Birth Journeys: Birth Stories and Birth Education for Moms & Pregnant Individuals

Birth Journeys: Birth Stories and Birth Education for Moms & Pregnant Individuals

By Kelly Hof, BSN, RN: Labor Nurse & Prenatal CoachAlternative HealthHealth & FitnessMental HealthParentingKids & Family
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Birth Journeys: Birth Stories and Birth Education for Moms & Pregnant Individuals episodes

  • Birth Shame and Reconnecting with Your Body with Wendy Powell CEO of MUTU System

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    When Wendy Powell, founder and CEO of Mutu System, first grappled with postpartum challenges, she unknowingly began a journey to revolutionize women's health conversations globally. In our latest episode, Wendy joins us to share her insights on the often-overlooked aspects of perinatal pelvic health and its profound effect on women's lives. Together, we explore the intricacies of dealing with issues like incontinence and prolapse, which extend beyond mere physical discomfort and touch upon deeper aspects like self-esteem and social participation. Wendy's collaboration with health insurers and hygiene companies globally underscores the pressing need for a holistic healthcare approach, particularly in regions like the U.S., where women's health issues are still under-researched.

    Imagine feeling shame and defeat when a birth plan doesn't go as anticipated. This episode tackles the emotional complexities of childbirth, especially the concept of birth shame that plagues many women. Medical interventions, though sometimes necessary, can leave mothers feeling disempowered and disconnected. We dive into the lack of postpartum support and address how dismissive attitudes within the medical community can stall recovery. By sharing personal anecdotes and professional insights, we aim to empower women with knowledge and support, helping them regain confidence in their postpartum bodies.

    Bringing to light the challenges of pelvic floor health and its accessibility, we discuss the essential yet often inaccessible therapies needed for recovery. Wendy and I emphasize the importance of understanding our bodies as a cohesive unit, advocating for practical and personalized approaches to health. Through heartfelt stories and expert advice, we paint a picture of non-linear recovery journeys, highlighting how both surgical and non-surgical methods can help reclaim strength post-birth. This episode is a call to action for comprehensive care, where women's voices are heard, and their postpartum journey is fully supported.

    Ready to start your pelvic health journey with MUTU System? Click here!

    Support the show


    Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

    🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

    🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

    🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

    Medical Disclaimer

    The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

    While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

    My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

    ...
    1 hr 1 min
  • Progesterone: Navigating Motherhood's Hormonal Maze with Dr. Shweta Patel

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    Discover the underestimated power of progesterone with Dr. Shweta Patel, an OBGYN and women's health expert, who shines a light on its critical role in pregnancy and beyond. Gain insights into how this often-overlooked hormone supports everything from the menstrual cycle to postpartum health. Dr. Patel demystifies the scientific intricacies of progesterone, tracing its journey from conception to its protective functions during early pregnancy and its importance in postpartum birth control choices.

    Navigate the cognitive whirlwind that new mothers face, as we unpack the hormonal rollercoaster that can leave many feeling foggy and overwhelmed. Through heartfelt anecdotes and expert advice, Dr. Patel illuminates the need for societal empathy and celebrates the resilience of mothers adapting to their transformative roles. Addressing the impact of hormonal shifts on mental clarity, we discuss the pressures of motherhood and the importance of support systems to ease this challenging transition.

    Laugh along with us as we tackle the quirkier side of hormone research, dive into the complexities of hormone testing, and tease the rich content of Dr. Patel's upcoming book on women's health. From postpartum depression treatments to the importance of empowering women with knowledge, this episode covers a spectrum of hormonal health topics with a touch of humor. Whether you're intrigued by hormone dynamics or seeking advice on maternal health, this conversation promises to enlighten and entertain.

    Grab The Book of Hormones here: https://amzn.to/4fjj6L1

    Support the show


    Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

    🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

    🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

    🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

    Medical Disclaimer

    The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

    While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

    My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

    ...
    54 min
  • Embracing Postpartum Emotions with Emily Finnell

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    Emily Finnell returns to the podcast, sharing her deeply personal and emotional journey through the postpartum phase of motherhood. With a background as a certified HeartMath coach and former special education teacher, Emily opens up about the emotional turbulence she faced post-C-section, grappling with isolation, self-doubt, and societal pressures that often push new mothers to "bounce back" too quickly. Through candid conversations, we explore how connecting with one's own body can bring peace and alignment, and Emily shares the tools she developed to cultivate self-trust and well-being in both parenting and personal relationships.

    Listeners are introduced to the transformative practice of embracing and naming emotions aloud—a potent method for navigating the intense feelings that arise during motherhood. Emily shares how acknowledging emotions without getting lost in their narrative can lead to clarity and calmness, even in high-stress situations. We also discuss the importance of community support and its impact on mental health, contrasting the security found in shared experiences with the isolation that can occur without a supportive network.

    Emily's insights extend to the power of heart coherence, emphasizing personal empowerment rather than controlling others. She shares a heart coherence exercise, illustrating its benefits in everyday life, such as setting boundaries or calming heated discussions. The conversation moves towards accepting a "new normal" after life changes, with Emily introducing her coaching services and courses aimed at helping individuals align with their purpose through somatic and emotional work. From the spontaneous formation of friendships through "stroller chasing" to the significance of small supportive actions, this episode highlights the resilience and growth possible through intentional efforts and community support.

    Connect with Emily: https://www.emilyfinnell.com/

    Get in Emily’s Unstuck Program: https://www.emilyfinnell.com/Unstuck

    Support the show


    Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

    🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

    🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

    🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

    Medical Disclaimer

    The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

    While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

    My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

    ...
    48 min
  • Twins Born at Week 26: Jennifer Bernardo's Journey of Strength and Hope

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    What happens when your carefully laid plans take an unexpected turn? Jennifer Bernardo, author of "Week 26," brings us into her world as she shares the complexities of premature birth and the NICU journey. Rushed to the hospital at just 26 weeks pregnant, what she thought was a false alarm quickly turned into the premature delivery of twins due to placenta previa complications. Jennifer's story pulls back the curtain on the unpredictability of childbirth and the emotional and physical hurdles of suddenly becoming a NICU mom. Her candid reflections on her previous miscarriage and its impact shine a light on the resilience required in the face of uncertainty.

    As Jennifer's twins entered the NICU, the emotional rollercoaster truly began. With hospital visits becoming a daily routine, she faced the challenge of maintaining normalcy for her older daughter while grappling with the demands of caring for her premature babies. Each twin's unique medical needs, from intubation to CPAP, highlighted the critical nature of their early weeks of life. Jennifer's journey is a testament to the support systems that helped her cope, and her book serves as a lifeline for other parents in similar situations, offering solace and encouragement amidst the chaos.

    The transition from the NICU to home life was both daunting and transformative. Jennifer opens up about the fears of becoming the primary caregiver without constant medical oversight and the overwhelming responsibility that entails. We delve into the practicalities of managing follow-up appointments, health monitoring, and the delicate balancing act of meeting the needs of all her children. Amidst the worry about health risks and the relentless demands of parenthood, Jennifer's story highlights the strength found in family support and the unwavering hope that fuels her journey. Her memoir, "Week 26: A Memoir of Hope, Faith, and Perseverance," stands as an inspiring beacon for families facing similar trials, offering insights and comfort to those who need it most.

    Connect with Jennifer at https://www.week26.com/
    And find her on instagram https://www.instagram.com/week26mom/

    Support the show


    Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

    🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

    🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

    🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

    Medical Disclaimer

    The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

    While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

    My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

    ...
    36 min
  • Emily Finnell's Path Through Loss and the Gift of Adoption

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    To kick off Season 3, we’re going back to where it all began. Emily Finnell’s story of a harrowing birth experience and a “free-fall into faith” culminates in a beautiful open adoption that was more life-changing than she could have imagined.

    Have you ever faced a life-altering moment that shattered your expectations and reshaped your path? In this remastered episode, Emily Finnell, a former special education teacher who's become a Leadership Mindset Coach, shares her incredibly moving journey through pregnancy and loss. Emily opens up about her first pregnancy, meticulously planned yet fraught with unexpected challenges like placenta previa, which culminated in a harrowing ambulance ride and an emergency C-section. As she tells her story, Emily provides an honest account of facing a heartbreaking miscarriage during her second pregnancy. With raw emotion, she discusses the physical and emotional trials that followed, shedding light on the unpredictable nature of birth journeys and the profound personal transformation they can inspire.

    In our conversation, we also explore the resilience and faith required to navigate infertility and adoption. A mother shares her story of losing her fertility at a young age, driven by a deep desire for her children to have siblings, mirroring her own cherished relationships. Through the shadows of medical struggles and emotional turmoil, she found hope and healing in the unpredictable path of adoption. This journey not only fortified her marriage but also bestowed a unique perspective on motherhood, highlighting the courage needed to embrace such life-altering decisions. Her tale is a testament to the strength found in faith and the power of a supportive community in overcoming adversity.

    Throughout the episode, we delve into the emotional intricacies of managing pregnancy loss, the significance of support networks, and the role of authenticity in friendships. We reflect on the necessity of open communication and emotional honesty, especially with those who have endured trauma. Through poignant stories, including one of unexpected connections in an adoption journey, we emphasize the importance of prioritizing a child's well-being and the transformative power of trust and intuition. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the courage and empathy required to navigate life's unexpected paths, offering hope and encouragement to those who face similar struggles.

    Connect with Emily at https://www.emilyfinnell.com/

    Support the show


    Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

    🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

    🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

    🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

    Medical Disclaimer

    The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

    While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

    My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

    ...
    37 min
  • Dr. Shweta Patel: Demystifying Hormones and Empowering Women's Health

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    Dr. Shweta Patel, a respected and innovative OB-GYN, joins us to unveil her upcoming book, "The Book of Hormones," promising a fresh perspective on the complex role of hormones in women's health. Her journey from wanting to write an all-encompassing guide to a focused exploration of hormones reveals untold stories and overlooked aspects of women's experiences. You'll gain invaluable insights into how hormones like cortisol shape everyday life, often dismissed by healthcare providers, empowering you to better understand your body.

    Through engaging conversations, we explore the scope of pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, tackling societal misconceptions with humor and realism. Our chat touches on everything from the misinterpreted success rates of conception to the humorous yet chaotic experiences of early motherhood. As we discuss the importance of informed health decisions and the role of diet and lifestyle, you'll discover the surprising truths behind pregnancy myths and the essential need for self-awareness.

    Dr. Patel also obligingly dives into the significance of folic acid, especially concerning the MTHFR mutation, and the choices surrounding supplementation. The episode features a sneak peek into a book filled with diverse topics spanning sex, nutrition, and exercise, sprinkled with entertaining personal stories. Join us for an enlightening and entertaining journey, ensuring you walk away with both knowledge and a smile.

    Pre-order "The Book of Hormones" here: https://amzn.to/4e1ES5G

    Connect with Dr. Patel at: https://gayawellness.org/

    Support the show


    Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

    🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

    🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

    🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

    Medical Disclaimer

    The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

    While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

    My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

    ...
    45 min
  • Nurturing Strength: Brigette Panetta's Path Through Adversity and Renewal

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    Facing the daunting challenges of new motherhood amid a pandemic, Brigette Panetta's story is a testament to resilience and unwavering dedication. Just days before giving birth to her daughter Emerald, Brigette found herself embroiled in an unexpected legal battle over her family business, all while navigating the tumultuous waters of a global pandemic. Journey with us as Brigette shares her harrowing experience of an attempted home birth that led to severe complications and an ICU stay. Her narrative is one of strength, as she remained a pillar of support for her partner, James, during his legal struggles, while also ensuring the well-being of their newborn. 

    Brigette’s healing journey post-birth is a profound exploration of resilience through transformative practices like forgiveness, kinesiology, breathwork, and cold showers. She opens up about how these practices helped her address and release the emotional trauma stored in her body, bringing a sense of peace and balance to her new role as a mother. The discussion shines a light on the importance of balancing hormones, embracing discomfort to build mental fortitude, and learning to control emotions, which is crucial in parenting and personal growth. Brigette's insights offer invaluable lessons on how acknowledging and processing past experiences can lead to liberation and greater personal strength.

    Coping with isolation during motherhood, Brigette's experience highlights the importance of self-care and mental health in navigating the challenges of parenthood without immediate support. She candidly discusses the identity transformation motherhood brings, the pressures of social expectations, and the necessity of releasing mom guilt. Brigette’s story encourages embracing imperfections and prioritizing self-love, all while maintaining family responsibilities and adapting to a new normal. Her journey underscores the power of resilience, the value of support systems, and the need for prioritizing one's well-being amidst life's challenges.

    Connect with Brigette here:

    • https://media.com/brigettepanetta
    • https://www.linkedin.com/in/brigette-panetta-80967545/



    Support the show


    Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

    🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

    🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

    🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

    Medical Disclaimer

    The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

    While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

    My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

    ...
    45 min
  • Ashley Martin: From Birth Complications to Creating the NICU Notebook

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    How does a mother endure the stress of a high-risk pregnancy and the NICU during the early days of the pandemic? Join us as Ashley Martin from Southern Missouri bravely shares her incredible journey, from the initial excitement of a planned pregnancy to the harrowing moments of dealing with complications like a subchorionic hemorrhage and a diagnosis of PPROM and incompetent cervix. Ashley’s candid storytelling sheds light on the overwhelming emotions of facing her daughter’s premature birth at just 24 weeks and four days, and how she transitioned her experience into creating the NICU Notebook to support other families.

    The postpartum experience can be particularly challenging when your baby is in the NICU. Ashley opens up about the pain of being in a postpartum ward without her newborn, the isolation of pumping breast milk without her baby nearby, and coping with the stress of hearing other newborns crying when she couldn't comfort her own. We discuss the emotional toll and the unique challenges of postpartum discharge when your baby remains in the NICU, highlighting the need for hospitals to adopt more sensitive, NICU-informed postpartum care practices. Ashley's heartfelt reflections offer a raw and powerful narrative of resilience.

    Navigating the NICU's medical complexities and celebrating unique milestones amidst the pandemic presents its own set of challenges. In this episode, we explore car seat safety for premature babies, the logistical and emotional hurdles of NICU life, and the importance of being informed about NICU resources. Ashley shares her tips and advice for other parents in similar situations, making this episode not just a story of struggle, but one of hope, practical wisdom, and unwavering strength. Whether you are a new parent, have experience with the NICU, or simply want to hear an inspiring story, Ashley's journey offers valuable insights and heartfelt moments that resonate deeply.

    Connect with Ashley on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicunotebookco/

    Check out The NICU Notebook here: https://thenicunotebook.com/welcome

    Support the show


    Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

    🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

    🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

    🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

    Medical Disclaimer

    The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

    While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

    My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

    ...
    47 min
  • Suzzie Vehrs Shares Insights on Doula Support and Maternal Care

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    Unlock the secrets to a more empowering childbirth experience! Join me as I sit down with Suzzie Vehrs, a dedicated doula and mother of two, who made a remarkable transition from finance to birth advocacy. Suzzie opens up about her personal journey through pregnancy, loss, and the incredible power of support during childbirth. You'll gain insight into the vital role doulas play in helping mothers make informed decisions and letting their voices be heard in the delivery room. Plus, we dive into the recent legislative changes that have made insurance coverage for doula care more accessible than ever.

    Navigate the complexities of hospital births as Suzzie shares strategies for ensuring informed decision-making and effective communication with medical staff. We discuss the varied policies of different hospitals, especially concerning interventions such as inductions and the use of drugs like Pitocin and Cytotec. Suzzie emphasizes the importance of having birth preferences that accommodate both an ideal vision and potential complications. Learn how doulas and labor nurses can collaborate to advocate for the mother's choices, fostering a supportive and understanding environment.

    In our final chapter, we delve into practical tips for hiring the right doula and the nuances of creating a positive birth experience. Suzzie offers guidance on financial considerations, conducting thorough interviews, and the benefits of prenatal planning with techniques like hypnobirthing. We also explore how to maintain a calming environment in a bustling hospital setting. Wrapping up, we highlight the collaborative relationship between nurses and doulas and the incredible resources available on shebirthsbravely.com to further support expectant mothers. This episode is packed with valuable insights to help you feel confident and empowered as you prepare for childbirth.

    Connect with Suzzie Vehrs: https://shebirthsbravely.com/

    Support the show


    Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

    🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

    🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

    🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

    Medical Disclaimer

    The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

    While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

    My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

    ...
    45 min
  • Katie Bayer: Transforming Postpartum Recovery with Pelvic Floor Therapy

    Send us Fan Mail

    Can pelvic floor therapy be the missing piece in postpartum recovery? Join us in this enlightening episode as we sit down with Katie Bayer, PT, DPT, owner of Transition Physical Therapy and co-founder of Behive Wellness. Katie shares her deeply personal journey through a twin pregnancy, a premature delivery at 33 weeks, and the emotional rollercoaster of a NICU stay. Her experiences, culminating in a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean), have shaped her dedication to specializing in pelvic floor therapy for pregnant and postpartum women. Listen as Katie recounts the vital role family support played in her recovery and how her challenges have fueled her mission to aid mothers on their own paths.

    Discover the critical yet often ignored importance of pelvic floor physical therapy in postpartum care. Katie shines a light on the gaps in standard PT education and emphasizes the need for integrating pelvic floor awareness into core training. She offers practical, realistic advice for new mothers on how to seamlessly incorporate pelvic floor exercises into daily routines. By tailoring strategies to meet individual needs, Katie underscores the effectiveness of manageable and functional approaches, aiming to make postpartum recovery more attainable for every mother.

    Explore how Katie and Megan McCutcheon, a perinatal mental health therapist, have joined forces to create a collaborative perinatal care center. This space offers a comprehensive support network for expectant and new parents, fostering a community that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of postpartum care. From the development of the online Bundle Birth Course to the emphasis on rest and recovery, Katie and Megan's center provides essential resources to make the perinatal period less overwhelming. Tune in for invaluable insights and support strategies that aim to revolutionize postpartum care and ensure mothers feel supported every step of the way.

    Work with Katie! https://www.transitionphysicaltherapy.com/

    Support the show


    Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

    🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

    🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

    🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

    Medical Disclaimer

    The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

    While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

    My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

    ...
    39 min

About Birth Journeys: Birth Stories and Birth Education for Moms & Pregnant Individuals

From the publisher's feed

Are you looking for a podcast to help you feel confident in your birth experience?

Then The Birth Journeys Podcast® is for you! We share powerful and transformative birth stories that…