the blooming and beyond pregnancy podcast

In this season finale, we’re going all in on the questions you’ve whispered, giggled through, or were too scared to ask. Do all women poo in labour? Can babies cry in the womb? What even is a birthgasm? And yes — I’m answering the awkward stuff dads ask too (you’re welcome). It’s raw, it’s funny, it’s deeply human. This is the no-filter, midwife-tells-it-straight Q&A to wrap up Season 2 — because...

Pregnancy has a way of drawing out everyone’s opinions — your partner, your mum, your in-laws, your bestie, even strangers in the checkout line. This episode is all about learning how to manage that energy while still protecting your peace. We’re talking people with big opinions, mums who want to be in the room, and friends who mean well but miss the mark. I’ll share practical scripts, mindset shi...

Pelvic floor health isn’t just a postpartum thing — and it’s definitely not something to worry about after something goes wrong. In this episode, we’re breaking down what your pelvic floor actually is, how it supports everything from continence to core strength to sexual wellbeing, and why pregnancy is the perfect time to start paying attention. We’ll talk about common symptoms, contributing facto...

Let’s talk about something most people wish they knew more about before birth: perineal tears. How common are they? Can you actually prevent them? And what does recovery really feel like? In this episode, we ditch the scare tactics and bring you the facts — from risk factors and protective strategies to what helps most during healing. Whether you’re planning a vaginal birth or just want to know wh...

Let’s unpack due dates: how they’re calculated, what’s considered ‘normal,’ and how to handle the emotional rollercoaster of waiting. This one’s all about reassurance and perspective. And not one suggestion about bumpy drives 🤣 Disclaimer : While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences....

Ok, ok - I know. Pregnancy is meant to be a joyous time of running through the meadows and sniffing the flowers…but how are you meant to sleep while you are growing an actual human being INSIDE YOUR BODY?! Listen in to hear some strategies and some sympathy, and let me know if you’ve got any additions in the comments :) Disclaimer : While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Au...

We’re myth-busting the endless hospital bag checklists and focusing on what’s truly useful for labour, birth, and recovery. Simple, thoughtful tips from a midwife who’s seen it all and has definitely experienced the highs (red frogs - yessss!) and lows (leaky bags of dirty laundry in the clean PJs!) Disclaimer : While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast...

Today, we’re walking through the common routine tests and checks offered during pregnancy. Allllll the bodily fluids that us midwives love! From bloods and wee to scans and screening — we’ll cover what they’re for, what they mean, and how to make confident choices that fit your lights Disclaimer : While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely in...

Baby kicks can be magical and mysterious. We’ll talk about how and when movements start, why they matter, and what to do if things change. You’ll leave feeling empowered to trust your instincts and know when to speak up. Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not...

In this episode we break down how iron deficiency is diagnosed, what it means for you and your baby, and whether supplements or infusions are necessary. Find out what you know, and work out how to fill the gaps to know what you don’t yet know that you don’t know! 🤣 Visit www.blooming.net.au for show notes, more info about our subjects, and VIP offers and events Disclaimer: While I’m a registered...

In a change to the advertised episode, we are taking a brief look at pregnancy myths! This was originally going to be our much-requested episode on birth trauma – a topic that’s incredibly important, and something many of you have been waiting for. I’ve recorded it, rewritten it, sat with it… but after reflecting deeply, I’ve decided to hold off on releasing it just for now. Not because it isn’t r...

Hoping for a vaginal birth after caesarean? You’re not alone – and you deserve evidence-based support. This episode covers VBAC safety, hospital culture, and how to navigate your options with clarity and confidence. Disclaimer : While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not aff...

What does ‘natural birth’ even mean, and who decides what’s natural? We unpack the pressure this label puts on birthing people, how it can shape identity and expectations, and why the goal should be a supported, safe experience – not one that fits what anyone else deems “perfect” Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independ...

It’s not epidural vs ‘natural’ – it’s a whole toolkit of options. From gas and morphine to water immersion and breathwork, we walk through each option so you can choose what’s right for you, in the moment. Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not affiliated wit...

Induction rates are rising, and many people feel unsure about what’s truly necessary. We explore the medical reasons, the grey areas, the ARRIVE trial, and how to make an informed decision without fear or pressure. Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not affil...

Your model of care can shape your whole experience – emotionally and clinically. We talk through MGP, private OBs, shared care, birth centres, and more. Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not affiliated with my employer or any health service. The content is f...

Birth hypnosis,guided visualisation and various patented methods like hypnobirthing and Calm Birth can get a lot of side eye. What’s real, what’s hype, and how do you know if it’ll work for you? We break down what relaxation and hypnosis techniques actually involve, why they’re not about ignoring pain, and how they could help you stay grounded, focused and calm in the midst of all the long-awaited...

Not everyone has a partner at their birth – and not every partner knows what to do when they’re there. We explore how birth support people (friends, doulas, family, or partners) can shape your birth experience and how to help them feel prepared – not panicked. Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my...

In this episode, Midwife, mum and educator Ali presents a whistle stop tour of some of the common misconceptions around hospital vs homebirth and does some debunking! Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not affiliated with my employer or any health service. Th...

Episode 1: Real Talk – What Birth Planning Really Means Birth plans sometimes get a bad rap – but they’re not about scripting every moment or trying to control the uncontrollable. In this episode, we unpack what birth planning really is: a tool for confidence, communication, and feeling supported – no matter how your birth unfolds. You’ll learn from a midwife, ex-teacher and a mum of 4 what to inc...