Listen to expert conversations on life after birth. From mental health to self-care to what recovery is really like, the Hello Postpartum podcast can help you feel less alone and more confident as you navigate your new role as a mother. Life after birth can feel lonely, complicated, and overwhelming, and we're here to help.
Throughout her pregnancy and postpartum, Maria noticed a huge lack of postpartum care, especially for those with less access to support and resources. So, she started In Kind Boxes. Listen in to hear her story. What is In Kind Boxes? In Kind Boxes is a non-profit organization aiming to reduce the gaps and disparities in postpartum care through its curated, high-quality postpartum and baby care boxes. How can I order a box? Boxes are available online at their website inkindboxes.org. You have the option to submit a family to have a box donated to them or purchase. All boxes carry the same quality of goods because no family should be excluded from getting quality products to help in the postpartum journey. How can I support In Kind Boxes? You can support In Kind Boxes by donating on their website or social media platforms. Every dollar matters, even just the price of a cup of coffee, goes a long way in suppor the women and products that make In Kind Boxes an essential to postpartum care. Topics Covered: The story behind In Kind Boxes (1:33) How to access and support (6:39) What's in the box? (9:04) Postpartum care in the US (13:34) Packed by volunteers (22:21) Making it happen (25:35) Resources: Check out In Kind Boxes website and on instagram to purchase, nominate or donate.
Lauren A. Tetenbaum is an advocate and therapist certified in perinatal mental health who specializes in life transitions affecting millennial and young women. With an approach grounded in empathy and emotional intelligence, Lauren counsels clients on romantic relationships, career choices, pregnancy and parenting, anxiety, and family dynamics. She offers cognitive behavioral and feminist-based psychotherapy to individuals and couples. A mother of two with over a decade of experience in the legal industry, Lauren also facilitates support groups for working, new, and aspiring parents and provides consulting and mental health coaching to support parents in corporate settings. She is passionate about building connections and giving back to her community. What is the Invisible Load? The invisible load is the behind the scenes work that goes into being a parent. It can be logistical, physical, emotional or mental. It's the moms usually that are doing this kind of work in the household. Since they are conditioned from an early age to be the caretakers in a family dynamic, it can be hard to let go of control. Sometimes we think it is easier to do it yourself, but negative feelings can arise from this. The damage of cultural expectations Mom as the primary parent is still very much expected in today's society. Dad's are usually only does the bare minimum. This can lead to an increase in anxiety, burnout, resentment and can sometimes trigger unwanted anger toward both your partner and your children. Even full time working moms are expected to do all the things. Even when your partner reaches out to help, relinquishing control is easier said than done because of how society has influenced the role of mothers to be. “Change happens when we are the squeaky wheel, as hard as it may be.” Getting the conversation started The best way forward in changing this is to start small. Being self aware of your role and your responsibilities is the first step. Communicating with your partner how you are feeling and why brings awareness to them as to how they can possibly approach things differently and offer you support. Making a list and having open conversations is a great place to start. And remembering that you are not relinquishing control but rather sharing the load, working as a team, is a great way to put things in perspective for your family to support each other in the ever fluctuating world of parenting. Topics covered The invisible load (2:37) Real life examples (7:51) Anxiety (13:22) The route not chosen (24:03) The idea of maintaining boundaries (28:52) Strategies to get the conversation started (32:20) Additional resources Book: Fair Play by Eve Rodsky Feeling Resentment Towards Your Partner After Birth? Here's Why Maternal Gatekeeping and The Dark Side of “Doing It All” New Baby? Six Tips for Setting Boundaries with Family Done with Being the Default: How Moms Can Advocate for Change & Improve their Mental Health
038 | Nicole Alfred, C-Section Recovery Coach Nicole Alfred is a cesarean recovery coach, registered massage therapist, and mother of two. She has given birth two times by C-section: one emergent and traumatic, the other empowered and planned. Her different experiences opened her eyes to the abject lack of support mothers receive post-operatively. Nicole sees a need for much more emotional and physical attention. Nicole believes there are important steps that new mothers need to take beginning immediately after surgery and through the first 12 weeks postpartum for optimizing their recovery. These steps include restoring normal function with every day movements, wound & scar healing, core muscle system recovery, and connecting with the incision scar to facilitate emotional processing and healing. How c-section recovery looks today C-sections are the 2nd most popular surgery done daily. With healthcare based in a man's world, women's care is not prioritized, or often understood, as to what we need after having a baby, whether natural or by c-section. Being responsible for a child in recovery is a lot different from recovering from any other surgery or hospital stay. A lot of mother's fall into survival mode and can never turn that switch off. Lack of knowledge and support, from either our doctors or others, effects women's' recovery greatly when we don't know what to focus on or have the ability to do so. What we should know in the first 2 weeks C-section recovery requires a lot of rest. Practicing basic functional movements and listening to your body is essential in the first 2 weeks of recovery. Having support in those movements can help make the process less frustrating in teaching your muscles how to turn back on. As time move forward in your recovery, resting as often as possible between movements is important. Doing anything that requires intense movement, like trips to the store or walking long distances, can drastically effect your recovery in a negative way. “C-section recovery can be easy and feel empowering.” Ways to Support Your Body Mothers are so good at not prioritizing themselves. By taking care of our bodies and our minds in recovery, we are creating a better environment for our children to learn and understand from. There is a sequential order of things that need to be worked on when it comes to c-section recovery. Focusing on key areas like posture, breathing exercises, pelvic floor support, core system exercises, and scar massage are some of the ways you can support yourself. Topics covered What got Nicole started as a c-section recovery coach (1:41) 3 misconceptions around cesarian recovery (8:19) What you should and should not do in the first 2 weeks (12:37) Looking at the layers (19:26) We should prioritize recovery (24:10) Getting back to the basics (30:47) Healing the c-section shelf (33:40) Ignoring yourself (44:02)
Join author and podcaster Anna Cusack as she shares her views on why the traditional structure of our society makes parenting - and mothering - that much more challenging. Layer on a global pandemic, and it's no wonder most mothers are feeling stress and burnout. 037 | Anna Cusack, Postpartum Doula & Author Anna Cusack is a postpartum doula and motherhood support mentor, guiding new and experienced parents through pregnancy, the fourth trimester and beyond. Anna combines her knowledge in areas such as traditional postpartum care, breastfeeding support, motherhood studies and exercise physiology to help mothers and parents feel heard, seen and supported through the highs, lows and sticking points of their child-raising journeys. How society is constantly at war with mothers There is no realistic training for parents to break away from traditional parenting. There is a biological factor that is set in stone from previous generations. The gender nature gets locked in, making it difficult to step away from. So many factors come into play for mothers, including workload, both inside and outside the home, lack of time, sleep and mental capacity. A mothers workload doubles with each child and usually is unsupported throughout her day to day if the partner is working outside the home. As much as this can feel isolating and personal, it is a social norm and everyone is effected by it. Why do I feel like a bad mom? Harder things, higher intensity. Mothers often experience an increase in sleep deprivation, which can result in irrational or irritable behavior. When this happens, we lash out at the ones we feel comfortable with, meaning our partners and our children. Having these feelings or anger and resentment and reflecting on your actions can cause incredible guilt for a mother, resulting in feeling inadequate and believing that you are an unfit or unworthy parent. What do you do when you feel like a bad mother? Create opportunities to discuss how both you and your partner can support each other. A space where you can both talk and find a way to help alleviate these feelings without disruptions is important. Making a list of what you each do and talk about what you can each do to give each other support that they need is a great way to get started. Communicate how these things are making you feel, even if they are small, silly things, and specify how you would like them to help to reduce overwhelm, anger and guilt. Topics covered Socialized and gendered nature of modern society (2:17) 24 minutes with dad (13:17) How to overcome the outdated way of thinking (19:09) Good, calm, peaceful mom (26:24) Drop guilt and remove overwhelm (30:56) An amplification of early motherhood (41:50) Final question (45:05) Resources You can download Anna's free "8 Steps to Your Peaceful Postpartum" eguide and view her postpartum support, parent mentoring and special events here: www.annacusack.com.au Find her book "Mama, You're Not Broken: Unmasking the Unspoken Emotions of Modern Motherhood" on Amazon, Kindle and here: www.annacusack.com.au/book You can also catch her on the "Anna Asks" podcast via your preferred podcast app, and connect on socials @annacusackpostpartum on Instagram and www.facebook.com/annacusackpostpartum www.anchor.fm/annaasks/ Can you please also reference this in the show notes. I couldn't recall the name of Dr Petra Bueskens and her work when discussing the example of Revolving Mothers in the episode: Dr Petra Bueskens. Modern Motherhood and Women's Dual Identity es: Rewriting the Sexual Contract Abingdon, Oxon; New York: Routledge, 2018
036 | Gigi Vera Vincent, Postpartum Doula Gigi Vera Vincent is a postpartum doula, newborn care specialist, lactation educator, mother to three toddlers, including twins, and a wife to my high school sweetheart. She empowers families, so once baby arrives, they can focus on resting and bonding instead of researching or stressing. She's here to streamline the newborn learning curve and guide birth parents, partners, and other family members. There isn't ONE way to have and raise a little human. Gigi is here to assist parents as they find THEIR way so that they can thrive in the fourth trimester and beyond. What is the Dobbs Decision? Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, is a landmark decision of the U.S. Supreme Court in which the court held that the Constitution of the United States does not grant a right to abortion. This 2022 decision overturned the 1973 ruling of Roe v. Wade, which granted the right to have an abortion. The ruling has the potential to undermine so many other cases that protect our right to privacy. Cases pertaining to gay rights, interracial marriage, access to birth control, LGBTQ rights etc. all have the potential to be threatened. The Facts about Abortion 1/4 women will have an abortion by 45 years old. The majority are between the ages of 20-29, but there is a substantial percentage that are older, most are married and either already have one or multiple children. 92% are happening in the 1st trimester. The 7% happening later, are usually due to medical issue, spontaneous abortion, risk to baby or mother or a nonviable pregnancy, meaning the chance of the pregnancy resulting in a healthy, living baby is not possible. Ectopic pregnancies and failed intrauterine pregnancies are nonviable. Who does the Dobbs Decision effect? A lot of people feel that this will only really target those who want an abortion. But as new laws and restrictions on abortion are beginning to arise state-by-state, we are quickly discovering that is far from the truth. There have already been cases where women have been incarcerated for having a miscarriage. Some states are trying to limit access to birth control. Browsing history, through apps and social media, have shared data with authorities from users who have search history or social posts pertaining to seeking abortion. This is just the beginning, as we still don't know how this will effect medical emergencies due to miscarriages, ectopic pregnancies, or couples seeking fertility treatments like IVF. "The goal is not to protect life. The goal is to maintain control." Tips to Prepare & Support Stocking up on birth control and getting access to abortion pills, if your state allows, is a great way to be prepared for the worst. If your state is restricted, look into other state access. Browsing privacy is important, so researching how you can use the internet safely, as well as any apps pertaining to cycle tracking is another way to make sure your data is safe. Learn from other communities and organizations that give information on how to respond to discrimination is essential. Look at the corporations and businesses where you spend your money. Do these places have the same values as you? Do they support causes you support? Where we choose to spend your money really has a big impact. We are fighting each other for our own decisions and our own bodies. We should be fighting for policies that support our decisions, the freedom to live the life that we want. Topics covered Who is actually having abortions? (1:46) What are your options with limited care states? (5:46) Why data is so important in some states (8:59) Access to standardized care that women actually need (14:07) Support after an abortion (20:07) The Dobbs decision (23:45) Expanding your knowledge (29:16) It's important to be prepared (35:00) Battle between people who are choosing to break the mold (41:26) Resources Living in a Post-Roe World: What You Can Do Study: 84% of Maternal Deaths are Preventable Birth control access resources: Planned Parenthood: Birth control prescribed over the phone Nurx: Birth control online with free shipping Abortion resources: HeyJane: FDA-Approved Abortion Pills Shipped Discreetly FAQ: At-Home Abortion Care
Having a baby changes everything, especially your relationship with your partner. Here's how to save your relationship - and your sanity - once a little one is involved. Plus, Chelsea breaks down her top tips for clear, effective communication that can change everything. Topics Covered: A roadtrip is like motherhood (2:00) The massive BUT in your new parent relationship (3:43) What are the signs of resentment towards your partner (9:35) Recommit to growing together (15:10) Ways to stay connected to your partner (16:44) This isn't gonna work, tips for early postpartum days (22:13) How tender our relationships are after having a baby (26:01) Words of encouragement for those in the trenches (27:44) Final Question (34:05)
A postpartum doula shares the inside scoop on the difference between a birth and postpartum doula, why you should hire one, how they can help support new mothers, and more. It's a must-listen for anyone considering hiring a doula after birth. 034 | Dana Frutos Dana is a mom and a postpartum doula. She has a background in early childhood education and has worked in professional childcare for over a decade. she has a 3-year-old son who I love to pieces. Dana has chosen to leave the world of ECE and pursue a career as a postpartum doula because she wants to support, educate, and empower mothers when they come home with their baby. She wants to be there for families when they are tired and often overwhelmed. She wants to nurture mama while she nurtures her new baby. What exactly does a postpartum doula do? a postpartum doula is someone who supports the mom to support her new family. Thier goal is to be intuitive and provide support that the mom needs, whether that is cooking dinner, doing laundry, taking care of the baby while mom takes a nap, an ear to listen and talk with; postpartum doula's are the village every struggling mama needs in postpartum recovery. Are postpartum doulas worth it? Everyone needs different levels of support during postpartum. Whether that level is big or small, a postpartum doula is there to support you, no matter the task. No mama is the same so a doula's job is to get to know you and your needs without overstepping. If that is 3 weeks or 7 months, a postpartum doula will be there to lend a hand in your recovery. What's the difference between a birth and postpartum doula? A birth doula is someone who helps you throughout the pregnancy and birth of your baby. They work with the doctors to advocate for you as you are preparing for your new little one to arrive. A postpartum doula is someone who supports you after the baby has arrived. How to find a postpartum doula A quick Google search for "postpartum doula + city you live in" is a good start. People may not realize there are multiple resources in or near their hometown. You can also check out Doula Match to browse the doulas listed on that website. Topics Covered: What is a postpartum doula? (1:05) Questions for a postpartum doula (3:26) Helping moms open up to support (8:17) Finding a postpartum doula (9:54) Cost of a doula and how long they can help (11:32) If you can't afford a doula... (14:24) Non-judgemental (21:01) Final question (24:23) Additional resources: Chicago Family Doulas: Welcome to Chicago Family Doulas - Chicago Family Doulas My IG is: @mamasareatribe More resources you might enjoy: How to Be a Good Support Person During Birth Tips on How to Really Prepare for Postpartum Recovery One Critical Reason Moms Need Better Postpartum Support
The food we eat is essential, especially in postpartum. Dr. Jennifer Roelands, OB-GYN, dives into just how important nutrition is and how it relates to postpartum depression, anxiety, gut health, and more. She also touches on the importance of self-advocacy and finding the proper care provider for your needs. 033 | Dr. Jennifer Roeland, OB/GYN, Women's Hormonal Health Coach Jennifer's Journey toward Holistic Health As a former sufferer of PCOS and hypothyroidism, Jen has been on the hormone roller coaster. From digestion issues to fatigue, to hair loss, to brain fog and infertility. Even as a doctor, she was blown off by doctors who said my labs were normal. But she knew something was wrong, it had been 18 months and no baby. Jen spent countless hours diving into nutrition and mind-body medicine. She learned how the gut is connected to hormone health. And medications like the birth control pill can wreak havoc on our bodies by depleting our bodies of nutrients and masking our symptoms but not actually treating the condition. She found out the CAUSE of her symptoms and used that information to focus on gut health, stress reduction, and the right exercise for my body. She was able to lose weight, clear skin, wake up rested, have more energy, and ultimately get pregnant. Holistic healing and postpartum Nutrients and food are keys in postpartum recovery. The benefits extend beyond the health of the mother, but to the child. Supporting the mother in breastfeeding, anxiety and depression, hormonal health, and gut health. All these things are intricately linked in our recovery and the development of your baby, as well as nurturing healthy relationships with those supporting you. Gut health & the importance of food Jen explains how there is very little nutritional training for doctors. So much is linked to our diet and gut health. The gut is coined as the second brain, and after pregnancy, can become unbalanced due to all the hormonal changes our bodies have endured. There isn't just one way to eat or support our gut. Depending on what ailments you are experiencing, adopting a holistic healing approach calls for personalized care. Whether you are looking to support a healthy cycle, skin, or digestion, there are different approaches you can take without needing to resort to a doctor's prescription. What holistic healing looks like Holistic healing is not a pill. It is a process of trial and error. There are no quick fixes when it comes to your health. But adopting these changes into your every day life will have long term effects. You will know what you need to support your health and your child's health. You can't control the changes pregnancy can do to your body, but you can control what you put into your body. Balancing your plate will give you a better understanding of what your body needs and how you can support it in a natural way. Topics covered How healing is food? (2:06) Integrating nutrition into your work as an OB/GYN (6:32) The timeline of holistic healing (9:48) Supporting a healthy cycle postpartum (13:43) Advocating for more postpartum support in the medical community (19:56) Advice if you feel you are not being heard by your doctor (24:17) Nutrition & food is key to postpartum (30:51) Final question (39:48) Resources Dr. Roeland's coaching and courses Additional resources Check out the Hello Postpartum eBook shop for expert-written postpartum recovery guides
The early postpartum days are often associated with little to no sleep. Listen to this episode and learn what you can do to create a solid sleep foundation and support your baby's - and yours! - sleep habits from early on. Andi Metzler | Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant Andi Metlzer founded Sleep Consulting to help other parents that struggle with a sleep routine. Inspired by her own life-changing sleep training experience, She had to jump on an airplane to meet Obleman and learn about the successful sleep program which has helped over 57,000 families. Simply put, she wanted to learn from the best. While most sleep coaches are “self-taught” or have taken a cheap online class, Andi invested heavily in my career as a sleep training professional. She's trained under one of the most well-respected experts in the field, and am proud to be a Certified Sleep Sense™ Consultant and founder of Andi Metzler Sleep Consulting. Top baby sleep tips One of the most important things to recognize is your babies wake window. A wake window is the time your baby is awake between sleep cycles. This window changes as your baby grows, but being in tune with when your baby needs to sleep early on is a great way for you to not only predict sleep but also help you recognize the signs of when your baby needs to sleep. How do you help a baby get to sleep? Babies sleep best on complete darkness, so dark that you can barely see your hand in front of you. Investing in black out blinds is a good start in getting your baby the sleep they need. The opposite goes for when they are awake. You want it to be bright and filled with sound, expose them to sun and playtime (depending on their age) so your baby will recognize what happens during awake time. The most critical baby sleep tip Next to your babies awake window, you want to follow the three step rule of eat, play, sleep. Paired with knowing the time your baby needs to be put down, you can regulate feeding, awake time and sleep more efficiently and, in doing so, efficiently regulate your own need for sleep as well.
Listen in as an author, spiritual teacher, and postpartum doula shares the potential power within the postpartum period. She shares tips on harnessing this transformational time and approaching it through a lens of love - even when it feels impossible. Kelly Van Zandt, Powerful Postpartum Kelly believes that the early moments of motherhood are some of the most transformational of a woman's life, and Kelly highlights the spiritual growth of the woman in early motherhood. In her new book, Powerful Postpartum, Kelly presents a fresh and empowering perspective on the postpartum period as one filled with tremendous potential for growth and an opportunity to rediscover the woman's truest essence. What is spiritual mothering? So many ideas of what a mother should be swim in our minds of expecting or new mothers. We experience a sense of selflessness; that motherhood is an act of martyrdom that is expected of us. Spiritual mothering is about reaching into your self and listening to what is actually there. A tremendous movement of personal growth and development that is caused by this tiny life we are entrusted to nurture and protect. What is the power of motherhood? Motherhood can become a constant battle with seeking validation. There is no one who can validate you more, as a mother, than yourself. Taking yourself out away the idea of what it means to be a good mom and getting to the root of the why grants us a way to achieve internal freedom. It is so rich and brimming with opportunities in acceptance and love. An eternal love that has always been there but only now are we experiencing for the first time. It allows us to see what is really in our hearts and allows us to bridge the gap between what limits our connections. How motherhood impacts spirituality Growth is not linear. It is riddled with slopes and bounds that we sometimes don't expect, especially in motherhood. But it also gives us the opportunity to connect with ourselves and understand the reasons why we perceive ourselves as we do. This kind of opportunity can only strengthen the bond within ourselves and with those we keep closest to us. Topics Covered: What does spiritual driven motherhood look like? (1:53) How do you know motherhood is growth (5:23) Looking for that love (6:58) The idea of motherhood (9:56) Being conscious of where your thoughts come from (15:16) Start here and now (18:57) Final question (23:17) Additional resources Exploring the Spiritual Significance of Early Motherhood How to Use Your Motherly Intuition to Make Postpartum Easier Highly Sensitive Mother? What It Means and Tips to Better Cope
Topics Covered: Anticipating anxiety (4:22) The spark for Lock the Doors (7:57) What postpartum looked like (11:37) Not allowed to experience what I was experiencing (18:34) The film journey so far (21:46) Don't talk about it (29:41) FInal question (33:44)
A mom shares her honest stories and learnings of going from one kid to two and how it affected her mental health in ways she never expected. She shares what she wishes she knew and how you can be more prepared for postpartum a second time. 28 | Emily Adler Mosqueda of Postpartum 365 Since experiencing postpartum depression late in her second postpartum, Emily Alder Mosqueda has become an advocate for postpartum time. Emily regularly shares peer-reviewed research on postpartum topics on her Instagram to shift the cultural understanding of how long the postpartum time lasts and the issues that can and do arise after six months postpartum. Carley, the Founder of Hello Postpartum, is sitting down with Emily to hear about her personal experience of welcoming her second baby. Listen in as they discuss the process of going from one kid to two, the differences in pregnancies for each person, and much more. Going from one kid to two No two pregnancies are the same, as society leads us to believe. Emily talks through many of the struggles she faced with her second pregnancy. Compared to her first, her general feeling of wellness and anxiety went from bad to worse. Learning to cope with these changes took a lot of inner work, practicing coping methods, and yet another shift in the family dynamic. Is the second child harder? The second child isn't always harder, but there are many things mothers may not expect when bringing home another baby. Just because we have experienced pregnancy and raising a child does not mean that the second child will be a cakewalk. Women are 20% more likely to suffer from mental health issues after a second child. But because most women see a second pregnancy differently than the first, many warning signs are missed, even by the health care providers we put our trust into during that time. And remember, it is just as - if not more - essential to support your mental health as it is to support your family. What to know about having a second child Siblings need attention just as much as a new baby. It is important to set aside time for them, away from the baby, to keep the bonds between mother and child strong and avoid any unwanted jealousy. Learning from your past experiences will help you better prepare for your postpartum recovery. A good support system is probably more important the second time because the balance has shifted from focusing on one child to two. Having as strong of a postpartum plan as possible will help alleviate unwanted stress, and better prepare you for what's to come. Hold the mother until she asks you to hold the baby. What I've learned going from one to two kids We never stop learning from our experiences. During a second pregnancy, there is less of a focus on what clothes my newborn will wear and more on supporting the health and wellness of mothers and their families. Society places so much shame on certain emotions surrounding motherhood. But just because we don't possess all of the warning signs of mental health issues doesn't mean we aren't suffering. There are things you are tied to in motherhood that you have never been tied to before. Dr. Andrea O'Reilly of Feminist Press stated that Motherhood is the unfinished business of feminism. It is a time to receive, not to give. Be open to receiving -whether from a therapist or a friend cooking for you - so you can slow down and focus on yourself. Topics covered The second time around (02:18) Older siblings and the second pregnancy (17:08) Pregnancy bandwidth (21:01) Postpartum support international (25:33) Certain emotions for women (35:15) Mother-centered feminism (39:36) References to perfectionism (46:29) The final question (48:00) Additional resources Explore the resources shared in this week's episode PMAD info Dr. Aron's book, The Highly Sensitive Parent Feminist Press: started by Matricentric Feminist Dr. Andrea O'Reilly featuring books on mothering and advocacy Follow Emily on Instagram @postpartum365 and @emilyadlermosqueda Other family resources you might enjoy Four Tips for Sharing the Domestic Load After Birth How to Cope with a Toddler and a Newborn New Baby? Six Tips on Setting Boundaries with Family
A Board-Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner, AyurDoula, and CMT shares her insight on what a profoundly nourishing and healing postpartum period looks like from an Ayurvedic standpoint. You may be surprised to learn it's more than your food. Ameya Duprey of Shakti Care Ameya Duprey is a Board Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner, AyurDoula, CMT & Course Creator. She helps postpartum mamas fully heal from birth so you can stop feeling exhausted all the time! She offers individualized care based on your unique constitution and needs. She can help you achieve proper health and balance through simple methods such as a specialized Ayurvedic diet, lifestyle, massage, herbs, and more. A closer look at postpartum Ayurvedic treatment Ayurvedic is defined as the science of life. Pulled from centuries of Indian tradition, it's a practice that focuses on the five elements of the body; space, air, fire, water, and earth. These elements are known as doshas. They play a natural role that centers on a person's natural environment. Understanding the ayurvedic way of living in the world, depending on your dosha, helps one maintain the body's balance, health, and recovery during postpartum and beyond. Which dosha is high during postpartum? Because giving birth is such a taxing and trying experience, it drains the body of many of its natural fluids, leaving the body dry and undernourished. This experience is known as an imbalance of the Vata (air and ether), and all moms, no matter how they deliver, experience this imbalance after giving birth. The body also uses a lot of heat during birth, leaving the body in a cold state during postpartum—a mother in postpartum benefits from finding ways to rejuvenate and revitalize her bodies life force. The aim of Ayurvedic postpartum treatment Through ayurvedic treatment in postpartum, the aim is to understand and nourish the changes that your body has experienced. Becoming a mother hits the reset button on our lives and our bodies. Knowing your life will never be the same after birth can be hard to process for many of us. But looking at it from a different angle, the first 45 days could determine the next 45 years of your life. Ayurvedic looks at postpartum as an opportunity to start fresh, to come to the crossroads, and practice new ways to support your new self and, more importantly, your new life. In general, most people share the same imbalances after birth. So the same basics apply to those in postpartum recovery. Ayurvedic-friendly postpartum recovery foods The types of food that benefit mothers in postpartum focus on rejuvenation. There are five tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent, and astringent. The "S tastes" - sweet, sour, and salty - are the ones that will benefit recovering mothers most in postpartum by rebuilding tissue and rejuvenating the body, and oily foods, such as soups, help level your digestion. You also want to focus on foods that warm the body. Well-cooked and seasoned help replenish the heat lost from childbirth. And lastly, according to Ayurvedic practices, avoid eating frozen or canned foods. These foods are stripped of their freshness and depleted of their natural life force. The food becomes you after it is eaten, so the fresher the food, the more your body will benefit from all it offers. Topics covered What is Ayurvedic | 1:50 How to practice ayurvedic healing in postpartum | 5:57 Supporting your diet | 8:19 Other ways to support postpartum recovery | 15:58 Mama's Menu cookbook | 32:57 The final question | 37:58 Additional resources Want to learn more from Ameya about Ayurvedic postpartum healing? Watch her free masterclass: How To Fully Heal From Birth Naturally, Without Feeling Stressed and Exhausted Explore Amey's cookbook Mama's Menu: Ayurvedic Recipes for Postpartum Healing Other postpartum resources you might enjoy Mama's Mung Soup: Ayurvedic Postpartum Recipe for Lactation The 8 Best Postpartum Teas for Healing and Recovery An Introduction to Postpartum Ayurvedic Care
Listen in as a pelvic floor therapist and Carley chat about common postpartum pelvic floor issues including diastasis recti, pain with intercourse, incontinence, and why Kegels aren't usually the solution. 027 | Megan Rome of Rome Physical Therapy It is important to understand what is going on but more importantly, WHY did it happen in the first place. Megan Rome is a Pelvic Floor and Obstetrics Physical Therapist. She believes functional treatments that you can use every day is the key to getting your life back. She has continued her research and training in Pelvic Health, obstetrics, and breast cancer across the country over the past few years. Megan is privileged to make changes for those in need in order to decrease pain, dysfunction and even fear! Topics covered Assume Nothing is Normal (1:29) Pain with Intercourse (3:39) Help with Pain (5:57) Why isn't Pelvic Floor Therapy Standard? (10:42) What is Diastasis Recti and How to Know if you Have it (14:45) Pelvic Floor Pressure Management Tips (18:51) Self-check Signs (21:59) Leakage is Normalized (33:06) Not Using Kegles Correctly (34:00) Two Levels of the Pelvic Floor (40:00)
A Speech Pathologist and a breast-turned-bottle-feeding mom shares her professional and personal views on why bottle-feeding isn't as simple as "stick a bottle in their mouth" and what you can do to create the best bottle-feeding experience for you and your baby. 026 | Mallory Millett of The Feeding Mom The stigma surrounding bottle-feeding can feel intimidating. Many mothers are belittled on their decision to choose a bottle over the breast, even when it's one they may have no choice but to make. But the bottle isn't a wrong way to feed your baby. I chat with a speech-language pathologist and bottle-feeding advocate, Mallory Millet, about how backing the bottle is as healthy and beneficial as supporting the breast. Mallory shares her experiences about why choosing one over the other shouldn't matter. When it comes to you and your baby's health, there is more than one way to parent. About Mallory Mallory Millet is a Speech-Language Pathologist by trade. She's also an Infant Feeding Specialist. She found her passion in working with moms with babies with feeding issues ranging from oral motor development, reflux, bottle choice, positioning, schedules, etc. If you are a mom struggling with feeding or a new mom and have questions or want to be prepared, please reach out to her for support. Topics covered 02:13 | Bottle-feeding stigma 09:09 | Choosing the bottle 17:03 | No baby cares 17:57 | Tips to get started 21:23 | Cluster feeding 25:28 | Building a relationship with your baby 32:06 | Medial society 35:41 | Final question for Mallory Additional resources You can find out more about Mallory and her work on her website, The Feeding Mom. Other bottle-feeding resources to explore The Must-Know Basics of Preparing Formula Difficulty Bottle-Feeding Baby? These Tips Will Help Advocating for Your Rights as a Formula Feeding Parent
Listen in to hear why the modern mother feels like she needs to be the one calling all of the shots regarding child-rearing and how to stop that behavior in its tracks before it's too late. Listen in to hear why the modern mother feels like she needs to be the one calling all of the shots regarding child-rearing and how to stop that behavior in its tracks before it's too late. 025 | Brenna Ruiz of What About Mamas Sometimes, as mothers, we feel that we need to do it all. And when we let someone else - a partner, family member, hired support - we feel the urge to hover and dictate how things should look. You might even fall into the trap of thinking that you - as the mother - are the only one qualified enough to care for your child, because, if you don't, something could go "wrong." That is maternal gatekeeping. Brenna Ruiz (a mom blogger and self-care advocate) and I take a deep dive into stigmas surrounding maternal gatekeeping. Including how we can stop ourselves from falling into the trap and what we can do to communicate better and advocate for ourselves. We also talk about how it really does take a village to raise a child. Brenna also shares her experiences to show us what maternal gatekeeping can do to a relationship and how motherhood doesn't look the same for everyone. About Brenna As a self-care advocate, professional writer, and mom of one from Minnesota, Brenna started her blog, What About Mama's, after having no idea how to take care of herself after having her son. Topics covered 1:24 | What is Maternal Gatekeeping? 5:22 | Letting go of the control of maternal gatekeeping 12:54 | The breaking point 19:53 | This is on you 23:29 | The kids are alright 27:16 | Recovering from burnout 31:28 | Final question for Brenna Additional resources Connect with Brenna on her website, whataboutmamas.com. You can also read her article on how she stopped maternal gatekeeping to learn more. How to Get Your Husband to Help with the Baby Feeling Resentment Towards Your Partner? Here's Why The Benefits of Skin to Skin with Dad
Recovering from birth is intense, and the food we eat as new mothers is often overlooked or undervalued. This episode dives deep into the best postpartum foods you can eat to recover, heal, and nourish yourself. 024 | Morgan Holden, Certified Baby Nutrition Consultant Taking care of yourself postpartum is not an easy task. When it comes to your nutrition, eating nutrient-rich foods that support your immune system and mental and digestive health can be critical to your postpartum recovery. But where do you start? Madison Holden, RN and nutrition expert, is here to fill us in on some postpartum nutrition secrets that are easy to digest. It's not about how we look on the outside but what is filling our cups for ourselves and our families on the inside. This podcast is all about empowering new and seasoned moms in making their nutritional health a priority and letting them know it's not impossible. About Madison: Madison has been married to her husband for almost four years, and they have a little girl born in July 2019. Harper is the center of their world. As a family, they love to spend time playing outside, traveling, and eating yummy and nutritious foods. She loves to read, bake, and try new recipes. She loves to stay active, and most days, you can find her on the Peloton. She is very passionate about helping others, especially when it comes to postpartum nutrition and baby nutrition. Topics covered 2:07 | Nourishing your postpartum body 4:57 | Postpartum experience 8:08 | Top 3 foods for postpartum recovery 13:45 | Go-to easy meal ideas 19:37 | The stigma around postpartum 28:09 | Final question for Madison Additional resources You can connect with Madison by visiting madisonholden.com. Other postpartum nutrition articles you might enjoy Nourishing Pre-Made Meals for New Parents Common Postpartum Depletion Symptoms 5 Ways to Improve Postpartum Energy with Food
Plus, a closer look at D-MER, everyday breastfeeding struggles, and a personal story of pelvic organ prolapse. 023 | Christina Alulis of Full Hearts Lactation Societal pressure is no laughing matter. When it comes to breastfeeding, many mothers feel alienated or shunned for choosing what is best for their baby and themselves. Trust me; you are not alone. Lactation consultant, Christina Alulis, shares her motherhood journey and expertise in supporting mothers in making these hard decisions. Christina emphasizes how no two mothers and babies are alike. Looking past what is considered 'the right way' can be difficult, but support is out there. It's not about what society thinks is right, so I hope this episode helps shed some light on navigating these decisions in motherhood. Christina is a Philadelphia-based Board-Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant, and a breastfeeding mom of two. With 13 years of experience in pediatric healthcare, she is thrilled to offer individualized newborn and lactation support services for new and expecting families in the privacy of your own home. After recently relocating from Center City to Wynnewood, PA, Christina is excited to now offer in-home support to Main Line area families in addition to Philadelphia families. Topics covered 02:07 | Throwing in the towel on breastfeeding 07:08 | Red flags for breastfeeding support 15:21 | It might not work 18:58 | Feeling the pressure 24:47 | D-MER 33:08 | Final question for Christina 36:58 | Unexpected happenings More episode resources Learn more about Christina and her work by visiting her website fullheartslactation.com. Breastfeeding resources 16 Must-Know Breast Pumping Tips for New Moms Our Tips on How to Stop Lactation Naturally Difficulty Bottle-Feeding? These Tips Will Help
Sleep is an essential part of overall health and wellness. So if you are looking for ways to get better sleep - for you and your baby - listen in now. 022 | Yasmin Johnston of Mindful Sleep You deserve better sleep. Sleep is something that most parents don't get enough of, especially with young children. Getting better sleep is essential to the health of both you and your family, and here's why. Yasmin Johnston is a sleep consultant specializing in helping families get their sleep back. Through her experience, Yasmin talks about the signs of sleep deprivation, the risks it could pose, and the first steps you need to take if lack of sleep is affecting your life. Sleep is essential and an essential part of your health. So if you are looking for ways to get better sleep, listen in. About Yasmin: Yasmin is the founder of Mindful Sleep, a proud pilot wife, and mom to two wild boys who sleep through the night in their room every night. Once bedtime is done, she knows she'll get a couple of hours to herself or spend with her husband, Kevin, to unwind. She loves waking up before the kids to enjoy her coffee (fresh, not microwaved for the 3rd time) while the house is quiet and read. Yasmin was a sleep-deprived mom before starting her consulting journey. Her second son would wake numerous times each night, and being a breastfed baby, they always resorted to nursing back to sleep. She was depleted. She spent countless hours trying to read sleep training books and google ways to help my baby sleep, as I'm sure you have! Now, she supports other families living through that shared experience. Yasmin takes a holistic approach, taking sleep, nutrition, parents' schedules, comfort levels, and needs in mind. She also likes to focus on the parents once their child is sleeping better. She encourages mom to do something she truly enjoys after the baby is asleep. Then encourages an at home date night to help nurture that relationship between the parents. Topics Covered: 1:45 | Sleep deprivation 3:25 | When to reach out for help 5:50 | Yasmin's story 12:39 | The health effects 18:05 | The first piece of advice 24:23 | Sleep training your baby 30:17 | Three tips to help support you and your partner 33:28 | Final Question Additional sleep resources: Interested in hearing more from Yasmin? Check out some of her resources for parents looking to gain sleep support: Sleep and Separation Anxiety Guide Nursery Safety Checklist How your Newborn's Sleep Works Sleep and Travel Tips Other articles you might enjoy You're Not a Bad Mom; It's Just a Sleep Regression How to Survive the Four Month Sleep Regression Postpartum Sleep Deprivation and Its Effects on the Family
1 Listen in as a pediatric nurse practitioner and certified sleep consultant shares why sleep regressions happen and what you can do to set your newborn up for sleep success. And no, the answer isn't a sleep schedule. 021 | Kelsey Alford of Nested Sleep Nothing beats a good night's sleep. But for some mothers, that is easier said than done. I chat with Kelsey Alford, a certified sleep coach, about the ups and downs of sleeping with a new baby. Kelsey highlights the sleep milestones all children go through and emphasizes that the natural growth and development of your child does not reflect your abilities as a mother. These are challenges every mother faces with their growing baby, and Kelsey gives us a window into how to cope with sleep regression, the factors that come into play, and how we, as mothers, can utilize sleep to help keep ourselves healthy and far less stressed. Meet Kelsey Alford Kelsey is a mama of two, a pediatric nurse practitioner, and a trained professional in sleep. Her personal and professional experiences lead her to help your family sleep better. Her passion is teaching families how to navigate the world of sleep using the best evidence-based techniques. She has a doctorate in nursing and believes that the best way to spread sleep knowledge is by individually working with clients to create a rested home. When she's not working with clients here at Nested Sleep you can find her chasing her toddlers around the beautiful city of Seattle with a cup of cold coffee in her hand. Topics Covered: 1:46 | Why sleep regression happens 3:26 | The first thing 9:20 | Factors of a good night's sleep 14:17 | 18-24 mo sleep regression 18:16 | Realistic expectations 23:35 | Mom's falling back asleep 28:04 | No schedule required 33:12 | Every baby is different 35:56 | Final question Additional baby sleep resources Learn more with other articles from Kelsey over at the Nested Sleep. Support the Development of Baby's First Sleep Schedule Sleep for 4-6-Month-Olds Nursery Check-list and Newborn Sleep Guide Other resources you might enjoy Tips on How to Survive the Four Month Sleep Regression Why Are Moms Always Tired? It's Not Just a Lack of Sleep Newborn Baby Sleep Basics: What You Need to Know
Listen in on Dr. DiGrado (Alex) as she explains the difference between a pelvic floor that is too loose or too tight and common pelvic floor issues in postpartum – you might be surprised. 020 | Alexandra DiGrado of Boston Pelvic Floor Therapy What is the pelvic floor, and why is it important to postpartum mothers? This is a question many new mothers should be asking. Unfortunately, there isn't much information about the importance of pelvic floor health for those who have just given birth. In this episode, I chat with pelvic floor therapist Alexandra DiGrado about this topic. The pelvic floor supports our bodies in so many ways and, if not properly supported, can lead to many concerns for postpartum mothers and beyond. Alex highlights the importance of pelvic floor support, the signs that you may need to support yourself, and how you can advocate for yourself to seek the help you need. About Alexandra DiGrado: Owner of Boston Pelvic Physical Therapy. Alexandra is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with advanced training and certification in pelvic floor rehabilitation through Herman and Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute. She is Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner Certified (PRPC) with over ten years of experience as a physical therapist and pelvic health expert. Alexandra founded Boston Pelvic Physical Therapy because she's passionate about decreasing the stigma around seeking help to heal your private parts and offering people of all genders a safe and holistic way to achieve a healthy pelvic floor and core. Topics Covered: 1:17 | Pelvic floor therapy 7:26 | Advocate for mom 10:54 | What is the pelvic floor? 14:12 | Signs of tightness 21:01 | Top tip for pelvic floor 31:34 | Final question 33:15 | The importance of rest Additional resources You can connect with Alexandra on her website for additional resources. Check out Alexandria's online pelvic floor class pelvicfloorproject.com. Other articles you might enjoy What to Expect: Pelvic Floor Issues in Postpartum Downloadable Guide: Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Bengkung Belly Binding: What It Is and Why You Need It
Listen in as a Motherlove marketing specialist and postpartum doula, Brooke, chats with us about c-section recovery essentials, tips you need to know, and the one thing that can make your recovery that much smoother. It's a must-listen. Brooke Nielsen of Motherlove There is a lot to know when recovering from a c-section (and birth in general). With so many postpartum products on the market, sometimes it's tricky to know what's both quality and effective, all without compromising ingredients. That's where Motherlove comes in. A company founded on natural products to help support them in pregnancy, postpartum, and motherhood. This week, I chat with Motherlove's marketing specialist, Brooke Nielsen, about how you can best prepare for c-section recovery. What to buy What to ask for How to feel empowered As a c-section mom herself, Brooke shares insight into her own postpartum recovery, with advice on things she wished she did to prepare and some fantastic products that can help support you in your own journey. About Motherlove Organics Kathryn Higgins, Motherlove's founder, grew up in a Mayo medical family from Rochester, Minnesota, who were avid gardeners in love with flowers and plants. After moving to the Rocky Mountains, she became passionate about the uses of plants in the meadows and forests surrounding her mountain home in Northern Colorado's Rist Canyon. She began incorporating the wild plants into her daily life for food, medicine, and teaching others. Not able to find herbal products to support her pregnancy and birthing experiences, she began making her own—and sharing them with other women. These creations in the early 1980s became the seeds for Motherlove® products. Today, our products are sold in hospitals, pharmacies, natural food stores, and specialty retailers in nearly 20 countries. Even though you'll see the company's familiar blue bottles on the shelves of the nation's biggest retailers, their family still makes their products the old fashioned way, with love, from their family to yours. Shop Motherlove now Topics Covered 1:13 | What is Motherlove? 5:03 | C-section talk 11:36 | 3 Tips for c-section recovery 16:42 | Favorite Motherlove products 22:29 | Process and celebrate 31:36 | Feel empowered 36:15 | A mother is born 41:45 | Final question for Brooke Additional Resources Our Motherlove C-Section recovery essentials C-Section Recovery Cream Rhoid Balm Motherlove discount code Don't forget that you can save 15% on your entire Motherlove order with code HELLOPOSTPARTUM15 at checkout. Shop now. Other articles you may enjoy Our Founder's Birth Story: Hopeful for a VBAC C-Section Wound Care: What to Know
Listen in as Carley chats with a physiotherapist about common pelvic floor issues in postpartum, how they affect not only our daily lives but our sexual nature, health, and wellbeing. There are a of things about postpartum that many women are never told about. These things could be common, but that doesn't mean it's normal. Pelvic floor is not something that 'just happens' with becominga mother. Women physiotherapist Taryn Gaudin talks about what pelvic floor is and how it can affect women in their postpartum recovery. Taryn brings the cause and complications of pelvic floor to light, sharing her knowledge in the many ways it can affect a women's life both in postpartum and in the future. If you are experiencing difficulties in your postpartum recovery, I hope this episode helps inspire you to take action in your recovery journey. About Taryn Goudin: Like so many women, throughout my lifetime I had constantly ignored, criticised, and buried parts of who I am, and now in this new phase of my life, I had a deep desire to reconnect with those parts of me. I believe my body was calling for me to soften – to become more kind and gentle with myself, and to tune into myself on a physical, emotional, and spiritual level. I began to rebuild the foundations of my mind-body connection, firstly by agreeing to listen to my body. I began tuning in to my body and asking how it felt and what it needed. To describe my journey is challenging because, like life itself, it was dynamic. There was no linear path. There were surges of growth, followed by long pauses of integration, huge a-ha moments, and lengthy periods of confusion. I spent a lot of time feeling like I was getting nowhere. The entire time though, I allowed myself to follow the thread of possibility, letting each clue lead to the next, and over time I began to understand my rhythm, my body, my nature, and what I needed to nourish my whole self. I learned the art of slowing down, and practising self-compassion. I began embracing all of myself, particularly the softer, slower, and simpler feminine aspects that I had suppressed for such a long time. I began cultivating a lifestyle and working with women in a way that was completely unique to me. Topics Covered: 1:53 | Pelvic floor & sensuality 5:22 | Reconnect with your body 9:38 | Pelvic floor in depth 17:06 | More proactive approach 24:00 | Taryn's story 30:43 | Final question
Postpartum hunger is real, and it's trying to tell you something. Listen in as Kim Perez, a functional nutritionist, shares what it means to deeply nourish and care for yourself after birth. It's not what you may think. 017 | Kim Perez of Root and Branch Nutrition Nutrition and postpartum can be difficult hurdles to climb. So many mothers struggle with balancing their own health while trying to recover and take care of a new baby. It can feel impossible. In this episode, I talk with nutritionist Kim Perez about identifying postpartum depletion symptoms during the postpartum time. Kim specializes in working with women during their motherhood journey, from conception to postpartum. She highlights some significant factors surrounding postpartum nutrition and some simple tips on how you can help support your health without fancy diets and expensive meal prep. About Kim Perez For years, I tried to do everything to such unattainable standards that I lived in a constant state of exhaustion. Little rest, restrictive nutrition, and intense exercise routines led to hormonal imbalances and fatigue—a lifestyle that just wasn't sustainable. Even when I did everything “right,” I still struggled to feel good. I needed to replenish and rebalance my body, and planning for pregnancy was the reality check to heal. Even armed with knowledge and awareness of what my body needs to thrive, some days, I struggle. I don't have the perfect diet. I like wine. I eat chocolate. I deal with stress (sometimes not well). It's a big-picture kind of journey that doesn't end with one tough day, but it's hard to do this alone. Through all of my experiences, the good and the bad and the downright tough postpartum seasons, I realized that so many women—especially moms—wrongfully believe they can't feel amazing again. Topics Covered 1:48 | Signs of postnatal depletion 3:14 | Nourishment 9:32 | Quieting the nutrition noise 13:45 | Breastfeeding weight myths 16:51 | Go-to food groups 22:38 | Blood sugar 27:49 | Coffee and fat 31:34 | Pick your battles 36:55 | Magnesium power 43:08 | Keep asking 44:39 | Final question Additional Resources You can connect with Kim at rootandbranchnutrition.com for more information and additional resources. Use code “HELLOPP” gets 10% off any of Kim's educational resources, such as: The Fourth Trimester Guide Postpartum Weight + Body Image Workshop Learn about her 1:1 services or her 12-week program, Nourished Roots. More postpartum nutrition resources Ranked: The Best Meal Delivery Services for Postpartum Six Stress-Free Nutrition Tips for New Moms What Nutrients Do Postpartum Women Need? A Closer Look
Listen in to an honest and raw conversation with three moms who became parents in the middle of a pandemic. They share their strategies for coping, navigating, and feeling more connected during this truly, well, unprecedented time. Episode 16 | Sarah Goodman and Mira Lax of Eva Mental Health Pandemic pregnancy and birth. It is our new reality. And while living the last two years in this new way of life, it does not make becoming a mom any easier. How do we find the support we need during these unprecedented times? Mira and Sarah of Eva Mental Health share their stories of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum during the beginning of the pandemic. Through their experience, they've nurtured a way for moms to connect, share and support other women in their motherhood journey. Because while having a baby might look different today, knowing you're heard and supported can make all the difference. More about Sarah and Mira: Mira is a mother, writer, and marketing strategist who creates, curates, and collects high-quality content. She has experience with online and offline marketing, corporate writing and editing, branding and rebranding globally, strategic partnership development, and large-scale event planning. Sarah Goodman, MSW, RSW, is a mother, a registered social worker, and a passionate supporter of mothers at all stages of their parenting journey. She intimately understands that becoming a mother is hard. Many stressors can make you feel alone and overwhelmed, from trying to conceive to loss, pregnancy, and motherhood. As someone who became a mom during the COVID-19 pandemic and experienced loss prior, Sarah quickly understood the importance of support throughout the journey to motherhood. Sarah is passionate about providing quality support to women in their most vulnerable moments. When so much is asked of you, Sarah's goal is to help mothers feel validated, supported, and cared for. Topics Covered: 1:01 | Becoming a Covid-19 mom 4:23 | Facing the risks 11:26 | Coping and navigating 18:48 | Eva services 29:25 | I "should" be happy 32:36 | You're allowed to complain 41:43 | Final question Additional Resources To learn more about Mira and Sarah, go to evamentalhealth.com for additional information and resources. Other postpartum pandemic resources A Therapist's Guide to Pandemic Parenting Coping During a Pandemic? This New Mom Turns to Cooking Identifying Postpartum Rage and How to Deal
As mothers, we're in tune with what our children need, but are we listening to our intuitive voice with ourselves? Listen in as Zo'e describes what she believes it means to be an intuitive mother and shares her personal stories of growth. 015 | Zo'e Cole of The Aloha Mamatog Becoming a mother is far from simple. With it comes challenges most parents do not prepare for well. But it's not impossible to overcome. Zo'e Cole is a photographer who specializes in capturing the precious memories of motherhood, from pregnancy to postpartum. Zo'e and I dive into what it means to be an intuitive mother. Turning into yourself and putting yourself first can be a huge mountain to overcome, but Zo'e's tips and insight grant us simple ways to help guide us in being seen and heard. No two mothers are alike, and the path may look different for each of us, but it's a path each of us takes in realizing our worth in our role as a mother. Meet Zo'e Cole Zo'e is the happiest when churro'd in warm sand by the sea. She is a motherhood story photographer serving in Orange County, CA. Growing up in San Clemente, She began her photography journey shooting surfers from afar. Although she's shooting different stories these days, the surf, sand, and stoke are still in her aesthetic style. She fell in love with maternity and newborn memories long before becoming a mother myself, but becoming a mama made her truly envelop herself in all the ups and downs of motherhood—from conception to postpartum. After her daughter's birth, Zo'e's purpose was solidified. She knew she wanted to change her birth narrative to something that she's empowered and created to do. When she started witnessing and photographing more births, Zo'e knew she had the honor of fulfilling that desire for other mothers, too. She invokes passion, focus, and talent, photographing mothers and their loved ones during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Topics Covered: 2:19 | The meaning of intuitive motherhood 14:31 | Survival brain 20:04 | Is that really what you need? 30:39 | Each child is different 35:45 | Educating yourself 38:12 | Social media 40:35 | Being seen and heard 44:59 | Final question Additional resources You can learn about Zo'e and connect with her at thealohamamatog.com for additional resources. More articles on intuition you might enjoy Use Your Motherly Intuition to Make Postpartum Easier 10 Tips for Giving Birth with Confidence Five Steps to Advocate for Yourself After Birth
Asking for help, setting boundaries, and receiving support can feel paralyzing in postpartum and beyond. Here's an honest conversation around how to do just that. 014 | Caitlin Morris of Coaching with Caitlin One of the most important things you can do postpartum is asking for help. Sounds like something every new mother should know, right? But many of us struggle with finding our voice in, not only in asking for help but knowing what kind of help we actually need. In this episode, I chat with life and health coach Caitlin Morris about how women living up to society's standards for what it means to be a mother needs to shift. From real-life experience, Caitlin touches on all the things surrounding support in postpartum. Setting boundaries, knowing when to say no, and breaking the stigma of mom guilt are just some of the topics we cover in this episode. Support shouldn't stop after you bring a baby into this world. I hope this episode helps you find your voice, ask for help and give yourself the grace and support you deserve. Because trust me, you're not alone. Meet Caitlin Morris Hi! I'm Caitlin. I'm a wife, mom, friend, coach, trainer & fitness instructor. Like you, I also know how easy it is to put everyone else before myself. To be honest: Motherhood has been all of the beautiful things I thought it would be. It has also been unexpected and challenging in ways I didn't see coming. Since then, I've become a personal trainer behavior change specialist, learned to set boundaries and say no, prioritized workouts, my time, and self-care. I've also had a second baby and started two different programs as a life coach & health coach. I'm still learning as I go, but now I know: you don't have to do it alone. And it doesn't have to take you years as it did for me. The more time I spend working with other clients and even just other moms, other women in the wellness space, I've realized a few things: There's power in sharing our stories, in learning our struggles are our own but that we are not alone. There's power in vulnerability, asking for help, and choosing to step into our possibility. Just because it's a part of our day to take care and support others doesn't mean we have to come last. It's so important to me to help women in this way because I believe if we can create the time for ourselves, we can give so much more to others and the world around us. Topics Covered 1:31 | Why it's so hard to ask for help 4:46 | Backstory to taking up space 10:47 | Asking for Help 17:41 | Adult to Adult Boundaries 26:33 | Handling difficult emotions 31:21 | What I wish I knew about postpartum Additional resources You can connect with Caitlin on her website for additional help and resources. Other articles you might enjoy Four Tips for Sharing the Domestic Load After Birth Identifying Postpartum Rage and How You Can Deal Five Steps to Advocate for Yourself After Birth
Mom guilt. It's something all moms struggle with, and not just in postpartum. It can affect our entire lives raising kids. While this is an entirely normal feeling, it's essential not to fall too far into the trap that mom guilt can create for us. How do we shift away from mom guilt without feeling like a bad mom? Kelsey Mizell is a licensed professional counselor specializing in prenatal and maternal health. In this episode, we talk about the social stigmas surrounding mom guilt and how we can break away from the standards put on mothers everywhere. Kelsey's advice and strategies focus on being worthy, not perfect. We talk about the importance of being in tune with your emotions, knowing when it's okay to ask for help, and giving how to give time to yourself finally. Meet Kelsy Mizell, LPC Kelsey is a Licensed Professional Counselor and specializes in Perinatal and Maternal Mental Health. She helps women and mothers to feel connected with themselves and confident in their motherhood. She provides virtual counseling services through Georgia and Florida. Kelsey is married with a two-year-old and two dogs. She enjoys drinking too much coffee and spending time outside with family and friends. Topics Covered 1:38 | The reason for mom guilt 8:23 | How to flip societies expectations 12:22 | Mom guilt is about… 18:22 | The duality of emotions 28:29 | Shifting focus 31:48 | Being worthy, not perfect 34:15 | Final Question Additional resources You can connect with Kelsey Mizell at likeamothercounseling.com for additional resources. Articles on navigating motherhood Having a Motherhood Identity Crisis? How a Postpartum Plan Can Help Identifying Postpartum Rage and How You Can Deal Tips for Overcoming the Pressure to Be a Perfect Mother
What is a VBAC? Most women don't know about their options when it comes to delivery. VBAC stands for vaginal birth after cesarean. This procedure gives mothers a chance to experience a vaginal delivery if they have had a c-section in the past. So, how do you know if you're a candidate for a VBAC? Morgan Miller is a full-time midwife specializing in helping women prepare for birth. Through her experiences working with mothers, she gives us a look at her role in the lives of expecting mothers and how to prepare your body and mind for a VBAC. Morgan is a wealth of information, giving some incredible insight on delivery and how to self-advocate. I hope you enjoy this episode, and it gives you the courage to talk to your doctor or midwife about your options for delivery. Meet Morgan Miller Passionate about pregnancy and reproductive care, Morgan has over seven years of experience caring for people throughout their reproductive cycles. She was a full-time midwife at the Bend Birth Center in Oregon for over five years before relocating to Maine to establish SOFT CORNER. Dedicated, kind, and considerate, Morgan doesn't think twice about running that extra mile for her clients. She has a fierce enthusiasm for what she does and supports the vision of fundamental reproductive rights and the highest-quality reproductive care available to everyone. Topics Covered 1:33 | Not attempting a VBAC 4:54 | Self-advocate 10:38 | Preparing for a VBAC 22:06 | Fight or flight 25:57 | The role of a midwife 30:43 | Where to find info on midwifery in your state 36:32 | Definition of progress 44:32 | Final question Additional Resources You can connect with Morgan Miller on her website at softcornermidwifery.com. You'll also find additional information and resources. More resources on birth Five Steps to Advocate for Yourself After Birth How to Prepare for a Successful VBAC 10 Tips for Giving Birth with Confidence
Most new mothers are not prepared for what postpartum will bring. Yes, a new baby means a new chapter in your life is beginning, but for a lot of mothers, it's less like a new chapter and more like a new book. Postpartum recovery comes with a lot of surprises for families and, even with support, it is a constant struggle growing accustomed to, not only a newborn, but a new way of life. In this episode, I chat with postpartum doula Gigi Vera Vincent about navigating the rough waters of postpartum. Gigi was inspired to become a postpartum doula after her own struggles with postpartum depression and identity loss. She talks about what the roll of a postpartum doula is in helping parents set realistic expectations and understand that there is no one mold you need to fit when it comes to parenthood. There is so much societal pressure that does not support a healthy postpartum recovery. We hope, though Gigi's experience and advice, that you feel supported and heard in your motherhood journey. Meet Gigi Vera Vincent Gigi a postpartum doula, newborn care specialist, non-toxic educator, mother to three toddlers, including twins, and a wife to her high school sweetheart. As a former teacher, she brings realistic, evidence-based, and actionable advice (and LOTS of handouts.) I empower families, so once baby arrives, they can focus on resting and bonding instead of researching or stressing. She's here to streamline the newborn learning curve and guide birth parents, partners, and other family members. There isn't ONE way to have and raise a little human. Gigi's here to assist parents as they find THEIR way so that they can thrive in the fourth trimester and beyond. Topics Covered: 1:47 | One thing you wish 3:22 | Comparing other cultures 9:32 | Fitting the mold 15:39 | The roll of a doula 21:48 | What can come up during postpartum 27:35 | Realistic expectations 32:32 | The path to postpartum doula 35:44 | Something you wish you knew about postpartum 43:29 | Connect with Gigi
Women are more career driven than ever. The pandemic effected a lot of families. With lay-offs, furloughs, and thousands of workers going remote, the landscape of career-driven women has changed dramatically. With companies pushing for employees to return to the office, many women are feeling the pressure. But the pandemic is far from over and flexibility is more important than ever when it comes to taking care of our families. Lauren A. Tetenbaum, LMSW, JD, PMH-C, former attorney and founder of LAT Counseling, dives into the power of women in the workplace. In this episode, we talk about the pressures women are feeling from their employees to work like your not a parent. it's so important to, not only advocate for equality in the workplace, but also to know your rights and be confident that your employers understand that we don't stop being parents in the workspace. I hope this episode inspires you to make a change for yourself and for for every working parent out there. Meet Lauren A. Tetenbaum, LMSW, JD, PMH-C Lauren A. Tetenbaum, LMSW, JD, PMH-C is an advocate and therapist specializing in life transitions affecting millennial and young women. A licensed social worker, and former attorney with a decade of experience in the legal industry including as a coach to working parents, she is also the proud mama of two young kids. Intensively trained in perinatal mental health, Lauren currently uses her experience, empathy, and emotional intelligence to empower others through psychoeducational parent support groups and counseling and consulting services. She is actively involved in numerous efforts benefitting at-risk families in her native New York and abroad, including as a Postpartum Support International helpline volunteer, 2020 Mom Ambassador, and mentor with The Mom Project. Learn more about her mission to support working, new, and aspiring parents at www.LATCounseling.com or on Instagram @thecounselaur. Topics Covered: 2:35 | Setting mothers up to fail in the workplace 6:04 | Navigating tough parenting decisions 12:44 | Parenting out loud 17:20 | Know your rights 19:32 | FMLA 29:17 | Working like you're not a parent 32:37 | Ask for what you deserve 34:38 | Wish you knew about postpartum
Expecting comes with more than just a baby. As a new or multi-mama, you may have fallen victim to societal pressures surrounding both pregnancy and motherhood. How to eat, how to sleep, how to change a diaper, how to encourage crawling or eating solid foods, how to breastfeed...the list is endless. While the intentions behind them may be good, falling short of these expectations can put a lot of unwanted stress on us as mothers. We may think we are doing things wrong or aren't good mothers because we are falling short. Take a breath. You're doing fantastic. Meghan Van Metre, the voice behind The Stressfree Mama, is here to put those pressures put on us by society to bed. In this episode, we dive into the natural person you should be listening to on your motherhood journey, yourself. Getting clear of the fluff will help you listen to that inner voice and help remind us that there are no two mothers on the same journey. Meghan is a great advocate in tapping into our motherly intuition regarding parenting, self-care, and trusting ourselves. Meet Meghan Van Metre I'm Meghan Van Metre, and my passion for helping mamas was sparked by my own experience of having a baby. I vividly remember that dreaded two-week wait, saying goodbye to the body and identity I once knew while pregnant, and my-oh-my, those postpartum hormones were REAL! Topics Covered 1:39 | Moving into the postpartum space 3:03 | FInding your intuition 5:50 | Listening to your intuition 9:28 | Mothering in masculine vs. feminine energy 15:58 | question one thing 19:19 | Essential work 22:29 | Advice for postpartum moms 29:28 | Isolation 37:00 | Changing your style 40:55 | What you wish someone told you about postpartum While I was going through the usual ups and downs of motherhood, I realized how little support there is for a mama's mental health and how much pressure there is to do things a certain way. Stress shouldn't rob a mom of the most beautiful time in her life, which is why I am here. I'm based in California and work with women across the world. I live with my baby girl Mylo, husband Matt, and mini Goldendoodle Cody. Outside of life coaching, I love to send snail mail and spend time in Lake Tahoe. Additional Resources You can connect with Meghan Van Metre on her website thestressfreemama.com where you can find additional information and resources.
It can be hard to ask for help. As a new parent, knowing what you need can be challenging to figure out. As much as it is hard to ask for the help we need from our loved ones, it is also hard to know when to say enough is enough. Setting boundaries are so important in more ways than one. Women's health expert and Motherhood advocate Alissa Alter helps set the tone in how new mothers everywhere can find their voice in setting boundaries and keeping them. Alissa uses her own life experiences to grab the boundary bull by the horns, giving us her best tips and advice on the importance of setting limits with your family members and supporters when it comes to your first steps into motherhood. This episode was so fun, and I hope Alissa's witty banter will help you create those boundaries - and stick to them - that much more inspiring. Meet Alissa Alter Alissa Alter is a Women's Health Expert & Motherhood Advocate and the author of Unstuck: From Understudy To The Study Of Your Undercarriage. She uses movement, mindfulness, and good ol' fashioned education to help mamas and mamas-to-be stop suffering in silence so that pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum can be healing and empowering stages of life. She received her Pilates certification through Romana's Pilates at True Pilates New York and founded Pilates For Your Privates in 2017. She also holds certifications in ELDOA, workshops with The Hospital For Special Surgeries, Physical Therapists, OBGYNs, Pediatricians, Yoga, Reiki, and ballet. Alissa has taught workshops in NYC, New Jersey, and internationally and remains committed to being a lifelong student of the human experience. She graduated from Skidmore College with a dual degree in Spanish Language & Literature and Dance Performance & Choreography and has been touring the United States with musicals since she was three years old. Topics Covered 2:05 | Importance of boundaries 5:47 | Navigating your family of origin 19:20 | Did you masturbate today? 21:00 | Baby steps 29:17 | Burn out 36:21 | Weighing your options 39:38 | Postpartum experience Extra resources On her website, you can learn more, explore resources, and connect with Alissa Alter. Visit now. More resources on setting boundaries New Baby? Six Tips for Setting Boundaries with Family How to Set Boundaries After Your Baby is Born
We are not immune to grief. Losing a child, no matter what stage of pregnancy or motherhood, is something we cannot begin to understand how to navigate. 1 in 5 women will experience pregnancy loss. That is one too many. Certified Perinatal Mental Health practitioner Megan MacCutcheon, LPC, PMH-C, helps explain the stages of grief and what mothers experiencing loss can do to help heal and navigate the challenges loss can bring. Megan is an avid supporter of women during pregnancy and postpartum. She uses her insight and guidance to help mothers struggling with these difficult times find the light amongst what can feel like endless darkness. While we cannot prevent pregnancy loss, let's give it a voice and help women worldwide find their voice. Meet Megan MacCutcheon, LPC, PMH-C Megan MacCutcheon is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Perinatal Mental Health practitioner who helps overwhelmed moms find a sense of balance while raising young children. As a busy mom of three, Megan knows that motherhood is a juggling act. She loves teaching tools and strategies to help moms de-stress and embrace self-care so they can better navigate challenges associated with parenting. She is passionate about spreading awareness regarding the various common perinatal mood and anxiety disorders women can experience and enjoys supporting moms through healing and finding fulfillment in their journeys. Megan also specializes in helping women and young adults build self-esteem and has published four books on the topic. Topics covered in this episode 3:10 | Physical effects after loss 14:18 | Advice for women experiencing loss 2:17 | Postpartum after loss 5:15 | Stages of grief 11:15 | How to open up 14:30 | Getting pregnant after a loss 22:23 | Support 31:13 | Tidal wave 32:35 | Unprocessed grief 37:07 | What can you do with grief? 43:04 | About Postpartum Extra support resources On her website, you can learn more, explore resources, and connect with Megan MacCutcheon, LPC, PMH-C. Visit now. Resources on grief after pregnancy loss from Megan Perinatal Mood or Anxiety Disorder (PMAD) Guide Mom's Toolkit for Stress Management Stress Stoppers to Keep You Sane Pregnancy Loss Statistics + Resources for Support Explore more resources on pregnancy loss Navigating the Physical Recovery of Late-Term Pregnancy Loss Healing from Pregnancy Loss During COVID-19 A List of Supportive Pregnancy and Infant Loss Resources
Late-term pregnancy loss. It's a subject that so many understand and yet, aren't sure how to navigate. One in four pregnancies results in loss, and while this statistic seems glaring when you first encounter it, we never think it will happen to us. But there's a chance. And if that chance does happen, how do we get through it? What physical and emotional toll will it take? Will it be impossible to overcome? Take a breath because nothing is impossible. Ashley Derderian Sousa, RN, IBCLC, shares her experiences being right alongside mothers during such a difficult, and for some, unexpected time. Ashley truly believes that a loss is a loss, and no one should undermine the impact it has, nor the time it takes to heal from it. Her insight and personal attachment to this subject expose the anxiety, isolation, and physical toll losing a child can have. No one should tell you how to mourn, and Ashley is here to remind everyone who has or is currently experiencing a loss that you are not alone. Meet Ashley Derderian Sousa Ashley Derderian Sousa, RN, IBCLC, is a registered nurse and a board-certified lactation consultant with 12 years of experience, spending the past 8 of those years providing care as a labor, delivery, and postpartum nurse and lactation consultant. The first four years of her career were spent in the Medical Intensive Care Unit, which provides Ashley with a wide range of medical experience. Her compassionate and caring personality offers the ability to foster connection with the women, men, and families she works with. She has a passion for learning and sharing her knowledge with others and is the proud owner of gansettgal. The Gansett Gal is a business catered towards educating and empowering mamas everywhere by providing fun education, private nurse consultations, postpartum support, lactation services, and more. Raised and now living in Rhode Island, Ashley is a world traveler and previously lived and worked in New York City. She is also an avid runner, lover of the beach, and foodie! Most importantly, she is the lucky momma to a perfect little lady, Grace. Topics covered in this episode 3:10 | Physical effects after loss 14:18 | Advice for women experiencing loss 19:19 | Impact of delivery during covid 21:55 | Suggestions around labor/delivery 26:08 | Questions to ask 30:39 | The effect on your partner 40:26 | Personable loss 46:57 | About postpartum
Covid-19 brought forth many challenges. With those challenges comes obstacles we never thought we would face alone. Infant loss doesn't take a back seat to troubling times. For mothers who have experienced this during the pandemic, the feelings and emotions have never been more substantial and more isolating. Between postpartum depression, anxiety, PTSD, and a looming sense of isolation, this episode talks about the power of being acknowledged and seen in your experience. Trust that you're not alone. Dr. Veronica Eyo, LCSW, talks about how to navigate these chapters of your life. Every person grieves differently, and Dr. Veronica's knowledge of finding support and healing on your terms can help break down the walls of singularity that infant loss can build around us. Acknowledgment and support are something mothers don't always receive. Understanding the impact that this could carry for mothers is something Dr. Veronica understands, and her strategies to help those heal from it are the first step toward acceptance. Meet Dr. Veronica Eyo As a licensed clinical social worker, Dr. Veronica is honored to be a part of that outside help for you. She has years of experience treating adults and couples that struggle with trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship conflicts, parenting skills, social skills, and grief and loss. She specializes in working with mothers (new and seasoned) as they navigate their motherhood journey and managing symptoms of perinatal mental health. Her approach to therapy is a collaborative, client-centered approach using various evidence-based interventions, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and interpersonal psychotherapy. She obtained her Master's and a doctoral degree from the University of Southern California. Dr. Veronica strongly believes the client/therapist relationship is the most critical part of therapy. Therefore, she offers a free 15-minute phone consultation to help determine if she is the right fit. Learn more about her work. You can expect her sessions to be an empathetic, non-judgmental space that allows you to be vulnerable as she provides support, guidance, and structure. Her goal for your sessions is to work collaboratively to facilitate change in your life and accomplish your personal growth goals. Topics covered in this episode 3:36 | Navigating loss in isolation 6:48 | What you're up against 14:15 | If you think about it, it's valid 17:23 | How to support 20:06 | Boundaries during covid 25:42 | One small step 29:24 | Re-integrating life after loss 38:24 | No one way to grieve 41:25 | It's okay to ask for the help you need
Postpartum is defined as the period after delivery. But postpartum doesn't end at 6-weeks. What's left behind runs deeper than the scars from a c-section or an episiotomy. Your body is recovering from some of the most intense trauma it has ever faced, and that comes with so many changes to your physical wellbeing. This is why listening to your body is important because sometimes the issue isn't just a lack of sleep or not eating right. Sometimes it's something else. Dr. Alissia Zenhausern of NMD Wellness of Scottsdale focuses on the importance of trusting your instincts in postpartum recovery. Only you can advocate for your wellness, and Dr. Zen gives her expert advice on hormone health, what questions to ask your healthcare physician and how to make sure you are in the know with your health. Dr. Zen is a firm believer in healthy moms raising healthy and happy babies. Educating yourself in hormone health and knowing your body inside and out is the first step in changing the perspective around postpartum health. Meet Dr. Zen, MND Dr. Alissia Zenhausern, NMD (Dr. Zen), is a leader in naturopathic medicine. She is the founder of NMD Wellness of Scottsdale, a premier naturopathic clinic focused on your fertility journey. Whether you want a family now or don't want to miss your chance in the future, Dr. Zen and her team provide a comprehensive approach to your health to optimize your preconception, fertility, and postpartum experience. Dr. Zen provides integrative care options that put you back into the driver's seat of your health. Initially from Geneva, Switzerland, Dr. Zen believes in the power of naturopathic medicine and has helped hundreds of women get pregnant naturally. She also works in conjunction with your other fertility team members, including your gynecologist, OBGYN, REI, and endocrinologist, to provide a custom approach to your health. Dr. Zen emphasizes the importance of getting to the root cause of your hormonal imbalance, whether you suffer from Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), Endometriosis, Luteal Phase Defect, or recurrent miscarriages. Topics covered in this episode 2:04 | Hormone support 5:22 | Getting your levels checked 11:20 | What to advocate for while breastfeeding 19:38 | Broken system 25:12 | Baby #2 infertility 31:15 | Adrenal fatigue 39:42 | Providers want to help 4203 | Connect with Dr. Zen
What is a traumatic birth? This sounds like a heavy question. Traumatic birth isn't always just labor and delivery gone wrong. It can be anything a mother experiences that leaves a long-lasting impression on their mental and/or physical state during and after birth. So many mothers experience this and, for most of them, the trauma is disregarded and left untreated. Talking with Sharmon Reddington of Mum Well, this episode focuses on the societal stigma surrounding birth trauma. She shares her personal story and how she overcame the pressures of putting her trauma aside to embrace and heal from it. In our mission to change the perspective around postpartum health, birth trauma plays a significant part. Taking care of our mental health and actively seeking help in our recovery is the first step to becoming better parents and moms. Topics covered in this episode 1:54 | The definition of traumatic birth 7:55 | Sharmon's birth trauma experience 14:05 | Downplaying our emotions 17:51 | A message to mothers 21:21 | Postpartum support with birth trauma 30:50 | What for you is good? 35:33 | What you wish you knew about postpartum Extra resources You can learn more, explore resources, and connect with Sharmon at mumwell.com. More mental health resources What Is a Traumatic Birth? Here Are The Steps to Heal Struggling to Adjust to Motherhood? It's Okay to Not Be Okay A Free Mental Health Checklist for New Moms
Breastfeeding. But at what cost? It is pushed on new mothers before, during, and after pregnancy. But what if breastfeeding isn't an option for you? What if it's too painful or having a severe effect on your mental health? Or you just don't want to. Despite popular belief, it's okay not to breastfeed. Talking with Mallory Whitmore of The Formula Mom, we're here to move that stigma to the sidelines and give mom's the confidence and support in their decision to formula feed their little ones. This episode is all about self-advocating and helping those mothers struggling with their decision to find some peace of mind. Topics Covered 1:43 | Her experience with breastfeeding 5:30 | Mom's health 6:57 | "I don't want to breastfeed" 12:50 | Formula feeding challenges 16:30 | Baby-friendly hospitals 22:45 | Baby-friendly advice 33:05 | Everything is allowed 34:21 | What she wishes someone told her about postpartum Extra resources and special offers Mallory is offering 10% off her formula feeding resources such as the Formula 101 Handbook, the Fast Track Formula Finder, the All-Access Formula Index, and my consult bundle with code HELLO at checkout. Head to theformulamom.com for more details. Free formula feeding guide Join over 10,000 parents who have claimed their Free Formula Guide to help make more informed, confident feeding decisions. More formula resources The Must-Know Basics of Preparing Formula for Your Baby Breast Reductions and Its Affect on Breastfeeding: One Mom's Story Difficulty Bottle-Feeding Baby? These Tips Will Help
Prepare to be unprepared. Having a baby is a huge, life-changing experience. If you were anything like me, you read all the baby books, researched all the best clothes, best bottles, best toys, the best everything to welcome the new life you are preparing to bring into the world. Becoming a mother is exciting and nerve-racking all at the same time. But things don't always go as planned, right? And no matter how many books I'd read or research I'd done, no one could have prepared me for what would happen after birth. Postpartum is not what you read in the baby books; it is rarely discussed and barely recognized. But this time is everything. I created this podcast to shine a light on postpartum. For women to share their stories, advice, and experiences and for moms struggling or who have struggled during postpartum never to feel alone or unsupported. By sharing my experience and others, I hope to give a voice to those who feel like they don't have one. To recognize, embrace and support mothers throughout their life after delivery. 0:53 | The Hello Postpartum journey 1:42 | My little breech baby 6:07 | Moments leading up to delivery 8:29 | My postpartum period 10:13 | New mothers in postpartum 11:09 | Postpartum never truly ends 12:31 | What to expect on this show 14:40 | My ask for you, listener
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