Episode Overview

In this episode, Jennifer Quilty, owner of Mellow Mama Massage and a passionate advocate for holistic perinatal care, joins Dayna & Kia to explore how bodywork — specifically massage and craniosacral therapy — can support both moms and babies in the postpartum period. With personal experience navigating early challenges with her own “tight” baby, Jennifer brings both clinical knowledge and deep empathy to the conversation. She shares how treating mom and baby as a connected unit can lead to better outcomes for bonding, development, and emotional well-being.

Key Topics Covered

Craniosacral Therapy & Infant Massage Jennifer explains what craniosacral therapy is, how it’s different from traditional massage, and why it’s especially beneficial for babies under one year. From supporting latch issues to soothing colicky symptoms and aiding sleep, she shares gentle, hands-on techniques that nurture the nervous system and promote physical ease in little bodies.

Supporting Mom & Baby as a Unit Rather than treating baby and mom separately, Jennifer emphasizes the power of working with both together. She describes how body tension, stress, and even birth trauma can live in both mom and baby — and how massage can be a healing, regulating experience for both.

The “Tight Baby” Experience Sharing her personal journey, Jennifer opens up about having a baby who was “tight” — fussy, tense, and hard to soothe. Her story sheds light on how common this experience is and how touch-based support helped ease both her baby’s discomfort and her own postpartum stress.

Pregnancy, Postpartum & Preventative Care From easing pelvic discomfort in pregnancy to promoting postpartum recovery, Jennifer explains how massage can be a proactive part of maternal health care. She encourages moms to prioritize their bodies and well-being, not just after birth but throughout the entire perinatal journey.

Key Takeaways

• Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, effective way to support babies under one — helping with feeding, sleep, digestion, and nervous system regulation.
• Treating mom and baby together helps address shared tension and deepens connection.
• A “tight” or fussy baby often needs physical and emotional support — and so does the parent trying to comfort them.
• Massage can be more than relaxation — it can be a powerful tool for healing, regulation, and prevention.
• Investing in your own wellness as a mom isn’t a luxury — it’s foundational to your family’s well-being.

Final Thoughts

Postpartum healing is about so much more than just getting back to “normal.” It’s about tuning in to your body, your baby, and your needs. Jennifer Quilty’s compassionate approach reminds us that the journey is physical, emotional, and deeply connected. Whether you’re struggling with a tight baby, feeling burnt out, or just curious about how massage can help, this episode is a gentle invitation to support your postpartum journey with care and intention.

Have thoughts or questions about your postpartum healing journey? Join the conversation on Instagram @BirthBabiesBusyMoms!

Episode Overview

In this episode, Dr. Arielle Buch-Frohlich, a clinical psychologist specializing in sex and couples therapy, joins Dayna & Kia to talk about what happens in relationships after babies. With expertise in perinatal and postpartum mental health, Dr. Arielle dives deep into the emotional and relational shifts that occur when you become parents. She offers compassionate, practical strategies for staying connected, managing expectations, and creating space for individual and shared growth.

Key Topics Covered

Relationship Dynamics After Baby

Parenthood changes everything — including your relationship. Dr. Arielle explores how expectations shift, communication styles evolve, and intimacy can take a back seat. She shares insights on how to reconnect with your partner emotionally and physically during the postpartum phase.

Making Therapy a Tool for Connection

Going to therapy together isn’t just for crisis moments — it can be a proactive, powerful tool. Dr. Arielle explains how therapy can strengthen relationships and suggests reframing it as a “date” — a dedicated time to talk, reconnect, and reflect with a neutral guide.

Role Shifts & Parenting Goals

Bringing a baby into your world often means re-negotiating roles — not only with your partner, but also with family and friends. Dr. Arielle offers guidance on how to identify your parenting goals as a team, and how to support each other through this identity transformation.

Setting Yourself Up for Success

Success in parenthood and partnership doesn’t come from perfection, but from intention. Dr. Arielle shares tips on carving out time for yourself, nurturing your relationship, and establishing routines that support mental wellness and connection.

Key Takeaways

• Your relationship will change after having a baby — but with intention and support, it can grow stronger than ever.
• Therapy can be a bonding experience. Going together, even when things feel okay, can help you navigate the inevitable ups and downs of parenting.
• Shifting roles after baby can cause friction — clearly communicating and creating shared parenting goals can make all the difference.
• Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish — it’s necessary. When you’re nourished, your relationship and your family thrive.
• Connection doesn’t always mean big romantic gestures — sometimes it’s a quiet conversation, a shared laugh, or being present during a tough moment.

Final Thoughts

Life after baby is full of adjustments, especially in your relationship. Whether you're navigating intimacy changes, communication challenges, or simply trying to feel like a team again, support matters. Dr. Arielle Buch-Frohlich’s approach blends therapy, realism, and heart — offering guidance to couples navigating the postpartum phase and reminding us that strong families begin with strong relationships.

Have thoughts on your postpartum relationship journey? Join the conversation on Instagram @BirthBabiesBusyMoms!

Episode Overview

In this episode, Alex Wachelka, IBCLC, joins Dayna & Kia to discuss the challenges and joys of breastfeeding, bottle feeding, and lactation support. As a certified lactation consultant and pregnancy/postpartum nutrition coach, Alex helps families navigate feeding difficulties and provides essential guidance for new moms. With a focus on education and support, Alex explains how lactation consultants can assist beyond breastfeeding, including safe formula-feeding and how to manage bottle-washing effectively.

Key Topics Covered

Safe Bottle Feeding Practices

One of the most common concerns for bottle-feeding parents is how to properly wash and store bottles. Alex walks through the CDC guidelines, recommending separate washing basins, using silicone brushes, and proper sterilization steps. She also shares her tips for safely preparing formula, including boiling water to kill bacteria and how to measure correctly for the best nutrition balance.

Lactation Consultants: More Than Just Breastfeeding Help

Lactation consultants (LCs) are often misunderstood. Many people assume their help is limited to breastfeeding assistance, but Alex explains that LCs offer support for bottle-feeding, including how to pace bottle feeds and practice safe formula feeding. She highlights the vast knowledge and skills LCs bring to families dealing with any type of feeding challenge.

Navigating Tongue & Lip Ties

Alex talks about the importance of diagnosing tongue and lip ties early and explains why some babies need more than just a release. She also shares how bodywork and follow-up care can make a significant difference in improving feeding experiences for both baby and mom.

Key Takeaways

• Lactation consultants aren’t just for breastfeeding moms! They can assist with any feeding challenge, including bottle-feeding, formula preparation, and supporting families with tongue and lip tie issues.
• Safe practices are crucial when handling baby bottles, pump parts, and formula — always follow CDC guidelinesfor washing and sterilizing to ensure baby’s safety.
• Exclusive pumpers and bottle-feeding parents deserve recognition for the hard work they put in, often juggling cleaning, sterilizing, and preparing bottles while managing the emotional toll of feeding.
• Tongue and lip ties can complicate feeding but are treatable — early diagnosis and collaboration with bodyworkers can improve outcomes.
• Proper education and support from lactation consultants can empower parents to feel confident in their feeding choices, whether they breastfeed, pump, or bottle-feed.

Final Thoughts

Feeding your baby can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s not without its challenges. Whether you're navigating breastfeeding struggles, pumping, or managing bottle-feeding, support is essential. Alex Wachelka's approach to lactation care extends far beyond just latching — it’s about empowering parents to make the best decisions for their families, and offering solutions for those who feel overwhelmed or uncertain about feeding.

Have you had a feeding challenge? Join the conversation on Instagram @BirthBabiesBusyMoms!

Episode Overview

In this episode, Krista White, a professional doula and childbirth educator, joins Dayna & Kia to discuss the role of doulas in pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care. With extensive experience in supporting families, Krista shares insights on how doulas empower birthing individuals, help navigate medical decisions, and provide essential emotional and physical support. The conversation explores the impact of having a doula, the misconceptions around their role, and the importance of advocacy during childbirth.

Key Topics Covered

The Role of a Doula in Birth and Postpartum

A doula provides continuous support during labor, offering techniques such as pressure points, breathing guidance, and emotional reassurance. Many expectant parents are unaware of how transformative this support can be, particularly when facing medical decisions like epidurals or inductions. The episode highlights how doulas can complement medical care, ensuring that families feel empowered and informed.

Navigating Medical Decisions and Advocacy

One of the biggest challenges in childbirth is making informed decisions amidst unsolicited advice or medical pressure. The discussion delves into how doulas help parents understand the pros and cons of interventions like epidurals, inductions, and cesarean sections.

The Importance of Accessible Doula Support

While doula services can be life-changing, not everyone has access to them. The episode discusses the need for better funding and insurance coverage to make doula care more widely available. Some organizations are working toward offering doula support to families with financial barriers, highlighting the growing recognition of its importance in maternal health outcomes.

Building a Strong Support System

The presence of a doula not only benefits the birthing person but also supports their partner and family. Whether a partner is a first responder, managing childcare for other children, or feeling uncertain about how to help, a doula can guide them in being an active participant in the birth experience. The discussion also explores how doulas provide postpartum support, helping new parents navigate feeding, newborn care, and emotional recovery.

Key Takeaways

- Doulas Enhance the Birth Experience: Whether through physical comfort measures, advocacy, or emotional support, doulas can make a significant difference in birth satisfaction and outcomes.

- Education Empowers Parents: Understanding options before labor begins can help families feel more in control of their birth experience.

- Support Extends Beyond Birth: Postpartum doulas play a crucial role in helping new parents adjust and recover in the early months.

- Access to Doulas Should Be Expanded: Greater advocacy is needed for insurance and healthcare systems to recognize and cover doula services.

- A Strong Support System Matters: Having professional guidance alleviates stress on partners and ensures new parents are not navigating early parenthood alone.

Final Thoughts

Birth is a deeply personal journey, and having the right support can make all the difference. Whether it’s physical techniques during labor, emotional encouragement, or postpartum guidance, doulas provide invaluable care. If you’re expecting or know someone who is, consider learning more about how a doula could support the experience.

Have you worked with a doula? Join the conversation on Instagram @BirthBabiesBusyMoms!

Episode Overview

In this episode, Debbie Fazio, the Founder and President of Precious Moments Babeez, and Creator of Sleepy Babeez Program, joins Dayna & Kia to discuss motherhood and parenthood. Debbie has a variety of qualifications from Advanced Sleep Consultant, Registered Perinatal Support Worker, Doula, and Happiest Baby Instructor to support families from pregnancy into the first few years of life. The discussion explores the impact of social stigma, the importance of making individual choices that work for each family, and the role of community support. The conversation highlights personal experiences, professional insights, and the need for judgment-free parenting.

Key Topics Covered

The Pressure of Parenting Choices

• A key takeaway from the conversation is that a present and happy mother ultimately leads to a happy child. However, stepping back and recognizing what works best for oneself can be difficult when faced with judgment from others.

The Stigma Around Feeding Choices

• The debate between breastfeeding and bottle-feeding is one of the most intense discussions in parenting communities. The episode highlights personal experiences where mothers felt judged regardless of their choice. Some faced criticism for not breastfeeding, while others were questioned for continuing to breastfeed beyond a year.
• External factors, such as medical conditions and supply chain issues, can limit a parent’s ability to access formula, making feeding decisions even more stressful. The discussion emphasizes that choosing to breastfeed, bottle-feed, or do a combination of both should be based on what works best for the family, not societal expectations.

Navigating Judgement and Finding Support

• Mothers often experience unsolicited opinions from family, friends, and even strangers regarding their parenting choices. Whether it's about co-sleeping, sleep training, or diaper preferences, judgment seems inevitable.
• One key piece of advice that Debbie shared in the episode is to be mindful of where and with whom you share personal parenting decisions. If a conversation consistently leads to judgment rather than support, it may be best to limit what is shared in that space. In some cases, it might even be necessary to set firm boundaries with immediate family members who express disapproval.

Key Takeaways

• Parenting is Personal: Every family is different, and choices should be based on what works for them, not societal pressures.
• Judgment is Everywhere: Whether it's about feeding, sleep training, or general parenting, there will always be differing opinions. Setting boundaries and finding supportive communities is key.
• Partners Matter: Open communication between parents helps ensure that decisions align with both caregivers' needs and comfort levels.
• It’s Okay to Change Your Mind: Parenting is a dynamic journey. What works in one phase may need adjustment as a child grows.
• You Don’t Have to Share Everything: If certain conversations make you feel judged, it’s okay to limit what you disclose to specific individuals.

Final Thoughts Parenting is an ever-evolving experience, and the most important thing is to do what feels right for you and your family. Whether you choose to breastfeed, bottle-feed, co-sleep, or sleep train, the only thing that truly matters is that both parent and child are happy and healthy.

Have experiences to share? Join the conversation on Instagram @BirthBabiesBusyMoms!

Episode Overview

In this episode, we dive into the importance of pelvic floor health with one of the co-founders of Bloom Integrative Health and Movement Center. We explore how pelvic floor physiotherapy supports women through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum recovery. The discussion covers common concerns, treatment options, and the evolving awareness around women’s health.

Key Topics Covered

Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy & Women's Health

• Introduction to Bloom Integrative Health and Movement Center, a female-focused, family-friendly clinic specializing in pelvic floor physiotherapy.
• The clinic’s pre- and postnatal care approach, including how pelvic floor therapy can benefit women at every stage of pregnancy and beyond.
• Why every pregnant woman should consider seeing a pelvic floor physiotherapist.
• Common pregnancy-related concerns treated, including low back pain, pelvic pain, and incontinence.
• The recommended timeline for appointments during pregnancy (typically at 28, 32, and 36 weeks).

Birth Preparation & Postpartum Recovery

• Birth prep techniques, including learning to relax the pelvic floor for a smoother delivery.
• Manual therapy and exercises for pain relief and birth readiness.
• Virtual pelvic floor therapy as an option for those unable to visit in person.
• The importance of postpartum care, even for those who feel fine immediately after birth.

Pelvic Floor Therapy & Treatment Options

• How pelvic floor therapy goes beyond Kegels to focus on full-body movement, breathing, and muscle engagement.
• The role of real-time ultrasound in assessing pelvic floor function.
• The different training levels of pelvic floor physiotherapists and what to look for in a provider.
• The importance of informed consent in internal exams and alternative assessment options.
• Breaking the stigma around discussing pelvic health, incontinence, and postpartum challenges.

Key Takeaways

Pelvic Floor Therapy is for Everyone: You don’t need to be pregnant or postpartum to benefit. All bodies have a pelvic floor!

Pregnancy & Birth Prep Matters: Learning about your pelvic floor before delivery can improve outcomes and confidence.

Postpartum Care is Essential: Even if you feel fine after birth, pelvic health assessments can prevent long-term issues.

It's Never Too Late: Whether weeks, months, or years postpartum, pelvic floor therapy can still be beneficial.

Breaking the Stigma: Conversations about pelvic health are becoming more normalized—no one should feel ashamed to seek help!

Final Thoughts

Pelvic floor health plays a crucial role in overall well-being, and seeking professional care can make a world of difference before, during, and after pregnancy. Whether through in-person or virtual appointments, there are many ways to access the support you need.

Have questions or experiences to share? Join the conversation on Instagram @BirthBabiesBusyMoms!

Episode Overview

In this episode, Dr. Carly King, a licensed naturopathic doctor, shares her journey into naturopathy, her personal experience with pregnancy and birth, and the challenges she faced with medical care. The discussion highlights the role of naturopathic medicine in women's health, the gaps in conventional maternal care, and the importance of informed decision-making.

Key Topics Covered

Naturopathic Medicine and Women's Health

• Dr. Carly King introduces naturopathy as a holistic approach to healthcare.
• Her journey into naturopathy was influenced by her struggles with debilitating migraines, which conventional medicine failed to resolve.
• She found relief through naturopathic treatment, including dietary changes, nutrient support, and acupuncture, leading her to pursue it as a career.
• She explains how naturopathy can benefit and support women in prenatal, antenatal, and postpartum periods.
• She explores root causes of chronic fatigue, low mood, and overall health in both pregnancy and postpartum periods.

Birth and Delivery

• At 40 weeks, a medical decision was made to induce labor due to declining kidney function.
• Her baby was born in distress with a dangerously low heart rate and was taken to the NICU with complications, including collapsed lungs and an undiagnosed stroke.

Postpartum Complications

• The experience left Dr. Carly feeling abandoned and unsupported by the medical system.
• She did not receive follow-up care despite her child’s serious health concerns.
• She now works closely with women to provide continuous care through pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond, ensuring they have the knowledge and support they need.

Key Takeaways

• Expect the Unexpected: Even those in medical fields can face unexpected complications and challenges during pregnancy.
• Medical Advocacy Matters: Patients need to advocate for themselves and seek care providers who will listen and provide comprehensive support.
• The Importance of Postpartum Support: Many women experience inadequate follow-up care after birth, highlighting the need for continued maternal health support.

Final Thoughts Dr. Carly King’s story underscores the importance of informed decision-making, patient advocacy, and holistic care in pregnancy and postpartum experiences. If you’ve faced similar challenges, know that you are not alone. Join us in the next episode as we continue exploring personal journeys through motherhood.

📌 Follow us on Instagram @BirthBabiesBusyMoms for updates and community support!

Episode Overview

In this episode, Alisa shares her unexpected journey through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum challenges. She became pregnant while on a copper IUD in the thick of COVID, living in a small community where she faced unique struggles, including a flood. Restrictions due to the pandemic meant no partners in the ultrasound room, isolation, and her parents unable to visit her baby for months.

Later, when her child was 18 months old, she decided she wanted one more. She bought a new car to fit a family of four and was excited about the future. However, an ultrasound at 9 weeks revealed she was having twins. Shock, surprise, and worry set in—how would she manage feeding, sleeping, and raising twins with a toddler?

Her challenges continued postpartum. Following her C-section, she suffered severe complications from the epidural, leading to almost two years of migraines, pain, and poor quality of life. Eventually, she found a specialist who diagnosed a rare condition caused by a spinal leak.

Key Topics Covered

Pregnancy Challenges

• Alisa became pregnant while on a copper IUD during COVID.
• Living in a small community, she faced additional struggles, including a flood.
• Restrictions meant no partners in ultrasound rooms, isolation, and parents unable to visit for months.
• At 18 months postpartum, she decided she wanted another child and prepared for a family of four.
• An ultrasound at 9 weeks revealed she was expecting twins, leading to shock, worry, and logistical concerns about managing twins with a toddler.

Birth and Delivery

• C-section birth for the twins.
• Anxiety about how to care for three young children, including newborn twins.

Postpartum Complications

• Suffered severe complications from the C-section epidural.
• Experienced almost two years of migraines, pain, and poor quality of life.
• Finally found a specialist who diagnosed her condition as a spinal leak.
• Required two blood patches to resolve the issue as well as physiotherapy and nerve cauterization to gain her quality of life back.

Key Takeaways

• Expect the Unexpected: Pregnancy can come with surprises, from IUD pregnancies to unexpected twins.
• Coping with Isolation: The pandemic created new postpartum struggles for many, showing the need for strong support systems.
• Medical Advocacy Matters: Alisa had to seek out a specialist to diagnose her rare postpartum complication.
• Adjusting to Change: The transition from one child to three required mental, emotional, and logistical shifts.

Final Thoughts

Alisa’s story sheds light on the unique challenges faced during pregnancy and postpartum in a pandemic, as well as dealing with unexpected medical issues. If you or someone you know has faced similar struggles, know that you are not alone. Join us for the next episode as we continue exploring personal journeys through motherhood.

📌 Follow us on Instagram @BirthBabiesBusyMoms for updates and community support!

Episode Overview

In this episode, Kia shares her deeply personal journey through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum complications. She discusses her medical challenges, including antibiotic-resistant infections, kidney stones, hemorrhaging, and the emotional toll of being dismissed by medical professionals and loved ones. This is part one of her story, covering her first pregnancy and the severe complications she endured.

Key Topics Covered

Pregnancy Challenges

• Kia initially thought she had a smooth pregnancy but later realized the complications she endured.
• Experienced severe cystic acne starting at 6-8 weeks.
• Developed an antibiotic-resistant UTI (Enterococcus) that went undiagnosed for weeks.
• Endured multiple rounds of antibiotics and IV treatments, totaling over 70 days.
• Diagnosed with hydro ureters, hydronephrosis, and kidney stones.
• Went through over 20 urine cultures, but results were inconclusive.
• Was placed on narcotics due to the extreme pain, leading to anxiety over potential effects on her baby.
• Experienced severe medical trauma due to mismanagement and lack of proper medical attention.

Birth and Delivery

• Induced at 37 weeks due to ongoing complications and pain.
• Diagnosed with Group B Strep (GBS), requiring additional antibiotics during labor.
• Anxiety surrounding the birth experience due to previous medical trauma.

Postpartum Complications

• Retained placenta leading to postpartum hemorrhaging.
• Repeatedly told that her symptoms were related to postpartum depression rather than physical complications.
• Forced to advocate for herself, seeking care at multiple hospitals with no support.
• Eventually underwent a blind D&C surgery, which later resulted in further hemorrhaging.
• Passed massive blood clots and continued to lose significant amounts of blood.
• Medical professionals finally acknowledged the severity of her condition, requiring additional interventions.

Key Takeaways

• Advocate for Yourself: Kia’s story highlights the importance of self-advocacy in medical settings.
• Know the Signs: Understanding conditions like retained placenta and antibiotic-resistant infections can help new mothers recognize symptoms early.
• Medical Dismissal is Real: Many women face dismissal of their postpartum concerns; persistence is crucial.
• Support is Critical: A strong support system is essential during pregnancy and postpartum recovery.

Final Thoughts

Kia’s story is a raw and honest look into the challenges many women face but are rarely discussed. If you or someone you know has experienced similar challenges, know that you are not alone. Join us for part two, where Kia continues sharing her journey through recovery and navigating motherhood after medical trauma.

📌 Follow us on Instagram @BirthBabiesBusyMoms for updates and community support!

Episode Overview

In this episode, Dayna opens up about her personal journey through the challenges of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum recovery. She shares the medical difficulties she and her baby faced, including complications from the use of forceps during delivery, and discusses the emotional process of healing. This episode marks the first part of her story.

Key Topics Covered

Pregnancy Challenges

• Dayna experienced a kidney infection early in her first pregnancy, which required hospitalization.
• She dealt with low iron levels during her second pregnancy, necessitating iron infusions.
• During her first pregnancy, she developed Bell’s Palsy, resulting in temporary facial paralysis. Doctors warned that this could be a lifelong issue.
• To address the facial paralysis, Dayna underwent a two-week course of steroids.

Birth and Delivery

• Dayna went into labor the day after being weaned off steroids.
• Her baby was born at 37 weeks and 2 days.
• Throughout labor, Dayna experienced severe vomiting due to “back labor” until an epidural was administered.
• The epidural wore off after two hours of pushing.
• Despite exhaustion, doctors refused to perform a C-section and proceeded with the use of forceps without explaining the potential risks.
• An episiotomy was performed during delivery.
• During the delivery, the doctors panicked and dropped the forceps.
• Dayna suffered a third-degree tear and was urgently taken to the operating room for corrective surgery.

Postpartum Complications

• Due to the forceps, her baby’s head was deformed from two large hematomas (bleeding between the brain and skull).
• Scar tissue caused a blockage at the vaginal opening, and surgery was recommended.
• Medical professionals identified nerve damage in the sphincter and advised biofeedback therapy.
• The birth left Dayna with psychological trauma, resulting in a trauma bond with her baby.
• Her baby experienced colic, crying for over five hours each night.
• Breastfeeding was difficult as her milk supply was delayed due to the trauma.
• Dayna's blood cell count was very low due to blood loss during delivery

Key Takeaways

Inquire and Conduct Research: Educate yourself on various birth methods and ask questions when crucial information is not provided by your healthcare provider.

Develop a Birth Plan: Approach your birth preparation with flexibility by creating a well-thought-out plan that accommodates potential changes.

Advocate for Your Needs: While doctors offer medical guidance, you have the right to advocate for your own preferences, including exploring alternative birthing methods.

Establish a Support System: A reliable and supportive network is crucial throughout pregnancy and postpartum recovery.

Final Thoughts

Dayna’s story offers an authentic and unfiltered perspective on the challenges many women face but seldom discuss. If you or someone you know has encountered similar struggles, remember that you are not alone. Join us for part two, where Dayna continues to share her journey through recovery and navigating motherhood after experiencing medical trauma.

📌 Follow us on Instagram @BirthBabiesBusyMoms for updates and community support!