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What to do when your Doctor blames everything on weight
When your provider won’t stop talking about weight, it can feel frustrating, dismissive, and exhausting—especially during pregnancy. You come in with real symptoms, real questions, and real needs, yet the conversation keeps circling back to BMI and the scale. This post breaks down why weight becomes such a fixation in prenatal care, how that focus can cause real harm, and—most importantly—what you can say to redirect the conversation and protect your right to respectful, evidence-based care. You are not obligated to justify your body to receive good medical support.
Weight Bias in Prenatal Care: What It Looks Like & How to Respond
Weight bias in prenatal care is something many plus-size and fat pregnant people face—often quietly, often alone. You show up to an appointment carrying your hopes, your concerns, and your excitement, only to feel reduced to a number on a chart. When a provider focuses more on your weight than your actual health or your lived experience, it can feel confusing, discouraging, and deeply disrespectful.
This blog breaks down what weight bias really looks like, how it shows up in small and big ways, and how you can respond with clarity and confidence. You deserve care that sees you—your voice, your symptoms, your whole self—not just your BMI.
Feeling Unheard During Pregnancy: Why Your Voice Matters More Than Ever
Feeling unheard during pregnancy can shake your confidence and impact your health, your decisions, and your birth experience. This blog explores why being dismissed by providers is so emotionally heavy, how it shapes your care, and the steps you can take right now to reclaim your voice, advocate for yourself, and get the respectful, attentive care you deserve.
Why I’m No Longer Taking Doula Clients(and Where Big Fat Pregnancy Is Headed Next)
After years of serving families as a doula, I’m stepping away from in-person birth work to protect my health — and stepping into a larger mission. Big Fat Pregnancy is evolving into a powerful hub for fat-positive education, virtual support, advocacy tools, and provider training. This shift allows me to reach more birthers, challenge bias in the birth world, and offer sustainable, accessible care without being on call.
Beyond the Scale: Size Inclusive Training for Providers
Size inclusive training for those in the birth and birth adjacent fields.
Big Fat Pregnancy Newsletter | You Deserve a Joyful, Judgment-Free Pregnancy
Big Fat Pregnancy @bigfatpregnancy Big Fat Pregnancy July 2025 Newsletter Liberate Your Fat Birth is here! ENROLL NOW Birth is powerful, and your body is already enough. Liberate Your Fat Birth is a transformative new resource designed to empower fat parents with the knowledge, confidence, and support they deserve. This is birth without shame, rooted in autonomy, respect, and fat-positive care. Liberate Your Fat Birth tackles these challenges head-on, providing evidence-based insights,…
The Gut-Brain Connection
Your gut and your mental health are more connected than you might think—especially during pregnancy. New research shows that specific gut bacteria may be linked to depression and anxiety in pregnant people living in larger bodies. Learn how your microbiome could be impacting your mood, and what you can do to support your well-being with fat-positive, evidence-based care.
January Updates: Fat Liberation Wins, Paid Leave News & New Courses!
Big Fat Pregnancy @bigfatpregnancy Big Fat Pregnancy January 2025 Newsletter Paid Prenatal Leave Required in New York New York has become the first state in the U.S. to mandate paid medical leave for pregnant employees attending prenatal appointments. Effective January 1, 2025, private sector workers are entitled to at least 20 hours of paid leave for pregnancy-related medical care, including physical exams and fertility treatments. Read our latest blog! Liberate Your Fat Birth Course Coming…
New York Leads the Nation with Paid Prenatal Leave Policy
Discover a transformative advancement in workplace policy as New York launches a paid prenatal leave program aimed at supporting expectant parents during this pivotal period, enabling them to concentrate on this significant life event free from financial worries, while cultivating an inclusive and supportive atmosphere that prioritizes the health and happiness of all employees.
New Year? New You? No Way!
Big Fat Pregnancy @bigfatpregnancy Big Fat Pregnancy December 2024 Newsletter Navigating the New Year “New Year? New You!” That’s right, folks. The new year is just around the corner. Do you know what that means? Lots of talks about diets and “get your body back.” Learn how to ditch that rhetoric! Liberate Your Fat Birth Course Coming Soon! Navigating pregnancy as a plus-size individual can feel daunting in a healthcare system steeped in bias and stigma. Outdated stereotypes and judgment…
How Doulas Manage Conflict During Birth
The labor and birth process can be intense and emotionally charged, and conflicts may arise between expectant parents and the medical care team. In these moments, doulas often emerge as unsung heroes, skillfully navigating the delicate balance between the desires of the birthing person and the medical necessities. Let’s delve into the crucial role that doulas play to manage conflicts during labor and birth, fostering an environment of understanding and empowerment.
New Year New You! NOPE! I’m already perfect!
As we stand on the brink of a brand-new year, it might be nearly impossible to avoid conversations, ads and articles about a new year/new you type of vibe, which of course typically means weight loss. It might be hard for some people to understand that you have no intention of pursuing weight loss.
Navigate In-Person vs. Online Classes Birth Education
Bringing a new life into the world is a transformative journey, and preparing for the arrival of your bundle of joy is a crucial step. Birth education classes offer valuable insights, practical tips, and emotional support to expectant parents.
Pregnancy and Birth During Holidays
Pregnancy and childbirth are profound life events, and when they coincide with the holiday season, the joy and celebration become even more pronounced. In this blog, we’ll explore the unique experiences of expectant families navigating the journey to parenthood during the holidays, with a focus on the cultural significance and various traditions that make this time of the year even more special.
What to Expect During the Induction Process
You have been counting the days down to your baby’s due date and now the plans have changed and you are getting induced. This can be a stressful change of plans. It is understandable if you need time to grieve the loss of going into labor the way that you expected. Doctors frequently recommend inductions when there is medical indication that the baby needs to come sooner or the birthing parent’s health is at risk.
Navigating Birth Support: Doula vs Midwife
The journey through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum is a profound and transformative experience, and having the right support can make all the difference. Two essential figures in the realm of pregnancy care are doulas and midwives. While their roles may sometimes overlap and they are sometimes confused, they bring distinct skills and perspectives to the birthing process. In this blog, we will explore the key differences between doulas and midwives, shedding light on the unique contributions each makes to the childbirth experience and help you decide what might be best for your individual situation.
The Importance of Body Inclusivity in Media
In recent years, there has been a growing movement advocating for fat liberation and body positivity, challenging societal norms and promoting the acceptance of diverse body sizes. One crucial aspect of this movement is the call for inclusive representation in media, challenging the traditional beauty standards that have perpetuated narrow ideals of attractiveness. In this blog, we’ll explore the significance of fat liberation and the importance of diverse body sizes in media.
The Surrogacy Odyssey: A Comprehensive Exploration
Embarking on the extraordinary journey of surrogacy is a decision laden with profound implications, a voyage that reshapes lives and forges new connections. Whether you are a prospective surrogate or intended parent, the path of surrogacy demands a nuanced understanding of the emotional, legal, and ethical considerations intertwined with this life-altering process. In this comprehensive exploration, we will delve into the multifaceted dimensions of surrogacy, shedding light on crucial aspects while also dissecting the ethical considerations that guide this transformative journey.
Postpartum Return: Balance Career and Parenthood with Grace
Hello there, fellow warriors of the working world and parenthood! If you’re reading this, congratulations are in order – you’ve successfully navigated the magical, sleep-deprived realm of parental leave and are now standing at the crossroads of returning to work. It’s an exciting yet nerve-wracking time, but fear not! In this blog post, we’ll delve into the delicate art of balancing career and parenting during the postpartum period.
Challenges of Chestfeeding as a Plus Size Parent
Chestfeeding, a term used to describe the process of feeding an infant from the chest, is a beautiful and bonding experience for many parents. However, when you’re a plus-size parent, you may encounter unique challenges and concerns along the way. This blog post aims to provide you with valuable insights, tips, and techniques for successful chestfeeding as a plus-size parent. By addressing common issues and offering practical advice, we hope to support and empower plus-size parents on their chestfeeding journey.
Postpartum Doula Support: How to Thrive in the Fourth Trimester
The arrival of a newborn is a momentous occasion, but it also marks the beginning of the “fourth trimester” – a period of immense change, adjustment, and challenge for new parents. During this time, parents need all the support they can get, and that’s where a postpartum doula comes in. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the concept of the fourth trimester, the role of a postpartum doula, and how their support can help new parents not just survive but thrive during this critical period.
Benefits of Having a Doula: How Your Support Makes a Difference
The journey to parenthood is filled with excitement, anticipation, and a fair share of uncertainties. During pregnancy and childbirth, expectant parents often seek support and guidance to navigate this transformative experience. This is where a doula steps in, offering invaluable emotional, physical, and informational support throughout the process. In this blog post, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of having a doula by your side, highlighting how their presence can make a significant difference in your birthing journey.
Doulas Provide Emotional & Mental Support
Pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative journey, but it can also be filled with uncertainties and emotional ups and downs. Expectant parents often need more than just medical care; they require emotional and mental support to navigate the challenges of pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period.
The Role of a Doula
Pregnancy and childbirth are among the most significant and transformative experiences in a person’s life. It’s a time filled with excitement, anticipation, and, at times, anxiety. While the focus is often on medical professionals like obstetricians and midwives, there’s another important figure that can provide invaluable support throughout this journey – the doula.
Navigate Fat-Positive Pregnancy: Embrace Changes & Celebrate Growth
Pregnancy is a time of immense change and growth, both for the growing baby and the expectant parent. For those who identify as fat or plus-size, the experience can come with unique challenges and emotions. In this blog post, we will explore the journey of fat-positive pregnancy, celebrating the beauty of body changes and offering guidance on embracing this transformative phase with confidence and joy.
Postpartum Movement: Safe & Effective Ways to Get Moving After Birth
Bringing a new life into this world is a beautiful and transformative experience. However, the postpartum period can be a challenging time for many parents, as they navigate the physical and emotional changes that come with childbirth. One aspect of postpartum recovery that often gets overlooked is postpartum movement.
Understand Informed Consent: Empower Yourself at OB-GYN Visits
Visiting an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN) or midwife is an essential part of maintaining your reproductive and overall health. During these visits, you will often encounter the concept of informed consent. Understanding what informed consent means and how to navigate it can empower you to make informed decisions about your healthcare. In this blog post, we will delve into the crucial topic of informed consent, its significance, and how it can help you take control of your healthcare during OB-GYN visits.
Postpartum Exercises for Pelvic Floor Health and Core Strength
Pregnancy and childbirth are incredible life experiences that bring joy, but they also come with significant changes to a person’s body, particularly in the pelvic floor and core muscles. These changes can sometimes lead to issues like pelvic floor dysfunction or weakened core strength postpartum. However, the good news is that with the right exercises and guidance, you can regain pelvic floor health and rebuild core strength. In this blog post, we will explore a range of postpartum exercises to help you on your journey to recovery, addressing common concerns and promoting overall well-being.
The Historical Context of Fatphobia: Trace Roots of Weight Discrimination
Fatphobia, or the discrimination and prejudice against individuals based on their body size, is a pervasive issue in our society. To fully understand and combat this problem, it’s essential to explore the historical context in which fatphobia has its roots. This blog post will delve into the historical evolution of weight discrimination and the societal factors that contributed to its prevalence.
Inclusive Pregnancy Care: Supporting LGBTQ+ Individuals @ the OB-GYN
Pregnancy is a life-altering journey, filled with joy and excitement, but it can also be a time of unique challenges, particularly for LGBTQ+ individuals. In the obstetrics and gynecology (OB-GYN) setting, it is crucial to provide inclusive and compassionate care that respects the diverse needs of all pregnant people. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of inclusive pregnancy care for LGBTQ+ individuals, discuss some of the unique challenges they may face, and provide guidance on how we feel healthcare professionals and institutions can offer more comprehensive support.
Contact
Location
Greater Snohomish & King County
bfp@bigfatpregnancy.com
Phone
425-276-1999
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