The Midwife Memos

In this episode I’m joined by Zoe — a first-time mum — for a raw, real and honestly so reassuring chat about pregnancy, birth prep, decision-making in labour and the early postpartum weeks.Zoe shares what helped her feel confident going into birth and the part of labour she’s still processing (hello… early urge to push).We cover;- Choosing private care (and the thing many people don’t realise)- Early labour at home: movement, TENS machine tips, and Zoe’s strategy- The early urge to push — what it felt like and why it can be so intense- Decision-making as a team in labour (and what helped Zoe feel in control)- Assisted birth + episiotomy + pain relief — and why her birth still felt positive- Postpartum reality: anxiety, the slow-burn bond, and learning your baby (and yourself)🫶 Book Your Birth Class hereOther Resources:Supporting Women’s instinctive pushing behaviour during birth - Rachel Reed PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia)COPE (Centre of Perinatal Excellence): DisclaimerThe information and resources shared in this podcast are for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace medical or midwifery advice. Any decisions about your care should be made in partnership with your healthcare provider. If you’re a health professional, we encourage you to use this information as a discussion point within your workplace or professional practice.While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee its completeness or relevance to your specific situation. The Midwife Memos podcast is not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of this content. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for any medical or midwifery concerns.

Early pregnancy can feel exciting, exhausting, confusing… and sometimes all at once. In this first episode of Season 2, I’m kicking off with a gentle, evidence-based guide to surviving (and understanding) the first trimester.Even if it looks like not much is happening on the outside, your body is doing a LOT of work behind the scenes — and there is a reason you feel so tired.In this episode, we cover:A little life update from meWhat’s actually happening in your body during the first trimester Practical ways to manage early pregnancy exhaustion while juggling life, work, and other childrenNausea, vomiting, food aversions and hydration — plus when to seek helpBleeding in early pregnancy Supplements to discuss with your GP or midwife (including folate and iodine)What to start thinking about during early pregnancy🔗 Helpful links mentioned in this episode:Episode: Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy (Season 1)Episode: Choosing Your Pregnancy Care (Season 1)Free guide: Choosing the Right Pregnancy Care for YouWant to work with Lauretta to prepare for Birth - find all my offerings both in-person and online here This episode is proudly sponsored by Australia’s favourite pregnancy pillow Sleepybelly Pregnancy PillowOther References;NSW Health – Folic acid & iodine recommendations: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/kidsfamilies/MCFhealth/pregnancy/Pages/vitamins-minerals.aspx Pregnancy, Birth and Baby – Vitamins & supplements information: https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/vitamins-and-supplements-during-pregnancy RANZCOG – Planning for Pregnancy guidance (folic acid): https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/ (search “Planning for Pregnancy”) NHMRC – Iodine supplementation statement: (search “Iodine supplementation for pregnant and breastfeeding women NHMRC”) The Women’s – Food & nutrition in pregnancy: https://www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/pregnancy-and-birth/a-healthy-pregnancy/food-nutrition-in-pregnancy  Disclaimer: The information and resources shared in this podcast are for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace medical or midwifery advice. Any decisions about your care should be made in partnership with your healthcare provider. If you’re a health professional, we encourage you to use this information as a discussion point within your workplace or professional practice.While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee its completeness or relevance to your specific situation. The Midwife Memos podcast is not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of this content. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for any medical or midwifery concerns.

In this episode we cover all things Oral restrictions - often known as tongue ties, with the incredible Tamika who is an Endorsed Midwife, IBCLC and Orofacial Myology therapist. It's a BIG complex topic and Tamika helps us unpack it all in a compassionate and nuanced way (because as you'll learn it's not black & white) we cover:- What Oral restrictions are & signs & symptoms (inlcuding my own experiences).- The whole body impact beyond the mouth- Key things to look for when seeking support - The importance of bodywork and a team approach- The different options for treatment - conservative management Vs laser or other methods- Why there is SO much controversy around this topic! - Tamika's key message for families navigating this challenging issueThis season of The Midwife Memos is sponsored by Sleepybelly—my go-to for better pregnancy sleep - check them out here Want to work with Lauretta to prepare for Birth - find all my offerings both in-person and online here Guest info: Tamika Newman - Private Midwife, IBCLC, Orofacial Myology Therapist Website: https://tamikanewmanibclc.com/ Instagram: @midwifetamikaDisclaimerThe information and resources shared in this podcast are for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace medical or midwifery advice. Any decisions about your care should be made in partnership with your healthcare provider. If you’re a health professional, we encourage you to use this information as a discussion point within your workplace or professional practice.While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee its completeness or relevance to your specific situation. The Midwife Memos podcast is not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of this content. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for any medical or midwifery concerns.

This week I’m joined by Hannah Willsmore — Midwife, Lactation consultant, Birth educator and NDC-accredited practitioner — for a reassuring, myth-busting conversation about infant sleep.If you're pregnant my hope is that this episode supports you to go into the world of babies and sleep with realistic expectations, or if you’re already there - help you feel reassured and less worried that you or you baby are doing something wrong! We chat about:What’s actually 'normal' for baby sleepThe NDC/Possums holistic approach and why it’s so freeing (and supportive for mental health, feeding and sleep!)The biggest myths that cause unnecessary stress for parentsHow parents can actually support their babies sleep This season of The Midwife Memos is sponsored by Sleepybelly—my go-to for better pregnancy sleep - check them out here SleepybellyWant to work with Lauretta to prepare for Birth - find all my offerings both in-person and online here Guest info: Connect with Hannah & the Held Midwifery Team Website: https://www.heldmidwifery.com.au Instagram: @heldmidwiferyHannah’s Course – Held in Sleep & Motherhood A beautiful, evidence-based online course to support infant sleep and maternal wellbeingResources Mentioned:NDC / Possums ApproachEvidence-based sleep, feeding & mental health support https://possumsonline.comThe Discontented Little Baby Book by Dr Pamela Douglas https://possumsonline.com/product/the-discontented-little-baby-book/ Disclaimer: The information and resources shared in this podcast are for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace medical or midwifery advice. Any decisions about your care should be made in partnership with your healthcare provider. If you’re a health professional, we encourage you to use this information as a discussion point within your workplace or professional practice.While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee its completeness or relevance to your specific situation. The Midwife Memos podcast is not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of this content. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for any medical or midwifery concerns.

In this episode of The Midwife Memos, I’m diving into the physical side of birth prep — and why we need to give it just as much attention as mindset work. I cover:Why body prep matters and how it influences baby’s position & movement through the pelvisWhat tension in the body can tell us — and how to address it3 simple things you can do today to support your body for birthLinks mentioned:Free Birth Prep Guide Your Birth Class (+in depth body prep) - online & in person classesInternal Pelvic Release InfoInternal Pelvic Release Aus wide Practitioner DirectoryThis season of The Midwife Memos is sponsored by Sleepybelly—my go-to for better pregnancy sleep - check them out here SleepybellyDisclaimer: The information and resources shared in this podcast are for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace medical or midwifery advice. Any decisions about your care should be made in partnership with your healthcare provider. If you’re a health professional, we encourage you to use this information as a discussion point within your workplace or professional practice.While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee its completeness or relevance to your specific situation. The Midwife Memos podcast is not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of this content. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for any medical or midwifery concerns.Disclaimer

Ask a Chinese Medicine Practitioner & Acupuncturist In this week's bite-sized episode we’re changing up the ‘ask a midwife’ to ‘ask a Midwife & Chinese medicine practitioner’ Kate is answering;Is Acupuncture safe in pregnancy?How often should you go as you move through pregnancy?How can Acupuncture help with preparing for birth?Guest Info: Kate is a Chinese Medicine Practitioner and Privately Practicing Midwife located south of Perth in Western Australia. She is passionate about supporting women throughout all stages of life. Kate loves working in partnership with women providing knowledge, education and support. You can find her here https://www.themamasalchemist.com/ & on instagram @themamasalchemistBased in Ballarat or Bacchus Marsh?Explore how Lauretta supports women with Acuneedling (based on Chinese medicine - provided by a Midwife for pregnancy, birth & postpartum).Find out more here Disclaimer:The information and resources shared in this podcast are for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace medical or midwifery advice. Any decisions about your care should be made in partnership with your healthcare provider. If you’re a health professional, we encourage you to use this information as a discussion point within your workplace or professional practice.While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee its completeness or relevance to your specific situation. The Midwife Memos podcast is not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of this content. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for any medical or midwifery concerns.

The Memo: Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture for Pregnancy, Labour & Postpartum with Private Midwife + Chinese Medicine Practitioner, Kate Thomson from The Mamas AlchemistThis week, Lauretta sits down with Kate — a privately practising midwife, Chinese medicine practitioner, and mum of two — for a beautiful, honest conversation on how Eastern medicine can support women across pregnancy, labour and postpartum.In this episode, we chat about:Kate’s lessons from her pregnancies & birthsWhat Chinese medicine actually is (and why it’s more than just needles)The “40 days for 40 years” philosophy for postpartum recoveryWhat a typical treatment looks like across trimestersHow we can all apply chinese medicine practices in simple waysHow Kate blends her midwifery and Chinese Medicine background to support womenGuest Info: Kate is a Chinese Medicine Practitioner and Privately Practicing Midwife located south of Perth in Western Australia. She is passionate about supporting women throughout all stages of life. Kate loves working in partnership with women providing knowledge, education and support. You can find her here https://www.themamasalchemist.com/ & on instagram @themamasalcehmistBased in Ballarat or Bacchus Marsh? Explore how Lauretta supports women with Acuneedling (based on chinese medicine provided by a Midwife within the scope of pregnancy, birth & postpartum)Find out more here This season of The Midwife Memos is sponsored by Sleepybelly—my go-to for better pregnancy sleep - check them out here SleepybellyDisclaimer:The information and resources shared in this podcast are for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace medical or midwifery advice. Any decisions about your care should be made in partnership with your healthcare provider. If you’re a health professional, we encourage you to use this information as a discussion point within your workplace or professional practice.While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee its completeness or relevance to your specific situation. The Midwife Memos podcast is not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of this content. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for any medical or midwifery concerns.

This week I'm talking to Fiona Rogerson - a Perinatal & Trauma Counsellor, my hope is that it will be helpful if you're preparing for birth to learn about what can contribute to experiencing trauma and how to seek support if you resonate with what Fiona shares. We cover;What birth and perinatal trauma really means — and why it’s not just about “bad births”How trauma is rooted in a lack of safety (not disappointment or unmet expectations)The full perinatal spectrum: how trauma can arise during conception, pregnancy, birth or postpartumThe nervous system's role in how we experience trauma — and how symptoms can show up emotionally, physically, cognitively, and behaviourallyCommon but misunderstood signs of trauma, including “mum rage”, avoidance, panic, or disconnectHow partners can also experience trauma, and what that might look likeThe overlap between trauma and mental health How trauma affects relationships and parentingWhat is EMDR and somatic approaches for traumaWhat to look for when seeking support from a practitionerFiona’s memo moment & takeaway messageIf you feel you need support please speak to your GP or contact PANDA or COPEGuest info: If you'd like to connect with Fiona her website is linked here & she is on Instagram @fionarogerson.counsellorperthDisclaimer: This season of The Midwife Memos is sponsored by Sleepybelly—my go-to for better pregnancy sleep - check them out here SleepybellyWant a weekly 'midwife in your inbox?' Join my newsletter, The Birth Buzz – Get midwife-approved insights, birth prep tips & all the resources mentioned in each episode straight to your inbox. The Birth Buzz ✨ Ready to take charge of your birth, your way? Your Birth Class – My midwife-created, holistic birth class (online or in-person - Ballarat & Bacchus Marsh)Find everything in one place: My Website DisclaimerThe information and resources shared in this podcast are for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace medical or midwifery advice. Any decisions about your care should be made in partnership with your healthcare provider. If you’re a health professional, we encourage you to use this information as a discussion point within your workplace or professional practice.While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee its completeness or relevance to your specific situation. The Midwife Memos podcast is not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of this content. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for any medical or midwifery concerns.

Navigating birth trauma, partner fears, and growing confidence the second time aroundIn this episode, I’m joined by Gemma — a mum of two — who shares her two birth stories: her first in an MGP program & a hospital, assisted birth during Melbourne’s 2020 lockdown, and a slower, calm, home-birth in a publicly funded home birth program with her second.We talk about;What she would go back and tell her first time birthing self Dealing with a posterior labour, her experience with an epidural and staying ‘in’ labour with oneDealing with Birth trauma & how it can be stored in the body Navigating getting on the same page with your partner around birth choicesThe difference between her hospital and home-birthWhy expectations can be the enemyGemma’s Memo moment & key takeaway for other birthing womenA quick heads up: In this episode, Gemma shares her first birth experience, which she experienced as traumatic. If you need support, you can contact: COPE – Centre of Perinatal Excellence PANDA – Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia or 1300 726 306You can also speak to your GP, midwife or Obstetrician for further support.This season of The Midwife Memos is sponsored by Sleepybelly—my go-to for better pregnancy sleep - check them out here SleepybellyFree resources & courses: www.midwifelauretta.com.auDisclaimer- The information and resources shared in this podcast are for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace medical or midwifery advice. Any decisions about your care should be made in partnership with your healthcare provider. If you’re a health professional, we encourage you to use this information as a discussion point within your workplace or professional practice.While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee its completeness or relevance to your specific situation. The Midwife Memos podcast is not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of this content. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for any medical or midwifery concerns.

In this bonus episode #08 -  I’m sharing part of a talk I gave at a local event in Ballarat ‘The Wisdom She weaves’ by the very inspiring Sarah from LOTS financial planning. The topic was What I Wish Women Knew — and in this episode, I’m sharing;What I wish women knew about BirthWhat I wish women knew about self advocacy & trusting your Gut (for birth & life!)I also share a bit about my own experience as a Midwife & learning to hold less tightly to what I couldn't control & to focus on my small circle of influence in a micro way - which might be helpful for my fellow Midwives:)Next week, I’m chatting with Gemma — a mum of two — about her hospital and home births. Want more support for your birth prep? Check outYour Birth Class - Fully online at your own pace or in person group classes, now launching in Bacchus Marsh & Ballarat.This season of The Midwife Memos is sponsored by Sleepybelly—my go-to for better pregnancy sleep - check them out here SleepybellyDisclaimer: The information and resources shared in this podcast are for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace medical or midwifery advice. Any decisions about your care should be made in partnership with your healthcare provider. If you’re a health professional, we encourage you to use this information as a discussion point within your workplace or professional practice.

In this short 'Ask A Midwife' episode, I’m answering two questions:- “What if I just want to wing it?” -“What if my care provider doesn’t believe in birth plans?”Free Guide: Plan Like a Pro Download the guide Birth Plan Template My one-page, midwife & obstetrician approved template Your Birth Class Fully online at your own pace or in person group classes → Your Birth ClassHave a question you’d like answered in a future Ask A Midwife episode?You can reply to the podcast email or send me a DM on Instagram @midwifelaurettaThis season of The Midwife Memos is sponsored by Sleepybelly—my go-to for better pregnancy sleep - check them out here SleepybellyDisclaimerThe information and resources shared in this podcast are for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace medical or midwifery advice. Any decisions about your care should be made in partnership with your healthcare provider. If you’re a health professional, we encourage you to use this information as a discussion point within your workplace or professional practice.While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee its completeness or relevance to your specific situation. The Midwife Memos podcast is not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of this content. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for any medical or midwifery concerns.

In this episode I’m diving deep into something that often stirs up mixed opinions: birth plans. You’ve probably heard the phrase “you can’t plan birth,” but that doesn’t mean you can’t prepare — and that’s exactly what this episode is about.We explore;What a birth plan actually is & why it can be a powerful toolWhat the research says about their impactWhy creating one with your care provider is keyWhat to include How to make it nice and clearNeed some help? Check out my FREE Birth Plan Guide: Plan Like a Pro Download the guide Birth Plan Template Grab my one-page, midwife & obstetrician approved template plus what to consider for each section ($15).This season of The Midwife Memos is sponsored by Sleepybelly—my go-to for better pregnancy sleep - check them out here SleepybellyBirth Plan Study ReferenceBell, M. C. H., Muggleton, S., & Davis, D. L. (2022). Birth plans: A systematic, integrative review into their purpose, process, and impact. Midwifery, 111, 1-11. Article 103388. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.midw.2022.103388Disclaimer: The information and resources shared in this podcast are for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace medical or midwifery advice. Any decisions about your care should be made in partnership with your healthcare provider. If you’re a health professional, we encourage you to use this information as a discussion point within your workplace or professional practice.While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee its completeness or relevance to your specific situation. The Midwife Memos podcast is not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of this content. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for any medical or midwifery concerns.

In this episode of The Midwife Memos, I speak with Sarah — a midwife, lactation consultant and mum of four — about the vaginal breech birth of her third baby.We explore:What a breech presentation is and why there are very few skilled birth attendees who will support vaginal breech birth Options for turning a breech baby What the evidence says about vaginal breech birthNavigating the system as a midwife and birthing woman The power of advocacy & the right support teamSarah’s powerful vaginal breech birth storySarah’s story is raw, honest and full of wisdom for anyone facing unexpected turns in pregnancy and birth.Guest Info: You can follow Sarah @mindfulmidwifemama or via her website https://www.mindfulmamalactation.com.au/This season of The Midwife Memos is sponsored by Sleepybelly—my go-to for better pregnancy sleep - check them out here SleepybellyResources mentioned;Evidence Based Birth - ECV Breech without BordersDr Stuart FischbeinMore about Moxabustion Want more? Join my newsletter, The Birth Buzz – Get midwife-approved insights, birth prep tips & all the resources mentioned in each episode straight to your inbox. The Birth Buzz ✨ Ready to take charge of your birth, your way? Your Birth Class – My midwife-created, holistic birth class (online or in-person) Birth Bites – Short, bite-sized video lessons on specific topicsFind everything in one place: My Website Disclaimer: The information and resources shared in this podcast are for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace medical or midwifery advice. Any decisions about your care should be made in partnership with your healthcare provider. If you’re a health professional, we encourage you to use this information as a discussion point within your workplace or professional practice.While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee its completeness or relevance to your specific situation. The Midwife Memos podcast is not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of this content. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for any medical or midwifery concerns.

 In this heartfelt and educational episode of The Midwife Memos, Lauretta shares her personal experiences with Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) and dives into all things nausea & vomiting in pregnancy & HG. She explores the differences between NVP and HG, diagnosis & management options, mental health support, recovery tips postpartum, planning a pregnancy after HG and her favourite resources.Because suffering is not something you just have to accept.In this episode, we cover:What’s the difference between NVP and HG?Causes and diagnosis Lauretta’s personal experiences across two pregnanciesManagement and support optionsThe emotional and psychological impacts of HGRecovery after HGHelpful resources for those currently navigating NVP or HGResources:Hyperemesis Australia Hyperemesis Australia Support Group (Facebook)You, Me and HG PodcastHER Foundation (US) Royal Women’s Hospital Guidelines on NVP and HG SOMANZ Guidelines (Society of Obstetric Medicine of Australia and New Zealand) Ready to COPE App – HG EditionCOPE Panda - Centre of Perinatal ExcellenceThe Gidget FoundationPregnant & want to know what's ahead? Grab my FREE Pregnancy Map ✨ Ready to take charge of your birth, your way? Your Birth Class – My midwife-created, holistic birth class (online or in-person) Find everything in one place: My Website This season of The Midwife Memos is sponsored by Sleepybelly—my go-to for better pregnancy sleep - check them out here SleepybellyDisclaimer: The information and resources shared in this podcast are for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace medical or midwifery advice. Any decisions about your care should be made in partnership with your healthcare provider. If you’re a health professional, we encourage you to use this information as a discussion point within your workplace or professional practice.While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee its completeness or relevance to your specific situation. The Midwife Memos podcast is not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of this content. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for any medical or midwifery concerns.

In this episode, I’m joined by Midwife Tayla, who shares her experiences as a midwife, mum, and business owner of Hatchling Store where she supports women through birth prep, education and TENS machine hire. We chat about:Tayla’s birth stories – including her husband missing the birth of their second babyWhat a TENS machine is and how it works for pain relief in labourHow to use a TENS for all types of births, including inductionsCommon myths & misconceptions about TENS machinesEssential items for your hospital or birth bagTayla’s ‘Memo Moment’ – her biggest lesson for birth preparationIf you’re wondering whether a TENS machine could be helpful for your birth, this episode is packed with practical tips, real-life insights, and expert advice to help you decide.Guest info: Find Tayla on Instagram @hatchlingstore & via her website ⁠Hatchling Store⁠ Discount Code: Use code memo10 for 10% off site wideJoin my newsletter, The Birth Buzz – Get midwife-approved insights, birth prep tips & all the resources mentioned in each episode straight to your inbox. Sign up here Or Grab one of my free resources: Freebies ✨ Ready to take charge of your birth, your way? Your Birth Class – My midwife-created, holistic birth class (online or in-person) Birth Bites – Short, bite-sized video lessons on specific topicsFind everything in one place: Midwife Lauretta This season of The Midwife Memos is sponsored by Sleepybelly—my go-to for better pregnancy sleep - check them out here SleepybellyCheck out the beautiful Seasons of Mama products we mentioned https://seasonsofmama.com.au/ DisclaimerThe information and resources shared in this podcast are for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace medical or midwifery advice. Any decisions about your care should be made in partnership with your healthcare provider. If you’re a health professional, we encourage you to use this information as a discussion point within your workplace or professional practice.While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee its completeness or relevance to your specific situation. The Midwife Memos podcast is not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of this content. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for any medical or midwifery concerns.

One of the biggest decisions you’ll make in pregnancy is one you might not even realise you’re making early on—who will care for you and where you’ll give birth.Your care provider and birth setting have a huge impact on your labour and birth experience, but many women make this choice without knowing how different care models can impact the type of birth they have and the likelihood of birth interventionsKey topics in this episode:The different models of maternity care in AustraliaHow birth outcomes vary depending on care provider & birth settingWhat Hannah Dahlen’s study found about birth outcomes in private vs public hospitalsWhy continuity of care is considered the gold standard (Cochrane Review findings)Ask a Midwife segment: What to do if you can’t access a continuity model in your area💡 Want to learn more about your options? Grab my free guide Choosing the Right Pregnancy Care for You to help you navigate your choices with confidence! 👉 Download hereThis season of The Midwife Memos is sponsored by Sleepybelly—my go-to for better pregnancy sleep - check them out here SleepybellyResources & Citations:Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). Australia’s Mothers and Babies 2023 (data from 2021). Read the full report hereDahlen H. et al. (2012). Birth outcomes in Australian private vs. public hospitals.Sandall J. et al. (2016). Midwife-led continuity models vs. other models of care for childbearing women (Cochrane Review).Dahlen, H. G., Schmid, H., Bisits, A., et al. (2020). Women’s experiences of maternity care in Australia. La Trobe University.Evidence Based Birth - Evidence for Doulas Article Evidence for DoulasJoin my newsletter, The Birth Buzz – Get midwife-approved insights, birth prep tips & all the resources mentioned in each episode straight to your inbox. The Birth Buzz ✨ Ready to take charge of your birth, your way? Your Birth Class – My midwife-created, holistic birth class (online or in-person) Birth Bites – Short, bite-sized video lessons on specific topicsFind everything in one place: My Website Disclaimer: The information and resources shared in this podcast are for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace medical or midwifery advice. Any decisions about your care should be made in partnership with your healthcare provider. If you’re a health professional, we encourage you to use this information as a discussion point within your workplace or professional practice.While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee its completeness or relevance to your specific situation. The Midwife Memos podcast is not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of this content. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for any medical or midwifery concerns.

Welcome to The Midwife Memos! In this first episode, we’re having a little coffee date so you can get to know me— Lauretta, midwife, mum & birth educator…I’ll be sharing:How I found my way into midwifery and independent birth educationMy own pregnancy and birth experiences (including hyperemesis, self-doubt, and two powerful births)Why I’m so passionate about informed choices in birthWhat you can expect from this podcast each weekPlus, I’m introducing my Memorable & Messy segment, where I reflect on the bittersweet transition of my youngest starting school and the lessons I’ve learned about change.Next week, we’re diving into one of the most impactful decisions you’ll make  in pregnancy—choosing your care provider and place of birth. Join my newsletter, The Birth Buzz – Get midwife-approved insights, birth prep tips & all the resources mentioned in each episode straight to your inbox. https://midwifelauretta.com.au/newsletter Or Grab one of my free resources: https://midwifelauretta.com.au/freebies ✨ Ready to take charge of your birth, your way? Your Birth Class – My midwife-created, holistic birth class (online or in-person) Birth Bites – Short, bite-sized video lessons on specific topicsFind everything in one place: https://midwifelauretta.com.au/home This season of The Midwife Memos is sponsored by Sleepybelly—my go-to for better pregnancy sleep - check them out here https://sleepybelly.com.au/discount/LAURETTA10?sca_ref=7665650.xTpPbn99pcJ&utm_source=uppromote&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=midwives,-physio's-and-pregnancy-experts-program&utm_term=Lauretta-HamiltonDisclaimerThe information and resources shared in this podcast are for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace medical or midwifery advice. Any decisions about your care should be made in partnership with your healthcare provider. If you’re a health professional, we encourage you to use this information as a discussion point within your workplace or professional practice.While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee its completeness or relevance to your specific situation. The Midwife Memos podcast is not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of this content. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for any medical or midwifery concerns.

Hi, I’m Lauretta—midwife, birth educator, and your guide through the wild, beautiful ride of pregnancy, birth, and beyond. And yes, I’m currently recording in a cupboard, surrounded by towels and pillows (because, well…acoustics). But imposter syndrome aside, this podcast has been a dream of mine for years. Why? Because I believe that when it comes to birth, you have choices. You have options. There’s no one right way—only the way that’s right for you. In The Midwife Memos, I’ll be sharing my insights from years of working with women, birthing people, and families, as well as my studies in birth education, anatomy and Acuneedling. Each episode will bring you: ✨ Midwife memos on key topics Conversations with experts, fellow midwives & those with lived birth experiences. Practical, evidence-based guidance to help you feel confident & in control This is a limited-season podcast, with new episodes dropping weekly. My goal? That you leave each episode feeling informed, empowered, and excited about your birth. So, if this sounds like something you need in your life, hit subscribe and join me next week for the very first episode! Want more support? Join my newsletter, The Birth Buzz – Get midwife-approved insights, birth prep tips & all the resources mentioned in each episode straight to your inbox. https://midwifelauretta.com.au/newsletter Or Grab one of my free resources: https://midwifelauretta.com.au/freebies ● Choose the Right Care Provider for You – One of the MOST impactful choices on how you birth is who you choose to care for you - learn about your options and make sure it aligns with the birth you want ● Pregnancy Map – A simple guide to tests & scans in pregnancy ● Birth Prep Guide – Key steps to prepare your body & mind for labor ● Plan Like a Pro – A midwife’s guide to writing your birth plan ✨ Ready to take charge of your birth, your way? Your Birth Class – My midwife-created, holistic birth class (online or in-person) Birth Bites – Short, bite-sized video lessons on specific topics Find everything in one place: https://midwifelauretta.com.au/homeDisclaimer:The information and resources shared in this podcast are for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace medical or midwifery advice. Any decisions about your care should be made in partnership with your healthcare provider. If you’re a health professional, we encourage you to use this information as a discussion point within your workplace or professional practice.While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee its completeness or relevance to your specific situation. The Midwife Memos podcast is not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or interpretation of this content. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for any medical or midwifery concerns.