What if we were taught..

In this empowering episode, I’m joined by Acupuncturist and Fertility Specialist Paige Waters—affectionately known as The Fertility Detective—to dive deep into the menstrual cycle. Together, we explore the four distinct phases of the cycle through both a physiological and emotional lens, helping you understand what’s really going on in your body, mind, and spirit each month. With over a decade of experience in fertility and women’s health, Paige shares her wisdom on how tuning into the rhythms of the cycle can transform everything from relationships to productivity and emotional wellbeing. We cover: A simple breakdown of the menstrual cycle and key hormones Why your energy and emotions shift so much throughout the month How to align your lifestyle, work, and relationships with your cycle Practical self-care tips for each phase (Menstrual, Follicular, Ovulatory, and Luteal) How partners, families, and workplaces can offer better support The power of cycle tracking and body literacy Misconceptions around PMS, ovulation, and hormonal health Why this information is essential for teens, women in perimenopause, and everyone in between Whether you're trying to conceive, rebalance your hormones, or simply get to know your body better, this episode is a must-listen. Let’s change the narrative around the menstrual cycle and start teaching the next generation what we wish we had been taught.   For full show notes and links mentioned in this episode head over to: www.thepregnancycollective.com.au Follow me on Instagram; the_pregnancy_collective Check out Paige on Instagram; Paigewatersacupuncture Visit her website and connect here: www.paigewatersacupuncture.com.au   Please note; all information shared on this Podcast by myself or guests is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.

In today’s episode, we dive deep into the topic of birth trauma — its impact, prevalence, and the many ways it can shape a woman’s and couple’s journey into postpartum, future births, and beyond. We explore: What birth trauma is and how common it really is Why trauma isn’t always physical — it can also be emotional or psychological The challenges of living with trauma in the postpartum period How birth trauma can influence future pregnancies and births The increased vulnerability of women with a history of sexual assault The first steps toward healing and reclaiming your journey Resources and support options for those navigating trauma Practical tools and small steps to help reduce trauma for both women and their partners What birth professionals — midwives, obstetricians, doulas, and other care providers — can do to support change The bigger picture: systematic changes needed to address this serious issue Athena Hammond Is a trauma therapist who is also a registered Midwife with her phd. She has worked in and around the maternity care sector for more than two decades; as a doula, midwife, researcher, university lecturer, group facilitator and educator. In addition to this she also works in private psychotherapy practice and is trained as a person-centred therapist with extra training around trauma, polyvagal theory, Internal Family Systems theory and interpersonal neurobiology. She has taught counselling skills at university and consults on the topic of birth trauma, including briefing the Select Committee of the Parliamentary Inquiry into Birth Trauma in 2023. This conversation is for parents, partners, and professionals alike, offering understanding, support, and tools for both healing and prevention. Resources for women, partners and proffesionals experiencing distress: Birth Trauma Australia PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) Gidget Foundation Centre for Perinatal Psychology   Additional links for support around sexual assault & childhood trauma.   https://www.steppingout.org.au  https://blueknot.org.au/ https://www.survivorsintransition.co.uk/   Additonal support for Midwives:   https://www.nmsupport.org.au/ For full show notes and links mentioned in this episode head over to: www.thepregnancycollective.com.au Follow me on Instagram; the_pregnancy_collective Check out Athena on Instagram; The Birth Counsel Visit her website and connect here: https://www.thebirthcounsel.com.au   Please note; all information shared on this Podcast by myself or guests is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.

In this episode, I’m joined by Mel — a Doula, Mum of 2 and passionate advocate for supported, empowered birth and postpartum  — to dive deep into the world of doulas.  In this episode we chat about; What is a Doula? The role of a Doula in pregnancy, birth & postpartum The training involved in becoming a Doula The different types of Doulas you can have How a Doula supports birth, postpartum, partners and the entire family How to choose the right doula for your family About Mel  Mel is the heart behind Hello Mama. With a deep commitment to emotional, physical, and practical support, she walks alongside families throughout their pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journeys — creating space for connection, healing, empowerment and care. Disclaimer  Mel is not only a brilliant guest, she's also the proud mum of an outrageously cute fur baby named Frank. You may catch him making an unscheduled cameo in the background of this episode. We recommend embracing the joy that is Frank, smiling generously at his fluffy presence, and settling in—because this is one episode you won’t want to miss. For full show notes and links mentioned in this episode head over to: www.thepregnancycollective.com.au Follow me on Instagram; the_pregnancy_collective Check out Mel on Instagram; @hellomama.doula Follow on Facebook at; Hello Mama Doula  Email Mel at: hellomama.doula@outlook.com Please note; all information shared on this Podcast by myself or guests is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.

In this episode, we’re joined by Sal Howe, a breath training expert who breaks down the science and strategy behind functional breathing. Sal explains how dysfunctional breathing patterns—like chronic mouth or chest breathing—can impact stress, energy, sleep, and even labor. She also discusses how breath training is about retraining the respiratory system for optimal everyday function. We explore the four pillars of functional breathing—biomechanics, biochemistry, psychophysiology, and habit—the crucial role of nose breathing and CO₂ tolerance, and how breath directly influences the nervous system via the vagus nerve. Sal also shares how breath training during pregnancy can be a game-changer for both labor and postpartum recovery. Sal Howe Sal Howe is a Surf Coach and Functional Breathing & Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist who helps individuals enhance their physical and mental well-being through breath and orofacial retraining. Her approach is grounded in evidence-based methodologies, including The Oxygen Advantage, Buteyko, Survival Apnea, and ongoing studies in Breath Science. Sal teaches practical, accessible techniques to restore healthy breathing patterns—supporting improved energy, focus, sleep quality, and emotional resilience. Key Topics Covered: What breath training really is—and how it differs from breathwork Signs of dysfunctional breathing and how to spot them Why nose breathing is more efficient than mouth breathing Chest vs. diaphragmatic breathing and the stress connection The science of CO₂ and the Bohr effect Breath as a tool to regulate the nervous system Practical applications for breath training in pregnancy and labor 📄 Full show notes and mentioned links: 👉 www.thepregnancycollective.com.au 📸 Follow me on Instagram: 👉 @the_pregnancy_collective Check out Sal Howe at: 🌐 Visit Sal’s Website 📸 Follow Sal on Instagram Please note: All information shared on this podcast by the host or guests is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for individual guidance.  

Are you curious about what’s really going on behind your child’s big feelings and challenging behaviours? Do you want to better understand your little one—and yourself—during those tough parenting moments? Wondering how we can connect more deeply with our children, help them build emotional resilience, and parent differently from the way we were raised? In this episode, I’m so excited to be joined by the incredible Gen Muir. We explore: • The emotional layers beneath our children’s behaviours • How our own triggers show up in parenting, and what it really takes to stay regulated when things feel like they’re spiralling • How to recognise the “emotional climb” and step in early before things escalate • Brain development in young children and what their emotional capacity really is • The importance of setting core rules and boundaries—and what to do when our kids push against them • How to co-regulate with our children, and so much more   About Gen Muir Gen is the author of Little People, Big Feelings. She’s an experienced parent educator, Obstetric Social Worker, and mum of four boys. Gen is widely known for her compassionate and practical approach to supporting families through the highs and lows of early childhood. This episode is such an important one. For so many of us trying to parent differently than how we were raised, it can feel challenging—especially when we’re trying to do what was never shown to us. Whether you have kids, are planning to have them, or work with children in any way, I invite you to listen in. BOOK GIVEAWAY! As always, when I interview an author, I run a giveaway of their book over on my Instagram page. This giveaway will run for two weeks—so if you’d love a chance to get your hands on Little People, Big Feelings by Gen Muir, head over to: https://www.instagram.com/the_pregnancy_collective/ For full show notes and links mentioned in this episode, visit: https://thepregnancycollective.com.au/ Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_pregnancy_collective/ Check out Gen Muir at: https://www.connectedparenting.com.au/   Please note; all information shared on this Podcast by myself or guests is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.

One of the main things I hear women say when they first find out they are pregnant is ;“ I have no idea where to start”!  In this short solo episode I give my top 3 tips on what to do as soon as you find out you are pregnant. So if you are pregnant and wondering where to start with this minefield then this is the episode for you.   This also marks the final episode for 2024. Wishing each and everyone of you a very Merry Xmas. We will return Feb 2025 and boy do we have an exciting lineup install for 2025!!   For full show notes and links mentioned in this episode head over to: www.thepregnancycollective.com.au Follow me on Instagram; the_pregnancy_collective Follow me on Facebook; The Pregnancy Collective. www.boutiquepelvichealth.com   Please note; all information shared on this Podcast by myself or guests is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.

Today’s episode is with new Mum Natalie. Natalie is currently 5 weeks into her Motherhood journey so I felt extremely honoured to hear this story (for the first time with you) during such a sacred and special stage. Often we hear this generalisation that “your first birth may be longer”, well Natalie is a beautiful example of how birth cannot be generalised but is individual and how we cannot predict the length of anyones labour! After just 4.5 hrs of labour, Natalie and Scott welcomed baby Nelly to their world! In this episode we chat about; What labour was like for her and how Scott was able to best support her How she planned for her birth and what she found useful Her positive experience of her hospital birth Her tips for the Postpartum And sooo much more.. This is a beautiful and inspiring story of birth and I thankyou Natalie for sharing it with us. To connect with me Head to www.thepregnancycollective.com.au/podcast for the show notes. Email: kate@thepregnancycollective.com.au Follow me on Instagram: the_pregnancy_collective Follow me on Facebook: The Pregnancy Collective Please note; all information shared on this Podcast by myself or guests is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.      

This episode was inspired by Lauren, a fellow Mum who joined us on Episode 21 where she shared her own beautiful and inspiring birth stories. Following that episode she asked if she could turn the table, so to speak, and interview me about my births. I loved so much connecting with Lauren and the dynamic of our heart felt conversations that I felt privileged to say yes. So today, I share with you my own birth stories of both Tallow- born in the hospital and Jax born at home.  In this episode we chat about; How I prepared for my birth How I chose my birth team How incredible Nelson, my partner was during my birth - he was everything, knew everything and I fell so much deeper in love with him during our births! What I learnt from my first birth. The differences I found between hospital verse home birth The struggles I faced during the Postpartum. It’s taken a while to share my journey. I sincerely hope it inspires, empowers and helps prepare you for not only birth but also The Postpartum- a time that truly needs to be about Resting, Restoring and Bonding.  For full show notes and links mentioned in this episode head over to: www.thepregnancycollective.com.au Follow me on Instagram; the_pregnancy_collective   Please note; all information shared on this Podcast by myself or guests is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.

In today’s episode we are joined with 2 incredible women’s health physio’s; Zara and Renee.In it we explore in detail “Persistent pelvic pain”, which affects a significant number of women. So what is “persistent  pelvic pain”? And if we suffer from it what can we do about it?Today’s episode covers these questions and so much more. Zara Howard Zara has a strong interest in pelvic and sexual pain conditions. In 2018, Zara completed her Masters of Clinical Physiotherapy (Major in Continence and Women’s Health), at Curtin University. This dedication to her work and study allows Zara to be classified as an Australian Physiotherapy of Australia (APA) Titled Women’s, Men’s and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist.  Zara has worked alongside Urogynaecology doctors and nurses in the public health as the Senior Physiotherapist in the Physiotherapy-Led Pelvic Health Clinic (2016-2023). In this clinic she treated women with incontinence, prolapse, pelvic pain, bowel conditions, sexual dysfunction, and tears after birth. Prior to this Zara’s career experience was in inpatient and outpatient Women’s Health services. Research and best practice care is paramount to Zara. Over the last 7 years Zara has published peer-reviewed research articles surrounding Pelvic Health and optimal provision of healthcare utilising group-based programs.  Zara has her own private practice on the Gold Coast, and prides herself on blending evidence-based with intuitive care.    Renee Loughlin Renee graduated in 2014 with a combined Bachelor of exercise science and Master of Physiotherapy degree and has been working for QLD health in tertiary hospitals for the past 9 years. Over the years Renee became passionate about supporting those with persistent pain which has led to further professional development in persistent pain including a professional certificate in pain theory and concepts. Renee has helped people with all types of pain conditions in both individual consults and through group programs. Throughout the years Renee has worked with pain specialists and other members of the multidisciplinary teams. During her recent years her interest has also turned to women’s health, which has led her to working with women with persistent pelvic pain. Recently Renee has started running her own mobile physiotherapy business called “Future First Physiotherapy” as well as co-founding NURTURE which is a persistent pelvic pain program with Zara. Renee’s goal is to educate and empower all her clients to have the confidence in managing their conditions and equipping them with the tools and knowledge to achieve their goals In this episode we chat about; Both Zara and Renee’s professional and personal backgrounds that led them to specialise in “ Persistent Pelvic Pain (PPP)”. What is the definition of persistent pelvic pain and how common is it? The affects PPP can have on women’s lives. Zara and Renee’s unique program “Nurture” and their approach to PPP Why a holistic and integrative approach is important And sooo much more For full show notes and links mentioned in this episode head over to: www.thepregnancycollective.com.au Follow me on Instagram; the_pregnancy_collective Check out their program "Nurture" at: www.boutiquepelvichealth.com Follow Zara and Nurture program on Instram at; boutiquepelvichealth Follow Renee on Instagram at; futurefirst_physiotherapy   Please note; all information shared on this Podcast by myself or guests is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.

In today’s episode we are joined by Danielle and Daniel Lamb where they share their incredible VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Caesarean) story. This is a beautiful heartfelt episode where both Daniel and Danielle authentically share the challenges of their first birth with baby Noah which resulted in a Caesarean, through to the transformative VBAC birth of baby Zara. It is so special to be joined by both parents to hear their own experiences of two very different births. In this episode; They share the challenges they found during their first birth, the hindsight’s and insights they took from this experience and the changes they then applied to their second birth. How communication as a couple was such an essential element to their second birth. They share the importance of the environment, the team and preparation for birth. They share what techniques they employed and the mindset shifts they adopted for their second birth and Danielle shares her top tips for the support partners of birth. Daniel beautifully shares his perspective of birth as the support person and what helped him the most for their second birth. I wish to acknowledge Danni and Dan for sharing their story here. I feel so deeply honoured to have met them. Thankyou both for sharing your story with us all.  For full show notes and links mentioned in this episode head over to: www.thepregnancycollective.com.au Follow me on Instagram; the_pregnancy_collective Follow Danielle on Instagram: danielle_betamenutritionist Find out more about Danielle at; www.betame.com.au   Please note; all information shared on this Podcast by myself or guests is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.