the birthwell podcast

In this episode of the birthwell podcast, Laura shares how she is preparing for her postpartum journey and the proactive steps she is taking. She discusses what she has purchased so far including nursing bras & tanks, postpartum underwear, peri bottles and some postpartum basics. Laura highlights that she is still waiting to find out her birth plan so hasn't purchased too many products sp...

In this episode of the birthwell podcast, Laura shares her trimester three update, detailing her experiences and uncertainty during the last chapter of her pregnancy. The conversation covers the transition from a relatively smooth end of the second trimester where her vasa previa had cleared, to a return of vasa previa at an early trimester three ultrasound. Laura discusses the emotional toll of t...

In this episode of the birthwell Podcast, Laura & Nadia interview Caelen, a registered nurse with over 10 years of experience working on the labor and delivery floor. Caelen shares her journey into nursing, her experiences with her  own deliveries, and answers some audience questions about labor and delivery. The conversation covers common mistakes Caelen sees during the pushing phase of labor...

In this episode of the birthwell podcast, Laura shares her experiences with various pregnancy products that have been beneficial during her pregnancy journey. She discusses her belly care routine, including the use of oils and creams to manage skin changes, as well as nipple care products to ensure comfort. Additionally, Laura provides insights into her supplement routine, highlighting adjustments...

In this episode of the birthwell podcast, Laura & Nadia interview Kate Pangos, a certified doula and Pilates instructor, who shares her unique birth experiences while living abroad. Kate discusses her journey from becoming a doula after her own birth experience to navigating pregnancies and births in different countries, including Spain and Russia. She highlights the challenges of finding supp...

In this episode of the birthwell podcast, Laura shares her trimester two update, detailing her experiences and challenges during this period of pregnancy. The conversation covers the transition from a relatively smooth first trimester to unexpected complications discovered during the anatomy scan, including a diagnosis of vasa previa and velamentous cord insertion. Laura discusses the emotional to...

In this episode of the birthwell podcast, Leah shares her unique birth journey, detailing her experiences with both hospital and home births. She discusses her background, family life, and the challenges and highlights of her pregnancies. Leah emphasizes the importance of community support and preparation for childbirth, sharing insights from her readings and interactions with other mothers. The c...

In this episode of the  birthwell podcast, Laura and Nadia discuss how to effectively manage labor and delivery when opting for an epidural. They explore common misconceptions, the administration process, and practical techniques for laboring and birthing with an epidural. The conversation emphasizes the importance of communication with healthcare providers and offers insights into maintaining mob...

In this episode of the birthwell podcast, Christine shares her unique journey through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum experiences. With two boys, Sam and Ethan, Christine discusses the challenges and highlights of her pregnancies, including the impact of COVID-19. She emphasizes the importance of being informed about baby products and the value of pelvic physiotherapy. Christine also recounts her...

In this episode of the birthwell Podcast, Laura & Nadia interview Kathleen, a physiotherapist specializing in pelvic floor health and postpartum recovery. Kathleen shares her journey into physiotherapy, her experiences with postpartum challenges, and the importance of bridging the gap between pelvic health and orthopedic care. The conversation covers common pelvic floor issues postpartum, the...

In this episode of the Birthwell podcast, Laura and Nadia welcome Courtney, a new mother, to share her unique birth story. Courtney discusses her challenging pregnancy experience, including hyperemesis, and how she navigated the emotional roller coaster of becoming a mother. She shares insights into her preparation for childbirth, her labor and delivery experience, and the support she received fro...

In this episode of the birthwell podcast, Kelly shares her profound journey through infertility, pregnancy, and postpartum experiences. From facing the challenges of cervical cancer and PCOS to navigating the complexities of fertility treatments, Kelly's story is one of resilience and hope. She discusses her contrasting pregnancy experiences with her daughter Nora and her twins, Katie and Haz...

In this episode of the birthwell podcast, hosts Laura and Nadia discuss the importance of understanding the pelvis during labor. They acknowledge a tragic loss in their community, emphasizing the inherent risks associated with pregnancy and childbirth. The conversation transitions into a detailed exploration of the stages of labor, likening labor to a marathon and discussing the significance of th...

In this conversation, Laura and Nadia are so excited to bring you their very first birth story! They are welcoming Nikita from our birthwell community to share her experiences with labor, birth, pregnancy and postpartum.  She discusses her positive pregnancy experience, the concept of a 'birth map' instead of a rigid birth plan, and the supportive roles of her doula and midwife during la...

In this episode of the birthwell podcast, Dr. Courtney Clayson-Russell, a naturopathic doctor, discusses her journey into the field of pre and postnatal health and fertility nutrition. She addresses common misconceptions about naturopathic approaches, the importance of nutrition and lifestyle in fertility, and the role of herbs and supplements. Dr. Courtney shares some of her favorite health tips...

In this episode of the birthwell podcast, Laura shares her exciting news of pregnancy, discussing her journey through the first trimester, including symptoms, family reactions, and the choice of midwives for care. She highlights the importance of health and wellness practices, including supplements and acupuncture, and shares her exercise routine during pregnancy. The conversation emphasizes the s...

In this episode, Laura Dyet, a certified birth and postpartum doula, shares her insights on the role of doulas in the birthing process. She discusses the various forms of support doulas provide, including emotional, physical, and educational assistance during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. Laura addresses common misconceptions about doulas, highlights memorable experiences from her practice, an...

In this episode, Laura and Nadia discuss the common issue of back pain during pregnancy. They explore the various causes of back pain, including postural changes and hormonal influences, and categorize the types of back pain experienced by pregnant individuals. The conversation then shifts to management strategies, including exercises and posture tips, before concluding with advice on when to seek...

In this episode, Rhonda Chamberlain, a physiotherapist and postpartum fitness coach, shares her journey and expertise in postpartum fitness. She emphasizes the importance of mindset shifts, celebrating small wins, and finding realistic ways to integrate physical activity into daily routines. Rhonda recommends ditching the all-or-nothing mindset, removing barriers to exercise, and habit stacking. S...

In this episode, Laura and Nadia discuss diastasis recti and exercises that can be done during pregnancy to help with rehab.  They break down the exercises by trimester, starting with the first trimester where they recommend focusing on activating the deep core muscles and breathing properly. In the second trimester, they discuss the importance of modifying exercises and listening to your body. Th...

In this episode, Laura and Nadia catch up and discuss their plans for Season 2 of the Birthwell podcast. They share personal updates, including their experiences with matcha and summer activities. They also reflect on their favorite moments from Season 1, with Nadia highlighting the episode with Charlotte, an OB resident, as her favorite. They discuss their plans for Season 2, which include more g...

In this final episode of season 1 of the birthwell podcast,  Laura and Nadia share positive birth stories from their clients. They reflect on their experience of hosting the podcast and express gratitude for the trust and vulnerability of their patients. Laura shares a story of a client who prepared extensively for her birth, stayed active throughout her pregnancy, and had a smooth delivery with m...

In this episode, Laura and Nadia discuss open versus closed glottis pushing during childbirth. They share their experiences and perspectives on teaching this technique to their clients. They emphasize the importance of being neutral and presenting the pros and cons of both methods. They also discuss the challenges and benefits of each approach, as well as the role of healthcare providers in guidin...

In this episode, Laura and Nadia discuss common fears and anxieties that people have about giving birth. They address the fear of tearing and the fear of having a c-section, two of the most common concerns. They emphasize the importance of education and knowledge in alleviating these fears and preparing for different birth outcomes. They also discuss the role of mindset and attitude in the birthin...

In this episode, Laura and Nadia discuss their favorite postpartum products that they recommend to their clients. They cover topics such as peri bottles, nipple cream, perineal balm, disposable boxers, Bellies Inc Ab Wrap, postpartum supplements, silicone scar tape, and scar tissue cream. They emphasize the importance of self-care and healing during the postpartum period. Show Resources:   Peri Bo...