Patients: Learn more or find care at MyPrismHealth.com.- For Pharmacists, Pharmacy Owners, and Staff: Discover how to bring contraceptive care to your community with GetPrismRx.com.- Explore Free Education & Advocacy: Visit OvaryFund.org — the OvaryIt Foundation supporting survivors of domestic abuse and human trafficking through education and access.- Advocate for Change: Contact your local representatives to support the ECAPS Act, which recognizes pharmacists as healthcare providers under Medicare Part B and helps expand access to essential reproductive health services.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice.🎧 Listen now to MaternalRx, redefining maternal health, from preconception through postpartum.
 

Acetaminophen in Pregnancy: Sorting Facts from Fears | MaternalRx

REFERENCES (Can serve as "show notes")
1. Miller RV. Tylenol autism lawsuit. Lawsuit Information Center. September 21, 2025. Accessed September 25, 2025. https://www.lawsuit-information-center.com/tylenol-autism-lawsuit.html
2. Gerstein AS, Niederhelman EF. Harvard’s public health dean was paid $150,000 to testify Tylenol causes autism. The Harvard Crimson. September 24, 2025. Accessed September 25, 2025. https://www.thecrimson.com/article/2025/9/24/autism-dean-public-health/
3. Poll: Most Americans encounter health misinformation, and most aren’t sure whether it’s true or false. News Release. KFF. August 22, 2023. Accessed September 26, 2025. https://www.kff.org/covid-19/poll-most-americans-encounter-health-misinformation-and-most-arent-sure-whether-its-true-or-false/
4. Prada D, Ritz B, Bauer AZ, et al. Evaluation of the evidence on acetaminophen use and neurodevelopmental disorders using the Navigation Guide methodology. Environ Health. 2025 Aug 14;24(1):56. doi: 10.1186/s12940-025-01208-0.
5. Ahlqvist VH, Sjöqvist H, Dalman C, et al. Acetaminophen use during pregnancy and children’s risk of autism, ADHD, and intellectual disability. JAMA. 2024;331(14):1205–1214. doi:10.1001/jama.2024.3172
6. Alemany S, Avella-García C, Liew Z, et al. Prenatal and postnatal exposure to acetaminophen in relation to autism spectrum and attention-deficit and hyperactivity symptoms in childhood: meta-analysis in six European population-based cohorts. Eur J Epidemiol. 2021 Oct;36(10):993-1004. doi: 10.1007/s10654-021-00754-4.
7. Ji Y, Azuine RE, Zhang Y, et al. Association of cord plasma biomarkers of in utero acetaminophen exposure with risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder in childhood. JAMA Psychiatry. 2020;77(2):180–189. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2019.3259

Fertility, Pharmacy, and the Future: A Pharmacist’s Role in IVF Care with Dr. Kelly Gonda | MaternalRx

Join us for a deep dive into the IVF patient journey with special guest Kelly Gonda, a passionate pharmacist and Fertility Nurse Practitioner. In this episode, we explore how pharmacists can improve safety, outcomes, and access to fertility treatment by understanding the science of in vitro fertilization and the medications involved.
🔹 Highlights include:
Understanding the IVF journey and the evolving role of pharmacists (3:27)
Hormones 101: LH, FSH, placental vs. pituitary HCG, and IVF medication evolution
Progesterone types (13:00), growth hormone use (14:00), and Metformin’s role in PCOS (14:40)
Ethical reflections: Nadia Suleman and the octuplets (17:15)
IVF financing, state mandates, and the impact of insurance (18:20, 26:50)
Retail vs. specialty pharmacies, including Caremark & CVS (21:48)
Oocyte freezing updates (25:30) and what lifetime IVF allowances mean for patients
Where to begin: IVF specialists, SART resources, and choosing a provider (29:48–31:30)
The growing role of pharmacists in reproductive health (37:00)
Cost-saving access: Mark Cuban’s Cost Plus Drug initiative (42:00)
Men’s fertility, spermatogenesis, and the need for pharmacist advocacy (43:00–44:00)
ASRM, genetic testing, and why pharmacy must be at the IVF table (46:00)
What Kelly wishes more people knew about IVF (59:15)
How teams can prevent medication errors, inspired by The Right Kind of Wrong by Amy Edmondson (1:04:00)
📍 Watch Kelly’s training from the June 2025 Colorado Pharmacists Society meeting via ASHP on-demand.
🔗 Connect with Kelly: linkedin.com/in/webbkelly
🔗 Connect with Danielle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellerplummer/
💊 Personalized medication support for pregnancy: www.Obstet-Rx.com
📖 Support for Hyperemesis Gravidarum: www.pregnancyvomiting.com