The Birth Link

In this episode, Colette Wagholikar and Nicole Lange discuss the intricate relationship between trauma, mental health, and fertility. They explore how acupuncture can aid in fertility treatments, the importance of open communication with partners, and the emotional challenges faced during the journey to parenthood. The conversation emphasizes the need for a supportive community and the significance of celebrating small victories along the way. Nicole shares her insights on navigating pregnancy after fertility struggles and the impact of IVF on pregnancy outcomes, advocating for a holistic approach to women's health.Nicole Lange is an acupuncturist and thought leader who's pioneered trauma-informed fertility care since 2006. She's leading the conversation around the shocking reality that nearly 50% of people in fertility treatment develop PTSD—regardless of whether they get pregnant. Nicole's revolutionary salutogenesis approach focuses on preventing treatment-induced trauma while improving conception odds through her evidence-based integration of nervous system science and Traditional Chinese Medicine.Find Nicole:https://lifehealinglife.com https://www.youtube.com/@thebabyyouwanthttps://www.instagram.com/notafixer/TakeawaysTrauma can significantly impact fertility and pregnancy outcomes.Acupuncture can help reset the body's hormonal balance and improve fertility.Mental health is crucial during fertility treatments and pregnancy.Open communication with partners is essential for navigating fertility struggles.IVF can lead to increased risks in pregnancy, but informed consent is key.Building a supportive community can alleviate feelings of isolation during fertility journeys.Celebrating small victories during the fertility process is important for mental well-being.Understanding the interconnectedness of physical and mental health can enhance fertility outcomes.Women often carry the emotional burden of fertility struggles, impacting their relationships.Education and awareness can empower women to make informed decisions about their fertility.Chapters00:00. Introduction to Fertility and Trauma08:33. The Role of Acupuncture in Fertility22:29. Understanding Trauma's Impact on Fertility28:38. Understanding Salutogenesis in Fertility30:54. Navigating IVF and Fertility Solutions32:13. The Importance of a Holistic Approach34:06. Emotional Challenges During Fertility Treatments35:48. Radical Acceptance in Pregnancy After Infertility39:01. Celebrating Small Wins in the Fertility Journey43:19. Processing Emotions and Staying Present46:17. Communicating with Partners During Fertility Challenges52:39. Navigating Postpartum Challenges54:45. Communicating Needs in Relationships57:11. Setting Expectations for Parenting59:15. Understanding Partner Dynamics01:01:01. The Impact of IVF on Pregnancy01:05:45 Balancing Evidence and Compassion in Care01:08:25 Building a Supportive Environment for Parenthood01:14:31 Outtro new edit.mp3Keywords: fertility, trauma, acupuncture, mental health, IVF, pregnancy, women's health, support, community, holistic care

We are so proud to have the doctors behind The OB Hospitalist. Initially conceived to unite OB Hospitalists and help others in their field, cope with the challenges of being in healthcare, family, and juggling modern day challenges. Their audience has expanded to include nurses, midwives, sonographers, and anyone else passionate about delivering quality and meaningful women’s healthcare.Our conversation covers the role of a hospitalist, or some call them laborists, in the hospital, the path of an OB to become one and how they are changing our maternal healthcare system. Hospitalist are the answer to safety concerns in the hospital and becoming more and more of the norm. And of course we touch on the doctor's view of a birth plan!The highlight of our conversation is how we can build a successful team based on communication and how, even though it would take a lot of work, this type of birthing system could be a safer general practice throughout the United States. Head over to their Instagram for updates and announcements for an amazing upcoming project!IG: @theobhospitalistVisit their link tree!TakeawaysAn OB hospitalist is a board-certified OB-GYN who works in hospitals, providing care for patients without an OB-GYN.The role involves handling emergencies and ensuring patient safety during childbirth.Collaboration with nurses and other healthcare professionals is crucial for effective patient care.Work-life balance is achievable in hospitalist roles, allowing for personal time and family life.Building trust with patients is essential, especially when they meet their care providers for the first time.The healthcare system is facing challenges, including a shortage of private practice OB-GYNs.Patient autonomy and shared decision-making are vital in obstetric care.Communication between healthcare providers and patients can improve outcomes and satisfaction.The future of obstetric care may increasingly rely on hospitalists due to changing healthcare dynamics.New OBs should consider the fast-paced, collaborative environment of hospitalist work.00:00Introduction to OB Hospitalists03:11The Role and Responsibilities of OB Hospitalists06:10Pathways to Becoming an OB Hospitalist08:50The Current State of the Medical System for Birth14:54Building Trust with Patients20:56Communication and Teamwork in Maternity Care27:51Building Trust in Patient-Provider Relationships29:48The Future of Birth in Hospitals31:36Adapting to Change in Healthcare33:38Patient Autonomy and Birth Plans36:45Shared Decision Making in Obstetrics48:40Advice for Future OBs and Hospitalists

What is a nurse to do?! Listen in with Cassandra Koblitz RN, the founder of Hakuna Matata Mamas, a labor and delivery nurse plus hospital birth coach with 13 years of experience supporting women through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. She has worked in high-risk labor units across the country and has supported thousands of hospital births. Here's what she knows: hospital birth can be beautiful—but only if women are truly prepared for what’s coming.That’s where Hakuna Matata Mamas comes in. Through her coaching she helps moms feel calm, courageous, and emotionally steady as they get ready to meet their baby. What sets her apart is that she goes far beyond birth plans and breathing techniques. She helps women understand how the hospital system actually works, teaches their partners how to advocate, and guides them in building the emotional resilience to handle whatever path birth takes. In this conversation, Colette Wagholikar and Cassandra Kolbuts discuss the challenges and importance of patient education in the context of hospital births. They share personal stories and insights from their experiences as labor and delivery nurses, emphasizing the need for women to be empowered and informed about their choices during childbirth. The discussion covers the roles of partners, the impact of social media on birth education, and the importance of mindset and preparation for a positive birth experience.TakeawaysWomen often leave the hospital feeling traumatized by their birth experience.Education and preparation are crucial for a positive birth experience.Patients should feel empowered to ask questions and voice their preferences during labor.The role of partners is vital in supporting women during childbirth.Mindset plays a significant role in how women perceive their birth experience.Social media can both help and hinder birth education.Women should not just go with the flow but actively participate in their birth plan.Understanding medical interventions is essential for informed decision-making.Nurses and doctors need to respect the birthing process and the women involved.Preparation for childbirth should start as early as possible.Find Cassandra at:IG: https://instagram.com/hakuna.matata.mamasWebsite: https://hakunamatatamamas.comKeywords: birth education, patient advocacy, labor and delivery, hospital birth, empowerment, mindset, patient rights, birth trauma, nursing, maternal health

Kiera Walsh is a doula, birth educator, and host of the Birth Advocacy Podcast. She’s supported hundreds of first-time moms through birth and is known for her bold, no-BS approach to education and advocacy. Kiera’s not afraid to call out outdated hospital routines or speak up when something doesn’t sit right—and she teaches moms and doulas how to do the same. With a mix of real talk, practical tools, and unfiltered honesty, she helps women feel prepared, confident, and fully in control of their birth experience.Today we discuss how to ACTUALLY advocate for yourself during birth, even when you're not a medical or birth expert. How to stand up to bullies in birth. We get all fired up on this episode and you won't want to miss it!Find Keira at www.birthadvocacypodcast.com/moms and www.birthadvocacypodcast.com/doulasIG: https://instagram.com/thebirthroomChapters00:00Introduction to Birth Advocacy01:31Kira's Journey into Birth Work05:04Navigating Hospital Birth as a Doula06:34Understanding Advocacy in Birth09:33The Importance of Asking Questions11:17Informed Consent and Obstetric Violence16:10The Role of Providers in Birth22:25Planning for Birth: A, B, and C25:51The Role of Doulas in Birth Advocacy30:29Experiences with Provider Intimidation37:27The Impact of Hospital Policies on Birth42:24Final Thoughts on Birth Advocacy

In this episode of The Birth Link Podcast, I sit down with labor nurse Marya Eddaifi, who shares her powerful journey from a military birth experience to creating her own practice centered on structural integration and fascia based bodywork. We talk about how soft tissue mobilization of ligaments, muscles, and joints can improve comfort, autonomy, and recovery in labor, even for those with limited mobility or epidurals. Marya opens up about the gaps she saw in hospital training around comfort measures and the anatomy of labor, and how her work now empowers birthing people and their newborns for a smoother, more supported experience.For anyone pregnant and all birth workers, this is an episode you don't want to miss. Find her on IG: https://www.instagram.com/maryathebirthcoach/ Find all Marya's offer on her linked tree, including DLM app https://www.maryaeddaifi.com/

We're so honored to have the wonderful Dawn Hancock founder of Pivotal Birth on this episode where we discuss the best way to plan for birth, with the idea that there will be times we will need to know how to pivot. Pivot is an acronym: PermissionInclusionValuesOptionsTimeWith Dawn herself with deep dive into each of these points, how to plan for birth and as two labor and delivery nurses often do, get into our own work birth stories!Find Dawn and her classes at pivotalbirth.com or on IG @pivotalbirth!

Shelly Yehuda is an HR expert certified in California State Leave Laws with extensive experience in maternity leave benefits. She helps new and expectant mothers understand their rights and options while ensuring they follow the proper procedures for leave. Shelly is well-versed in key programs like FMLA, CFRA, PDL, CA SDI, Paid Family Leave, Bonding, PPLO, ADA and employer-specific policies. She helps moms navigate their maternity leave, making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible while staying compliant with all the regulations. Shelly offers clear, personalized guidance to help parents focus on what matters most—their growing families.More from Shelly Yehuda:ParentalLeaveAdvisors.comFollow her on Instagram @californiaparentalleaveMore from My Friend's a Nurse:Get Your Childbirth Crash Course Here!Join the newsletter for behind the scenes and episode insights you don't want to miss!Visit MyFriendsaNurse.comGrab this FREE Hospital Bag ChecklistEmail Colette directly for coaching availability and membership colette@myfriendsanurse.comIf you are interested in partnering or being a guest on The Birth Link Podcast send us an email! Stay Connected:YouTubeInstagramTikTokFaceBookProduced and edited by Vaden Podcast Services

Sharon is a research scientist turned birth Doula and pediatric sleep consultant. She shares her world with her wonderful husband and two amazing kiddos! Sharon has a deep rooted passion to help expected families navigate the transition into parenthood as seamlessly as possible, and loves educating and supporting Parents in her community. Topic: Evidence-based doula work, Maternal-fetal disparities, and how social media is impacting the birth world More from Sharon:Website: www.douladiligence.com IG: @douladiligence_More from My Friend's a Nurse:Get Your Childbirth Crash Course Here!Join the newsletter for behind the scenes and episode insights you don't want to miss!Visit MyFriendsaNurse.comGrab this FREE Hospital Bag ChecklistEmail Colette directly for coaching availability and membership colette@myfriendsanurse.comIf you are interested in partnering or being a guest on The Birth Link Podcast send us an email! Stay Connected:YouTubeInstagramTikTokFaceBookProduced and edited by Vaden Podcast Services

Charlotte, also known as The Smart Doula, is a Virtual Doula based in the UK, providing evidence-based pregnancy support to families who want an empowering birth. With 10 years + of clinical research experience, a biomedical science degree, and two hospital births of her own under her belt, she uses her knowledge to provide pregnancy support to help parents make informed decisions about your pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.  She also provides pregnancy support for all types of birth, including hospital births, helping her clients to navigate NHS (National Health Services) guidelines. Connect with Charlotte:Follow her on IG @the.smart.doulaWebsite www.thesmartdoula.comMore from My Friend's a Nurse:Get Your Childbirth Crash Course Here!Join the newsletter for behind the scenes and episode insights you don't want to miss!Visit MyFriendsaNurse.comGrab this FREE Hospital Bag ChecklistEmail Colette directly for coaching availability and membership colette@myfriendsanurse.comIf you are interested in partnering or being a guest on The Birth Link Podcast send us an email! Stay Connected:YouTubeInstagramTikTokFaceBookProduced and edited by Vaden Podcast Services

Amber Ginn, IBCLC, is the founder of The Latch Link, one of the nation’s leading virtual lactation practices. With a decade of experience working with moms, she provides prenatal and postpartum breastfeeding support to families across the U.S.—and with insurance, that care is completely free.Amber is known for her no-fluff, straight-to-the-point approach, empowering moms with the knowledge and confidence to feed their babies in a way that works best for them. Whether it’s preparing for breastfeeding during pregnancy, troubleshooting latch issues, increasing milk supply, or making pumping work, she meets moms where they are with practical, judgment-free guidance.This week we have a fantastic discussion on what advocating for your own breastfeeding journey really looks like and the top tips for improving your experience!More from Amber Ginn, IBCLC:Looking for lactation support? Visit www.thelatchlink.comIG: @ambertheibclcMore from My Friend's a Nurse:Get Your Childbirth Crash Course Here!Join the newsletter for behind the scenes and episode insights you don't want to miss!Visit MyFriendsaNurse.comGrab this FREE Hospital Bag ChecklistEmail Colette directly for coaching availability and membership colette@myfriendsanurse.comIf you are interested in partnering or being a guest on The Birth Link Podcast send us an email! Stay Connected:YouTubeInstagramTikTokFaceBookProduced and edited by Vaden Podcast Services

This isn't an easy episode to share, but I think it's one that needs to be. I leave all names out for respect of the professionals in my area, and of course patient information is always confidential, but my side is free to be discussed, and I'm about to. Please, as nurses, let's do better. Stop the closed minded, no questions asked, okay to bully others, the doctor is king mentality. We are all a team, we are only as strong as our weakest member, and we are all there with a role, to serve the mother and her baby during this one birth. Let's show respect, decency, and even love for each other. For those who are pregnant and listening, if you are going to the hospital to give birth, go prepared, go with an understanding of what the expectations are, what your preferences are, and how to make the hospital the best birth possible! It is possible! For virtual coaching To schedule a call

Casey is a writer and advocate driven by a deep commitment to maternal health and mental well-being. As a mother who has navigated the complexities of birth trauma and postpartum challenges, she understands firsthand the emotional and physical toll motherhood can take. Casey is dedicated to creating a space where mothers feel heard, supported, and empowered in their journeys. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Forensic Medicine, which inform her unique perspective on the intersection of mental health, trauma, and the systemic challenges faced by mothers. A writer, mother, and relentless truth-seeker, she hopes her work sparks much-needed conversations around maternal mental health, healthcare reform, and the strength it takes to navigate the unseen realities of motherhood.More from Casey:Visit her website AlchemyOfMotherhood.comJoin the alchemy of motherhood Discord group!  https://discord.gg/UkAPCeqGSz  Follow her on Instagram: @alchemymotherhood More from My Friend's a Nurse:Get Your Childbirth Crash Course Here!Join the newsletter for behind the scenes and episode insights you don't want to miss!Visit MyFriendsaNurse.comGrab this FREE Hospital Bag ChecklistEmail Colette directly for coaching availability and membership colette@myfriendsanurse.comIf you are interested in partnering or being a guest on The Birth Link Podcast send us an email! Stay Connected:YouTubeInstagramTikTokFaceBookProduced and edited by Vaden Podcast Services

I numbered this episode - finally. I get into a straight shooting discussion on Pitocin, and how we as nurses and the hospital system manage this drug. How do we navigate this, probably overused drug, with respect and safety? Evidence based, shared decision making is what is sold in the hospital, but is that what you are getting? Too many times we are starting this medication without much of a conversation at all. Let's get into it here and come out with a better understanding of this very useful drug and some questions to ask your provider. Interested in having your own birth coach to work with virtually during your pregnancy? Yes you CAN be that empowered, bad a$$ BOSS in your birth room, and I can help you get there.

In this illuminating episode of The Birth Link Podcast, we welcome Dr. Emily Guarnotta, a licensed clinical psychologist and certified perinatal mental health provider who's changing the conversation around parental mental health. As the founder of Phoenix Health, Dr. Guarnotta specializes in supporting parents through the complex emotional landscape of bringing new life into the world.Our discussion explores the full spectrum of perinatal mental health challenges beyond postpartum depression, including anxiety, OCD, and the often-overlooked struggles that parents face. Dr. Guarnotta shares valuable insights on recognizing warning signs, seeking appropriate support, and breaking down the stigma that prevents many parents from getting the help they deserve.Learn about the innovative virtual therapy services that Phoenix Health offers to clients nationwide, making specialized mental health support accessible to parents regardless of location. Dr. Guarnotta also provides practical coping strategies that listeners can implement immediately to support their mental wellness journey.Whether you're planning for pregnancy, currently expecting, or already navigating parenthood, this conversation offers essential information on protecting your mental health during one of life's most transformative experiences.More from Dr. Emily Guarnotta:Visit JoinPhoenixHealth.comPhoenix Health Instagram: @joinphoenixhealthPhoenix Health FacebookLinkedinMore from My Friend's a Nurse:Get Your Childbirth Crash Course Here!Join the newsletter for behind the scenes and episode insights you don't want to miss!Visit MyFriendsaNurse.comGrab this FREE Hospital Bag ChecklistEmail Colette directly for coaching availability and membership colette@myfriendsanurse.comIf you are interested in partnering or being a guest on The Birth Link Podcast send us an email! Stay Connected:YouTubeInstagramTikTokFaceBookProduced and edited by Vaden Podcast Services

In this essential episode of The Birth Link Podcast, we dive deep into the waters of pregnancy—amniotic fluid! Learn what this miraculous fluid actually is, why it's vital for your baby's development, and how it changes throughout pregnancy. We guide you through what normal fluid levels look like, when to be concerned, and exactly what to do if your water breaks unexpectedly.From spontaneous rupture to artificial breaking, preterm PROM to 'high and dry' membranes, this episode covers all your burning questions about 'the waters.' We'll discuss the risks associated with different rupture scenarios and provide practical advice for recognizing amniotic fluid versus other pregnancy discharges.While we covered nearly everything about amniotic fluid, we realize we forgot to mention births 'en caul'—the rare and fascinating phenomenon where babies are born still inside an intact amniotic sac. This special occurrence, considered lucky in many cultures, happens in fewer than 1 in 80,000 births!Whether you're early in your pregnancy journey or approaching your due date, understanding amniotic fluid is crucial knowledge for every expectant parent. Listen now and feel empowered with evidence-based information for your birth experience.

You know about the drink and the glucose test your provider is going to want you to take.  You have probably heard of gestational diabetes and maybe even how to prevent and manage this pregnancy complication. Today I’m with Sara, a L&D RN of over 6 years, and a high-risk OB nurse specializing in gestational diabetes, to discuss the critical topic of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). We’re diving deep into the 'why' behind GDM, covering its potential risks for both mothers and babies, such as shoulder dystocia, preeclampsia, and postpartum depression. Sara sheds light on the importance of blood sugar management during pregnancy, debunking common misconceptions and highlighting lesser-known facts about gestational diabetes. The conversation is packed with practical advice and insights for expecting mothers diagnosed with GDM, emphasizing the importance of education and support. Tune in for an engaging and educational discussion that aims to reduce fear and anxiety surrounding gestational diabetes.Connect with Sara Alayev, RN:Gestational Diabetes Nurse BlogIG: @gestational.diabetes.nurseMore from My Friend's a Nurse:Join us for the Next Childbirth Crash Course This September 18th-20th!Join us for the next Birth Plan Workshop!Join the newsletter for behind the scenes and episode insights you don't want to miss!Visit MyFriendsaNurse.comGrab this FREE Hospital Bag ChecklistEmail Colette directly for coaching availability and membership colette@myfriendsanurse.comIf you are interested in partnering or being a guest on The Birth Link Podcast please email info@myfriendsanurse.comStay Connected:InstagramTikTokFaceBookProduced and edited by Vaden Podcast Services

In this episode, Colette discusses the intricacies of childbirth, focusing on pushing positions, techniques to reduce tearing, and the importance of understanding one's body during labor. She emphasizes the need for effective communication with healthcare providers and the significance of pelvic positioning for a smoother delivery. The conversation also covers the risks of tearing and how to manage the pushing stage effectively.TakeawaysUnderstand the signs your body is sending during labor.Pushing positions can significantly impact the delivery process.Pelvic positioning is crucial for reducing tearing.Breathing techniques can aid in effective pushing.Communication with your healthcare team is essential.Epidurals can affect your ability to feel contractions.Warm compresses may help during labor.Staying active during pregnancy can improve delivery outcomes.Perineal stretching may reduce the risk of tearing.Your mindset and comfort level are vital during childbirth.Chapters00:00Introduction to Pushing in Birth00:45Introduction to Pushing Positions07:20Understanding the Pushing Process14:13The Importance of Positioning During Labor19:37Pelvic Mechanics and Relaxation26:09Strategies to Reduce Tearing31:50Breathing Techniques and MindsetFor more information:Find us on Instagram https://instagram.com/myfriendsanurseWebsite: https://myfriendsanurse.comEmail: colette@myfriendsanurse.comKeywords childbirth, pushing positions, reducing tearing, labor techniques, birth plan, pelvic floor, epidural, maternal health, delivery, birth experience

This episode I’m so excited to invite Dr Emily Brownlee to discuss her own birth journey as she navigated from a traumatic but oh so common induction story that led to her first c-section and how she eventually got her VBAC only 17 months later!  She is now preparing for a home birth with her third baby as she builds her pelvic floor community with Pelvic Floor Fit!  Emily is a pelvic health physical therapist, and certified pre and postnatal fitness coach. It is her passion to empower mamas in achieving a pain-free pregnancy, the birth of their dreams, and a confident postpartum recovery. As a c-section and VBAC mama, she has navigated seasons of motherhood the hard way and the peaceful way. It is her mission to teach mamas how they can trade only 10 minutes a day for true support of their pelvic health and perinatal fitness.Find Emily at:www.pelvicfloorfit.netIG: @pelvic.floor.fitIf you have any questions regarding VBAC, home birth, and inductions, or would like to share your own birth story, birth business or mission, don’t hesitate to email me at colette@myfriendsanurse.com!00:19 Leap Year Birthday Dilemma03:08 Meet Dr. Emily Brownlee03:22 Pelvic Floor Health and Virtual Workshops04:44 Emily's Birth Stories: From VBAC to Home Birth14:27 Advocating for Yourself in Birth25:58 Introduction to Pelvic Floor Fit26:17 Emily's Journey to Pelvic Health27:45 Empowering Moms Through Education30:53 Virtual Physical Therapy: Challenges and Benefits43:43 Workshops and Resources for MomsMore from My Friend's a Nurse:Join us for the Next Childbirth Crash Course This September 18th-20th!Join us for the next Birth Plan Workshop!Join the newsletter for behind the scenes and episode insights you don't want to miss!Visit MyFriendsaNurse.comGrab this FREE Hospital Bag ChecklistEmail Colette directly for coaching availability and membership colette@myfriendsanurse.comIf you are interested in partnering or being a guest on The Birth Link Podcast please email info@myfriendsanurse.comStay Connected:InstagramTikTokFaceBookProduced and edited by Vaden Podcast Services

Kaci Mial (she/her) is an experienced sex educator and certified coach with 12+ years of expertise working with individuals, couples, and families. She specializes in supporting parents with communication and intimacy challenges throughout the journey of trying to conceive, pregnancy, and postpartum.Kaci is a trained educator with The Gottman Institute’s Bringing Baby Home program, a certified infant massage educator, and a yoga instructor, blending evidence-based practices with practical tools to promote family well-being. She also brings personal experience as a mom of two young children and a fur baby, giving her unique insight into the joys and complexities of parenting.Kaci founded The Parent Pleasure Academy, an online course and community dedicated to improving sex and intimacy for postpartum parents. With a holistic approach, she aims to empower parents to reduce stress, build meaningful connections, and embrace joy in every stage of family life.Connect with Kaci on Socials @SexCoachKaciInstagram – https://www.instagram.com/sexcoachkaci/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/KaciAMial X – https://x.com/sexcoachkaci LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaci-mial-m-ed-csc-ceim-b8a27173/Threads https://www.threads.net/@sexcoachkaci Free ResourcesThe Ultimate Postpartum Intimacy Prep Guide - Free downloadable PDF with checklists, prompts, journal entries, and questions to help postpartum parents begin thinking about intimacy. Discover quick tips to ease fears, reduce anxiety, and replace added exhaustion with practical solutions.The Parent Pleasure Academy Resource Guide - Free downloadable PDF resource list for parents and providers with books, websites, and tools that covers sex, intimacy, and relationships while trying to conceive, pregnant, and postpartumThe Yes List- Printable PDF Checklist to use with partners to discuss sex and/or intimacy after having a baby Paid ResourcesThe Parent Pleasure Academy Online Course & Community for pregnant & postpartum parents  00:43 Challenges of Postpartum Intimacy01:55 Meet Sex Coach Kaci07:49 Kaci's Journey to Becoming a Sex Coach15:33 Navigating Intimacy During Pregnancy23:49 Building Emotional Connection24:34 Practical Tips for Couples27:34 Sex Coaching Insights36:26 Postpartum Challenges and Tips43:50 Final Thoughts and ResourcesMore from My Friend's a Nurse:Join us for the Next Childbirth Crash Course This September 18th-20th!

Clara joins us today in a deep discussion on how fear has transformed the medicalized institution of birth.  She is a researcher-turned doula and childbirth educator who brings a mix of science and mindful practices to birth work.  Clara founded Clear Light Birth in 2021 and has supported thousands of families to prepare for beautiful birth experiences through her programs, services, and resources.  Clara is the host of the Mindful Womb Podcast, a show packed with actionable strategies, heartfelt stories, and pregnancy and parenting hacks… all tied together to support people in harnessing their inner power during life’s most magnificent transitions.  Her mission is to transform the mainstream, fear-based narrative about birth, help people connect with their intuition, and give birth with confidence. As a neurodivergent and queer birth worker, Clara is an advocate for creating inclusive spaces for people to access information and techniques for a calm and supported birth experience. 01:29 Overcoming Anxiety and Travels to India03:00 Meet Clara O'Rourke07:24 Clara's Journey into Birth Work10:26 Empowering Birth Experiences18:20 Navigating Birth Plans and Preferences23:41 Effective Communication with Providers36:14 Understanding the Stress Response 38:14 The Role of a Doula in Labor40:25 Fear-Based Care in Hospitals41:02 The Importance of Partner Involvement44:38 Navigating Hospital Birth Classes46:07 Accommodating Sensory and Emotional Needs55:22 Advocating for Queer and Neurodivergent Patients01:03:04 Conclusion and ResourcesMore from Clara O'Rourke:Listen to her podcast The Mindful Womb Visit her website: www.clearlightbirth.comIG: @clearlightbirthNoted book reference: A Good Birth, A Safe Birth by Diana KorteMore from My Friend's a Nurse:Join us for the Next Childbirth Crash Course This September 18th-20th!Join us for the next Birth Plan Workshop!Join the newsletter for behind the scenes and episode insights you don't want to miss!Visit MyFriendsaNurse.comGrab this FREE Hospital Bag ChecklistEmail Colette directly for coaching availability and membership colette@myfriendsanurse.comIf you are interested in partnering or being a guest on The Birth Link Podcast please email info@myfriendsanurse.comStay Connected:InstagramTikToka...