Your Birth Bestie | The Best Pregnancy Podcast for an Informed and Natural Birth Experience

Text Your Birth Bestie

Have you ever wondered how your baby’s position during pregnancy can affect your labor and delivery experience? 

Many expecting moms are curious about the best ways to make sure their baby is in the best position for a smoother birth. In this episode, we’ll dive into what you need to know about baby positioning and how you can encourage the best outcomes.

What to expect:

• Understanding the optimal position and how it can make birth quicker and easier… 
• Common baby positions that might complicate labor and how to avoid them…
• Practical exercises and daily activities to promote optimal baby positioning…
• Introduction into the Spinning Babies approach and specific techniques used…
• The role of alternative therapies like chiropractic care, prenatal massage, and acupuncture to turning baby into a good position…
• …and much more!

By understanding and actively working on your baby’s position, you can significantly impact your labor experience. While every pregnancy is unique, these tips and techniques offer valuable ways to prepare for a smoother delivery. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider to tailor these suggestions to your individual needs. Stay optimistic and proactive, and trust in your ability to have a positive birthing experience!

Resources

More advanced information based on your situation check out: Spinning Babies and the Body Ready Method

Exercises Mentioned:

• Forward leaning inversion
• Side-lying release
• Lunge
• Breech tilt

➡️ FREE GUIDE -- 5 Best Pain Coping Tips for Every Stage of Labor

🌸 Connect with Beth

Website - www.familyfocusedmidwifery.com
Instagram - @family.focused.midwifery
Pinterest - familyfocusedmidwifery
Etsy Shop - Your Birth Bestie

👋 WHO AM I?

Welcome, friends! I am Beth, a certified nurse midwife, doula, and childbirth educator. My philosophy is rooted in autonomy, informed decision making, and positive mindset to help expecting parents plan for a beautiful, stress-free  birth. I am here to provide value to YOU through tips and practical advice, either to guide you through pregnancy or to help you prepare for childbirth, postpartum and beyond. There’s no fluff here - only info that adds to your positive experience and saves you stress and uncertainty.

Text Your Birth Bestie

If you want a home-like birth experience in the hospital setting, this episode is for you! Join me as I share my home birth preparation tips and how they aren’t much different than how I would plan for another hospital experience. 

Many women want the intimacy, atmosphere, and autonomy of a home birth, but it's not always the right fit for everyone. Join me to hear more about my journey and tips to enhance your birth experience, no matter where you give birth.

This episode we’ll discuss:

• Different approaches of home birth midwives and hospital providers…
• Benefits of preparing a birth plan and knowing your options…
• How to actively participate in your care and voice preferences early on…
• Potential flexibility in prenatal visit schedules and understanding each…
• Calm and comfortable birth environments, limiting unnecessary interruptions…
• …and so much more for a smooth birth experience!

No matter where you give birth, you can create a positive and personalized experience. Education, preparation, and advocacy are key. Stay informed, trust your choices, and enjoy the journey to welcoming your baby.

Resources:
Pregnancy, Labor, Postpartum, and Newborn Registry For Moms

Fearless Birth Academy Online Birth Course

➡️ FREE GUIDE -- 5 Best Pain Coping Tips for Every Stage of Labor

🌸 Connect with Beth

Website - www.familyfocusedmidwifery.com
Instagram - @family.focused.midwifery
Pinterest - familyfocusedmidwifery
Etsy Shop - Your Birth Bestie

👋 WHO AM I?

Welcome, friends! I am Beth, a certified nurse midwife, doula, and childbirth educator. My philosophy is rooted in autonomy, informed decision making, and positive mindset to help expecting parents plan for a beautiful, stress-free  birth. I am here to provide value to YOU through tips and practical advice, either to guide you through pregnancy or to help you prepare for childbirth, postpartum and beyond. There’s no fluff here - only info that adds to your positive experience and saves you stress and uncertainty.

Text Your Birth Bestie

Pregnant moms often wonder if it’s worth it to collect colostrum during pregnancy? Or maybe you’re completely new to the idea of hand expression during pregnancy!

In this episode, we delve into the benefits, methods, and reasons behind colostrum harvesting. Join us as we explore this valuable practice that can provide a great start for your newborn.

In this episode, we’ll talk about:

• Why colostrum is referred to as 'liquid gold' and its crucial benefits for newborns…
• The optimal time to start collecting colostrum and exactly how to do it safely…
• Tools and techniques for effective colostrum collection, including the Elvie catch and hand expression methods…
• How having colostrum on hand can alleviate stress and prepare you for potential breastfeeding challenges…
• Personal experiences and expert advice from a lactation specialist to guide you through your colostrum collection journey…
• … and much more!

Collecting colostrum during pregnancy can be a proactive step in ensuring your baby's health and your peace of mind. Tune in to get all the details and feel empowered as you prepare for your baby's arrival. Don't forget to check out the resources linked in the show notes for additional support and guidance, too!

Resources:
Colostrum Harvesting Handout

Syringes For Collection -- Amazon

Latched Lake Country – Jackie, RN, BSN, IBCLC, CLC, CBWE

➡️ FREE GUIDE -- 5 Best Pain Coping Tips for Every Stage of Labor

🌸 Connect with Beth

Website - www.familyfocusedmidwifery.com
Instagram - @family.focused.midwifery
Pinterest - familyfocusedmidwifery
Etsy Shop - Your Birth Bestie

👋 WHO AM I?

Welcome, friends! I am Beth, a certified nurse midwife, doula, and childbirth educator. My philosophy is rooted in autonomy, informed decision making, and positive mindset to help expecting parents plan for a beautiful, stress-free  birth. I am here to provide value to YOU through tips and practical advice, either to guide you through pregnancy or to help you prepare for childbirth, postpartum and beyond. There’s no fluff here - only info that adds to your positive experience and saves you stress and uncertainty.

Text Your Birth Bestie

Did you know that you can birth your baby without a single cervical exam during pregnancy or labor?

In this episode, we’ll explore how you can assess labor progress in other ways, understand the true necessity of these exams, and how to advocate for what you want during your birthing experience.

What to expect:

• Understand the frequency and routine nature of cervical exams in hospital births…
• Why cervical dilation is NOT a reliable predictor of labor progress...
• Possible risks and emotional impacts of frequent cervical exams…
• Other ways to assess labor progress without cervical exams you might not realize...
• How to advocate for a birth experience with minimal cervical exams if you want…
• … and so much more!.

Thank you for tuning in to Your Birth Bestie podcast today! Remember, your birthing experience is yours to shape. Knowing your options and understanding that cervical exams aren't the only way to assess labor can empower you to make the best decisions for your body and your baby. Join us next week for another episode! 

➡️ FREE GUIDE -- 5 Best Pain Coping Tips for Every Stage of Labor

🌸 Connect with Beth

Website - www.familyfocusedmidwifery.com
Instagram - @family.focused.midwifery
Pinterest - familyfocusedmidwifery
Etsy Shop - Your Birth Bestie

👋 WHO AM I?

Welcome, friends! I am Beth, a certified nurse midwife, doula, and childbirth educator. My philosophy is rooted in autonomy, informed decision making, and positive mindset to help expecting parents plan for a beautiful, stress-free  birth. I am here to provide value to YOU through tips and practical advice, either to guide you through pregnancy or to help you prepare for childbirth, postpartum and beyond. There’s no fluff here - only info that adds to your positive experience and saves you stress and uncertainty.

Text Your Birth Bestie

Are you wondering what natural methods can help you go into labor or prepare your body for birth? This episode will answer these questions, but also give you insight and support if a checklist of extra things causes more stress!

In this episode, you’ll learn about:

• The importance of reducing stress: How staying calm and confident can naturally promote labor…
• Physical activities and professional help: The benefits of walking, prenatal yoga, and seeking assistance from chiropractors, massage therapists, and pelvic floor physical therapists...
• Home remedies and their effects: Insight into popular methods like red raspberry leaf tea, dates, and birth balls, and what they do for your body…
• Sexual activity and labor stimulation: How semen and orgasms can help soften the cervix and stimulate contractions…
• Mindfulness and mental preparation: The role of mindfulness techniques, diaphragmatic breathing, and meditation in preparing for labor…
• … and so much more!

Tune in as we explore these natural methods to start labor, ensuring you’re informed and confident in your birth journey. The bottom line though is that your body knows the optimal time for your baby to arrive. Trust birth!

SPECIAL OFFER – Fearless Birth Academy

➡️ FREE GUIDE -- 5 Best Pain Coping Tips for Every Stage of Labor

🌸 Connect with Beth

Website - www.familyfocusedmidwifery.com
Instagram - @family.focused.midwifery
Pinterest - familyfocusedmidwifery
Etsy Shop - Your Birth Bestie

👋 WHO AM I?

Welcome, friends! I am Beth, a certified nurse midwife, doula, and childbirth educator. My philosophy is rooted in autonomy, informed decision making, and positive mindset to help expecting parents plan for a beautiful, stress-free  birth. I am here to provide value to YOU through tips and practical advice, either to guide you through pregnancy or to help you prepare for childbirth, postpartum and beyond. There’s no fluff here - only info that adds to your positive experience and saves you stress and uncertainty.

Text Your Birth Bestie

Have you ever wondered how to tell if your water has broken or if you accidentally peed your pants? It’s more common than you probably think, so please don’t feel embarrassed!

This episode will help clear up any confusion and provide you with the information you need to feel confident and prepared.

In this episode, we cover:

• The differences between amniotic fluid and urine, including color and odor…
• Key signs that your water has broken and how to identify them…
• When to consider going to OB triage to be assessed and navigating seeking help…
• Various tests your provider can use to confirm if your water has broken…
• Immediate steps to take, when to go to the hospital, what to expect next…
• …and so much more!

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Your Birth Bestie podcast! Every pregnancy is unique, and understanding what to expect can help you stay calm and prepared. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with other expectant mothers. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we'll continue to support you on your pregnancy journey.

➡️ FREE GUIDE -- 5 Best Pain Coping Tips for Every Stage of Labor

🌸 Connect with Beth

Website - www.familyfocusedmidwifery.com
Instagram - @family.focused.midwifery
Pinterest - familyfocusedmidwifery
Etsy Shop - Your Birth Bestie

👋 WHO AM I?

Welcome, friends! I am Beth, a certified nurse midwife, doula, and childbirth educator. My philosophy is rooted in autonomy, informed decision making, and positive mindset to help expecting parents plan for a beautiful, stress-free  birth. I am here to provide value to YOU through tips and practical advice, either to guide you through pregnancy or to help you prepare for childbirth, postpartum and beyond. There’s no fluff here - only info that adds to your positive experience and saves you stress and uncertainty.

Text Your Birth Bestie

Are you unsure what to expect when labor starts or how to determine a pregnancy cramp or Braxton Hicks contraction from a true labor contraction? You want to feel confident you’ll know when it’s the real deal!

In today’s episode, I’ll cover everything you need to know when distinguishing practice contractions from actual labor.

What to expect:

• What is preterm labor and key signs to watch for…
• What are Braxton Hicks contractions…
• How do real labor contractions differ from pregnancy cramps…
• When to consider calling your doctor about contractions and labor status…
• How to find support when coming up with a labor and birth plan…
• … and much more!

Understanding the signs of preterm labor and differentiating between false contractions and true labor empowers you to make informed decisions. Remember, support is available to help you through every stage!

Currently offering 1:1 Zoom calls with pregnant moms to help you feel calm and confident going into your birth experience! Schedule your call here.

➡️ FREE GUIDE -- 5 Best Pain Coping Tips for Every Stage of Labor

🌸 Connect with Beth

Website - www.familyfocusedmidwifery.com
Instagram - @family.focused.midwifery
Pinterest - familyfocusedmidwifery
Etsy Shop - Your Birth Bestie

👋 WHO AM I?

Welcome, friends! I am Beth, a certified nurse midwife, doula, and childbirth educator. My philosophy is rooted in autonomy, informed decision making, and positive mindset to help expecting parents plan for a beautiful, stress-free  birth. I am here to provide value to YOU through tips and practical advice, either to guide you through pregnancy or to help you prepare for childbirth, postpartum and beyond. There’s no fluff here - only info that adds to your positive experience and saves you stress and uncertainty.

Text Your Birth Bestie

Informed consent is a crucial topic to discuss in childbirth. I love helping women take control of their birthing experiences by asking questions and making informed plans, so they can love their birth no matter what!

In this episode, I spoke with Katie Spinks, a doula and childbirth educator, who bravely shares her story of experiencing uterine rupture during an elective induction with pitocin. Katie opens up about her journey, highlighting issues of uninformed consent and medical negligence that led to a severe birth injury to her daughter, Jolene, and the emotional toll it took on her family. She stresses the importance of questioning medical advice, standing up for oneself, and exploring alternatives.

Topics we talk about:

• The lack of information about potential risks and interventions in typical prenatal care…
• The importance of informed consent and necessity for better childbirth education…
• How healthcare providers should be respecting women’s autonomy and choices during labor…
• The uniqueness of each birthing experience and care should be tailored to each woman’s needs and preferences…
• Strategies for self-advocacy and navigating medical interventions confidently…
• …and much more!

Informed consent is vital for respectful maternity care, empowering women to make informed decisions about their birthing experiences. By sharing stories like Katie's and fostering dialogue, we aim to raise awareness and empower women to reclaim control in their childbirth journeys.

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 60! Join us next time as we continue to explore topics related to women's health, empowerment, and informed decision-making in childbirth. Remember, your voice matters, and your birth experience deserves to be respected and honored.

My #1 Downloaded Resource Here: Understanding Your Hospital Birth Options

Connect with Katie

Instagram @katie_spinks_ 

TikTok @_k_spinks_

➡️ FREE GUIDE -- 5 Best Pain Coping Tips for Every Stage of Labor

🌸 Connect with Beth

Website - www.familyfocusedmidwifery.com
Instagram - @family.focused.midwifery
Pinterest - familyfocusedmidwifery
Etsy Shop - Your Birth Bestie

👋 WHO AM I?

Welcome, friends! I am Beth, a certified nurse midwife, doula, and childbirth educator. My philosophy is rooted in autonomy, informed decision making, and positive mindset to help expecting parents plan for a beautiful, stress-free  birth. I am here to provide value to YOU through tips and practical advice, either to guide you through pregnancy or to help you prepare for childbirth, postpartum and beyond. There’s no fluff here - only info that adds to your positive experience and saves you stress and uncertainty.

Text Your Birth Bestie

How are you hanging in there during the third trimester of pregnancy? There can be  many  discomforts at this time of pregnancy and this week I am sharing tips on how to manage some of the biggest complaints moms have.

In this episode, we'll cover:

• Practical tips for managing frequent urination during pregnancy…
• Strategies for getting better sleep before those restless newborn days…
• How to prevent swelling in your ankles and legs, especially when on your feet all day…
• Managing acid reflux and heartburn without medications…
• Effective methods for dealing with restless leg syndrome, low back, and hip pain…
• … and much more!

You may not feel like the end is near, but you’re in the home stretch! Tune in for valuable insights and support on your journey through the third trimester. You’ve got this!

Resources Mentioned

Mommy Care Kit – APPLY HERE to see if your insurance covers pregnancy and postpartum support items

Dr. Vanessa Fritz with Chiropractic Company in Oconomowoc, WI – Webster Technique Certified, Pediatric Certification through CACCP – schedule appointment here

➡️ FREE GUIDE -- 5 Best Pain Coping Tips for Every Stage of Labor

🌸 Connect with Beth

Website - www.familyfocusedmidwifery.com
Instagram - @family.focused.midwifery
Pinterest - familyfocusedmidwifery
Etsy Shop - Your Birth Bestie

👋 WHO AM I?

Welcome, friends! I am Beth, a certified nurse midwife, doula, and childbirth educator. My philosophy is rooted in autonomy, informed decision making, and positive mindset to help expecting parents plan for a beautiful, stress-free  birth. I am here to provide value to YOU through tips and practical advice, either to guide you through pregnancy or to help you prepare for childbirth, postpartum and beyond. There’s no fluff here - only info that adds to your positive experience and saves you stress and uncertainty.

Text Your Birth Bestie

Are you worried about having a big baby and it leading to an induction of labor or perineal tearing?

As a mom of big babies, I was fear mongered in my second pregnancy to do extra testing early on, leading to further intervention… instead of being educated, empowered, and supported to do what was right for me. You won’t want to miss this episode with Bloom Physical Therapy and Wellness!

In this episode we talk about:

• The myths and truths about big babies during pregnancy and childbirth…
• Expert insights from physical therapists in supporting women during pregnancy and postpartum…
• How to navigate common fears and misconceptions around big babies and tearing during childbirth…
• Practical ways to prepare for childbirth that includes more mindset work than controversial perineal massage…
• The importance of supporting and informing women throughout their pregnancy to feel confident birthing their baby…
• …and so much more!

Thank you for tuning into this episode today! To connect with Mary and Amanda at Bloom Physical Therapy and Wellness in Hartland, WI, please see links below.

Instagram: @bloomptandwellness
Website: www.bloomptandwellness.com
In-home services and office availability in Hartland, WI

➡️ FREE GUIDE -- 5 Best Pain Coping Tips for Every Stage of Labor

🌸 Connect with Beth

Website - www.familyfocusedmidwifery.com
Instagram - @family.focused.midwifery
Pinterest - familyfocusedmidwifery
Etsy Shop - Your Birth Bestie

👋 WHO AM I?

Welcome, friends! I am Beth, a certified nurse midwife, doula, and childbirth educator. My philosophy is rooted in autonomy, informed decision making, and positive mindset to help expecting parents plan for a beautiful, stress-free  birth. I am here to provide value to YOU through tips and practical advice, either to guide you through pregnancy or to help you prepare for childbirth, postpartum and beyond. There’s no fluff here - only info that adds to your positive experience and saves you stress and uncertainty.