Entering Motherhood: Pregnancy, Birth, and Postpartum Support

192. [DOULA TALK] Movement in Pregnancy

Join Sarah Marie Bilger and Katelyn Bayless in this episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast as they delve into the importance of movement during pregnancy. Discover how staying active can help prepare your body for birth and ease the transition into motherhood. From squats to intuitive labor positions, this episode covers essential tips and practices to empower pregnant women.

Whether you are pregnant or supporting someone on their pregnancy journey, this conversation provides actionable insights and highlights the significance of integrating movement for a healthier and more informed childbirth experience. Explore expert recommendations like spinning babies and discover how to utilize these strategies for optimal baby positioning and comfort during labor.

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191. [DOULA TALK] Pain Management in Birth

Welcome to the Entering Motherhood podcast, your trusted companion on the journey to empowered and informed motherhood. In this episode, hosted by Sarah Marie Bilger and her co-host Katelyn, we delve into the intricacies of pain management during labor and the birthing process. Discover a blend of holistic mindfulness and evidence-based practices designed to support your unique pathway into motherhood, whether you're trying to conceive, pregnant, navigating postpartum, or assisting others in this stage of life.

This special "Doula Talk" edition brings you insights and practical tips from experienced professionals that help dismiss the common fear-tension-pain cycle. Learn how positioning, mindset, and preparation can transform your birthing experience into a positive and empowering event. The hosts also introduce their comprehensive O.W.N. Your Birth CBE course, offering an extensive toolkit to enhance your confidence and readiness for childbirth and beyond.

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190. [DOULA TALK] Cascade of Interventions

Welcome to the Entering Motherhood podcast, hosted by Sarah Marie Bilger. In this episode, join Sarah and co-host Katelyn for a deep dive into the "cascade of interventions" in childbirth. Explore how seemingly small medical interventions during labor can lead to a series of additional procedures, often culminating in a cesarean birth. Learn about the importance of being informed about potential interventions to make empowered decisions during your pregnancy and birthing journey.

Get insights from professionals, special guests, and moms who have experienced the cascade firsthand. Discover how the Own Your Birth Childbirth Education Course can be your guide in understanding these complex processes. Whether you're pregnant, postpartum, or supporting someone through this journey, this episode will enhance your understanding and confidence in navigating birth interventions.

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189. [DOULA TALK] Setting Clear Boundaries

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, hosted by Sarah Marie Bilger, a dedicated wife, VBAC mom, and experienced doula. In this episode, Sarah and co-host Katelyn, co-creator of the O.W.N. Your Birth Childbirth Education Course, delve into the pivotal topic of setting boundaries during pregnancy, birth, and beyond.

Join the conversation as we explore how establishing clear boundaries not only helps in defining your needs but also plays a crucial role in communicating effectively with your birth team. Discover practical tips on advocating for yourself and your baby, and learn why steadfast boundaries pave the way for a supportive and empowering motherhood journey.

Sarah and Katelyn also encourage listeners to participate actively by sharing their own experiences and questions, fostering a community where mamas and doulas alike can exchange insights and support each other. So listen in, be inspired, and find the courage to say yes to what truly matters to you and your family.

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188. [DOULA TALK] Birth Support Options

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast with your host, Sarah Marie Bilger. In today's episode, we delve into the critical topic of birth support options. Whether you're planning a VBAC, exploring free birthing, or setting up your birth team, we'll help you navigate and make informed choices.

Sarah and Katelyn discuss the importance of interviewing providers, understanding cesarean rates, and establishing a supportive team that aligns with your birth plan. They also highlight the need for proactive communication and trusting your instincts when building your motherhood experience.

Plus, discover Sarah’s comprehensive childbirth education course, O.W.N. Your Birth, designed to empower you from pregnancy through postpartum. Join us as we explore different options and bring clarity to your birth journey.

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187. [DOULA TALK] Mindset for Birth

Welcome to the Entering Motherhood podcast, your resource for holistic and evidence-based practices to support you on your unique motherhood journey. Join host Sarah Marie Bilger, a wife, mom of two, VBAC mama, and doula, as she empowers and informs you through expert insights and personal stories. Whether you're trying to conceive, pregnant, or newly postpartum, this podcast is your guide to embracing the unpredictability of birth and motherhood with confidence.

Tune in to our latest series, originally shared live on Instagram, where we dive into essential topics related to pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. Each episode is filled with insightful conversations and practical advice tailored for every phase of the motherhood journey. Don't miss out on tips for mastering your mindset, achieving a balanced outlook during major life changes, and making informed decisions that align with your personal goals for birth and motherhood.

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186. Healing, Self-Care, and Support for New Moms with Kristy Vicari

Welcome to this enlightening episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, hosted by Sarah Marie Bilger. Join us as we delve into the holistic world of motherhood with Kristy Vacari, a seasoned doula, nutritionist, and yoga teacher. Kristy shares her profound insights on breath work and self-care, offering a grounding presence to mothers navigating their unique journeys.

In this episode, Kristy opens up about her personal experiences with home births, the challenges of early motherhood, and her journey as a single mom. Discover how she integrates her diverse expertise to support mothers through childbirth and beyond, emphasizing the importance of self-care and present-moment awareness.

Grab your favorite beverage, relax, and enjoy this authentic conversation filled with wisdom and strategies to empower you in your motherhood journey. Whether you're expecting, a new mom, or supporting others, this episode is a treasure trove of insights and encouragement.

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185. Navigating Unexpected Out-of-Hospital Births: Doula Tips for Staying Calm and Safe

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, hosted by Sarah Marie Bilger, a dedicated birth and postpartum doula. This week, we delve into the unexpected: how to handle an unplanned out-of-hospital birth. Whether you're at home or on the way to your birthing center, things don't always go as planned, and we're here to guide you through it.

Sarah emphasizes the importance of staying calm, trusting your body, and creating a safe, relaxing environment. She provides practical advice on preparing for such a scenario, including essential supplies, how to manage without medical pain relief, and the critical role of a supportive partner.

Discover the natural processes of birth, from the delivery of the placenta to ensuring your baby's health immediately after birth. Learn when to seek medical help and how to handle potential emergency situations with confidence.

This episode is packed with valuable insights and reassuring advice, offering you the knowledge and resources you need to feel empowered and prepared for any birthing situation. Tune in to gain peace of mind and embrace the unpredictable journey of motherhood.

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184. Is Mommy Wine Culture Hurting Us More Than Helping? with Celeste Yvonne

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Entering Motherhood! In this episode, host Sarah Marie Bilger sits down with Celeste Yvonne, a mom, author, and advocate for sobriety, especially within the context of motherhood. They delve into Celeste's journey towards sobriety and discuss the pervasive "mommy wine culture" that has become so normalized in today's society.

Celeste shares her personal experiences, including the challenges she faced and the pivotal moments that led her to quit drinking. They talk about the societal pressures and stigmas surrounding alcohol use among mothers and emphasize the importance of creating inclusive environments that respect individual choices regarding alcohol.

Sarah and Celeste also explore the impact of alcohol on new mothers, the benefits of sobriety, and offer practical advice for those who might be struggling with similar issues. Tune in to learn about healthier coping mechanisms and how to support mothers in making empowered choices for themselves and their families.

Don't miss this heartfelt and informative episode that aims to change the conversation around alcohol and motherhood. Let's doula this and navigate the transition of entering motherhood together!

Full show notes: click here

183. Dilation and Effacement: How Your Body Prepares for Birth

Welcome to another episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast hosted by Sarah Marie Bilger. In this episode, we dive into the fascinating and crucial aspects of labor: cervical dilation and effacement. Learn about the process, understand what to expect, and discover tips to help your body progress naturally.

Sarah explains the significance of dilation and effacement, how they are measured, and the factors that can influence their progress. Whether you're a first-time mom or have given birth before, this episode provides valuable insights to help you feel more prepared and confident as you approach labor.

Join us to learn about the natural progression of labor, the importance of trusting your body, and the various interventions that might be suggested if labor stalls. This episode is packed with information to empower you on your unique motherhood journey. Tune in and let's navigate this together! Click here to see full show notes.