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This episode shares practical labor relaxation tips to help the pelvic floor soften so baby can navigate more easily, especially when contractions make it hard to drop into the parasympathetic “rest and digest” mode. It covers the jaw–pelvic floor connection (via fascia and the nervous system), using a soft jaw/open mouth, deep low vocalizations (instead of high “eee” tension), “horsey lips” and pursed-lip breathing, and a simple head-to-toe relaxation sequence partners can cue. It also highlights breathing options (box breathing or long exhales), comfort techniques that break the fear–tension–pain cycle (jiggling/massage, hip circles/shifts, hydrotherapy), and notes an epidural can sometimes help if tension won’t release. Finally, it explains why the toilet can be the “dilation station”—unless it makes contractions too intense to cope. 00:00 Pelvic Floor Relaxation 01:22 Four Key Tips 02:10 Jaw Pelvic Floor Link 03:48 Vocal Sounds Practice 05:41 Relaxation Sequence 09:00 Breathing For Softening 10:45 Fear Tension Pain Cycle 11:46 Jiggling Massage Movement 14:23 Hydrotherapy And Epidural 16:17 Toilet Dilation Station 19:03 Final Recap And Outro ———— 🎉 Grab Your Copy of Training for Two → https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH Your go-to guide for prenatal fitness, birth prep, and postpartum recovery. 👇 Start Preparing for Birth Today 📥 Download our free Birth Prep Circuit Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit 📥 Grab our free Pelvic Floor Prep Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/ Learn how to relax and lengthen your pelvic floor to support a smoother labor and pushing phase. 💻 Explore Our Online Programs: Whether you're pregnant or postpartum—we’ve got you covered with expert-led fitness and education: 🏋🏻‍♀️ Prenatal & Postpartum Fitness Programs 🎓 Childbirth + Postpartum Education Courses → https://mamastefit.com 🤱 Just Had a Baby? 📥 Grab our free Postpartum Core Workouts → https://mamastefit.kit.com/core Start reconnecting with your core and feeling strong again—safely and confidently. ——— 📲 Follow Us on Instagram for Daily Tips + BTS https://instagram.com/mamastefit ——— ✨ Shop Our Favorites: ⚡️ Electrolytes we love → https://drinklmnt.com/mamaste 🌿 Supplements we trust – 20% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://thisisneeded.com/ginaandroxanne 👖 Maternity clothing we actually wear – 10% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://rstr.co/lovesteady/3500 ——

Certified nurse midwife Roxanne explains what it means when your water breaks (rupture of membranes), what amniotic fluid does, and why for over 90% of people it’s not the first sign of labor. She reviews SROM (water breaks during labor after 37 weeks), PROM (water breaks before contractions after 37 weeks, occurring in about 6–9% of pregnancies), PPROM (before 37 weeks), and the rare en caul birth. Using the TACO/COAT acronym, she covers what to note: time, amount (gush vs trickle), color (clear/pink normal; green meconium; bright red concerning), and odor (distinct from urine; foul odor may signal infection). She explains provider tests (nitrazine, ferning, point-of-care tests, speculum/vaginal exam) and emphasizes limiting vaginal exams to reduce infection risk, especially after 24 hours; discusses monitoring, antibiotics, induction options, and Dilapan for PROM. ----------------------🎉 Grab Your Copy of Training for Two → https://amzn.to/3VOTdwHYour go-to guide for prenatal fitness, birth prep, and postpartum recovery.👇 Start Preparing for Birth Today📥 Download our free Birth Prep Circuit Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit📥 Grab our free Pelvic Floor Prep Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/Learn how to relax and lengthen your pelvic floor to support a smoother labor and pushing phase.💻 Explore Our Online Programs:Whether you're pregnant or postpartum—we’ve got you covered with expert-led fitness and education:🏋🏻‍♀️ Prenatal & Postpartum Fitness Programs🎓 Childbirth + Postpartum Education Courses→ https://mamastefit.com🤱 Just Had a Baby?📥 Grab our free Postpartum Core Workouts → https://mamastefit.kit.com/coreStart reconnecting with your core and feeling strong again—safely and confidently.———📲 Follow Us on Instagram for Daily Tips + BTShttps://instagram.com/mamastefit———✨ Shop Our Favorites:⚡️ Electrolytes we love → https://drinklmnt.com/mamaste🌿 Supplements we trust – 20% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://thisisneeded.com/ginaandroxanne👖 Maternity clothing we actually wear – 10% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://rstr.co/lovesteady/3500

On the MamasteFit Podcast, Gina (perinatal fitness trainer/birth doula) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) interview Kendra, an ICU nurse and mom of three, as she shares two epidural births and her third hospital birth—unmedicated—with doula support. She reflects on initially skipping childbirth prep, feeling disconnected while pushing with a strong epidural, and later attempting an unmedicated induction during COVID that ended in an epidural after she yelled the safe word (only to be fully dilated right after). Between babies, Kendra describes an early pregnancy loss with little support, then fertility testing and Clomid before conceiving baby #3. Kendra switched to a midwife-friendly hospital, used pelvic floor prep, a TENS unit, music “DJ” duties for her partner, minimal cervical checks, and achieved her goal of delivering without an epidural, followed by solid postpartum care and breastfeeding. 00:00 Podcast Introduction 01:42 Kendra Background Prep 04:30 First Birth Epidural 06:42 Reflecting Informed Consent 07:53 Second Birth Unmedicated Goal 11:57 Induction Tapping Out 15:03 Miscarriage Care Gaps 18:59 Fertility Workup Clomid 23:20 Pregnancy After Loss 25:34 Doula Course Prep 33:11 Switching To Midwives 35:40 Birth Plan Details 36:41 Pregnancy Ups and Downs 39:20 Early Labor at Home 45:11 Heading to the Hospital 46:45 Admitted and Settling In 50:22 Transition and Coping 56:01 Pushing and Surprise Girl 59:26 Golden Hour and Aftercare 01:01:48 Postpartum Recovery 01:05:11 Advice and Wrap Up ———— 🎉 Grab Your Copy of Training for Two → https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH Your go-to guide for prenatal fitness, birth prep, and postpartum recovery. 👇 Start Preparing for Birth Today 📥 Download our free Birth Prep Circuit Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit 📥 Grab our free Pelvic Floor Prep Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/ Learn how to relax and lengthen your pelvic floor to support a smoother labor and pushing phase. 💻 Explore Our Online Programs: Whether you're pregnant or postpartum—we’ve got you covered with expert-led fitness and education: 🏋🏻‍♀️ Prenatal & Postpartum Fitness Programs 🎓 Childbirth + Postpartum Education Courses → https://mamastefit.com 🤱 Just Had a Baby? 📥 Grab our free Postpartum Core Workouts → https://mamastefit.kit.com/core Start reconnecting with your core and feeling strong again—safely and confidently. ——— 📲 Follow Us on Instagram for Daily Tips + BTS https://instagram.com/mamastefit ——— ✨ Shop Our Favorites: ⚡️ Electrolytes we love → https://drinklmnt.com/mamaste 🌿 Supplements we trust – 20% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://thisisneeded.com/ginaandroxanne 👖 Maternity clothing we actually wear – 10% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://rstr.co/lovesteady/3500 ——

Certified nurse-midwife and labor nurse Roxanne explains what a TENS unit (transcutaneous electronic nerve stimulation) is, how it may reduce pain via gate control theory and endogenous opioid release, and why starting it earlier in labor may help more. She reviews evidence showing TENS can substantially reduce reported labor pain, allow mobility, and may shorten labor compared with epidurals, while avoiding common IV pain medication side effects like nausea and drowsiness. She also covers use in pregnancy for musculoskeletal pain (avoid abdomen and neck), and postpartum use including on the belly for uterine cramps and for C-section recovery (pads above/below incision associated with lower pain scores, faster bowel function return, and improved recovery). The video demonstrates pad placement, intensity “boost” during contractions, water safety cautions, and what to look for when buying (battery power, adjustable intensity, four leads, one-hand control), comparing budget Amazon units with Babycare OB TENS, Elle TENS+, and Elle TENS 2 features. BabyCare TENS: 10MAMASTEFIT For 10% off: https://tensforlabor.com/mamastefit 🎉 Grab Your Copy of Training for Two → https://amzn.to/3VOTdwHYour go-to guide for prenatal fitness, birth prep, and postpartum recovery.👇 Start Preparing for Birth Today📥 Download our free Birth Prep Circuit Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit📥 Grab our free Pelvic Floor Prep Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/Learn how to relax and lengthen your pelvic floor to support a smoother labor and pushing phase.💻 Explore Our Online Programs:Whether you're pregnant or postpartum—we’ve got you covered with expert-led fitness and education:🏋🏻‍♀️ Prenatal & Postpartum Fitness Programs🎓 Childbirth + Postpartum Education Courses→ https://mamastefit.com🤱 Just Had a Baby?📥 Grab our free Postpartum Core Workouts → https://mamastefit.kit.com/coreStart reconnecting with your core and feeling strong again—safely and confidently.———📲 Follow Us on Instagram for Daily Tips + BTShttps://instagram.com/mamastefit———✨ Shop Our Favorites:⚡️ Electrolytes we love → https://drinklmnt.com/mamaste🌿 Supplements we trust – 20% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://thisisneeded.com/ginaandroxanne👖 Maternity clothing we actually wear – 10% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://rstr.co/lovesteady/3500

Gina (perinatal fitness trainer/birth doula) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) share their experiences being pregnant while active duty Army - noting it’s been about 10 years and policies may have changed! They explain their Army roles—Gina as an MP officer and cultural support team leader attached to all-male special operations units (plus airborne/jump master), and Roxanne as an Army nurse who moved into labor and delivery—then discuss how job demands affect when it’s realistic to plan pregnancy, how pregnancy can pull soldiers from key/physical roles, and how dual-military parenting adds major logistics and career pressure. They cover benefits like GI Bill, TRICARE, pensions, and improved parental leave (now 18 weeks for the birthing person and 12 weeks parental leave), plus practical issues like pumping, bottle refusal, and advocating for lactation spaces. They emphasize intentional pregnancy/postpartum fitness to support recovery and readiness, and point listeners to MamasteFit programs and a military discount. Birth Stories with Active Duty Service Members: Danielle’s Birth Story: Unmedicated Hospital Birth/Home Birth → Scheduled C-Section for Placenta Previa: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3g79heXnt3TnI52HaAuaiV?si=8E41bjdVSbWJhanYl8AzOg Ashley’s Birth Story: Pandemic Challenges + Unexpected Precipitous Labor: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2YCe4UiCsjPjILQ4Rnxzdm?si=YW7UO4PxT8uyP2vVfSYS4Q Alyssa’s Birth Story: Unmedicated Hospital Induction & Postpartum Complications: https://mamastefit.com/alyssas-birth-story-unmedicated-hospital-induction-postpartum-complications/ 00:00 Welcome and Disclaimer 00:46 Meet the Hosts 04:07 Gina Army Officer Role 09:03 West Point Mixups 12:38 Back to Army Pregnancy Timing 13:12 Cultural Support Team Missions 20:40 Airborne Jumpmaster Stories 25:08 Roxanne Army Nurse Life 28:31 Labor and Delivery Specialty 30:02 Leave and Garrison Differences 32:24 Planning Life Events 34:19 Pregnancy Work Profiles 38:18 Career Timing Reality 45:01 Dual Military Challenges 50:40 Military Benefits Breakdown 55:20 Leave Policies Explained 01:00:40 Breastfeeding Logistics 01:05:01 PT Tests and P3T 01:08:51 Fitness and Readiness 01:12:59 Wrap Up and Programs ———— 🎉 Grab Your Copy of Training for Two → https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH Your go-to guide for prenatal fitness, birth prep, and postpartum recovery. 👇 Start Preparing for Birth Today 📥 Download our free Birth Prep Circuit Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit 📥 Grab our free Pelvic Floor Prep Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/ Learn how to relax and lengthen your pelvic floor to support a smoother labor and pushing phase. 💻 Explore Our Online Programs: Whether you're pregnant or postpartum—we’ve got you covered with expert-led fitness and education: 🏋🏻‍♀️ Prenatal & Postpartum Fitness Programs 🎓 Childbirth + Postpartum Education Courses → https://mamastefit.com 🤱 Just Had a Baby? 📥 Grab our free Postpartum Core Workouts → https://mamastefit.kit.com/core Start reconnecting with your core and feeling strong again—safely and confidently. ——— 📲 Follow Us on Instagram for Daily Tips + BTS https://instagram.com/mamastefit ——— ✨ Shop Our Favorites: ⚡️ Electrolytes we love → https://drinklmnt.com/mamaste 🌿 Supplements we trust – 20% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://thisisneeded.com/ginaandroxanne 👖 Maternity clothing we actually wear – 10% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://rstr.co/lovesteady/3500 ——

Certified nurse midwife Roxanne explains that increased watery, slippery vaginal discharge in pregnancy (leukorrhea) is usually normal, driven by estrogen and progesterone, and helps protect against infection and form the mucus plug. She outlines red flags and common end-of-pregnancy confusion: discharge is typically clear-to-milky with little odor, while amniotic fluid is often clear/pink-tinged, has a distinct sweet/musty smell, and can soak a pad; providers can confirm with tests (ferning, nitrazine, protein testing). She reviews yeast (thick, white “cottage cheese,” irritation, painful sex, possible cramping) treated with antifungal cream, and bacterial vaginosis (thin/gray, fishy odor, linked with preterm labor) often treated with antibiotics. She also covers STI-related discharge (e.g., frothy yellow-green trichomonas) and prevention tips like probiotics/fermented foods, hydration, stable blood sugars, breathable cotton underwear, avoiding scented soaps and douching, and discussing other remedies with a provider.————🎉 Grab Your Copy of Training for Two → https://amzn.to/3VOTdwHYour go-to guide for prenatal fitness, birth prep, and postpartum recovery.👇 Start Preparing for Birth Today📥 Download our free Birth Prep Circuit Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit📥 Grab our free Pelvic Floor Prep Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/Learn how to relax and lengthen your pelvic floor to support a smoother labor and pushing phase.💻 Explore Our Online Programs:Whether you're pregnant or postpartum—we’ve got you covered with expert-led fitness and education:🏋🏻‍♀️ Prenatal & Postpartum Fitness Programs🎓 Childbirth + Postpartum Education Courses→ https://mamastefit.com🤱 Just Had a Baby?📥 Grab our free Postpartum Core Workouts → https://mamastefit.kit.com/coreStart reconnecting with your core and feeling strong again—safely and confidently.———📲 Follow Us on Instagram for Daily Tips + BTShttps://instagram.com/mamastefit———✨ Shop Our Favorites:⚡️ Electrolytes we love → https://drinklmnt.com/mamaste🌿 Supplements we trust – 20% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://thisisneeded.com/ginaandroxanne👖 Maternity clothing we actually wear – 10% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://rstr.co/lovesteady/3500

Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) interviews one of their childbirth educators, Farrah (a nurse and doula), about two very different births after years of infertility, PCOS, and thyroid issues. Her first pregnancy was a surprise during COVID; ending in delivering an OP baby after extended labor, internal maneuvers, a deep second-degree tear, and bleeding linked to an overfull bladder. Her second birth was a rapid, intense labor with Miles Circuit attempts, shower transition, 911 call, and an unplanned home bathroom delivery on all fours before EMS transport! 00:00 Welcome to MamasteFit 00:21 Meet the Hosts 01:09 Introducing Farrah 01:48 Infertility and PCOS Journey 03:59 Surprise Pregnancy Discovery 06:49 Finding Perinatal Fitness Passion 08:26 Pregnancy Prep and CrossFit 09:25 Husband Away for Fellowship 10:24 Labor Begins at Home 15:35 Active Labor Water and Vomiting 18:18 Hospital Arrival at Seven Centimeters 20:27 Long OP Labor and Maneuvers 28:48 Birth Hemorrhage and Recovery 31:57 Tear Repair Explained 34:35 Tongue Tie and Feeding Struggles 38:29 Transition to Baby Two Story 38:59 Prenatal Struggles 39:47 Finding the Right Doula 42:12 Early Labor Signs 46:01 Miles Circuit Chaos 48:50 Shower Spiral Calls 51:25 Dad Steps In 55:02 911 and Bathroom Birth 01:00:01 Placenta Wait Hospital Transfer 01:03:36 Feeding and Allergy Journey 01:06:44 Baby Three Plans Wrap Up 01:08:39 Podcast Outro and Offers ———— 🎉 Grab Your Copy of Training for Two → https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH Your go-to guide for prenatal fitness, birth prep, and postpartum recovery. 👇 Start Preparing for Birth Today 📥 Download our free Birth Prep Circuit Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit 📥 Grab our free Pelvic Floor Prep Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/ Learn how to relax and lengthen your pelvic floor to support a smoother labor and pushing phase. 💻 Explore Our Online Programs: Whether you're pregnant or postpartum—we’ve got you covered with expert-led fitness and education: 🏋🏻‍♀️ Prenatal & Postpartum Fitness Programs 🎓 Childbirth + Postpartum Education Courses → https://mamastefit.com 🤱 Just Had a Baby? 📥 Grab our free Postpartum Core Workouts → https://mamastefit.kit.com/core Start reconnecting with your core and feeling strong again—safely and confidently. ——— 📲 Follow Us on Instagram for Daily Tips + BTS https://instagram.com/mamastefit ——— ✨ Shop Our Favorites: ⚡️ Electrolytes we love → https://drinklmnt.com/mamaste 🌿 Supplements we trust – 20% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://thisisneeded.com/ginaandroxanne 👖 Maternity clothing we actually wear – 10% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://rstr.co/lovesteady/3500 ——

Gina (perinatal fitness trainer and doula) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) define “unmedicated birth” for this episode as giving birth without an epidural, and explain why some people choose it. They cover potential benefits like easier position changes, fewer issues if an epidural doesn’t work as expected, and physiologic/hormonal effects. They address concerns about epidural medications (including fentanyl use in some hospitals) and emphasize there’s no morality in epidural vs. no epidural. Practical tips include choosing a supportive birth setting/team, touring hospitals, asking about monitoring options, tubs/showers, nitrous, and using comfort tools and mental skills—especially in transition—while remembering it’s always okay to change your mind! Our video on hypnobirthing: https://youtu.be/QuCa5xRQCX0 Our Relaxation sequence:  https://youtube.com/shorts/gDOt2rkmmds?feature=share 00:00 Welcome and Episode Focus 01:08 Defining Unmedicated Birth 02:09 Why Skip the Epidural 02:53 Personal Birth Stories 09:31 Movement and Comfort Benefits 14:54 Hormones and Baby Transition 18:01 Epidural Medication Concerns 20:33 Setting Up for Success 21:36 Choosing Place and Provider 24:09 Transition or Truly Done 32:58 When Coping Breaks Down 36:51 Resetting Environment and Support 37:57 Toilet And Transition 38:33 Comfort Tools Practice 41:31 Hospital Support Clues 45:33 Tours And Staff Culture 49:46 Doulas And Backup Plans 53:05 Environment Shapes Pain 57:59 Mental Skills For Labor 01:02:25 Labor Cave Setup 01:07:09 Epidural Without Shame 01:09:37 Wrap Up And Resources ———— 🎉 Grab Your Copy of Training for Two → https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH Your go-to guide for prenatal fitness, birth prep, and postpartum recovery. 👇 Start Preparing for Birth Today 📥 Download our free Birth Prep Circuit Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit 📥 Grab our free Pelvic Floor Prep Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/ Learn how to relax and lengthen your pelvic floor to support a smoother labor and pushing phase. 💻 Explore Our Online Programs: Whether you're pregnant or postpartum—we’ve got you covered with expert-led fitness and education: 🏋🏻‍♀️ Prenatal & Postpartum Fitness Programs 🎓 Childbirth + Postpartum Education Courses → https://mamastefit.com 🤱 Just Had a Baby? 📥 Grab our free Postpartum Core Workouts → https://mamastefit.kit.com/core Start reconnecting with your core and feeling strong again—safely and confidently. ——— 📲 Follow Us on Instagram for Daily Tips + BTS https://instagram.com/mamastefit ——— ✨ Shop Our Favorites: ⚡️ Electrolytes we love → https://drinklmnt.com/mamaste 🌿 Supplements we trust – 20% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://thisisneeded.com/ginaandroxanne 👖 Maternity clothing we actually wear – 10% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://rstr.co/lovesteady/3500 ——

Roxanne, a certified nurse midwife, breaks down pregnancy (and postpartum) constipation—aka a “traffic jam” of poop that gets harder the longer it sits because your body absorbs the water (think Play-Doh left out overnight). She explains common causes: progesterone slowing GI motility, the growing uterus and posture changes creating compression, supplements (especially iron), and often-overlooked pelvic floor tension—particularly in the posterior pelvic floor near the rectum. Key tips include: don’t strain (hello hemorrhoids and fissures), use better toilet positioning (Squatty Potty/feet elevated, hips 90°), and use breathing (inhale to relax/bulge, exhale to bear down without holding your breath). She also recommends movement, hydration (about 80–100 oz/day), fiber, magnesium, and if needed stool softeners/laxatives (e.g., Colace, Mag 07, MiraLAX) with provider guidance. Our Fav Squatty Potty: https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=632964&u=2610443&m=54647 00:00 Pregnancy Constipation Intro 00:43 What Constipation Means 02:03 Why Pregnancy Causes It 03:55 Pelvic Floor Connection 06:34 No Straining Basics 07:14 Toilet Posture Tips 08:13 Breathing to Poop 09:16 Movement Hydration Fiber 10:49 Magnesium Softeners Laxatives 12:21 Release Posterior Pelvic Floor 18:57 Prevent Labor Postpartum Issues 19:54 Wrap Up Resources ———— 🎉 Grab Your Copy of Training for Two → https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH Your go-to guide for prenatal fitness, birth prep, and postpartum recovery. 👇 Start Preparing for Birth Today 📥 Download our free Birth Prep Circuit Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit 📥 Grab our free Pelvic Floor Prep Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/ Learn how to relax and lengthen your pelvic floor to support a smoother labor and pushing phase. 💻 Explore Our Online Programs: Whether you're pregnant or postpartum—we’ve got you covered with expert-led fitness and education: 🏋🏻‍♀️ Prenatal & Postpartum Fitness Programs 🎓 Childbirth + Postpartum Education Courses → https://mamastefit.com 🤱 Just Had a Baby? 📥 Grab our free Postpartum Core Workouts → https://mamastefit.kit.com/core Start reconnecting with your core and feeling strong again—safely and confidently. ——— 📲 Follow Us on Instagram for Daily Tips + BTS https://instagram.com/mamastefit ——— ✨ Shop Our Favorites: ⚡️ Electrolytes we love → https://drinklmnt.com/mamaste 🌿 Supplements we trust – 20% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://thisisneeded.com/ginaandroxanne 👖 Maternity clothing we actually wear – 10% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://rstr.co/lovesteady/3500 ——

Gina (perinatal fitness trainer and doula) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) recap Roxanne’s first postpartum 10K at 4–5 months postpartum in Asheville—advertised as flat but full of hills! Roxanne explains the run/walk method and how she managed mild pelvic floor heaviness later that day, but felt fine the next day, with no leaking or other prolapse symptoms! They discuss run/walk/run method coined by Jeff Galloway) as a way to make racing more accessible, plus running-form strategies to reduce pelvic floor symptoms. They outline upcoming races and Gina’s planned 100-miler, then share practical training tips for busy parents. 00:00 Podcast Kickoff 01:17 Roxanne’s First 10K 02:07 Course Surprises 03:38 Race Strategy Recap 05:25 Run Walk Run Explained 09:11 Pelvic Floor Check In 14:32 Form Tips for Prolapse 16:58 Recovery and Next Races 19:53 Strength Training for Runners 23:32 Gina’s Racing Comeback 27:30 Dopey and Beyond Plans 28:59 100 Mile Ultra Dream 31:25 Training Time Reality 31:39 Parent Training Reality 32:59 Gym Access and Childcare 34:13 Home Gym Essentials 37:18 Treadmill Running Setup 40:13 Outdoor Running Safety 44:34 Healthspan Motivation 46:17 Scheduling Workouts 53:21 Short Workouts and Kids 56:09 Follow a Workout Plan 01:03:17 Wrap Up and Next Steps ———— 🎉 Grab Your Copy of Training for Two → https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH Your go-to guide for prenatal fitness, birth prep, and postpartum recovery. 👇 Start Preparing for Birth Today 📥 Download our free Birth Prep Circuit Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit 📥 Grab our free Pelvic Floor Prep Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/ Learn how to relax and lengthen your pelvic floor to support a smoother labor and pushing phase. 💻 Explore Our Online Programs: Whether you're pregnant or postpartum—we’ve got you covered with expert-led fitness and education: 🏋🏻‍♀️ Prenatal & Postpartum Fitness Programs 🎓 Childbirth + Postpartum Education Courses → https://mamastefit.com 🤱 Just Had a Baby? 📥 Grab our free Postpartum Core Workouts → https://mamastefit.kit.com/core Start reconnecting with your core and feeling strong again—safely and confidently. ——— 📲 Follow Us on Instagram for Daily Tips + BTS https://instagram.com/mamastefit ——— ✨ Shop Our Favorites: ⚡️ Electrolytes we love → https://drinklmnt.com/mamaste 🌿 Supplements we trust – 20% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://thisisneeded.com/ginaandroxanne 👖 Maternity clothing we actually wear – 10% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://rstr.co/lovesteady/3500 ——

Certified Nurse Midwife Roxanne explains the third stage of labor—the time from baby’s birth to placenta delivery. How long does it last for most people, and why it matters for postpartum hemorrhage and potentially breastfeeding. Roxanne describes how oxytocin-driven uterine contractions help the placenta separate and the signs of separation and compares expectant/physiologic management (waiting and monitoring) with active management (Pitocin IM/IV and sometimes gentle cord traction) to reduce hemorrhage risk. As always, the emphasis is on individualized, informed, risk-based decision-making!  ———— 🎉 Grab Your Copy of Training for Two → https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH Your go-to guide for prenatal fitness, birth prep, and postpartum recovery. 👇 Start Preparing for Birth Today 📥 Download our free Birth Prep Circuit Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit 📥 Grab our free Pelvic Floor Prep Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/ Learn how to relax and lengthen your pelvic floor to support a smoother labor and pushing phase. 💻 Explore Our Online Programs: Whether you're pregnant or postpartum—we’ve got you covered with expert-led fitness and education: 🏋🏻‍♀️ Prenatal & Postpartum Fitness Programs 🎓 Childbirth + Postpartum Education Courses → https://mamastefit.com 🤱 Just Had a Baby? 📥 Grab our free Postpartum Core Workouts → https://mamastefit.kit.com/core Start reconnecting with your core and feeling strong again—safely and confidently. ——— 📲 Follow Us on Instagram for Daily Tips + BTS https://instagram.com/mamastefit ——— ✨ Shop Our Favorites: ⚡️ Electrolytes we love → https://drinklmnt.com/mamaste 🌿 Supplements we trust – 20% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://thisisneeded.com/ginaandroxanne 👖 Maternity clothing we actually wear – 10% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://rstr.co/lovesteady/3500 ——

On the MamasteFit Podcast, perinatal fitness trainer and doula Gina and certified nurse midwife Roxanne interview Brooke about the birth of her second child, Scarlet. After a 48-hour first labor that included Pitocin and an epidural, Brooke (a physical therapist) prepared intensely for an unmedicated hospital birth: reading Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth, listening to MamasteFit, taking our childbirth course, and trying multiple comfort tools. Past her due date, labor ramped up quickly and she discovered the hypnobirthing tools she had thought would save the day just weren’t her thing! Thanks to preparing a variety of comfort measure, Brooke discovered low moans/vocalization, swaying, and asymmetrical positions helped most! She arrived fully dilated, and experienced a birth that left her feeling super empowered! Her key advice: prepare, educate, and bring backup coping methods. 00:00 Welcome  01:04 Brooke Joins the Show 01:22 First Birth Lessons 03:17 Planning Unmedicated Birth 04:45 Books and Coping Tools 06:25 Courses and Hypnobirthing 08:28 Late Pregnancy Labor Prep 09:45 Early Labor Begins 15:51 Active Labor at Home 21:52 Vocalization Breakthrough 23:03 Hospital Arrival and Triage 25:54 Fully Dilated Surprise 30:11 Pushing Positions and Water Break 32:58 Crowning and Shoulder Delivery 35:21 Birth and Immediate Afterglow 38:59 Postpartum Recovery and Two Kids 41:07 Advice to Prepare and Adapt 44:06 Wrap Up and Listener Takeaways ———— 🎉 Grab Your Copy of Training for Two → https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH Your go-to guide for prenatal fitness, birth prep, and postpartum recovery. 👇 Start Preparing for Birth Today 📥 Download our free Birth Prep Circuit Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit 📥 Grab our free Pelvic Floor Prep Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/ Learn how to relax and lengthen your pelvic floor to support a smoother labor and pushing phase. 💻 Explore Our Online Programs: Whether you're pregnant or postpartum—we’ve got you covered with expert-led fitness and education: 🏋🏻‍♀️ Prenatal & Postpartum Fitness Programs 🎓 Childbirth + Postpartum Education Courses → https://mamastefit.com 🤱 Just Had a Baby? 📥 Grab our free Postpartum Core Workouts → https://mamastefit.kit.com/core Start reconnecting with your core and feeling strong again—safely and confidently. ——— 📲 Follow Us on Instagram for Daily Tips + BTS https://instagram.com/mamastefit ——— ✨ Shop Our Favorites: ⚡️ Electrolytes we love → https://drinklmnt.com/mamaste 🌿 Supplements we trust – 20% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://thisisneeded.com/ginaandroxanne 👖 Maternity clothing we actually wear – 10% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://rstr.co/lovesteady/3500 ——

Gina (doula/perinatal fitness trainer) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) walk through how birth has evolved, from mostly home births with midwives pre-1700s (but high death rates from infection, bleeding, obstructed labor, and blood pressure issues) to increasing hospital-based, physician-led care in the 1800s–1900s. They discuss key shifts like antiseptics, anesthesia (including twilight sleep), antibiotics, transfusions, prenatal care, and safer C-sections—improving survival but often reducing autonomy and satisfaction. They cover the 1970s natural childbirth and feminist movements, and the later push for evidence-based, family-centered care (partners/doulas, skin-to-skin, breastfeeding support, delayed cord clamping, shared decision-making). Their takeaway: modern interventions save lives, but they’re tools—not requirements—and blending safety with physiologic support matters. 00:00 Welcome to MamasteFit 01:02 Birth History Setup 02:06 Pre Modern Birth 03:21 Why Mortality Was High 05:16 Forceps Enter the Scene 06:10 Early Medicalization 1700s 07:44 Standardized Midwife Training 10:22 Modern Obstetrics Begins 11:11 Hospitals Take Over Birth 12:41 Twilight Sleep Era 21:53 Antibiotics and Safer Birth 25:59 Routine Interventions Peak 29:29 Natural Childbirth Movement 32:18 Evidence Based Care Shift 34:54 Epidurals And Twilight Sleep 35:56 Unmedicated Birth Tools 38:03 Stop Romanticizing The Past 41:52 Partners Enter The Room 43:59 Evidence Based Birth Shift 44:52 Modern Practices And Tools 50:55 Social Media And Misinformation 53:19 Trust Medicine Own Harm 59:53 Why Birth Got Safer 01:06:36 Balance Safety And Experience 01:07:45 Course And Final Wrap ———— 🎉 Grab Your Copy of Training for Two → https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH Your go-to guide for prenatal fitness, birth prep, and postpartum recovery. 👇 Start Preparing for Birth Today 📥 Download our free Birth Prep Circuit Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit 📥 Grab our free Pelvic Floor Prep Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/ Learn how to relax and lengthen your pelvic floor to support a smoother labor and pushing phase. 💻 Explore Our Online Programs: Whether you're pregnant or postpartum—we’ve got you covered with expert-led fitness and education: 🏋🏻‍♀️ Prenatal & Postpartum Fitness Programs 🎓 Childbirth + Postpartum Education Courses → https://mamastefit.com 🤱 Just Had a Baby? 📥 Grab our free Postpartum Core Workouts → https://mamastefit.kit.com/core Start reconnecting with your core and feeling strong again—safely and confidently. ——— 📲 Follow Us on Instagram for Daily Tips + BTS https://instagram.com/mamastefit ——— ✨ Shop Our Favorites: ⚡️ Electrolytes we love → https://drinklmnt.com/mamaste 🌿 Supplements we trust – 20% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://thisisneeded.com/ginaandroxanne 👖 Maternity clothing we actually wear – 10% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://rstr.co/lovesteady/3500 ——

This episode breaks down gestational diabetes (new insulin resistance in pregnancy—not type 1 or 2), how insulin and glucose work, and why pregnancy naturally raises insulin resistance (but sometimes the pancreas can’t keep up). It covers who’s at higher risk (higher BMI, inactivity, prior GDM, certain ethnic groups, prior 9+ lb baby, PCOS, hypertension, heart disease) and how screening works at 24–28 weeks: the non-fasting 1-hour 50g test, followed by a fasting 3-hour 100g test if you “fail” (two elevated values = diagnosis). It explains why the test is a glucose “stress test,” alternatives like at-home fingersticks or CGM, and drink options (Glucola, Fresh Test, jelly beans). Finally, it outlines risks (C-section, shoulder dystocia, preeclampsia, baby hypoglycemia) and care differences between diet-controlled (deliver by 40+6) vs medication-controlled (NSTs/ultrasounds ~32 weeks, deliver ~39). 00:00 Gestational Diabetes Overview 00:52 How Insulin Works 02:31 Risk Factors Explained 03:20 Glucose Test Basics 05:43 One Hour vs Three Hour 07:06 At Home Monitoring Options 09:42 Drink Alternatives 13:52 Why It Matters Risks 18:46 How Care Changes 21:27 Final Recap Next Steps 24:24 Closing Resources ———— 🎉 Grab Your Copy of Training for Two → https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH Your go-to guide for prenatal fitness, birth prep, and postpartum recovery. 👇 Start Preparing for Birth Today 📥 Download our free Birth Prep Circuit Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit 📥 Grab our free Pelvic Floor Prep Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/ Learn how to relax and lengthen your pelvic floor to support a smoother labor and pushing phase. 💻 Explore Our Online Programs: Whether you're pregnant or postpartum—we’ve got you covered with expert-led fitness and education: 🏋🏻‍♀️ Prenatal & Postpartum Fitness Programs 🎓 Childbirth + Postpartum Education Courses → https://mamastefit.com 🤱 Just Had a Baby? 📥 Grab our free Postpartum Core Workouts → https://mamastefit.kit.com/core Start reconnecting with your core and feeling strong again—safely and confidently. ——— 📲 Follow Us on Instagram for Daily Tips + BTS https://instagram.com/mamastefit ——— ✨ Shop Our Favorites: ⚡️ Electrolytes we love → https://drinklmnt.com/mamaste 🌿 Supplements we trust – 20% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://thisisneeded.com/ginaandroxanne 👖 Maternity clothing we actually wear – 10% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://rstr.co/lovesteady/3500 ——

This episode breaks down elective induction (inducing labor at 39–41 weeks with no medical reason besides still being pregnant) and reminds you that “we scheduled your induction” still requires your consent. It explains why 39 weeks is the risk-benefit sweet spot (mature baby lungs) and why providers avoid going past 42 weeks (stillbirth risk rises from 1/10,000 at 37 weeks to 32/10,000 at 42 weeks). The 2018 ARRIVE Trial is reviewed: low-risk, first-time, single, head-down pregnancies; similar neonatal outcomes; slightly lower C-section rates with induction (19% vs 22%), plus fewer hypertension diagnoses, though study limits include low midwife representation and protocols not matching every hospital. You’ll weigh values (low-intervention vs convenience), provider/hospital C-section rates, accurate due dates, and risks like longer labor, more interventions, failed induction, and tachysystole. 00:00 Induction Decision Intro 00:16 What Elective Means 01:02 Why 39 Weeks 02:21 Stillbirth Risk Numbers 03:15 ARRIVE Trial Explained 06:22 Study Limits And Context 09:40 Personal Decision Factors 11:46 Benefits Of Induction 14:14 Risks And Tradeoffs 16:19 Putting It Together 20:06 Autonomy And Consent 21:25 Wrap Up And Resources ———— 🎉 Grab Your Copy of Training for Two → https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH Your go-to guide for prenatal fitness, birth prep, and postpartum recovery. 👇 Start Preparing for Birth Today 📥 Download our free Birth Prep Circuit Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit 📥 Grab our free Pelvic Floor Prep Guide → https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/ Learn how to relax and lengthen your pelvic floor to support a smoother labor and pushing phase. 💻 Explore Our Online Programs: Whether you're pregnant or postpartum—we’ve got you covered with expert-led fitness and education: 🏋🏻‍♀️ Prenatal & Postpartum Fitness Programs 🎓 Childbirth + Postpartum Education Courses → https://mamastefit.com 🤱 Just Had a Baby? 📥 Grab our free Postpartum Core Workouts → https://mamastefit.kit.com/core Start reconnecting with your core and feeling strong again—safely and confidently. ——— 📲 Follow Us on Instagram for Daily Tips + BTS https://instagram.com/mamastefit ——— ✨ Shop Our Favorites: ⚡️ Electrolytes we love → https://drinklmnt.com/mamaste 🌿 Supplements we trust – 20% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://thisisneeded.com/ginaandroxanne 👖 Maternity clothing we actually wear – 10% off with code MAMASTEFIT → https://rstr.co/lovesteady/3500 ——