Download our FREE C-Section guide here:   CSX Guide

Thank you to our sponsor, Coterie.  Use Code CSX20 at checkout for 20% off your first purchase of $65.

Jen and Bethany continue their conversation with Dr. Lashonda Jones, a doctor of physical therapy specializing in C-section rehab. In this episode of the Recovery Series, the focus is on movement, healing, and the practical tools that can make a difference in recovery after surgery.

Dr. Jones explains why early, gentle mobility—like starting with short walks—is so important for preventing complications such as blood clots and constipation, while also helping moms regain strength. She also breaks down the benefits of abdominal binders, including how to wear them correctly for support without causing harm.

The discussion dives into diastasis recti, why it’s more common after C-sections, and how engaging deep core muscles and maintaining good posture can help reduce the “C-section shelf.” Scar mobilization is also highlighted as a powerful tool for healing, reducing adhesions, and improving comfort. Finally, Dr. Jones shares insights into how incision placement can affect recovery and offers resources for ongoing support.

This episode is packed with practical, evidence-based advice and compassionate guidance to help make C-section recovery a little easier.

Website: csxpodcast.com 

Email us: [email protected].

Follow us on instagram: @thecsectionexperience

This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

 

About our guest, Dr Lashonda Jones: With 19+ years of experience and her own personal journey following an unplanned c-section, Dr. Lashonda Jones brings both professional expertise and passionate advocacy to the table. She’s the founder of Core Elevation Fitness and Wellness, the creator of the Cesarean Recovery and Safe Return to Exercise Guide, and the primary author on the 2025 Cesarean Delivery Rehab Protocol—tools that are raising the bar for postpartum care around the globe.

 

Cesarean Delivery Protocol: https://www.coreelevationfitness.com/cesarean-delivery-rehab-protocol

Cesarean Recovery Guide: https://www.coreelevationfitness.com/product/cesarean-recovery-and-safe-return-to-exercise-guide

 

Free recovery must have list:

https://www.coreelevationfitness.com/c-section-recovery-must-have-list

 

About the podcast:

Website: csxpodcast.com 

Email us: [email protected].

Follow us on instagram: @thecsectionexperience

 

This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

 

Download our FREE C-Section guide here:   CSX Guide

Thank you to our sponsor, Coterie.  Use Code CSX20 at checkout for 20% off your first purchase of $65.

Jen and Bethany sit down with Dr. Lashonda Jones, a Doctor of Physical Therapy specializing in c-section rehab and recovery, to talk about her journey from as a PT who is a passionate advocate for postpartum care. After facing her own challenging recoveries, first from a vaginal birth and later from an unplanned C-section, Dr. Jones saw firsthand the gaps in support, education, and resources for new moms.

In this episode, Dr. Jones shares:

• The personal experiences that inspired her to focus on c-section recovery

• How she developed her C-section Rehab Protocol to help moms prepare for surgery and recover safely

• Practical, evidence-based tips for early mobility, handling stairs, getting in and out of bed, and the importance of lying flat

• Strategies to prevent the C-section shelf and improve scar healing

• Why hospital-based physical therapy should be a standard part of postpartum care

From mobility and pain management to scar care and returning to exercise, this conversation is packed with actionable advice for moms and a call to action for better postpartum rehabilitation in our healthcare system.

Whether you’re preparing for a planned C-section, recovering from surgery, or supporting someone who is, you’ll walk away with knowledge, validation, and a reminder that you deserve comprehensive postpartum care.

Website: csxpodcast.com 

Email us: [email protected].

Follow us on instagram: @thecsectionexperience

This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

About our guest, Dr Lashonda Jones: With 19+ years of experience and her own personal journey following an unplanned c-section, Dr. Lashonda Jones brings both professional expertise and passionate advocacy to the table. She’s the founder of Core Elevation Fitness and Wellness, the creator of the Cesarean Recovery and Safe Return to Exercise Guide, and the primary author on the 2025 Cesarean Delivery Rehab Protocol—tools that are raising the bar for postpartum care around the globe.

 

Cesarean Delivery Protocol: https://www.coreelevationfitness.com/cesarean-delivery-rehab-protocol

Cesarean Recovery Guide: https://www.coreelevationfitness.com/product/cesarean-recovery-and-safe-return-to-exercise-guide

Free recovery must have list:

https://www.coreelevationfitness.com/c-section-recovery-must-have-list

About the podcast:

Website: csxpodcast.com 

Email us: [email protected].

Follow us on instagram: @thecsectionexperience

This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

 

Download our FREE C-Section guide here:   CSX Guide

Jen and Bethany continue their deep dive into the medications commonly given during and after a C-section. From Pitocin to Toradol, they break down what each drug is for, how it's administered, potential side effects, and what moms need to know, especially when it comes to bleeding, pain management, and breastfeeding.

They cover:

• Uterotonic meds like Pitocin, Methergine, Hemabate, and Cytotec

• Pain relief options including Toradol

• The evolving conversation around medications and breastfeeding

• Why communication between providers and patients matters more than ever

• A bonus holistic tip for staying cool during summer pregnancies

Whether you're prepping for a C-section or still processing one, this episode helps demystify what’s in your IV (and why it matters).

Website: csxpodcast.com    Email us: [email protected].   Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

Download our FREE C-Section guide here:   CSX Guide  

In this episode of The C-Section Experience, Jen and Bethany break down the medications commonly given during a C-section—what they are, why they’re used, and how they might make you feel.

They walk you through every stage of the process, explaining the purpose, timing, and possible side effects of:

• Acid-reducing medications like sodium citrate (Bicitra), Pepcid, and Reglan

• Nausea prevention medications like Zofran and Dexamethasone

• Pain relief including Tylenol and the medications in your spinal anesthesia

• Antibiotics such as Ancef and azithromycin to prevent infection

• Anxiety medications and blood pressure medications when needed

Jen shares her insider perspective as an OB anesthesiologist, while Bethany brings the patient point of view—with real-life stories and tips to help you feel more confident and informed.

 

Whether your C-section is planned or unexpected, this episode will help you understand exactly what medications you might receive, their purpose, and how they contribute to a safe, positive birth experience.

Website: csxpodcast.com    Email us: [email protected].   Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

Download our FREE C-Section guide here:   CSX Guide  

Jen and Bethany continue their in-depth discussion of The Retrievals Season 2, focusing on the complex realities of C-section experiences, both personal and clinical. Jen, an obstetric anesthesiologist, answers Bethany’s pressing questions after listening to the first two episodes, diving into topics that many listeners may be wondering about too.

They explore the emotional and psychological impact of C-sections, especially in the context of anesthesia, pain perception, and trust in the medical team. From the use of ketamine during C-sections to the potential for hallucinations and dissociation, they break down what these medications are used for and how they affect birth experiences.

This episode covers:

• What we learn from The Retrievals podcast about pain during C-sections

• The difference between pressure and pain and why it matters

• Why ketamine is sometimes used in obstetric anesthesia and how it can affect patients

• The emotional toll of feeling unheard or dismissed in the OR

• The importance of informed consent and patient advocacy

• How preparation, communication, and storytelling can help improve outcomes for C-section births

Whether you're preparing for a scheduled C-section, processing a past experience, or supporting someone who is, this conversation is filled with real talk, expert insight, and heartfelt reflection.

Don’t forget to share your story with us. Your voice matters, and together we can push for more compassionate, informed, and respectful care for all birthing people.

Website: csxpodcast.com    Email us: [email protected].   Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

Download our FREE C-Section guide here:   CSX Guide   What happens when anesthesia doesn’t work during a C-section? Jen and Bethany dive into The Retrievals podcast’s second season, which highlights the terrifying experience of a woman feeling pain during her C-section.

As two moms and a board-certified OB anesthesiologist, they unpack what went wrong, what’s missing from the story, and how you can advocate for yourself to avoid a similar situation.

Jen shares her professional insights on:  Why C-section anesthesia sometimes fails (and how rare this really is)  What anesthesiologists can and should do if a patient feels pain during surgery  Why testing the block properly is critical before starting a C-section  How OB anesthesiologists are actively improving anesthesia safety and patient experience  Tips for communicating with your anesthesia team if you’re nervous about pain during surgery

Website: csxpodcast.com    Email us: [email protected].   Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

Download our FREE C-Section guide here:   CSX Guide

Jen and Bethany dive deeper into “What I Wish I Knew Before My C-Section” with more honest, real-life stories from listeners. From the unexpected “spinal zinger” during anesthesia to dealing with pre-surgery exhaustion, no food, and the effects of medications, this episode covers what so many C-section moms wish they’d known ahead of time.

The hosts also discuss how to advocate for your preferences during a Cesarean birth like asking for skin-to-skin contact in the OR, requesting clear drapes, and saying no to unnecessary sedation. Plus, hear the story of a mom welcoming her baby to Elton John’s Tiny Dancer and reflections on celebrity C-sections, including Serena Williams, Kate Winslet, and Beyoncé.

Finally, Jen and Bethany share plans for a new, simple, and empowering resource to help moms facing an unexpected C-section feel more prepared and confident.

 

Whether your C-section is planned or comes as a surprise, this episode is packed with insights, validation, and tips to help you feel more in control of your birth experience.

Website: csxpodcast.com    Email us: [email protected].   Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

Download our FREE C-Section guide here:   CSX Guide   Jen and Bethany break down what expectant parents need to know when choosing a hospital for childbirth. They explain the different levels of maternal care (Level I–IV) and why it matters for your delivery. Topics include the availability of obstetric anesthesiologists, Maternal Fetal Medicine (MFM) specialists, blood banks, and NICU levels, all key factors that can impact both routine and high-risk births. They also offer practical tips for navigating hospital policies, such as how to ask about private rooms, nursery options, and what to do if your chosen hospital doesn’t have higher-level care on-site. Whether you're planning a vaginal birth or a c-section, this episode will help you ask the right questions, advocate for yourself, and feel confident about where you deliver. Website: csxpodcast.com    Email us: [email protected].   Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

Download our FREE C-Section guide here:   CSX Guide

Jen and Bethany dive into what moms really wish they knew before their C-sections. Drawing from personal stories and listener responses on Instagram, they share honest insights about C-section preparation, recovery, and the emotional impact of birth.

Topics include:

• What C-sections feel like during surgery

• Common surprises like shivering, swelling, and constipation

• Recovery tips (like how a Squatty Potty can help!)

• Managing pain and anesthesia side effects

• The importance of skin-to-skin contact after a C-section

• Setting realistic expectations for your C-section birth plan

• The role of emotional support and feeling seen in recovery

Website: csxpodcast.com    Email us: [email protected].   Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

Download our FREE C-Section guide here:   CSX Guide   Jen and Bethany explore how breath work and breathing techniques can support women before, during, and after a C-section. They break down how methods like Lamaze and hypnobirthing, often associated with vaginal birth, can be adapted to the c-section experience to reduce anxiety, promote calm, and enhance a sense of control.

They discuss:

• How breath work can reduce preoperative anxiety and help during c-section recovery

• The basics of Lamaze breathing and how to use it in the OR

• How hypnobirthing techniques like deep breathing and positive affirmations can be calming even during surgical birth

• The role of partners in supporting breathing and emotional regulation

• Why breathing can feel strange or difficult during a c-section due to spinal anesthesia, and how to manage that sensation

• Practical tips for integrating breath work into both the surgical birth itself and postpartum healing

Whether you’re planning a scheduled C-section, preparing for the possibility of one, or recovering from a prior experience, this episode offers simple, non-pharmacologic tools to help you breathe easier.

Website: csxpodcast.com    Email us: [email protected].   Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.