The MamasteFit Podcast

Hosts Gina and Roxanne sit down with Jenni Sills, a functional hormone specialist and founder of Life Simply Balanced. Jenni openly discusses her personal conception journey, where she struggled for a long time before choosing to use an egg donor and IVF to conceive. Her story is impactful as she highlights her process of acceptance and her bond with her baby. She also shares insights on the importance of supporting hormone health, particularly during preconception, conception, into pregnancy and beyond. Sills also shares tips on how factors such as a nutrient-rich diet, a balanced exercise regimen, stress management, and quality sleep can positively influence hormones. 

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In This Episode:

00:00 Introduction to the MamasteFit Podcast

01:20 Jenni's Personal Journey to Conception

07:06 The Importance of Preconception Health

13:28 The Emotional Journey of Choosing an Egg Donor

17:59 The IVF Process and Early Pregnancy

21:49 The Importance of Nutrient Intake During Preconception

25:53 Pregnancy and Nutrition

26:31 Functional Hormone Specialist Advice

27:01 Importance of Protein and Quality Food

28:43 Exercise and Hormone Balance

31:04 Resistance Training and Women's Health

31:49 Overcoming Gym Intimidation

34:54 Balancing Cardio and Resistance Training

36:35 Stress Management and Hormone Balance

38:14 Understanding Gut Health and Hormones

40:53 Working with a Hormone Specialist

46:24 Testimonial 

47:45 Closing Remarks and Sponsorship

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Find Jenni Here!

website: www.jennisills.com

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/life.simply.balanced/

Book a Discovery Call: https://l.bttr.to/V12EF

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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.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

Join us for the birth story of Lauren, who shares her experiences between her two births. Her first birth was unmedicated induction at 37 weeks due to high blood pressure, which led to pushing for four hours. For her second birth, despite the baby being in unstable lie (flipping positions from breech to head down frequently), a successful ECV leads to another induction where she pushed for only 12 minutes! Lauren provides valuable insights into how she prepared physically and mentally for her second birth. Gina and Roxanne, provide professional advice on dealing with an unstable lie. They also discuss the importance of having options in case of a breech birth, and being able to advocate for oneself in a hospital setting.

In This Episode:

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:11 Guest Introduction: Lauren

01:42 Lauren's Pregnancy and Birth Preparation

03:20 Dealing with a Breech Baby

06:23 The ECV Experience and Induction

09:50 Reflections on the Birth Experience

18:32 Testimonial: Birth Education Course 

19:44 Understanding Unstable Lie

23:04 Conclusion and Offerings from MamasteFit

In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Gina is joined by her husband, Barron, as they share their personal journey of navigating pregnancy after experiencing two miscarriages. They discuss the emotional challenges they faced, the difficulty in feeling confident about subsequent pregnancies, and how they coped with the anxiety. The couple also highlights the importance of a supportive community in times of grief and provides tips for both the person experiencing the pregnancy loss and their partner. The episode also mentions their experiences with prenatal care and hopes for future pregnancies following their losses.

In This Episode:

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:20 The MamasteFit Podcast Mission

01:10 Navigating Pregnancy After Loss: Personal Experiences

02:05 The First Pregnancy Loss: A Missed Miscarriage

16:49 The Second Pregnancy Loss: A Quick and Confusing Experience

22:10 The Journey to a Successful Pregnancy: Overcoming Fear and Anxiety

27:14 The Importance of Support and Understanding During Pregnancy Loss

36:49 Preparing for a Fourth Baby

40:51 The Joy and Anxiety of Subsequent Pregnancies

53:01 Conclusion: The Importance of Support and Understanding

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Listen to Gina’s Preparing to Conceive Journey Episode: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mamastefit-podcast/episodes/42-Preparing-for-Conception-e2df908

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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.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

In this Birth Story Friday, first-time mom Becky narrates her empowering unmedicated hospital birth story. She shares all her experiences leading up to the birth, including the preparations and affirmations she practiced during her pregnancy to prepare both mind and body for an unmedicated experience. Becky also talks about the unexpected postpartum complications she faced, such as postpartum hemorrhage, an emergency D&C for a retained placenta, and her need for a blood transfusion. The episode wraps up with a short discussion about what it means being Rh positive or negative, understanding the affects of fetal blood mixing, and why RhoGAM is recommended during pregnancy.

In This Episode

00:00 Introduction 

01:18 Introduction of the Becky 

01:29 Preparation for Birth

03:01 The Labor Begins

09:26 Arrival at the Hospital and Progression of Labor

16:10 Time to Push

20:20 Postpartum Complications and Recovery

32:51 Discussion on Rh Factor and RhoGAM

35:43 Conclusion and Offerings

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Watch Becky’s Instagram Reel on her Birth Story Here:

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C0rZuGXrksw/ 

And watch her full birth story on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/pzSriVqH8Uc?feature=shared

In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina and Roxanne invite Dr. Sibyl Knight, a doctor of osteopathic medicine based in Monterey, California, to discuss the nature and benefits of osteopathic medicine. Dr. Knight explains the key differences between osteopathic medicine and traditional medicine, elaborating on the holistic approach osteopaths take toward treatment. She covers various topics including the role of osteopathic manipulations in alleviating pregnancy discomfort, aiding patients' postpartum recovery, and supporting breastfeeding. Dr. Knight also reveals the treatment techniques applicable for babies and their significance. 

In This Episode:

00:00 Introduction to the MamasteFit Podcast

00:17 Meet the Hosts: Gina and Roxanne

01:07 Introducing Dr. Sybil Knight

01:35 Understanding Osteopathic Medicine

03:06 Differences between Osteopathy and Chiropractic

04:39 Experiences with Osteopathic Medicine

05:15 Benefits of Osteopathy for Pregnant Women

13:16 Osteopathy for Babies and Children

28:32 Osteopathy and Breastfeeding

34:25 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

35:39 Sponsorship and Additional Resources

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More about Dr. Knight:

Dr. Knight has had an interest in musculoskeletal medicine ever since she did a Yoga Teacher Training prior to medical school.

When she went to medical school she immediately fell in love with Osteopathic Manipulation as a way to treat the body with the hands. Throughout her training she has constantly been amazed at the power of this modality to treat everyone from the elderly to newborns. Dr. Knight found osteopathic manipulation particularly helpful during her pregnancy and throughout the growth of her children. Osteopathic Manipulation has really allowed her children to thrive and she hopes to someday have every newborn receive treatment shortly after they are born.

She has a special interest in Breastfeeding Medicine and helping infants and toddlers who have latch issues with breastfeeding.

Find an osteopathic doctor near you: americanacademyofosteopathy.com

Find Sibyl’s practice on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/theosteopathicway/?hl=en

Find Sibyl’s website here: TheOsteopathicWay.com

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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.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

In this Birth Story Friday, Petra passionately shares her empowering journey of giving birth vaginally after three C sections! She discusses her personal experiences and complications in each of her C-sections, as well as her journey towards a vaginal birth after that (VBAC). The episode discusses the importance of advocating for oneself during pregnancy and birth. Using the acronym BRAIN, Gina and Roxanne encourage pregnant people to question and consider the Benefits, Risks, Alternatives, Intuition and Nothing (doing nothing) for each decision in the birth process. This episode also praises the benefits of support from families and professionals, such as birth doulas. Petra shares her advice for others seeking a VBAC, emphasizing processing previous birth experiences, listening to one's intuition, and having open conversations with partners.

In This Episode:

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:00 Guest Introduction: Petra

01:14 Petra's First C-Section Experience

03:04 Petra's Second and Third C-Section Experiences

05:38 Petra's Journey to VBAC

05:45 Petra's VBAC Preparation

09:32 The Struggles and Triumphs of Petra's VBAC Journey

12:15 Petra's VBAC Birth Story

25:08 Postpartum Experience and Reflections

26:31 Advice for Others Seeking VBAC

30:49 Testimonial from a MamasteFit Course Participant

33:09 Final Thoughts and Advocacy Tips

37:53 Conclusion and Invitation to MamasteFit Programs

You can learn more from Petra on her IG and website, especially if you want a VBAC after multiple c-sections.

In this episode Gina and Roxanne explain the anatomy of the pelvis and the importance of opening each level during childbirth. This episode focuses on how the top of the pelvis, or inlet, opens; and how certain exercises and movements can aid in creating more space in this area during pregnancy and birth. The hosts share insightful information about the three distinct levels of the pelvis and the biomechanics involved in childbirth. They delve into key movement patterns that facilitate the opening of the pelvis and share useful exercise recommendations for pregnancy. Roxanne provides valuable insights into labor positions with an epidural, while Gina emphasizes the importance of prenatal fitness training in birth preparation. 

In This Episode: 

00:00 Introduction 

01:00 Understanding the Structure of the Pelvis

01:18 How to Open the Top of the Pelvis

02:12 Exercises to Prepare for Birth

02:50 Understanding Postural Tendencies During Pregnancy

04:17 Creating Space in the Pelvis

07:21 Importance of Protein During Pregnancy

07:45 Promoting Needed's Collagen Protein

08:28 Preparing for Birth with MamasteFit Fitness Programming

09:55 Understanding Baby’s Station

11:29 Labor Positions to Help Baby Engage

20:28 Correlation Between Baby's Engagement and Labor Phases

21:04 Preparing for Birth with MamasteFit Birth Prep Circuit

23:15 Conclusion 

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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.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

In this  Birth Story Friday, Elysia shares her unique birth story which involves a diagnosis of preeclampsia, a two vessel cord in her baby, and PPROM when her water broke before the 37 week mark. Despite these challenges, and having to be induced with Pitocin (something she had been hoping to avoid), Elysia was able to have a smooth birth, much like the one she had desired, with the help of her midwife and supportive hospital staff. She discusses her prenatal preparations, the benefits of childbirth education, her postpartum experiences, and more. Elysia’s story leaves listeners with an encouraging reminder that even when pregnancies have seemingly scary curveballs, individuals can still have a beautiful birth experience.

In This Episode:

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:26 Elysia's Pregnancy Journey

03:03 Elysia's Birth Story Begins

06:23 Elysia's Labor and Delivery Experience

11:30 Postpartum Recovery and Challenges

13:47 Advice for Expecting Mothers

15:44 Understanding Two Vessel Cord

18:40 Conclusion and Offerings

Gina and Roxanne sit down with pelvic floor physical therapist Dr. Johanna Provencher to discuss the important role physical therapy plays in prenatal care and how rehabilitation of the pelvic floor can impact pregnancy and birth. Johanna emphasizes the importance of working with a physical therapist who takes a holistic approach and examines the whole body, instead of focusing solely on symptoms in the pelvic floor. She also shares a bit about what she is doing in her own journey to conceive, and breaks down the importance of maintaining good mobility, a well-structured exercise program, prioritizing recovery, and focusing on nutrition. The ladies cover how to find a suitable physical therapist, and stress that telehealth or virtual consultations are also a viable option for those unable to locate a therapist in their area.

In This Episode:

00:00 Introduction to the MamasteFit Podcast

01:14 Understanding Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

02:00 The Role of a Physical Therapist

02:56 Common Issues in Prenatal and Postpartum Patients

04:21 The Importance of Holistic Approach in Physical Therapy

05:57 Debunking Myths about Pelvic Floor Exercises

08:58 The Role of the Pelvic Floor in Body Movement

11:20 Understanding Body Asymmetries and Their Impact

26:03 Preparing for Pregnancy as a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist

26:19 The Importance of Nutrition and Exercise in Pregnancy Preparation

34:22 Finding the Right Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist

36:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Find more about PRI here: https://www.posturalrestoration.com/

Find a Pelvic Floor PT near you here: https://pelvicrehab.com/

Find Johanna on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/moorepelvicfloor/?hl=en

Find Haley Kava’s website here: https://www.hayleykavapt.com/

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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.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

In this Birth Story episode, Hannah shares her unique journeys through two distinct births. After her first birth involving an unplanned C-section and her second being a Vaginal Birth After C-section (VBAC), her experiences led her to become a childbirth educator and birth doula. Full of insights and providing educational resources and courses for families and doulas, Hannah offers invaluable advice on dealing with the fears and obstacles related to VBACs and Cesarean birth support. This episode also delves into the crucial aspect of choosing the right support system in terms of medical and emotional aid during pregnancy and birth.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:17 Hannah's First Birth Story: Unplanned C-Section

04:17 Hannah's C-Section

05:27 Post C-Section Experience and Pain Management

05:58 Advice for Doulas Supporting Unplanned or Labored C-Sections

06:05 Importance of C-Section Plan

17:11 Hannah's Journey to Becoming a Doula

17:18 Preparing for a VBAC

23:14 Hannah's VBAC Birth Story

34:14 Advice for Doulas Supporting VBAC

40:57 Hannah's Services and Contact Information

42:12 Conclusion and Podcast Outro

Hannah’s Website: ebbandflowbirthco.com

Instagram: @EbbAndFlowBirthCo

Podcast: Ebb and Flow Birth Show