In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast Birth Story Friday, Kayla shares her challenging but ultimately empowering hospital birth story. She discusses how she prepared for birth, and how her intentions and plans changed throughout the course of labor after stalling at 7 centimeters for several hours, and the difficult decision to ask her doula to leave. Despite these hurdles, Kayla managed to have an empowering and beautiful birth experience. Gina and Roxanne delve into the details of Kayla's labor, including the discovery of a forebag, and provide insights on navigating labor stalls. The episode highlights the importance of adaptability, self-trust, and the supportive role of a birth team. 

00:00 Introduction to Birth Story Friday

01:14 Meet Kayla: Pregnancy Preparation

04:19 Kayla's Labor Begins

07:12 Challenges and Decisions During Labor

10:53 The Final Stages of Labor

15:39 Postpartum Reflections

21:05 Expert Insights on Kayla's Birth

23:21 Navigating Birth Preferences and Support

25:10 MamasteFit Resources and Offerings

===

Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

——

****Freebies*****

Early postpartum recovery course: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ 

Pp sample 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/

Prenatal Sample: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/

Pelvic Floor 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/

Birth Prep for Labor Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/

Birth Partner Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/

Birth Plan 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Gina addresses common questions about core training during pregnancy and postpartum. She explains what core exercises are “safe” and effective, how to prevent and heal diastasis recti, and the importance of understanding the different layers of core muscles. Gina also discuss common myths, breathing techniques, and the role of posture in managing pressure within the abdominal cavity to ensure a healthy and strong core throughout life. She offers lots of guidance on modifying exercises to suit individual needs, gives tips on avoiding common pitfalls, the benefits of mindful movement, and insights into MamasteFit’s tested fitness programs. 

Check out our fave Pelvic Floor PT here!: https://www.hayleykavapt.com/

00:00 Introduction to Core Training During Pregnancy and Postpartum

01:14 Understanding the Core: Beyond Six-Pack Abs

02:09 Deep Core System: The Foundation of Stability

05:08 Global Stabilization and Movement Systems

08:07 Safe Core Training During Pregnancy and Postpartum

10:35 Managing Pressure and Breathing Techniques

15:37 Progressions and Regressions in Core Exercises

24:47 Addressing Diastasis Recti: Prevention and Healing

34:44 Conclusion and Program Offerings

===

Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

——

This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

****Freebies*****

Early postpartum recovery course: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ 

Pp sample 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/

Prenatal Sample: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/

Pelvic Floor 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/

Birth Prep for Labor Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/

Birth Partner Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/

Birth Plan 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina, a perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula, and Roxanne, a labor and delivery nurse and student midwife, discuss the essential steps in choosing your birth team. The episode covers how to find and select the right doula, the roles and specialties of different doulas, and questions to ask during interviews. Additionally, they explore how to pick a medical provider, including the differences between midwives, OBs, and family medicine providers, and what to consider for a positive prenatal, birth, and postpartum experience. The episode emphasizes the importance of a supportive and aligned team to lead to an empowering birth journey.

00:00 Introduction to the MamasteFit Podcast

00:22 Meet Your Hosts: Gina and Roxanne

01:12 Understanding the Role of a Doula

02:28 How to Find the Right Doula for You

08:27 Interviewing and Choosing Your Doula

11:06 Exploring Doula Services and Support

17:26 Financial Considerations and Alternatives for Doula Services

18:41 The Importance of Having a Medical Provider

19:21 Choosing the Right Medical Provider

28:13 Questions to Ask Your Provider

38:29 Navigating Prenatal Care and Common Tests

42:04 Final Thoughts on Building Your Birth Team

46:37 Conclusion and Additional Resources

===

Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

——

This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

****Freebies*****

Early postpartum recovery course: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ 

Pp sample 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/

Prenatal Sample: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/

Pelvic Floor 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/

Birth Prep for Labor Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/

Birth Partner Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/

Birth Plan 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

In this Birth Story Friday episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Alyssa shares her unmedicated hospital induction and the unexpected complications she faced during her postpartum journey. Gina and Roxanne discuss Alyssa's detailed preparation for birth, the intense labor process, and Alyssa's significant postpartum challenges, including hemorrhaging and developing a vaginal hematoma. The episode also touches on emotional struggles and the importance of reaching out for support and resources during postpartum recovery.

00:00 Introduction to Birth Story Friday

01:25 Meet Alyssa: Preparation for Birth

03:25 The Final Weeks of Pregnancy

05:48 Hospital Induction Begins

09:22 Active Labor and Delivery

15:07 Postpartum Complications

22:01 Navigating Early Postpartum Challenges

29:14 Words of Wisdom and Conclusion

32:59 MamasteFit Postpartum Program

33:51 Thank You and Additional Resources

===

Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

****Freebies*****

Early postpartum recovery course: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ 

Pp sample 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/

Prenatal Sample: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/

Pelvic Floor 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/

Birth Prep for Labor Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/

Birth Partner Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/

Birth Plan 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

Gina and Roxanne discuss Gina's postpartum healing and return to fitness journey so far. They emphasize the importance of prioritizing functional recovery over aesthetic goals, and Gina shares about focusing on training for longterm health while being able to comfortably meet the demands of motherhood along the way. Gina shares her accomplishments in her 12 weeks postpartum, as well as how she is structuring her training to support her goals.The episode highlights the need for gradual movement, core stabilization, and strength training, while also addressing the mental and emotional aspects of postpartum recovery. Listeners are encouraged to be patient with the process and appreciate the incredible things their bodies have done.

Check out the Push Tricycle Gina is Loving!:

https://amzn.to/4iuXEFY

00:00 Introduction to the MamasteFit Podcast

01:03 Gina's Postpartum Journey Begins

01:28 Training for Disney: Physical Accomplishments

02:55 The Importance of Rest and Gradual Recovery

07:32 Postpartum Fitness: Core Stabilization and Strength Training

32:18 The Role of Walking in Postpartum Recovery

41:20 Conclusion and Support Resources

===

Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

——

This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

****Freebies*****

Early postpartum recovery course: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ 

Pp sample 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/

Prenatal Sample: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/

Pelvic Floor 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/

Birth Prep for Labor Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/

Birth Partner Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/

Birth Plan 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

Gina sits down with Tiffany Belanger, founder of CoSleepy, to discuss how parents can safely bed share with their babies. They cover what bed sharing is and the stigmas surrounding it. Key safety tips are shared, including ensuring a sober and non-smoking environment, maintaining a firm and clutter-free mattress, and using the cuddle curl position. The episode also explores the benefits of bed sharing, such as improved sleep for both mom and baby and enhanced attachment. Tiffany provides practical advice and resources on setting up a safe sleep space and addresses common concerns about bed sharing and intimacy. As always listeners are encouraged to explore the options that work best for their families and are provided with numerous free resources to support their bed sharing journey if that is what they choose! 

00:00 Introduction to the MamasteFit Podcast

01:31 Meet Tiffany from CoSleepy

02:00 Personal Bed Sharing Experiences

08:56 Safety Tips for Bed Sharing

15:19 Benefits of Bed Sharing

30:59 Alternative Co-Sleeping Arrangements

34:38 Common Concerns and Solutions

43:44 Conclusion and Resources

More About Tiffany & Resources:

Bedsharing Beginner's Guide: https://courses.cosleepy.com/courses/bedshare-irl

Tiffany Belanger attended UCLA and adventured in the film and television industry prior to parenthood. She was shocked at how difficult it was to find reliable information about safe cosleeping when her newborn would not sleep in his bassinet.

After two years of research and real-life trial and error, she founded cosleepy.com to help other parents keep their babies safe in their beds.

Tiffany’s work resonated with parents across the world, and it didn’t take long for her @cosleepyInstagram page to grow by the tens of thousands and become the largest community of cosleeping parents on the web.

She is a frequent guest on podcasts and blogs, and has been interviewed by the media several times as a representative for the educated, millennial parent who’s decided to go against the standard advice.

Her work has been referenced in several articles discussing the controversy of cosleeping, most notably New York Magazine's viral article Are We All Secretly Co-sleeping?

Tiffany cosleeps with her husband and two little boys in northern California.

===

Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

——

This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

****Freebies*****

Early postpartum recovery course: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ 

Pp sample 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/

Prenatal Sample: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/

Pelvic Floor 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/

Birth Prep for Labor Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/

Birth Partner Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/

Birth Plan 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

In this Birth Story Friday, Jess shares her empowering experience deciding on and undergoing a scheduled C-section for her second baby. Jess's shares her journey of choosing a C-section over a VBAC, feeling empowered to make an informed choice based on her own personal risks. The episode explores Jess's preparation during pregnancy, including taking the MamasteFit strength course and selecting a supportive OB in her new city. Jess shares insights on listening to one's gut, navigating external pressures, and making informed decisions for birth. Additionally, Gina and Roxanne offer practical advice on personalizing a C-section birth and emphasize the importance of contingency plans. The episode also dives into postpartum recovery, with Jess detailing her faster and more prepared recovery process this time around. 

00:00 Introduction to Birth Story Friday

01:42 Meet Jess: Deciding Between VBAC and Scheduled C-Section

01:56 Pregnancy Preparation and Choosing a Provider

04:34 Deciding on a Repeat C-Section

07:37 End of Pregnancy and Unexpected Labor

08:59 Scheduled C-Section Experience

14:31 Postpartum Recovery and Reflections

18:23 Advice for Choosing Between VBAC and C-Section

24:22 Personalizing Your C-Section Experience

33:45 Planning for Contingencies in Birth

35:38 Conclusion and Resources

===

Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

****Freebies*****

Early postpartum recovery course: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ 

Pp sample 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/

Prenatal Sample: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/

Pelvic Floor 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/

Birth Prep for Labor Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/

Birth Partner Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/

Birth Plan 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

Gina (first born) and Roxanne (second born) speak with Dr. Bob Hurst about the impact our birth order and the birth orders of our children have on our lives. Dr. Hurst, an orthodontist with over 50 years of experience, shares his insights on how birth order influences individual behavior, sibling relationships, and how parents can better understand and support their children. The episode also delves into 'double birth orders' and their significance, as well as practical advice for preparing children for new siblings based on their birth order. The discussion covers tips for things to remember when introducing a new sibling to the family dynamic, and even covers birth order matches for marriage that are sure to stand the test of time! 

More about Dr. Bob:

Dr. Robert V.V. Hurst is a Harvard graduate and an experienced orthodontist with over 50 years in the field. Throughout his career, he has treated thousands of patients, observing firsthand how birth order and behavior patterns shape personal development and family dynamics. His extensive research challenges conventional birth order theories by introducing the concept of “Double Birth Order,” offering deeper insights into relationships and parenting. With a passion for understanding human behavior, Dr. Hurst combines his academic background with decades of practical experience to shed light on the complexities of familial roles and individual growth. He has shared his observations in his book LifesFingeprint: How Birth Order Affects Your Path Throughout Life.

00:00 Introduction to Birth Order and Personality

00:44 Meet the Hosts and Guest

01:35 Dr. Bob's Insights on Birth Order

03:14 Understanding Double Birth Orders

05:25 Sibling Dynamics and Rivalries

07:24 Birth Order in Larger Families

13:50 Blended Families and Birth Order

22:10 Practical Tips for Parents

25:48 Historical Context of Birth Order Theory

26:51 Sponsor Break: Needed Nutrition

32:31 Understanding Different Perspectives

33:02 Roles in Business and Family

34:20 The Dynamics of Twins and Multiples

37:00 Preparing Children for New Siblings

43:38 Parenting Based on Birth Order

46:35 Love and Birth Order

49:31 Complex Family Structures

53:48 Montessori and Birth Order

57:29 Final Thoughts and Resources

===

Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

——

This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

****Freebies*****

Early postpartum recovery course: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ 

Pp sample 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/

Prenatal Sample: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/

Pelvic Floor 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/

Birth Prep for Labor Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/

Birth Partner Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/

Birth Plan 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Gina and Roxanne explore the topic of pain relief during labor, focusing on epidurals. They explain what an epidural is, its benefits, potential concerns, and debunks a few myths. They discuss the steps involved before, during, and after the epidural procedure, how to prepare for it, and how to manage labor and pushing with an epidural. The episode provides practical tips on positioning, movement, and pushing techniques for a more effective and comfortable birthing experience with an epidural!

00:00 Introduction to Pain Relief Options

01:05 Benefits and Considerations of Epidurals

02:31 Understanding Epidurals: What to Expect

07:28 Questions to Ask About Epidurals

17:43 Epidural Administration Process

21:14 Sponsor Break: Needed Nutrition

22:44 Epidural Placement and Experience

27:37 Monitoring and Adjusting Epidural Effects

28:47 Foley Catheter and Epidural Side Effects

30:51 Epidural and C-Section Concerns

32:28 Tools for Movement with an Epidural

36:54 Pushing with an Epidural

46:01 Advocating for Your Preferred Pushing Position

52:49 Recap and Final Thoughts on Epidurals

55:27 Additional Resources and Sponsorship

===

Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

——

This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

****Freebies*****

Early postpartum recovery course: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ 

Pp sample 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/

Prenatal Sample: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/

Pelvic Floor 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/

Birth Prep for Labor Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/

Birth Partner Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/

Birth Plan 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

In this episode of Birth Story Friday, Roxanne is joined by Melissa, who shares her transformative and intense home birth experience. After discovering a previous procedure left considerable cervical scar tissue that was delaying her labor at 41 weeks, Melissa and her midwives devise a plan to break up the scar tissue. Despite initial delays, Melissa's active labor starts rapidly once her water breaks, leading to a surprisingly swift progression. With supportive midwives, a dedicated doula, and her husband, Melissa successfully delivers her baby at home. This episode emphasizes the importance of trusting and working closely with knowledgeable care providers and offers insights for those with similar cervical procedures in their medical history.

00:00 Introduction to the MamasteFit Podcast

01:27 Meet Melissa: Preparing for Pregnancy and Childbirth

03:58 Choosing Home Birth: Melissa's Decision

06:57 Facing Challenges: Scar Tissue and Labor Induction

12:30 Active Labor and Delivery

26:32 Postpartum Reflections and Advice

30:36 Conclusion and Resources

===

Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

——

****Freebies*****

Early postpartum recovery course: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ 

Pp sample 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/

Prenatal Sample: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/

Pelvic Floor 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/

Birth Prep for Labor Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/

Birth Partner Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/

Birth Plan 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/