The MamasteFit Podcast

In the premiere episode of 'Moments with MamasteFit,' hosts Gina and Roxanne share professional birth worker experiences with cervical scar tissue, a frequently overlooked but significant factor in labor progress. They delve into causes such as previous cervical procedures, symptoms, and various ways to address and manage scar tissue during labor. Techniques like manual massage, use of evening primrose oil, and mechanical dilators are explored. This episode educates both expecting parents and birth professionals on the potential challenges and solutions associated with cervical scar tissue.

00:00 Introduction to Moments with MamasteFit

00:42 Understanding Cervical Scar Tissue

01:35 Identifying and Addressing Cervical Scar Tissue

03:14 Personal Experiences and Theories

06:30 Methods to Break Up Cervical Scar Tissue

09:45 Preparing for Labor with Cervical Scar Tissue

17:32 Final Thoughts 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/

In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina and Roxanne sit down with Dr. Puja Shah again, this time to discuss mental strategies for navigating the postpartum period. They delve into hormonal shifts, common emotions, and effective coping mechanisms. Dr. Shah shares her personal journey with postpartum mental health, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and breathing exercises. The conversation also touches on the realities of life and death, providing insights on grieving and managing postpartum anxiety. This episode aims to empower new mothers with tools for a smoother transition into motherhood!

00:00 Introduction to the MamasteFit Podcast

01:14 Meet Dr. Puja Shah: Navigating Postpartum Mentally

03:04 Personal Stories of Postpartum Grief and Anxiety

06:44 Coping Mechanisms and Mental Health Strategies

10:07 The Concept of Matrescence and Postpartum Changes

21:17 Modeling Healthy Behaviors for Our Children

22:02 Sponsor Break: Needed Nutrition

24:16 Breathing Techniques and Mantras for Stress Relief

37:07 Addressing Life and Death in Postpartum

48:21 Final Thoughts and Coping Strategies Recap

53:32 Conclusion and Resources for Postpartum Support

More about Dr. Shah:

Puja Shah, M.D., is a double board-certified anesthesiologist and interventional pain management specialist. After her own journey with pregnancy, and postpartum she has honed her craft to women's wellbeing, particularly during this intricate stage of life.  

Approaching wellness from the inside out, she uses her intensive medical training and deep understanding of the mind-body connection to deliver comprehensive pain management care to her patients.

Passionate about promoting a greater understanding of chronic pain, she believes that many conditions may have multifactorial sources and works diligently with each patient to find their own specialized wellness profile and treatment plan.  She is an expert mind/body coach and believes that without self awareness, we cannot truly heal.  She coaches clients to become aware of the root causes of their distress, to allow relief of symptoms such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more.  The synergy between the mental health and somatic (body) system is what she believes can lead to long lasting wellbeing.  

Dr. Shah completed her education at Drexel University College of Medicine, completed a residency in anesthesiology at the SUNY Downstate Medical Center, where she won the Resident of the Year award, and a fellowship in Interventional Pain Management at Tufts University. Dr. Shah has authored numerous research presentations and is a member of several honorary and professional societies.

Dr. Shah works as an anesthesiologist, pain management specialist in New York City and the surrounding area.

Follow Dr. Shah on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/drpujanyc/

Hear our other episode with Dr. Shah all about Birth and Pain Relief: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/aed5TFqcYPb

===

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 Birth Story Friday, Roxanne welcomes Sam, who shares her personal journey of her two birth experiences. Sam's first birth was a challenging C-section following an induction due to high blood pressure, which led her to seek a different path for her second pregnancy. Determined to have a VBAC, Sam finds a supportive provider and prepares extensively through prenatal courses, pelvic floor exercises, and Hypnobirthing. Despite facing another induction for preeclampsia, Sam successfully delivers her baby vaginally. Her story emphasizes the significance of having a supportive medical team and the importance of preparation and advocacy in achieving a desired birth experience.

00:00 Introduction to the MamasteFit Podcast

00:01 Meet Sam: Two Birth Stories

01:27 Sam's First Birth: A C-Section Journey

14:30 Preparing for the Second Pregnancy

25:17 Sam's Second Birth: A Successful VBAC

36:13 Postpartum Reflections and Advice

41:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

===

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 New Year's episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Gina, a perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula, shares the journey of creating MamasteFit—a global company offering both online and in-person pre/postnatal fitness programs, and childbirth education courses. Gina discusses the steps she and her sister Roxanne have taken to build their business, challenges faced, the importance of community, and how their backgrounds and commitment to continuous learning shaped MamasteFit. From starting small in 2017 hoping for 100 followers and handful of in-person clients, to a global company with hundreds of thousands of followers and even becoming a published author, Gina shares advice on what has helped her along the way. 

00:00 Welcome to MamasteFit Podcast

01:08 The Birth of MamasteFit

02:16 Building the Business: Personal Training and Certifications

06:22 Creating a Community and Refining Programs

14:13 Expanding Services: Doula Support and Social Media Growth

24:18 Navigating Challenges and Growth During COVID

33:29 Future Goals and Personal Reflections

===

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 discuss their personal journeys of transitioning from having no children to four. They talk about the challenges, support systems, and mental health struggles they faced at each stage, from 0 to 1, 1 to 2, 2 to 3, and finally, 3 to 4 kids. They also share how they reached the point of knowing their families are complete. Gina discusses her journey with four kids and a supportive network, while Roxanne delves into her experience with three kids, highlighting the difficulties with postpartum mental health and seeking balance. The episode is filled with personal anecdotes and professional insights aimed at empowering listeners in their own family planning and parenting journeys.

00:00 Introduction to the MamasteFit Podcast

01:14 Gina's Journey: From Zero to One Child

12:07 Roxanne's Experience: From Zero to One Child

13:50 Navigating Breastfeeding Challenges

22:46 Mental Health and Postpartum Anxiety

25:15 Support Systems and Family Dynamics

27:30 Coping Strategies and Hormonal Changes

27:53 Challenges of Moving and Birth Experiences

28:53 Sleep Struggles and Co-Sleeping

29:46 Breastfeeding and Weight Concerns

32:37 Seeking Support and Babysitting

35:11 Therapy and Postpartum Reflections

38:26 Transitioning to Three Kids

41:49 Feeling Complete with Four Kids

52:36 Final Thoughts 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/

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/