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Your Birth Bestie | The Best Pregnancy Podcast for an Informed and Natural Birth Experience
Your Birth Bestie | The Best Pregnancy Podcast for an Informed and Natural Birth Experience
Beth Connors is a Certified Nurse Midwife and founder of Family Focused Midwifery, a Wisconsin-based practice supporting families through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. In each episode, she shares practical pregnancy tips, real birth stories, expert insight, and honest conversations about navigating today's maternity care system. The podcast helps listeners make confident decisions and create a birth experience that feels right for them. It covers every stage from pregnancy and labor to birth, postpartum, and parenthood.
Episodes
77. Practical Tips for Letting Go of Worry While Pregnant
Text Your Birth BestieAre you looking for ways to let go of worry and enjoy your pregnancy with confidence and peace of mind?In this episode, we will cover:The practical strategies for managing anxiety and embracing a calm, trusting mindset during pregnancy.Why personalized midwifery care supports emotional well-being alongside physical health.How trusting the birth process can help you release fe
76. The True Cost of Birth: Why Investing in Personalized Midwifery Care Is Worth It
Text Your Birth BestieCurious about how investing in personalized midwifery care can not only transform your birth experience but also be worth every dollar in a system where having a baby comes with a hefty price tag? Today, we’re breaking down the financial side of birth and why the right support is priceless.In this episode, we will cover:The benefits of investing in home birth families trust f
75. How to Overcome Common Fears About Home Birth Safety with Evidence-Based Midwifery
Text Your Birth BestieHave you ever wondered how evidence-based midwifery can help you feel confident in the safety of a home birth?In this episode, we will cover:The most common fears about home birth safety and how to address them with personalized midwifery care.Why trusting the birth process can empower you to make confident choices for your family-centered midwifery journey.How a supportive b
74. How to Find the Best Midwife for a Safe Home Birth
Text Your Birth BestieHave you ever wondered how choosing the right midwife can ensure a safe and empowering home birth experience?In this episode, we will cover:The key traits to look for in a compassionate midwifery provider who prioritizes home birth safety...Why finding an evidence-based midwife can give you confidence in your birth choices...How personalized midwifery care creates a trusting
73. How To Avoid the Temptation of Induction with Personalized Midwifery Care
Text Your Birth BestieHave you ever wondered how trusting the birth process with personalized midwifery care can help you avoid unnecessary interventions?In this episode, we will cover:The importance of natural childbirth preparation to reduce the pressure of induction...Why personalized midwifery care provides the holistic birth support you need to feel confident in your birth journey...How a sup
72. C-Section Preparation: Tips for a Positive Surgical Birth With Doula Lexi Zuo
Text Your Birth BestieIn today’s episode, I talk with experienced doula, Lexi Zuo about how expecting moms and their partners can prepare for a C-section, whether planned or unexpected. Lexi shares her knowledge, from calming fears to ensuring a positive, individualized experience!We will discuss:Common fears about C-sections and ways to address them…Essential education to feel prepared and in con
71. How Doula Support Helps You Feel Empowered and in Control of Your Birth With Karissa Birth Doula
Text Your Birth BestieIn this episode, we chat with Karissa, a dedicated doula and birth educator, who provides a wealth of knowledge on navigating medical interventions in pregnancy and birth. We talk about:Typical experiences with interventions suggested by providers, from pregnancy through active labor…Discussions around common interventions like cervical exams, Pitocin, AROM, and epidurals…Cli
70. C-Section Recovery and Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy With Dr. Sabrina Thorpe
Text Your Birth BestieWhether you're currently recovering from a C-section or preparing for one, this episode with Dr. Sabrina Thorpe, will help answer your biggest questions, from what to expect physically to how physical therapy can play a crucial role in your recovery. In this episode, you can expect:What are the most common physical challenges during c-section recovery…When should you sta
69. The Home Birth Story of Harper Elyse: Intense, Fast, and Unforgettable
Text Your Birth BestieIn this episode, I share all the details of my positive home birth story with my third daughter, Harper! From navigating pregnancy decisions to the amazing, intense moment of welcoming my baby at home, I reflect on how this experience reinforced my passion for supporting others on their birth journeys as a midwife. What to expect:My decision behind choosing a home birth over
68. Prenatal Lactation Education: What Pregnant Moms Should Know About Breastfeeding
Text Your Birth BestieAre you a pregnant mom feeling overwhelmed or unprepared for your breastfeeding journey? I have been there twice before, but there is a way to have more support and information before your baby arrives. I am on this journey with you with baby number three due in a few days!In this episode, we’ll dive into prenatal lactation education with our special guest, Jackie from Latche
67. Getting Your Baby into a Good Position For Labor and Delivery
Text Your Birth BestieHave you ever wondered how your baby’s position during pregnancy can affect your labor and delivery experience? Many expecting moms are curious about the best ways to make sure their baby is in the best position for a smoother birth. In this episode, we’ll dive into what you need to know about baby positioning and how you can encourage the best outcomes.What to expect:Underst
66. How To Have a Home-Like Hospital Birth and My Home Birth Preparation Tips
Text Your Birth BestieIf you want a home-like birth experience in the hospital setting, this episode is for you! Join me as I share my home birth preparation tips and how they aren’t much different than how I would plan for another hospital experience. Many women want the intimacy, atmosphere, and autonomy of a home birth, but it's not always the right fit for everyone. Join me to hear more a
65. Collecting Colostrum During Pregnancy: How To Do It and Why You Should Try
Text Your Birth BestiePregnant moms often wonder if it’s worth it to collect colostrum during pregnancy? Or maybe you’re completely new to the idea of hand expression during pregnancy!In this episode, we delve into the benefits, methods, and reasons behind colostrum harvesting. Join us as we explore this valuable practice that can provide a great start for your newborn.In this episode, we’ll talk
64. How To Give Birth Without a Single Cervical Exam (or limited cervical exams)
Text Your Birth BestieDid you know that you can birth your baby without a single cervical exam during pregnancy or labor?In this episode, we’ll explore how you can assess labor progress in other ways, understand the true necessity of these exams, and how to advocate for what you want during your birthing experience.What to expect:Understand the frequency and routine nature of cervical exams in hos
63. Redefining How Pregnant Women Think About Natural Methods To Start Labor
Text Your Birth BestieAre you wondering what natural methods can help you go into labor or prepare your body for birth? This episode will answer these questions, but also give you insight and support if a checklist of extra things causes more stress!In this episode, you’ll learn about:The importance of reducing stress: How staying calm and confident can naturally promote labor…Physical activities
62. How to Tell if Your Water Broke or If It’s Pee and What to Expect Next
Text Your Birth BestieHave you ever wondered how to tell if your water has broken or if you accidentally peed your pants? It’s more common than you probably think, so please don’t feel embarrassed!This episode will help clear up any confusion and provide you with the information you need to feel confident and prepared.In this episode, we cover:The differences between amniotic fluid and urine, incl
61. How to Know if You're in Labor and Signs of Preterm Delivery
Text Your Birth BestieAre you unsure what to expect when labor starts or how to determine a pregnancy cramp or Braxton Hicks contraction from a true labor contraction? You want to feel confident you’ll know when it’s the real deal!In today’s episode, I’ll cover everything you need to know when distinguishing practice contractions from actual labor.What to expect:What is preterm labor and key signs
60. Informed Consent: Take Your Birth Back by Being Active in Your Care and Asserting Your Birth Rights
Text Your Birth BestieInformed consent is a crucial topic to discuss in childbirth. I love helping women take control of their birthing experiences by asking questions and making informed plans, so they can love their birth no matter what!In this episode, I spoke with Katie Spinks, a doula and childbirth educator, who bravely shares her story of experiencing uterine rupture during an elective indu
59. Third Trimester Pains and How To Survive The Final Stretch of Pregnancy
Text Your Birth BestieHow are you hanging in there during the third trimester of pregnancy? There can be many discomforts at this time of pregnancy and this week I am sharing tips on how to manage some of the biggest complaints moms have.In this episode, we'll cover:Practical tips for managing frequent urination during pregnancy…Strategies for getting better sleep before those restless newb
58. The Fear of Big Babies During Childbirth with Bloom Physical Therapy and Wellness
Text Your Birth BestieAre you worried about having a big baby and it leading to an induction of labor or perineal tearing?As a mom of big babies, I was fear mongered in my second pregnancy to do extra testing early on, leading to further intervention… instead of being educated, empowered, and supported to do what was right for me. You won’t want to miss this episode with Bloom Physical Therapy and
57. Fetal Doppler Use in Pregnancy: Pros, Cons, and Limitations for Reassurance
Text Your Birth BestieAre you thinking about using a fetal doppler to monitor your baby's heartbeat at home during pregnancy?Join me in this episode, as we dive further into:Pros and cons of using a fetal doppler for increased reassurance…Early detection of potential concerns and what to be aware of…How dopplers can increase emotional bonding for moms and dads… Understanding the limitations o
56. Fetal Kick Counts and Understanding Your Baby's Movements
Text Your Birth BestieYou may or may not have heard of fetal kick counts before… but let’s talk about your baby’s movements in your belly and how to best understand what they mean!In this episode, we’ll dive into:What are fetal kick counts? When to start tracking these movements…How to know what your baby’s movements mean…The steps to do fetal kick counts and what is considered normal…Debunking th
55. Empowering Women To Advocate for Their Dream Birth: 1 Year Anniversary of Your Birth Bestie Podcast
Text Your Birth BestieCelebrating ONE YEAR of Your Birth Bestie Podcast! My goal has been for pregnant women to feel heard, supported, comforted, and also challenged by some of the decisions you may have to make during pregnancy and childbirth.I also want pregnant moms to have the information from all sides, so they can make the choice best for their family. I love sharing how to have the best pre
54. Managing Stress and Relationships Postpartum with Jess Hull
Text Your Birth BestieIn today’s episode, we’re joined by Jess Hull, the founder of MotherMe.io, who shares insights into managing stress and relationships during the transition into postpartum with a new baby.We talk about:The neurological shifts during and after pregnancy and their impact on stress and relationships…Common stressors couples face when bringing home a new baby…Managing realistic e
53. How To Prepare For Maternity Leave and Budgeting For a Baby Tips
Text Your Birth BestieAre you planning for your maternity leave and unsure if you should take off time before the baby is born or wait to go into labor? Are you budgeting simultaneously to see how much time you financially are able to take off and looking for tips on making a baby budget?Tune in to this episode where we’ll cover…How to determine when to start your maternity leave…Eligibility and l
52. Weight Gain in Pregnancy, How Much is Normal, and Tips To Manage a Healthy Body
Text Your Birth BestieAre you questioning how much weight to gain during pregnancy? Or maybe you know the what the recommended amount of weight gain is in pregnancy, but you’re either under or over that. What does that even mean for you and your baby, for your pregnancy?!In this episode, we talk about:Weight gain recommendations in pregnancy based on BMI, as outlined by ACOG…Risks of too little we
51. Are Epidurals Safe During Labor: Risks and Benefits of an Epidural on Birth, Babies and Breastfeeding
Text Your Birth BestieAre you nervous about labor pain and what to learn more about epidurals? Or maybe you’re really wanting to give birth unmedicated, but someone tells you, “You don’t get a trophy for natural birth…” and now you’re questioning it. In this episode, we’ll talk all about epidurals and their impact on childbirth including:What an epidural is and what to expect during the procedure…
50. Routine Tests in Pregnancy Including Labs and Blood Draws
Text Your Birth BestieAre you wondering what routine blood tests in pregnancy are usually done, why they are standardized, and what choices you have around these routine tests? Tune in to explore the significance of these tests as a snapshot of your health in pregnancy, helping to detect any issues early on and be sure you and your baby are healthy!In this episode the pregnancy labs we will talk a
49. Women Centered Maternity Care in the Hospital Setting with Doula Deja Ramos
Text Your Birth BestieHave you ever questioned how much control you will have of your hospital birth? I wish you didn’t have to worry about this, but being your best advocate is so important. Having a support person and/or doula is also so beneficial to having your best birth experience! In this episode, I talk with Deja Ramos, aka Doula Deja, and dive into the most important aspects of prioritizi
48. Baby’s First Movements, Tips for Sleeping Discomforts in Pregnancy, and Choosing a Pediatrician Before Baby is Born
Text Your Birth BestieIf you’re ready to answer some of the most asked questions of the mid-second trimester to help you feel confident in your body during pregnancy and informed when making decisions for your baby before they are even born, then this episode is for you! The 3 questions answered in this episode are:When should I expect to start feeling my baby? What do those first movements feel l
47. Anatomy Ultrasound at 20 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect and How to Prepare?
Text Your Birth BestieAre you wondering what to expect during your anatomy ultrasound and how to prepare for this exciting, but often nerve-wracking appointment? In this episode, we’ll dive into:What is an anatomy ultrasound and what information it can tell us about baby…Learn more about the procedure, measurements taken, and what your sonographer is actually allowed to tell you…Tips for physical
46. Planning for Baby and Strategies for Embracing New Family Transitions
Text Your Birth BestieAre you thinking about how your life, your relationships, or your kids are going to change when bringing your new baby home? In this episode we will discuss:The unpredictable joy and exhaustion of life changes when having a baby…Concerns about sibling adjustments and managing time between kids…Financial planning and one of my favorite baby items I saved thousands on…How to pl
45. Prenatal Genetic Screening Tests: Testing Options and Important Details
Text Your Birth BestieAre you wondering about your options for prenatal genetic testing and what information they will actually give you?In this episode we talk about…Understanding genetic screening versus diagnostic tests…When and why genetic tests are recommended…Types of tests including NIPT, first trimester screen, quad screen, and more…Factors that influence the decision to test or not to……an
44. What to Expect at the First Prenatal Appointment for Expecting Parents
Text Your Birth BestieAre you preparing for your first prenatal appointment and wondering what to expect? There can be mixed emotions of excitement and uncertainty as you’re waiting for your scheduled appointment, but sharing some inside information hopefully helps you as you wait!What to expect in this episode:When your first prenatal visit is scheduled and what to do while you wait…Tips to empow
43. Creating a Baby Registry: A Simple Guide for Expecting Moms
Text Your Birth BestieAre you having a baby shower and stuck deciding what to add to your baby registry?Join me as I share insights on streamlining your list, avoiding unnecessary items, and focusing on what truly matters. In this episode we'll dive into:Prioritizing the essential items to reduce overwhelm, expenses, and time researching...How to align with the minimalist approach where simp
42. Natural Remedies for Nausea During Early Pregnancy
Text Your Birth BestieAre you wondering how to stop your pregnancy nausea or at least make it more tolerable?The first trimester can feel like forever when it’s a constant battle between nausea and food eversions, so let’s talk about it!In this episode, we’ll dive into:What causes nausea in pregnancy and how long will it last…Is it bad if I don’t feel nauseous? Is my baby okay…Tips and ticks to pr
41. What Pregnant Moms Want to Know Before Their First Prenatal Appointment
Text Your Birth BestieBefore you even have your first prenatal appointment, the most critical period of a baby’s development in utero is already over. Yes, by 12 weeks! Today, we explore the critical first 12 weeks of pregnancy and address common concerns before your first prenatal visit. Here's what you can expect in this episode:Why early support matters, common questions, and the role of p
40. Are Dating Ultrasounds Accurate and What to Expect at Your First Ultrasound
Text Your Birth BestieWondering if you need to schedule a dating ultrasound during pregnancy? And if you do schedule one, how accurate is the information from the test?The first trimester ultrasound is extremely common, but not always necessary. There are alternative ways to predict gestational age of your baby and assess your preganancy progress.In this episode, we dive into the following:The bas
39. When to Announce Your Pregnancy and the Pros and Cons of Waiting 12 Weeks
Text Your Birth BestieAre you newly pregnant and wondering, when is it “safe” to announce your pregnancy to family and friends?If you’re not sure if you’re ready to make a pregnancy announcement yet, or considering when to let your friends and family in on the secret, this episode will help you decide! Today, we are uncovering the significance of deciding when to announce your pregnancy and highli
38. What to Do After a Positive Pregnancy Test, Finding the Best Doctor, and Calculating Your Due Date
Text Your Birth BestieIf you're newly pregnant, you're probably wondering what steps you should take next! How do you find a good provider? And why the heck is every online due date calculator a little different?In this episode, I talk about what to do after you get that positive pregnancy test including choosing your provider, scheduling your first appointment and possibly an ultrasound
37. Early Signs and Symptoms of Pregnancy and When to Take a Pregnancy Test
Text Your Birth BestieHave you found yourself staring at a pregnancy test, wondering about the right time to take it and what those results really mean? You’re definitely not alone! What to Expect in This Episode:Learn about the most accurate time to take a pregnancy test and why you don’t have to wait to miss your period…Discover budget-friendly and reliable pregnancy test options – ditch the pri
36. How to Get Pregnant Faster: Tips for Trying to Conceive
Text Your Birth BestieAre you wanting to become pregnant as soon as possible, but not sure where to start? Tune in to start your journey to conception and figure out what your next steps are for a positive pregnancy test.In this episode, we’ll talk about:How to increase your chances of becoming pregnant each month…Tips to prepare your body for pregnancy and rid your body from leftover birth contro
35. Tips to Protect Your Pelvic Floor and Prepare for Birth with Dr. Jess Dufault
Text Your Birth BestieWould you love a natural birth, to protect your pelvic floor during pregnancy and labor, and streamline your postpartum recovery? You don’t want to miss this interview with Dr. Jess Dufault, a pelvic floor physical therapist specializing in birth preparation, reducing interventions, and supporting postpartum recovery.In this episode we chat about:The journey that led Dr. Jess
34. How to Have a Calm Birth on Your Own Timeline Without Unwanted Intervention
Text Your Birth BestieHow does a calm, unrushed hospital birth sound? Let’s talk about common issues faced by pregnant moms having babies in the hospital, the impact of interventions during birth, and the importance of informed decision-making. We’ll uncover 10 essential tips to help you take control of your hospital labor and create the best birth experience!Included in this episode is info on:En
33. The Difference Between a Doula and Midwife: Deciding Who to Hire for Your Birth
Text Your Birth BestieAre you confused about what the difference between a doula and a midwife is? You’re definitely not alone. I am a certified nurse midwife, doula, and childbirth educator and get asked all the time what my role actually is, where can I see clients, and why would someone want to have a midwife, doula, both, or neither at their birth!To find out the difference between doulas and
32. Prepare for Postpartum with Registered Nurse and Mom of Three Marissa Bergman
Text Your Birth BestiePreparing for labor and delivery is important, but don't forget about postpartum too! You can actually feel calm and prepared, and enjoy this time with your new baby! This week I interviewed Marissa Bergman, a nurse and birth/postpartum educator who is preparing for her third postpartum journey at 35 weeks!In this episode we discuss that:Postpartum extends well beyond th
31. Fear of Postpartum and Planning For an Easier Postpartum Recovery (Part 5)
Text Your Birth BestieDay 5 of this 5-day series on overcoming hospital birth fears!You're not alone in having doubts, worries, or anxiety while anticipating how your labor and birth will go, so let's figure out how to ease these feelings and have a positive hospital birth!>>GIVEAWAY!!<< Enter for the chance to win a $50 Amazon gift card EVERY day this week! Review the show a
30. Fear of Labor Complications and How to Calmly Handle Urgent Situations (Part 4)
Text Your Birth BestieDay 4 of this 5-day series on overcoming hospital birth fears!You're not alone in having doubts, worries, or anxiety while anticipating how your labor and birth will go, so let's figure out how to ease these feelings and have a positive hospital birth!>>GIVEAWAY!!<< Enter for the chance to win a $50 Amazon gift card EVERY day this week! Review the show a
29. Fear of Labor Pain and the Most Effective Ways to Cope During Childbirth (Part 3)
Text Your Birth BestieDay 3 of this 5-day series on overcoming hospital birth fears!You're not alone in having doubts, worries, or anxiety while anticipating how your labor and birth will go, so let's figure out how to ease these feelings and have a positive hospital birth!>>GIVEAWAY!!<< Enter for the chance to win a $50 Amazon gift card EVERY day this week! Review the show a
28. Fear of Medical Intervention and How to Have a Natural Hospital Birth (Part 2)
Text Your Birth BestieDay 2 of this 5-day series on overcoming hospital birth fears!You're not alone in having doubts, worries, or anxiety while anticipating how your labor and birth will go, so let's figure out how to ease these feelings and have a positive hospital birth!>>GIVEAWAY!!<< Enter for the chance to win a $50 Amazon gift card EVERY day this week! Review the show a
27. Fear of the Unknown During Birth and How Pregnant Moms Can Overcome It (Part 1)
Text Your Birth BestieDay 1 of this 5-day series on overcoming hospital birth fears! You're not alone in having doubts, worries, or anxiety while anticipating how your labor and birth will go, so let's figure out how to ease these feelings and have a positive hospital birth!>>GIVEAWAY!!<< Enter for the chance to win a $50 Amazon gift card EVERY day this week! Review the show
26. Hospital Birth Anxiety Management: Building Confidence in Expecting Parents
Text Your Birth BestieDo you feel nervous or anxious for your upcoming hospital birth? I think it’s safe to say every pregnant woman has been there too. The unknowns of when labor will start, exactly how delivery will go, and the transition to postpartum are so familiar.In this episode, we’re diving into the common, yet often unspoken, topic of anxiety during pregnancy, especially as your due date
25. How Pregnant Moms Can Support Natural Birth Preferences and Limit Unnecessary Intervention
Text Your Birth BestieAre you hesitant about agreeing to medical intervention during your hospital birth?If you’re planning a hospital birth and feel like you have to choose between having the birth you want but you or your baby will be at risk, or having the birth your provider insists, but all your birth goals are tossed to the side...Tune in to this episode, where I cover:What’s the deal with t
24. How Pregnant Moms Should Prepare for the Unknown of Hospital Birth
Text Your Birth BestieAre you a pregnant mom planning your hospital birth and wondering how to confidently navigate the unpredictable journey of childbirth? You are not alone! I love a fun gender reveal at birth, but nobody wants unwelcomed surprises when it comes to their birth experience.What to expect in this episode:Reassurance that embracing the unknown is part of your unique birth story…Empo
23. What Your OB Won't Tell You During Pregnancy to Have the Best Hospital Birth
Text Your Birth BestieTune in to uncover the untold choices during hospital births your doctor won't reveal but "Your Birth Bestie" will spill the beans on!In this episode we’ll talk about:Questioning inductions and decreasing the high rate of unnecessary intervention…Exploring pain coping methods and finding a birth team to support your goals…How important waiting for the urge to p
22. Hospital Birth Myths Pregnant Moms are Fear-Mongered to Believe
Text Your Birth BestieIt’s time to set the record straight, reveal common birth myths and empower pregnant moms, like you, to make informed choices for your birth. Let’s uncover the truth! What to expect in this episode:We’ll debunk the myth of the ‘all-natural’ ideal and empahsize the importance of informed decision-making…How comparing your birth experience to idealized social media isn’t produc
21. First Prenatal Appointment Expectations and Questions to Ask Your Provider
Text Your Birth BestieDid you recently get a positive pregnancy test and anxiously awaiting your first appointment?! Congratulations! You might suddenly be hit with a whirlwind of excitement, questions, and maybe even feeling nervous. Don’t worry though, I’m here to guide you on this journey to feeling confident and well-prepared as you plan for your first prenatal visit!In this episode we’ll talk
20. Pregnant and Postpartum Resources for Moms with Moms Mental Health Initiative
Text Your Birth BestieHave you ever struggled with anxiety or depression or are worried about what if you do develop a mental health disorder during pregnancy or postpartum? You are not alone, mama! Today, I'm joined by Bailey Huffman from Moms Mental Health Initiative, established by two moms who faced postpartum depression and anxiety challenges, recognizing the scarcity of resources in the
19. Gestational Diabetes: Pregnancy Risks, Testing Options, and Alternatives to Glucola Drink
Text Your Birth BestieDo you have your gestational diabetes screening coming up? (Usually around 24-28 weeks!)In this episode, we’ll talk about:Why you should even care about if you have gestational diabetes…What to anticipate your doctor will recommend for testing and how to choose if it’s right for you…Tips to make the glucose test tolerable if you choose it… (remember nothing is mandatory!)Test
18. Labor Positions, Pushing Tips, and How to Avoid Perineal Tearing During Birth
Text Your Birth BestieOf course you want labor to go as smoothly as possible... So let's dive into my top recommended positions for labor and delivery, how to effectively push despite what your nurse may recommend, and tips to reduce perineal tearing!Labor positions matter! Discover how certain positions can help manage contractions, encourage baby's descent, and make pushing a breeze. F
17. Group Beta Strep During Pregnancy: Risks to Consider Before Labor and Birth
Text Your Birth BestieAre you a pregnant mom wanting to make informed choices for your hospital birth, including GBS testing and treatment options? Tune in to this episode, as I explore… What GBS is, why it's tested for during pregnancy, and how it can impact you and your baby's health during labor.How to make informed choices about GBS testing and treatment options.The risks and benefit
16. Choosing the Best Birth Class: A Guide for Pregnant Moms Planning a Hospital Birth
Text Your Birth BestieWith a million birth courses and resources out there, how the heck do you choose the right one?In this episode I’ll answer the common questions:Do I have to take a childbirth class… Or are they only for parent’s planning a natural childbirth?What should I absolutely make sure the course includes?How do I go about deciding which one is best for my values and goals? What kind o
15. Have a Confident Hospital Birth: Your Voice and Birth Preferences Matter
Text Your Birth BestieIt doesn't take convincing to agree that an autonomous birth is the best kind of birth, right?! This isn’t dependent on any specific style of giving birth though. You DO NOT need to have a home birth to have an autonomous birth. You can have an autonomous birth in any setting, with any care provider. It could be any type of birth from a waterbirth at home to a planned ce
14. How to Choose What Hospital to Give Birth At
Text Your Birth BestieAre you feeling overwhelmed and unsure when deciding what hospital to have your baby at? Don’t worry, you’ll leave this episode feeling so much more prepared with actionable steps, so you can check this off your pregnancy to-do list!Choosing the right hospital for your baby's birth is a crucial decision, and it can greatly impact your birth experience. So, why is this ep
13. Labor and Birth Support Guide For Partners: How to Support a Woman During Childbirth
Text Your Birth BestieIs your support person terrified of birth or has no clue how to be involved?It’s so important for partners to grow their confidence to support laboring mothers, understand that this is mom’s birth, and show them why it’s important to follow her lead and trust her decisions.Whether you’re the support person, or mom looking for resources to give your support person… this episod
12. Your Birth Rights: Communication and Self-Advocacy During Pregnancy and Childbirth
Text Your Birth BestieOnce you check off making your birth plan, you still have to figure out how to advocate for what you want!Feeling confident and informed enough to communicate your needs to your partner, provider, and healthcare team will determine how you feel about your birth.I want you to know your birth rights and be in control every step of the way.And to do that… let’s talk about commun
11. Top 5 Standard Hospital Birth Interventions That Are NOT Actually Required
Text Your Birth BestieTime for a Q&A!! We’ll talk about many standard hospital practices that are so commonly accepted, that it may seem like they’re required, but they’re not! In this episode, I'll answer:Do I have to get an IV during labor?Is Pitocin after my baby is born required?If my water doesn't break, will my doctor have to break it at the hospital?My provider says I have to
10. Overcoming Birth Fears and Finding Joy in Pregnancy and Childbirth
Text Your Birth BestieDo you have anxiety, fear, or uncertainty about pregnancy or birth that is causing you stress or extra worry? Whether it’s as severe as birth emergencies or as simple as pooping during birth, both are valid and I hear you! If I had a dollar for every person who commented on how my labor was going to go, when I was pregnant, based on THEIR fears, birth horror stories, or gene
9. Labor Induction Tips: What to Expect During Your Labor Induction and What Choices to Prepare For
Text Your Birth BestieHave you ever wondered what labor induction entails and why it's important to be knowledgeable about it?I was electively induced twice… The first time was a situation where I didn’t know it was an induction or that I had any options. I was just expected to agree to hospital admission from my prenatal appointment because I was 7cm dilated, but not actually in labor yet.Be
8. Reduce Labor Pain Naturally by Supporting Physiologic Birth
Text Your Birth BestieWhat even is a physiologic birth and why should you know about it?Physiologic birth involves minimal medical interventions and encourages the body's natural processes during labor and delivery. It’s all about allowing mom to move freely, use breathing and relaxation techniques, and rely on her body's instincts.This results in reduced medical interventions, shorter r
7. Epidural for Labor Pain: A Tool for Coping and Having a Positive Hospital Birth
Text Your Birth BestieAre you debating whether to plan for an unmedicated birth or considering getting an epidural? Or many people probably fall somewhere in the middle!I support physiologic birth 100%! But… epidurals are a useful tool to manage pain and can promote a positive hospital birth experience if it’s right for you. It really comes down to what you want and I’m here to guide you through f
6. Postpartum Physical Therapy in the Hospital for New Moms with Dr. Brett Connors
Text Your Birth BestieOut of all standardized hospital practices, inpatient physical therapy for moms is often overlooked... but shouldn't be!Every pregnant or postpartum mom could absolutely benefit from a physical therapy evaluation. Did you know this support can begin even while you’re admitted to the hospital to have your baby?In today’s episode, Brett Connors, DPT discusses how inpatient
5. Make a Birth Plan: What Your Hospital Birth Team Needs to Know and Why
Text Your Birth BestieAs an expecting parent, do you actually need a birth plan to prepare for your hospital birth?In today's episode, I’ll be breaking down birth plans and why they are so much more than just a piece of paper. Many expectant moms may wonder why they need a birth plan or think it's unnecessary, but in reality, a thoughtful birth plan is an invaluable tool to take to the h
4. My Healing Hospital Water Birth Story: From Trauma to Triumph
Text Your Birth BestieEver wondered what it’s like to have a hospital water birth? Maybe you’re considering a water birth yourself! You totally should be!This episode is all about my second hospital birth story. It was the most amazing, redemptive experience, I wish everyone could feel this good about their hospital birth. And you totally can, friend. Water birth or not!You'll hear me share m
3. Empowering Pregnant Moms to Be Their Best Advocate for Hospital Birth
Text Your Birth BestieEver wondered how the heck you’re going to speak up for your wants in labor? This episode is for you if... you’re pregnant or hoping to be soon, and planning your upcoming hospital birth. You might be figuring out what your ideal birth experience is or what is even “allowed” in the hospital. Trying for the best possible chance at having your dream hospital birth!I was too con
2. A Traumatic First Hospital Birth: What I'd Change Now as a Midwife
Text Your Birth BestieAre you making your birth plan, but wondering how you’ll even be able to speak up for what you want? In this episode, I share my traumatic hospital birth story with my first daughter and all of the things I should’ve done differently…if I only knew then, what I know now!I talk about advocating for yourself to avoid the cascade of interventions and have the best hospital birth
1. Leaving Hospital Midwifery to Empower Women Through Birth Education
Text Your Birth BestieAre you planning your hospital birth, but are frustrated with the medicalized birth system? I hear you. In this episode, I talk about the difficulty of going against mainstream hospital policies as a midwife and what you should know as a patient wanting a low-intervention, autonomous birth. I spent almost a decade becoming a hospital-based certified nurse midwife, and then I
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