The Pregnancy Diaries with Midwives Amanda and Jess

Skin to skin contact after birth is more than just a cuddle. In this episode, we explain what actually happens during immediate skin to skin, why it is so powerful for your baby’s heart rate, breathing and temperature regulation, and how it supports breastfeeding and bonding in the first hour after birth. We also talk about the golden hour, what happens hormonally for mum, and what to do if birth...

In this episode we break down everything you need to know about elective and emergency Caesar births. Why are some Caesar births planned while others happen unexpectedly? Does emergency always mean something went wrong? And what actually happens in theatre during a Caesar? We talk through what a planned Caesar can look like, why some women choose or require one, and how emergency Caesars are categ...

The second trimester is meant to be the easy part but let’s be honest it can still feel like a lot. In this episode of Pregnancy Diaries Amanda and Jess share your ultimate Second Trimester Survival Guide. From changing bodies and energy shifts to work relationships mental health movement and what appointments to expect we cover it all with honesty reassurance and real midwife insight. Whether you...

In this episode of Pregnancy Diaries, Amanda and Jess talk through two of the most commonly used pain relief options in labour, morphine and gas. We explain how each one works, what they feel like, when they are usually offered and the pros and cons of each option. We also discuss how they can affect labour, recovery and baby, and who they may suit best. This episode is designed to help you feel i...

In this episode, Amanda and Jess walk through exactly how inductions work, from how each method is inserted or administered to what the process actually feels like in real time. They also explain why you may be offered or choose an induction, including medical, baby-related, and personal reasons. From balloon catheters and hormone gels to breaking waters and the oxytocin drip, they unpack what hap...

Packing your hospital bag but don’t know where to start? In this episode, we walk you through exactly what to pack for labour, birth, and those first precious hours with your baby without overpacking or forgetting the essentials. From labour comfort items and postpartum must haves to baby basics and partner prep, we cover what you truly need and what you can leave at home. Whether you’re weeks awa...

Labour can feel confusing in those early stages. Is this the real thing or just Braxton Hicks? Should you call your midwife or wait it out? In this episode, we break down the true signs of labour, how to tell the difference between early labour and false labour, when to call your maternity unit, and what you can safely do at home to stay calm, comfortable and supported. We also chat about our abso...

In this episode, we’re talking all things vaccinations in pregnancy, including the regular recommended schedule, what’s offered, when, and why. We break down how pregnancy vaccines help protect your baby in those early weeks after birth and what protection they provide during pregnancy too. This is a guide to what’s recommended, but ultimately it’s always your decision how you choose to move forwa...

In this episode, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about pregnancy scans and testing in Australia without the medical overwhelm. From your first dating scan to the 20 week morphology scan, we explain what each appointment looks for, why it matters, and what’s normal to feel while waiting for results. We unpack NIPT in simple terms, what it screens for, what it doesn’t, and how it com...

Decreased fetal movements can be one of the most anxiety-provoking experiences in pregnancy, yet it’s often misunderstood or brushed off as normal. In this episode, we talk through what decreased fetal movements actually mean, how to recognise a change in your baby’s usual pattern, what to do the moment you notice something feels different, and when to seek medical help. We also explain what happe...

The first trimester can be one of the most overwhelming stages of pregnancy. From nausea and exhaustion to cramping, spotting and constant anxiety, it can feel like everything is happening at once and no one really prepares you for it. In this episode, we walk you through what is normal in the first trimester, what symptoms are common but still unsettling, and when it’s important to seek medical a...

Epidurals are one of the most common forms of pain relief in labour, but they often come with a lot of questions, mixed opinions and misinformation. In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about epidurals so you can make an informed choice that feels right for you. We cover how epidurals work, when they can be given, the benefits and potential side effects, how they may impact l...

Choosing how and where to give birth can feel overwhelming, especially when you are trying to understand the differences between public care, private care and home birth in Australia. In this episode we break down each option in a clear and honest way, covering what care looks like, what is funded by Medicare, what costs may be involved, what home birth programs look like and how private midwifery...

In this episode, we have an open, honest and stigma free conversation about genital herpes HSV during pregnancy, labour and birth. A diagnosis can feel confronting, especially when you are expecting, but many people with HSV go on to have healthy pregnancies and safe births. We talk about how common genital herpes is, how it can affect pregnancy, and what the actual risks to baby are, as well as w...

Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy is something almost everyone has heard about, but far fewer people talk honestly about how relentless and exhausting it can actually be. In this episode, we’re having a real conversation about what nausea and vomiting in pregnancy can look like, from those constant waves of nausea that never seem to settle, to vomiting that takes over your days, nights and headspac...

We’re kicking off Q and A Fridays with a short and practical conversation on how birth partners can best support women during labour. We cover what helps, what doesn’t, and simple ways partners can feel confident and supportive in the birth space. A quick 15 minute listen for anyone preparing for labour and birth.

You’ve just seen those two pink lines, congratulations! But what happens next? In this episode we walk you through the first steps after a positive pregnancy test. We cover when to contact your GP, the blood tests you may need, and what to expect at your viability and dating scans. We also explore genetic testing, including NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing), and other options to help you make i...

In this week’s episode, we sit down with Jo to unpack a fertility journey full of unexpected twists and turns. What started as a simple assumption that her fiancé Luke’s past procedure would be the biggest hurdle quickly changed course when Jo discovered she had her own underlying fertility challenges. Despite having fallen pregnant easily in the past, Jo soon found herself navigating two emotiona...

Disclaimer: Everything spoken in this podcast is our own thoughts and experiences, we are sharing for your entertainment and not medical advice, please always chat with your qualified healthcare team when making any decisions about your health. This episode discusses sensitive topics that may be distressing for some listeners. Please take care while listening, seek medical advice if required. Toda...

Welcome to Week 1 of The Pregnancy Diaries Podcast. We launched! Meet us and listen to pre-pregnancy chats. Basically two midwives talking and hoping it makes sense. It's giving choas, oversharing and real talk a platform. #pregnancydiariespodacst Today we will cover Pre pregnancy chat Pregnancy information Immunisations Delivery setting and Maternity care in Australia Woman centered care Investig...

Welcome to The Pregnancy Diaries with Midwives Amanda and Jess