Can We Talk About This?

thepowerofbirth
  • 5.0 (17)
  • HEALTH & FITNESS
Can We Talk About This?

Here to talk about taboo topics surrounding motherhood and the gaps in perinatal healthcare and reproductive health. Join your host Amber-lee from @thepowerofbirth (and editor Rigel from @b.d.esigns) as she engages in candid conversations with experts in health, science, fitness, maternity, sociology, and psychology and people with lived experiences. Together with our guests, we raise awareness, challenge biases and expose gaps in women’s health. We believe that by sharing your stories and information provided by experts, we can empower you to advocate for yourself and your wellbeing. We provide practical tips, education and a fresh perspective on perinatal health and modern motherhood through integrating lived experience and expert knowledge. At The Power of Birth and through this podcast, we’re here to reduce stigma, eliminate shame, and start important conversations that shift the way we think and practice. Together, we can break the silence, drive change and shape the future of women’s healthcare. You can visit the website for more information, free resources, and opportunities to share your story: www.thepowerofbirth.net Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook and leave a review if you love the pod! Disclaimer: Please note that the advice given on this podcast is of general nature and should not be considered as personalised or professional advice. The information shared on this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content discussed in our episodes. We highly recommend conducting thorough research and seeking professional advice before making any decisions or taking any actions about your health and care providers. Please remember that the views and opinions expressed by our guests or the host do not necessarily reflect the views of The Power of Birth as a whole and we hope you find the conversations engaging and thought-provoking. Lastly, we would like to remind you that while we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date content, the world is constantly evolving and new information may emerge that could change the validity and applicability of advice given in previous episodes.

  1. 01/10/2024

    Ep.61: Birthing Again After Trauma with Dr Rosie Pajak

    We end season 4 with a BIG one! In this episode, I have the absolute privilege of chatting to Dr. Rosie, a clinical psychologist and founder of The Birth Healing Collective, to discuss the difficult yet common experience of birthing again after birth trauma. Dr. Rosie shares her expertise on how women can heal from a traumatic birth, rebuild trust in their bodies, and prepare emotionally, socially and practically for their next birth experience. We dive into practical strategies for managing fear and anxiety, the importance of a trauma-informed birth plan, and the crucial role partners play in the healing and birthing process. Whether you’ve experienced birth trauma firsthand or are supporting someone who has, this episode is packed with empowering advice to help navigate the journey towards a positive and empowering birth! I am often asked "how do you have another baby after trauma?" and this episode is designed to address the nuance that comes with birthing again after trauma. Make sure you check out Dr Rosie's resources below and thank you for listening!   Resources: The Birth Healing Collective and working with Dr Rosie: https://thebirthhealingcollective.com/   Dr Rosie's epic Better Birth Program: https://thebirthhealingcollective.com/better-birth/   Follow Dr Rosie @birth_healing_collective AND dr_rosie_psychologist    Other supports: birthtrauma.org.au panda.org.au    See you in season 5!   Disclaimer: This episode is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Please seek personalised, professional support and guidance for your upcoming birth.

    1h 9m

  2. 04/08/2024

    Ep.60: Relationship Changes & Challenges in Parenthood with Elly Taylor

    Elly Taylor, an experienced relationship counsellor and perinatal researcher, shares her insights on why 92% of parents experience increased conflict and why 67% feel less happy in their relationships during the first year of parenthood. With over 25 years experience, Elly combines her extensive knowledge, insight, and personal journey to create a world-first relationship-developmental framework for couples and now trains professionals using this needed framework. In this episode, Elly offers actionable advice for couples navigating the tumultuous early years of parenting.  We explore the surprising truths about relationship changes after having children, the common struggles couples encounter, and how to reconnect and grow stronger together. Elly addresses the emotional rollercoaster that comes with new parenthood, talking about everything from socio-cultural difficulties, disconnection, expectations, transition differences between men and women, mental health, intimacy challenges and just so much more. Whether you're a new parent or preparing for parenthood, this episode is packed with wisdom and support from one of the leading experts in the field. Don't miss out on this invaluable episode with Elly Taylor!    For more resources and support: Buy Becoming Us: The Couples Guide to Parenthood book: https://becomingusfamily.com/the-book Get support for your relationship: https://becomingusfamily.com/parenthood Becoming Us Counsellor Directory: https://becomingusfamily.com/meet-our-facilitators For professionals working with couples: https://becomingusfamily.com/preparing-parents-for-parenthood Becoming Me Again (for mothers): https://becoming-us-training.thinkific.com/courses/becoming-me-again

    55 min

  3. 28/07/2024

    Ep.59: Amber's Story: Surviving Preeclampsia, HELLP Syndrome & Birth Trauma

    #birthtraumaawareness Amber Melissa Kennedy, a two-time preeclampsia survivor, opens up about her traumatic experiences with preeclampsia, HELLP Syndrome, and a rare epidural complication during childbirth. Amber shares about her pregnancies, labour and early postpartum experiences, including being sent home from the ER with severe preeclampsia. Amber reflects on that time with much anguish and speaks to the impact it had on her mental health, and shares about the fire in her to advocate for change. I also love that she wrote to her healthcare providers making them aware of the impact (good and bad) they had on her during her birth experience! Together we discuss the various current birth narratives that are harmful to women and hope for a better future for maternal healthcare everywhere.    It's important to know the signs for preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome as early detection can prevent the conditions from worsening.   For more information about HELLP syndrome and preeclampsia, please check out The Preeclampsia Foundation: https://www.preeclampsia.org/   If you have experienced birth trauma please consider seeking support with a perinatal therapist, or reaching out to organisations: birthtrauma.org.au (Australia) panda.org.au (Australia) cope.org.au (Australia) postpartum.net (International)   You can find Amber here: @daughtersoflucina

    1h 4m

  4. 15/07/2024

    Ep.58: Ebony's Story: Epilepsy, CMT & Motherhood

    In this episode, Amber-lee, your host, sits down with Ebony, a young mother from Brisbane, as she shares her journey living with Epilepsy and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), which is a group of inherited disorders that cause nerve damage. Ebony opens up about her diagnoses, the impact of these conditions on her young life and current life, and the emotional rollercoaster of discovering her son Flynn has inherited CMT sharing the early signs of the condition to the supportive interventions that have helped him thrive. Ebony shares the challenges specifically living with epilepsy and the many unknowns in her life. This episode sheds light on the realities of living with a disability and raising a child with a genetic condition and the importance of support, education, and understanding in navigating these challenges. Ebony shares her reflections on resilience, acceptance, and advocacy and it was a beautiful conversation.    You can find Ebony: @kingeeebs   Since this episode was recorded, Ebony has had her second baby via elective ceasarean and is enjoying the newborn bubble. For those wanting an update for her son Flynn, he is now walking and is enjoying his newfound skill. Ebony mentions that his feet still turn inward but they have been seeing a podiatrist to help as well as continuing with physio and hydro. Ebony says that Flynn has come so far since our conversation and that CMT definitely hasn’t stopped him from living a full life as a toddler.

    53 min

  5. 16/06/2024

    Ep.57 Navigating Prenatal Diagnosis with Pieta Shakes

    This episode delves into the complex and often overlooked topic of prenatal diagnosis. Prenatal diagnosis involves genetic, developmental, or health issues in an unborn baby and statistics show that approximately 1 in 22 babies have a major congenital anomaly, and many of these diagnoses are made before birth. These diagnoses can be distressing and traumatic, presenting parents with difficult decisions and often accompanied by significant emotional and psychological challenges. Your host, Amber-lee, has the pleasure of speaking with Pieta Shakes, founder of Through The Unexpected, a charity working to advocate for systemic and societal change and supports families navigating a prenatal diagnosis. Pieta shares her personal journey of receiving a prenatal diagnosis in her third trimester, describing the emotional turmoil, decision-making challenges, and the gaps in the healthcare system that often fail to support parents adequately. She discusses the importance of community, the need for better training for healthcare professionals to provide empathetic and informed care to parents receiving a prenatal diagnosis, and finding hope amidst uncertainty. In this conversation, Pieta and Amber-lee explore the nuanced and varied experiences of parents navigating prenatal diagnoses, the impact on mental health, and the societal stigmas attached. They also talk about Pieta’s research focusing on the psychosocial aspects of prenatal diagnosis and her dedication to improving support systems for families facing these challenges. Pieta’s insights and advocacy for better care and support highlight the critical need for change in how we address and manage prenatal diagnoses.   If you are currently navigating prenatal diagnosis please see support, resources and information by Through The Unexpected: https://throughtheunexpected.org.au/   Find Pieta here: @throughtheunexpected

    1h 8m

  6. 29/05/2024

    Ep.56 Postnatal Psychosis: 'Because I'm Not Myself, You See' with Ariane Beeston

    *As always, please consider what you are consuming Amber-lee is joined by Ariane Beeston, postnatal psychosis survivor, psychologist,  former child protection caseworker, and writer who courageously shares her journey through postnatal psychosis after the birth of her son over a decade ago. Ariane's harrowing experience, detailed in her memoir "Because I'm Not Myself You See: A Memoir of Motherhood, Madness, and Coming Back from the Brink," offers a raw, real, and devastatingly honest look into the some of the most taboo and stigmatised experiences in maternal mental health.   Postnatal psychosis is a severe form of perinatal mental illness that occurs in approximately 1 to 2 out of every 1,000 mothers, typically within days to the first six weeks after childbirth. It is characterized by extreme confusion, hallucinations, delusions, and a loss of touch with reality, making it a psychiatric emergency that requires immediate treatment.   Ariane discusses the intense symptoms including seeing her baby as a dragon, thoughts of death and ending her life, the isolation of that time and shame around her experiences, the physical and emotional toll of depression, and the fears that kept her silent for so long. She reveals how a combination of expert psychiatric care, medication, and unwavering support from her husband helped her find a path to recovery.  Amber-lee and Ariane explore the importance of acknowledging and addressing perinatal mental illness, the often-misunderstood nature of postpartum psychosis, intrusive thoughts, mandatory reporting and the vital role of support systems for both mothers and their families. This episode is a powerful testament to the importance of breaking the silence around maternal mental health struggles, and also the difficulties in bringing them to light.   Ariane's story is heartbreaking, but also carries so much hope for those who are currently struggling. Her book is shockingly relatable to any mother who has felt the weight of maternal mental illness and is brutally honest about that time and presentations of psychosis. I loved her book and hope the world accepts this beautiful and devastating poetic piece as it is.      You can purchase her book here: https://www.blackincbooks.com.au/books/because-im-not-myself-you-see   Find Ariane on socials: @arianebeeston  Read more of her work for COPE here:https://www.cope.org.au/author/ariane/   If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, particularly related to perinatal or postpartum experiences, here are some valuable resources that can provide support and guidance: www.cope.org.au www.panda.org.au & National Helpline: 1300 726 306 www.lifeline.org.au  & 24/7 Crisis Support: 13 11 14 www.postpartum.net (global)

    1h 9m

  7. 11/05/2024

    Ep.55 Your Maternal Brain: Challenging 'Baby Brain' & Relearning How Motherhood Changes Our Brains (for the better)

    Do you feel different after having a baby? We've talked about matrescence but this episode is dedicated to understanding the biological changes and components of matrescence through a neuroscience lens. Host Amber-lee is joined by Dr. Sarah McKay, a renowned neuroscientist and author of Baby Brain: The surprising neuroscience of how pregnancy and motherhood sculpt our brains and change our minds (for the better), to delve deep into the neuroscience of motherhood, debunking common myths surrounding 'baby brain' and the changes women experience during pregnancy and after childbirth. From the influence of hormones to the reorganisation of the brain, Dr. McKay shares groundbreaking insights into how motherhood impacts the female brain, challenging the stigma associated with postnatal cognitive changes. Alongside discussing the physiological changes, this episode explores paternal brain adaptations, the psychology behind maternal instincts, and the vital importance of mental health and support for new mothers. Join us as together we shed light on the beauty and complexity of brain changes in motherhood, advocating for a mother-focused approach in society's understanding and support of women's health. Don't miss this episode full of revelations that will change the way you think about 'baby brain' and the incredible adaptability of the human brain during the journey of motherhood!   Get Dr Sarah McKay's book here: https://drsarahmckay.com/books/ and find her on socials @drsarahmckay    Transcript available www.thepowerofbirth.net

    1h 11m

  8. 02/05/2024

    Ep.54 We Have So Many Reasons To Be Angry: Unpacking Anger & Rage in Motherhood

    In this enlightening episode, host Amber-lee, delves into the complex web of anger and rage in motherhood with guest Yara Heary, a dedicated psychologist from Life After Birth Psychology. They explore the nuances of anger as both a valid and misunderstood emotion, distinct yet connected to the journey of mothering. The conversation traverses the landscape of societal expectations, cultural contexts, and the barriers that mothers face, illuminating the intricate ways in which support systems, or the lack thereof, shape our experiences, while sharing their own mothering experiences with rage. Aimed at breaking down stigmas and navigating the turbulent waters of maternal emotions, this episode offers insights into reclaiming power, finding community, and the transformational paths through the protective emotion of anger. This episode is a powerful listen and I hope it brings you some relief, but also the motivation to find support where you need it.    Yara's Why Am I So Angry self paced course is available here: https://lifeafterbirthpsychology.podia.com/why-am-i-so-angry   Work with Yara or listen to her podcast: https://www.lifeafterbirth.com.au/    Transcript available www.thepowerofbirth.net

    1h 10m
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5
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

Here to talk about taboo topics surrounding motherhood and the gaps in perinatal healthcare and reproductive health. Join your host Amber-lee from @thepowerofbirth (and editor Rigel from @b.d.esigns) as she engages in candid conversations with experts in health, science, fitness, maternity, sociology, and psychology and people with lived experiences. Together with our guests, we raise awareness, challenge biases and expose gaps in women’s health. We believe that by sharing your stories and information provided by experts, we can empower you to advocate for yourself and your wellbeing. We provide practical tips, education and a fresh perspective on perinatal health and modern motherhood through integrating lived experience and expert knowledge. At The Power of Birth and through this podcast, we’re here to reduce stigma, eliminate shame, and start important conversations that shift the way we think and practice. Together, we can break the silence, drive change and shape the future of women’s healthcare. You can visit the website for more information, free resources, and opportunities to share your story: www.thepowerofbirth.net Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook and leave a review if you love the pod! Disclaimer: Please note that the advice given on this podcast is of general nature and should not be considered as personalised or professional advice. The information shared on this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content discussed in our episodes. We highly recommend conducting thorough research and seeking professional advice before making any decisions or taking any actions about your health and care providers. Please remember that the views and opinions expressed by our guests or the host do not necessarily reflect the views of The Power of Birth as a whole and we hope you find the conversations engaging and thought-provoking. Lastly, we would like to remind you that while we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date content, the world is constantly evolving and new information may emerge that could change the validity and applicability of advice given in previous episodes.

Information

  • Creator
    thepowerofbirth
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2024
  • Episodes
    61
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2021 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Can We Talk About This?

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