In this weeks episode I chat with Perinatal Mental Health Occupational Therapist Rachel Howe from Belonging in Motherhood. Rachel has a special interest in supporting ADHD, autistic and neurodivergent women in pregnancy and motherhood, so if you've ever felt like your brain works a little differently, or wondered if this is just new mum forgetfulness or something else, then this episode is for you!

We discuss:

• What Rachel does as a perinatal occupational therapist, and how she supports women during pregnancy and early motherhood.
• Why many women are only diagnosed (or start to suspect ADHD) during pregnancy or postpartum.
• The hormonal shifts in pregnancy and postpartum that can make the ADHD experience worse. 
• What are some common challenges neurodivergent women experience in pregnancy and postpartum.
• How do these challenges differer from typical postpartum challenges vs potential signs of ADHD.
• Sensory preferences and overwhelm, and examples of where this can present during parenting/breastfeeding. 
• My experience receiving a life changing ADHD diagnosis in postpartum. 
• The current process for an ADHD diagnosis in Australia. 
• Tips for neurodivergent mums to implement during pregnancy to support themselves in postpartum.

You can find out more about Rachel at her website https://www.belonginginmotherhood.com.au/ or follow her on insta @belonginginmotherhood. 

For neuro affirming pregnancy, postpartum and breastfeeding support click here to book an appointment with Hannah. 

I would love to hear your thoughts, questions, and ideas for future episodes so please get in touch on instagram - my insta is @heldmidwifery or through my website www.heldmidwifery.com.au. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes, and if you're enjoying the podcast I would be ever so grateful if you could rate and review  on your favourite podcast player. 

Disclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore/Held Midwifery will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability

As I prepare for my own upcoming birth, I’ve been reflecting on what I learned from my last birth - what I want to do the same, and what I’ll do differently this time around. In this episode I talk about the small but important things that I will do differently this time (like getting that birth pool filled early and starting the TENS machine from the first twinges of labour!) and why I’ve chosen a slightly different support team this time, and who will be present at out birth. 

I also shared a little behind the scenes from the Home Birth Australia Conference in Adelaide, including some big insights from childbirth educator Rhea Dempsey on working with pain during labour rather than fighting against it.

✨ Learn more about our Adelaide birth classes at Held Midwifery

I would love to hear your thoughts, questions, and ideas for future episodes so please get in touch on instagram - my insta is @heldmidwifery or through my website www.heldmidwifery.com.au. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes, and if you're enjoying the podcast I would be ever so grateful if you could rate and review  on your favourite podcast player. 

Disclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore/Held Midwifery will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability

If you’re preparing for birth in Adelaide (or anywhere really), this episode is for both you and your birth partner. We discuss the often-overlooked power of a well-prepared partner and how their calm, confident presence can havea  huge impact on your birth experience.

Too often partners feel underprepared or unsure of what to do - in this episode, I share insights from our Held Birth Classes on how couples can prepare together, practice hands-on techniques, and create a supportive birth environment.

We talk about what really helps in labour and why common media portrayals of “birth partners” miss the mark. Being proactive and informed before labour can make all the difference for both of you.

If you want a birth that feels empowering, connected, and supported, this conversation will help you and your partner start preparing together.

✨ Learn more about our Adelaide birth classes at Held Midwifery

I would love to hear your thoughts, questions, and ideas for future episodes so please get in touch on instagram - my insta is @heldmidwifery or through my website www.heldmidwifery.com.au. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes, and if you're enjoying the podcast I would be ever so grateful if you could rate and review  on your favourite podcast player. 

Disclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore/Held Midwifery will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability

In this episode I’m diving into one of the biggest myths in the baby sleep world -bloody awake windows! You’ve probably seen those instagram posts or charts online telling you exactly how long your baby should be awake between naps… but the truth is, there’s no good evidence behind them.

We’ll chat about why these rigid “rules” can actually make things much harder, how they often interfere with feeding and connection, and what to focus on instead. You’ll learn how to tune into your baby’s cues, drop the guilt, and find a rhythm that works for you and your baby.

- The actual evidence (or lack thereof) behind age-by-age wake window advice
- Why babies’ sleep needs vary so much and how totally normal that is
- How to bring more calm and rhythm to your days (without rigid schedules and stress)
- The real story behind 'over-tiredness' and why it’s not as common as we’re led to believe

So if you’re ready to stop stressing about wake windows and start trusting your baby (and yourself), this one’s for you.

Join Held in Sleep & Motherhood - my self paced online course for mums who want to nurture their baby’s sleep with calm, connection, and evidence - not outdated advice or cry-it-out strategies. Click here to join! 

Learn more about 1:1 sleep support with Hannah here. 

I would love to hear your thoughts, questions, and ideas for future episodes so please get in touch on instagram - my insta is @heldmidwifery or through my website www.heldmidwifery.com.au. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes, and if you're enjoying the podcast I would be ever so grateful if you could rate and review  on your favourite podcast player. 

Disclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore/Held Midwifery will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability

An honest chat about nausea, fatigue, emotions, and what’s actually normal in early pregnancy.

The first trimester can be exciting but overwhelming, and it often feels like you're just trying to make it through. In this episode I’m sharing my own experience of those early weeks of pregnancy (I’m currently 15 weeks now) and some of the things that really helped me get through.

We chat about the very real challenges of nausea, food aversions, and that bone-deep fatigue that takes you by surprise, as well as the emotional ups and downs that come with this season. I also talk through some practical, evidence-based ways to support yourself - from rest and nutrition to mindset and medications that can help. 

If you’re in your first trimester, I hope this episode reminds you that it’s okay to slow down, to do what you need to get through, and to trust that this season will pass.

Click here to find out more about our Group Held Birth Classes with Hannah.

Resources:

https://www.hyperemesisaustralia.org.au/

https://www.hyperemesis.org/who-we-help/mothers-area/

I would love to hear your thoughts, questions, and ideas for future episodes so please get in touch on instagram - my insta is @heldmidwifery or through my website www.heldmidwifery.com.au. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes, and if you're enjoying the podcast I would be ever so grateful if you could rate and review  on your favourite podcast player. 

Disclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore/Held Midwifery will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability

Feeling like you’re constantly juggling a million things? Me too! In this episode, I share my favourite mum hacks that make daily life a little easier - from time-savers and home organisation tricks to apps and gadgets that help lighten the load (both mentally and physically). These are simple, realistic ideas that have genuinely helped me create more calm and ease in the chaos of motherhood.

I would love to hear your thoughts, questions, and ideas for future episodes so please get in touch on instagram - my insta is @heldmidwifery or through my website www.heldmidwifery.com.au. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes, and if you're enjoying the podcast I would be ever so grateful if you could rate and review  on your favourite podcast player. 

Disclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore/Held Midwifery will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability

In this episode I’m sharing my own journey weaning my toddler from breastfeeding - the why, the how, and the emotions that came with it.

We’ll talk about the mix of reasons that led me to make this decision, what the process looked like for us, and the strategies that made it easier along the way. I’ll also share some of the challenges, the emotional ups and downs, and what surprised me most about this transition.

As both a mum and a lactation consultant, please know there’s no one right way to do this. Every family’s path looks different, and the timing will always be unique to you and your little one. My hope is that by sharing my story, you’ll feel supported in your own choices -  whether you’re just starting to think about weaning, are in the thick of it, or have already been through this chapter.

I also share practical tips, strategies I use with clients who are weaning, and encouragement to help you feel more confident if you’re considering weaning. I’d love to hear your story too because these conversations are so important and the end of your breastfeeding journey can feel like a lonely time - and it doesnt need to be. 

Click here to book a Weaning Support Appointment with Hannah.

I would love to hear your thoughts, questions, and ideas for future episodes so please get in touch on instagram - my insta is @heldmidwifery or through my website www.heldmidwifery.com.au. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes, and if you're enjoying the podcast I would be ever so grateful if you could rate and review  on your favourite podcast player. 

Disclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore/Held Midwifery will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability

Feeling unsure what questions to ask in your antenatal appointments? Many women tell me they leave their visits wishing they’d asked more, or worrying later about how their care provider’s approach might influence their birth (and not necessarily in a good way)

In this episode, I’m sharing five simple but powerful questions you can take into your next appointment. These will help you understand where your care provider stands, whether their philosophy matches your hopes for birth, and how you and your partner can feel more confident in your choices.

We’ll talk through:

• Why starting these conversations early matters (and can save you stress later on)
• How to find out your provider’s approach to physiological birth
• What to ask about induction policies and timelines
• Why access to water in labour (like a bath) can be so supportive
• Asking how your provider feels about different birthing positions
• Practical tips to involve your birth partner in advocacy and decision-making

My goal with this episode is to help you feel informed and empowered – so you don’t just “go with the flow,” but instead walk into birth knowing you’ve chosen the flow that feels right for you.

Click here to find out more about our Group Held Birth Classes with Hannah.

I would love to hear your thoughts, questions, and ideas for future episodes so please get in touch on instagram - my insta is @heldmidwifery or through my website www.heldmidwifery.com.au. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes, and if you're enjoying the podcast I would be ever so grateful if you could rate and review  on your favourite podcast player. 

Disclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore/Held Midwifery will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability

I’m so excited to be back behind the mic after a little podcast break! It feels so good to return with a fresh new name that reflects what this podcast is really about  - being Held in Motherhood.

In this episode, I share why I took a podcast break, what’s been happening in my business and life, and what you can look forward to in the months ahead.

Here’s what I cover:

• Why I took an impromptu break from the podcast and why now feels like the right time to return
• The story behind changing the podcast name and why Held in Motherhood feels more aligned than Changing Birth
• Updates to our group birth courses, including a new one-day format with the option of private sessions for more tailored preparation
• How recent Medicare rebate changes have made private midwifery and lactation support more accessible for families
• Professional updates, including IBCLC recertification and the growth of our midwifery team
• Personal updates - toddler weaning, and the very exciting news that I’m pregnant with baby number two!

Thank you for being here and for supporting this podcast even during the break. I can’t wait to share new conversations on pregnancy, birth, postpartum, breastfeeding, and beyond in this next chapter.

I would love to hear your thoughts, questions, and ideas for future episodes so please get in touch on instagram - my insta is @heldmidwifery or through my website www.heldmidwifery.com.au. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes, and if you're enjoying the podcast I would be ever so grateful if you could rate and review  on your favourite podcast player. 

Disclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore/Held Midwifery will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability

In our final episode for the year I discuss how to navigate the festive season with a new baby. I share tips on balancing the joy of Christmas with the demands of early parenthood. In this episode we cover...

• Protecting postpartum in the festive season
• Breastfeeding and avoiding mastitis. 
• Why your baby carrier will be your best friend. 
• Breastfeeding and alcohol consumption
• Navigating family events and opinions on your parenting. 
• Hot weather and babies
• A final wrap up for the year! 

Need pregnancy, breastfeeding or sleep support over the festive season? We are here to help but have limited availability. Book an appointment with Hannah here.

I would love to hear your thoughts, questions, and ideas for future episodes so please get in touch on instagram - my insta is @heldmidwifery or through my website www.heldmidwifery.com.au. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes, and if you're enjoying the podcast I would be ever so grateful if you could rate and review  on your favourite podcast player. 

Disclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability