S3: Ep2. Hypnobirthing with your host, Megan Rossiter

It's a SOLO episode from me today! Actually our first ever solo episode of the podcast!
Exploring what 'hypnobirthing' actually is?
How can it support you in your pregnancy, your birth and beyond? How does it work? What does it involve?
Listen up for some myth busting, take away tools and tips and the next steps to feeling more confident and prepared ahead of your baby's birth.

S3: Ep1. Induction of Labour with Dr Sara Wickham

In this episode, Dr Sara Wickham shares her insight and wisdom into all things 'Induction of Labour'.
Sara is a World Leading Midwifery expert in the area of induction and has dedicated her life's work to disseminating, unpicking and making accessible the evidence around induction of labour.
Sara and I explore the landscape of the maternity system, the rising rates of induction and give you some really practical tips and advice on how to navigate decisions around induction of labour (a decision which the majority of us will inevitably face!).

S2: Ep10. Advocacy, Trauma & Decision Making with Midwife, Illiyin Morrison

Advocating for yourself (or other people) or knowing how to make decisions can be really difficult when it comes to maternity care.
In this episode I'm joined by birth trauma specialist midwife, Illiyin Morrison to discuss how we can ensure we are advocated for throughout the perinatal period.
Speaking from a trauma informed perspective, listen to this episode for practical decision making tips, a deeper understanding of navigating maternity services and a holistic conversation about birth advocacy.
Please note, no specific traumatic events are discussed in this episode. We discuss trauma with a focus on what may cause it, how to navigate birth after it and what steps could sometimes be taken to minimise the occurrence of it.

S2: Ep9. NICU, Neonatal Intensive Care with Dr Frankie Harrison

Did you know 1 in 7 babies will access care in NICU when they are born and 60% of those are born at full term.
So why don't we ever talk about what it's like to have a baby in the NICU?
This week I am joined by Clinical Psychologist (And NICU Mum) Dr Frankie Harrison, who specialises in supporting families during and after time spent in NICU through her work as a psychologist and organisation Miracle Moon.
We discuss the practicalities of caring for a baby on NICU from feeding to dressing them, bonding to going home; but with a strong focus on the emotional experience of being a NICU parent, both in the short and longer term.
This September is NICU awareness month, given just how common it is to experience time on NICU, this episode is a must listen for all parents to be- just in case you ever need it!

S2: Ep8. Holistic Birth Preparation with Guest, Aimee Strongman

The Mind, The Body, The Heart: 3 pillars of holistic birth preparation.
A way of approaching birth that you might not yet have considered. Taking a look how you can prepare yourself emotionally, spiritually and physically for birth; and how the three things are more closely interconnected than you first realise.
In this episode I am join by Pre and Postnatal yoga specialist and antenatal educator Aimee Strongman, who shares her insight into matresence, building self trust, physiological birth and power in the birth room.
Join us for an inspiring, gentle and reassuring conversation full of wisdom, learning and ideas to take forward into your birth!

S2: Ep7. Cultivating Self Trust with Guest, Midwife, Dr Rachel Reed

When journeying through pregnancy we tend to just hand ourselves over to our care providers, on whom we rely to tell us if we are healthy and well and what we should do to bring our babies into the world safely.
But is this really the best way to be navigating pregnancy, birth and parenthood?
Self trust is a vitally important quality in birth.
How much do we trust ourselves to know what is going on for us.. and if not much, what can we do to cultivate a sense of self trust?
Dr Rachel Reed (Midwife, Author, Researcher, Educator and Podcast Host) joins me to answer these questions and more.

S2. Ep6. Caesarean Birth with Consultant Obstetrician, Florence Wilcock

Around 1/3 births in the UK happen by caesarean, so it's certainly something you might like to learn about during pregnancy.
The prospect of major abdominal surgery whilst awake can be quite daunting for many of us, so in this episode we talk through exactly what you can expect from a caesarean birth.
Not just that, but thinking about- what are your options and what considerations might you make to support yourself and your baby and mark this as a positive, transformative, special way of giving birth.
I am joined by Consultant Obstetrician Florence Wilcock to shine a light on caesarean birth and hopefully leave you feeling more prepared, more confident and more empowered if you birth your baby by caesarean.

S2: Ep5. Consciously Preparing for Parenthood with Guest Dr Maryhan

What kind of parents do you want to be?
So much of pregnancy is taken up researching prams and cots and car seats and preparing the nursery.. Or considering birth plans and pregnancy complications and baby names.. It's not often that anyone actually consciously considers parenting until they are in it.
Is parenting something you can prepare for? 
We think YES!
This week I am joined by Dr Maryhan, experienced psychologist & parenting expert, to discuss what consciously preparing for parenthood might look like for you.
A must listen if you are currently pregnant or parenting a small baby.. but actually tons of takeaways for parents of older kids, like me, too! 
If you want to shut out *the noise* that starts the minute you fall pregnant and find a way to do things YOUR way, this episode will help you get there. 

S2: Ep4 Intrusive Thoughts with Dr Caroline Boyd

"What if the blanket covers baby's face and I don't notice"
"Imagine if I threw my baby down the stairs"
"I could shake you right now"
Intrusive thoughts affect around half of new mums. These thoughts of harm can feel quite terrifying, but are they anything to worry about? What can you do to manage them or where can you seek support?
In this episode I am joined by clinical psychologist Dr Caroline Boyd where she shares her research into Intrusive Thoughts and tells us about her new book 'Mindful New Mum: A Mind-Body Approach to the Highs and Lows of Motherhood'

S2: Ep3 Your Baby, Your Pelvis and Labour Dystocia with Midwife, Molly O'Brien

Ever heard of a back to back baby, but not sure what it means?
When is a long labour TOO long and what might be causing it?
Do we have influence over the unfolding of our births, even in pregnancy?
The answers to these questions and more as I'm joined by the wonderful Molly O'Brien to discuss all things 'Biomechanics for Birth'. Put simply, it's the process of your baby fitting through the bones of your pelvis. How do they do that? And how can you help them?
A MUST listen for anyone who is currently pregnant, there are some game changing takeaway tools which might just tip the balance from complicated to straightforward birth.

S2: Ep 2 Tongue Tie with Guest Midwife/IBCLC Carmelle Gentle

Does Tongue Tie just affect breastfeeding?
Can a baby actually have a tongue that that DOESN'T affect feeding?
Is there a link between Folic Acid and Tongue Tie?

I challenge anyone that's encountered more than a handful of babies to have encountered Tongue Tie at some point in conversation. But there is so much misinformation about it.

Midwife, IBCLC, Founder of The Tongue Tie Centre for Infant Feeding and Tongue Tie Specialist Educator Carmelle Gentle joins me to finally shine a light on Tongue Tie once and for all. The answers to all your questions, ideas on how to support your family and where you can turn for help moving forwards.

Carmelle's Website
The Tongue Tie Centre for Infant Feeding
Follow Carmelle on Instagram for more tips and support
Donate to The Tongue Tie Centre
Preorder Carmelle's Book 'The Breastfeeding Journal'

S2: Ep 1 Second Babies with Guest Natalie Meddings

How do second labours differ from firsts?
How do you prepare older children?
How do you prepare after both a wonderful or a difficult birth first time?

Natalie Meddings is an experienced doula of 20 years, Author of my FAVOURITE birth book 'How to Have a Baby' and 'Why Homebirth Matters' and you may remember her from Series One, where talked about Doulas and Understanding Labour.
When our second baby was born last year, WE did our birth preparation in Natalies safe and knowledgable hands; so there was no one else I wanted to have this conversation with.

Natalie's Website
Follow Natalie on Instagram
Buy Natalie's Book 'How to Have a Baby' (aff link)
Buy Natalie's Book 'Why Home Birth Matters' (aff link)

EPISODE 16: What Does My Midwife Do?

From booking to after your birth, your midwife is there to support you throughout pregnancy, birth and beyond. But what can you expect from midwifery led care?

This week I am joined by Midwives May Bourne (Founder of Positive Birth Jersey) and Sophie Hiscock (Founder of Village Midwife) where we discuss exactly what your midwife is there for and how to make the most of your care. We chat through the benefits of antenatal education and everything you REALLY need to know to have a good birth experience.

You can find out ore about our guests here
https://www.thevillagemidwife.co.uk/
https://www.positivebirthjersey.co.uk/

EPISODE 15: The First 24 Hours with Guest, Marie Louise

And in a single moment, your entire life changes. Your baby who has spent the last 9 months curled up inside, is earthside. WHAT NOW?

In this episode I'm join by Midwife Marie Louise and we discuss what to expect in those first 24 hours after birth. Both physically and emotionally, for both mum and baby.

You can follow Marie Louise on instagram @the_modern_midwife and her new books is available to purchase here

EPISODE 14: Home Birth with Guest, Midwife Kemi Johnson

In this episode, Independent Midwife Kemi Johnson and I discuss all thing Home Birth. The benefits, what if’s, practicalities, everything you may want to know about having your baby at home.

Something important to consider, is that regardless of where you choose to give birth, if you go into spontaneous labour, at least part of your labour will be in your home environment. So understanding how birthing in this space is going to feel and going to work is important for most of us!

References

The Birth Place Study 2011 https://www.npeu.ox.ac.uk/birthplace/results

Home Birth Meta Analysis- The Lancet https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(19)30119-1/fulltext

Secondary Analysis of the Birth Place Study 2011 (Including women with ‘high risk’ pregnancies) https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/1471-0528.13283

 Midwife Thinking Meconium Article https://midwifethinking.com/2015/01/14/the-curse-of-meconium-stained-liquor/

EPISODE 13: Exercise for Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond with Guests, PT Charlie Launder and Midwife & PT Emily Pullan

Does the way you exercise need to change because you fall pregnant? What about if you've never exercised before? Is now a good time to start?

This week we're bring you an up beat episode chatting through all things exercise when it comes to having a baby! From the physical and mental benefits, the impact on birth itself, things to be aware of and building it into your recovery for birth.

Joining me are Personal Trainer Charlie Launder- founder of Bumps and Burpees; and B&B Personal Trainer and NHS Midwife Emily Pullan.

Some great tips for pregnancy, birth and beyond whether you're used to attending Cross Fit 5 mornings a week or if jogging for the bus has been your weekly work out up 'til now!

You can follow our guests on Instagram @charlielaunder, @bumpsandburpees and @midwifepullan_pt

https://bumpsandburpees.com/

EPISODE 12: Birthing Outside of Guidelines with Guest, Midwife Rebecca Savage

Have you been told you 'have' to give birth in a certain way? That you're 'not allowed' to do something, like have an elective caesarean, give birth at home or in water?

This week I am joined by Rebecca Savage, experienced midwife of 15 years and trainee Consultant Midwife. We discuss the role of a consultant midwife in accessing birth choices that do not sit within the 'normal' guidelines or care pathways. 

This episode is an absolute must listen if you want to feel informed and supported about making choices for birth that feel right for you and your baby.

EPISODE 11: Birth Photography with Guest, Jo Robertson

Have you ever thought about capturing your birth on camera? If you're shaking your head and recoiling at the thought, bear with me.. if I've caught your attention, this episode answers all your questions!

In this episode I'm joined by Birth Photographer and Doula Jo Robertson and we talk about the beauty of birth photography, covering everything from the practicalities of having a birth photographer, to the power of birth imagery in learning about birth. 

You can follow Jo on Instagram @southwales_birthphotographer
Or visit her website https://lcrazebirthphotography.co.uk/

EPISODE 9: Healing and Preventing Birth Trauma with Guest, Dr Rebecca Moore

Trigger Warning: In this episode we discuss birth trauma. The focus of the episode is on healing from trauma and preventing it and you may well still find it useful to listen to during pregnancy. No specific traumatic birth stories are referenced. However if you would prefer not to listen to it, or you find it triggering to listen to, please consider your own emotional health first and switch off if needbe!

This week I’m joined by Dr Rebecca Moore, Consultant Perinatal Psychiatrist and co-founder of Make Birth Better. Up to 1 in 3 women would describe their birth or the perinatal period as ‘traumatic’, which can impact their mental health, parenting and future family plans. 

We discuss what can be done to prevent birth trauma- both from a parent and healthcare provider perspective. And, for women and families who have experienced trauma, what can be done to help manage and heal from this. We discuss the work of ‘Make Birth Better’ who help prevent trauma within the healthcare system itself, and also work directly with women and parents following birth.

https://www.makebirthbetter.org/

EPISODE 8: A Mindful Fourth Trimester with Guest, Sophie Burch

In this episode I'm joined by guest Sophie Burch and we talk candidly about life as a new parent of a baby. The feelings and emotions you might encounter at this time, tools and techniques to make this time positive for yourselves. Sophie works extensively with women throughout the perinatal period and her wise words are a must listen for any pregnant or new mothers. 

You can visit Sophie's website at https://www.themammacoach.com/

EPISODE 7: Understanding Infant Sleep with Guest, Sarah Ockwell-Smith

We all know that having a baby means your sleep is going to be disrupted. If anything, we probably underestimate exactly just HOW much. Understanding the biology and normal patterns of infant sleep can make the demands that life with a baby brings, just a little bit easier.

This week I am joined by renowned infant sleep and gentle parenting expert, Sarah Ockwell-Smith. Whether you are currently pregnant and wanting to get prepared, or it's 3am and you're right in the depths of new parenthood, Sarah's fascinating insight, top tips and gentle reassurance will have you feeling better in one short episode!

A link to purchases the 'Alpha Music' mentioned by Sarah in the show
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Gentle-Sleep-Music-Babies-Ockwell-Smith/dp/B00USVGJ6A/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=alpha+music+sarah&qid=1579030744&sr=8-1

A link to Sarah's Website
https://sarahockwell-smith.com/

EPISODE 6: Yoga for Pregnancy and Birth with Guest, Dr Leah Deutch

Yoga is something often recommended by midwives as a helpful form of exercise for women during pregnancy. But yoga has many more benefits than simply exercise. In this episode I am joined by Dr Leah Deutch (AKA 'The Yoga Doc') who, as well as being a practicing obstetrician is also a pregnancy yoga teacher. We take a look at what the practice of yoga involves and the benefits of this for labour, birth and beyond.   

Yoga has influenced Leah’s work as an obstetrician, and we discuss the importance of holistic care for all women when it comes to pregnancy, labour and birth and exactly how this fits into the Maternity System as we know it. A really fun, inspiring and insightful chat!

EPISODE 5: Pregnancy after a Loss in Partnership with Tommys and Guest, Kate Marsh

TRIGGER WARNING: Pregnancy Loss, Miscarriage and Still Birth

1 in 4 women experience miscarriage or pregnancy loss, so for a lot of us falling pregnant again can come with a lot of conflicting emotions. In this episode I’m joined by midwife Kate Marsh from the team at Tommy’s. Tommy’s are the UK Baby Loss Charity, supporting women through baby loss and researching miscarriage, preterm birth and still birth. We talk candidly about experiencing miscarriage, and approaching pregnancy after losing a baby. 

Please access this episode with care, if you are currently pregnant, you may prefer to wait until after your baby is born until you listen. 

 If you need immediate mental health support or are concerned about your pregnancy in any way please contact your Midwife, GP, 111 NHS service or in an emergency phone 999.

You can contact the Tommy’s Pregnancy Support Line on 0800 0147 800 Mon-Fri 9-5pm.

EPISODE 4: Physiological Birth & The Maternity System with Guest, Sheena Byrom OBE

Last year in the UK only 52% of women went into spontaneous labour. An even smaller number ended up having the physiological birth the vast majority of women want and expect when it comes to meeting their babies. In a highly technological era, what does physiological birth look like for the modern woman? And how does this fit in to the current maternity system?

This week I am joined by the incredibly inspiring Sheena Byrom OBE; Independent Midwifery Consultant, Midwife of over 35 years, Author & Speaker; to unpick all of this! Sheena works tirelessly across the world, transforming maternity systems with a focus on supporting physiological birth.

Regardless of what kind of birth you are planning, expecting or hoping for, this episode delves into how normal physiological processes in pregnancy, birth and postnatally can be supported in all environments, for all women and babies.

EPISODE 3: Breech Birth: Your choices with Guests, Dr Shawn Walker and Emma Spillane

Around 1 in 25 women will face decisions around how to give birth to their bottom first babies! But did you know the options are more than simply 'have a caesarean'? From helping your baby to turn head down, to physiological/vaginal breech birth, these little discussed alternatives are explained in this episode.

Joining me this week is Dr Shawn Walker, founder of The Breech Birth Network and Midwife Emma Spillane. Both heading up breech teams at large trusts, they bring some real expert insight into the topic of breech birth. The pair bring the perfect balance of the intellectual understanding of the risks and benefits of each choice, whilst providing a nurturing and women centred approach to the episode.

With a real focus on informed choice, you will feel equipped to open up conversations with your providers about your own birth experience if you find yourself needing to make decisions around breech birth. 

Access The Breech Birth Network
https://breechbirth.org.uk/

Access The Breech Birth UK Group on facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/371624862918154/ 

EPISODE 2: Men in Birth: Evolution to Politics with Guest, Mark Harris

This week I am joined by Mark Harris, a midwife of over 20 years, father to 8, grandfather to many more and.. A MAN! (with a further list of credentials longer than my arm) and we are talking about all things men in birth.

Personally, having spent the majority of the past decade working with women, supporting women, learning about female physiology and anatomy, my interest in 'men' didn't ever go much further than 'how can we get them to support a woman in birth'. So it's pretty safe to say that this conversation was a huge eye opener for me! Understanding male physiology, the evolution of the male brain, and crucially just how different it is than the female one.. and thinking about how all of this plays into the transformative life event of birth is utterly fascinating!

Please note, birth partners of all genders and indentities are absolutely welcome here, and this episode does not assume everyone will give birth with a man in the room, but it does look specifically at male physiology- hence the men focus! There will be a 'birth partner' episode soon!

EPISODE 1: Doulas and Understanding Labour with Guest, Natalie Meddings

In this episode I chat with Doula, Active Birth Yoga Teacher, Author, Mother & all round inspiring lady, Natalie Meddings about the role of a doula. What started as an episode about doulas, quickly morphed into one of the most inspiring and informative conversations I've ever had about birth. If you are currently pregnant, you absolute MUST listen to the very wise words Natalie shares with us in this week's episode. Thinking about labour and birth in a whole new light, this is info you definitely don't get from a standard antenatal class! I have no doubt this episode will leave you feeling confident, inspired and excited about giving birth!

http://www.tellmeagoodbirthstory.com/
Books:
How to Have a Baby
Why Homebirth Matters
Both by Natalie Meddings