Birthing on the Prairies

Kristy Cooper
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Birthing on the Prairies is a cozy, honest space for real birth stories from rural Alberta and beyond. Hosted by doula Kristy Cooper, each episode gently guides you through the highs, lows, and unexpected twists of pregnancy and birth on the prairies. These stories offer encouragement, insight, and community—especially if you’re preparing for your own birth and want to feel supported, informed, and less alone on this journey.

  1. 2024-04-10

    Redefining Tradition: Why Nesting Parties are the New baby Shower

    In the latest episode of our podcast, we dive deep into the concept of nesting parties, exploring how they offer a unique and heartwarming way to celebrate the impending arrival of a new baby. Rather than the traditional baby shower, nesting parties focus on practical tasks that help the parents-to-be prepare their home for the baby's arrival. From folding baby clothes to preparing freezer meals, friends and family come together to offer their support and assistance in creating a cozy and welcoming environment for the baby. The atmosphere of a nesting party is joyful and cooperative, as loved ones contribute their time, energy, and expertise to help the expectant parents get organized and set up their home. It's a meaningful and practical way to celebrate the upcoming arrival and share in the anticipation and joy of welcoming a new member to the family. This episode delves into why opting for a nesting party can be a delightful way to honor the journey into parenthood, receiving acts of service instead of traditional baby shower gifts. We also provide insights on how to plan and host a nesting party, from creating a comprehensive list of tasks to gracefully concluding the gathering with special ceremonies such as a shared meal or a ceremonial foot soak. Join us as we explore the beauty and significance of nesting parties, offering a fresh and meaningful perspective on celebrating the arrival of a new baby. CHECK OUT THE BLOG TO START PLANNING YOUR PARTY TODAY!

    34 min

  2. 2023-09-20

    #30 Birth Etiquette with Little Doula on the Prairie

    Welcome to another episode of Little Doula on the Prairie! In this episode, we embark on a wonderful journey discussing the transformative experience of birth. Whether you are a birth partner or simply interested in learning more about creating a positive birthing experience, I have some valuable insights and guidelines to share with you. Join us as I dive into the importance of fostering a respectful and nurturing birth space. I believe that providing a supportive environment is crucial for birthers during this life-changing time. In addition, I have provided a link to a PDF guide that complements this episode. It offers further information and resources to support you along the way. You can download the guide by following the link provided HERE: PDF HANDOUT I'm excited to announce that we are currently accepting names for the waitlist of our upcoming Empowered Partner Workshop. If you're looking to deepen your understanding and develop practical skills to support the birther in your life, this workshop is perfect for you. Send me a message or visit our website to secure your spot on the waitlist. Remember, birth is a sacred journey, and together, we can create a space that honors and supports every birthing person. Tune in to this episode for valuable insights and join us on this incredible adventure! JOIN THE WAITLIST on my website Follow me on IG: @LITTLEDOULAONTHEPRAIRIE Check out my website: www.littledoulaontheprairie.com

    26 min
  3. Nourishing the Postpartum Journey: Jenna Shares Her 3 Birth Stories

    2023-07-18

    Nourishing the Postpartum Journey: Jenna Shares Her 3 Birth Stories

    In this episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Jenna, who shares her personal journey and experiences through three different birth stories. Jenna starts by reflecting on her first pregnancy and the excitement she felt while planning and preparing for the arrival of her first child. However, she also candidly discusses the challenges she faced during her postpartum period. Jenna shares her struggles with feeling lost and uncertain about what to do, and how she quickly realized the importance of planning for meals, mental health support, and managing visitors. Learning from her first experience, Jenna discusses how she approached her second and third pregnancies with a newfound perspective. She delves into the changes she made in her planning process, prioritizing rest and self-care, and the positive impact it had on her overall adjustment during the postpartum period. Jenna emphasizes the significance of caring for both the body and mind during the fourth trimester and hopes to help other parents feel prepared and supported in their own postpartum journeys. Drawing from her background as a registered nurse in pediatrics and mental health, Jenna shares how her experiences have given her a solid foundation in health and supporting families during times of need. She also reveals her personal studies in holistic health, nutrition, and pregnancy/postpartum, which have influenced how she supports her own physical and emotional well-being. To connect and learn more from Jenna, you can visit her website at HERE, where you can find valuable resources, shop in her online store, and connect with her on Instagram [@Instagram handle]. Jenna also encourages listeners to consider requesting care from a midwife through the link HERE, as it can be a wonderful option for pregnancy and postpartum support. We want to express our sincere gratitude to Jenna for sharing her story and using her experiences to support and normalize the challenges and changes within the postpartum journey. And to our listeners, thank you for tuning in. We encourage you to leave a review or a voice note on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and we appreciate your continued support. Don't forget to check out Jenna's website and follow her on Instagram for more valuable insights and resources. Until next time, take care and nourish your postpartum journey with love and support. FOLLOW JENNA ON INSTAGRAM SUBMIT YOUR STORY HERE VISIT MY WEBSITE

    1h 8m
  4. #28 Birthing Through Unexpected Challenges: Naomi's Story of Navigating NICU Mom Life as a Holistic Mama

    2023-05-19

    #28 Birthing Through Unexpected Challenges: Naomi's Story of Navigating NICU Mom Life as a Holistic Mama

    In today's episode, we're honoured to have Naomi, a doula and birth keeper, share her powerful and emotional birth story with us. As someone who struggled with fertility and suffered an early loss, Naomi finally became pregnant with a healthy baby and planned for a natural and unassisted home birth. However, at just 29+2 weeks, she unexpectedly went into labour and was rushed to the hospital where she gave birth via emergency c-section. Naomi shares the challenges and emotions she experienced navigating through NICU mom life while maintaining her vision of a holistic approach to motherhood. From coping with the unexpected loss of the birth experience she had hoped for to balancing the traditional medical approach with her personal values, Naomi takes us on her journey and the lessons she's learned along the way. Join us for this heartfelt and inspiring conversation as Naomi shares her story of resilience, strength, and the power of motherly love. FOLLOW NAOMI @PEACEANDPEONIESBIRTH

    1h 12m
  5. #27 Beth's Healing Birth Story - PART 2

    2023-05-12

    #27 Beth's Healing Birth Story - PART 2

    In part 2 of Beth's birth story on the Birthing on the Prairies podcast, listeners are invited to hear about Beth's healing homebirth experience with Edmonton midwife Heidi. This episode provides a firsthand account of what it's like to give birth at home with support from a midwife. Listeners will hear about the support she received from her midwife, her partner, and her birthing team, as well as the beautiful moments she faced during labour and delivery. As the episode unfolds, the audience will witness the joy and relief that comes with a successful homebirth, along with Beth's gratitude for the support and care she received from her midwife. This is a valuable episode for expectant parents who are curious about homebirth or considering a similar option. Beth’s story offers a glimpse into the benefits and realities of homebirth with a midwife, as well as insight into the emotions and sensations that accompany the birth experience. LOCATION: YEG MIDWIVES: Heidi @ HOPE MIDWIFERY

    47 min
  6. #16 Heidi's unmedicated hospital birth in Viking AB

    2023-05-12

    #16 Heidi's unmedicated hospital birth in Viking AB

    You sentIn this episode of the Birthing on the Prairies podcast, listeners are invited to join Heidi as she shares her second birth experience in Viking, Alberta. Heidi, who is a midwife, achieved her unmedicated birth with the support of a doula. Heidi takes listeners through her journey from early labor to delivery, describing the physical and emotional sensations she experienced along the way. She talks about her decision to have a doula present during her birth and how that decision impacted her overall experience. Listeners will hear firsthand what it's like to give birth without medical intervention and the challenges that can come with that choice. Heidi provides valuable insight into coping mechanisms and the role that her doula played in helping her manage the pain of labor. As the episode progresses, listeners will hear about the joy and relief of giving birth to a healthy baby girl, as well as the gratitude Heidi feels towards her doula and birthing team. This episode is valuable for expectant parents who may be considering an unmedicated birth, or those who are interested in learning about the role of a doula in the birthing process. Birth workers and other healthcare professionals may also find this episode helpful as they seek insight into different approaches to childbirth and care. Overall, Heidi's story sheds light on the beauty and wonder of childbirth and highlights the importance of support, whether it comes from medical professionals, family members, or doulas

    1h 20m
  7. #15 Overcoming Hyperemesis, Postpartum Depression to Find Healing in a Water Birth with a Midwife

    2023-04-19

    #15 Overcoming Hyperemesis, Postpartum Depression to Find Healing in a Water Birth with a Midwife

    In this episode, we hear from Laura, a mother who shares her journey through two birth experiences in Edmonton, one during COVID and one that was a healing water birth with a midwife. She discusses the challenges she faced during the pregnancies, including hyperemesis, postpartum depression, and a suicide attempt, as well as the joy and healing that came with her second birth experience. The podcast explores the physical and emotional toll of hyperemesis, which Laura experienced during both of her pregnancies. She shares her struggles with finding relief and the impact it had on her mental health. Additionally, Laura bravely discusses her experience with postpartum depression and her difficult journey of recovery, including a traumatic suicide attempt. The episode emphasizes the importance of seeking help and support during times of depression and suicidal thoughts. Listeners will hear about Laura's first birth experience during COVID and the challenges that came with giving birth in a pandemic. She discusses her feelings of isolation and fear, as well as the support she received from her partner and healthcare team. The episode also covers Laura's healing water birth with a midwife, which was a transformative experience for her. She shares how the water helped to soothe her physical discomfort and how the supportive care of her midwife team helped to heal her emotional scars. Through Laura's story, listeners will learn about the importance of self-care and seeking support when facing physical and emotional challenges. Laura's story also emphasizes the healing power of a positive and supportive birth experience. Join us for this insightful and inspiring episode that celebrates the resilience and strength of mothers, even in the face of pain and adversity. ________RESOURCES__________ SUICIDE PREVENTION: 1.833.456.4566 https://suicideprevention.ca/https://talksuicide.ca/ POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION: “As many as 80 percent of new mothers experience the ‘baby blues’ after delivery. Up to 23 percent of these women will develop a more severe and longer-lasting depression or anxiety, called postpartum depression or postpartum anxiety, after delivery.” GET HELP HERE: https://suicideprevention.ca/https://talksuicide.ca/ BIRTH LOCATION: RAH MIDWIVES: HOPE MIDWIVES To apply for midwifery care, please register at: clientcare.alberta-midwives.ca/waitlist/register#birthstory #birthtrauma birthwithconfidence #empoweredbirth #yegmom #littledoulaontheprairie #birthingontheprairies

    1h 56m
  8. #14 Overcoming Miscarriage and Secondary Infertility to Welcome Our First Daughter

    2023-04-19

    #14 Overcoming Miscarriage and Secondary Infertility to Welcome Our First Daughter

    In this episode, we hear from MYSELF! I overcame the challenges of miscarriage and secondary infertility to welcome my first daughter into the world in Camrose. I share my journey through pregnancy, the emotional toll of miscarriage, and the joy of finally holding a healthy baby in my arms. The podcast explores the emotions and thoughts that came with my experience with miscarriage and secondary infertility. I share the fears and anxiety that came with my pregnancy, as well as my excitement and anticipation for the birth of my daughter. As a first-time mom, I discuss the preparations, both mentally and physically, as well as the lack of support I received from her caregivers in Camrose. I describe my journey through labour, including some labouring techniques, and how I managed any pain during the process. The episode emphasizes the importance of finding a supportive care team and trusting one's own body and intuition through the birthing process. Through MY story, listeners will gain insight into the emotional and physical tolls of infertility and miscarriage and the joy and hope that can come with a successful pregnancy and birthing experience. Join us for this empowering episode that celebrates the strength and resilience of mothers and the importance of supportive care in the birthing process.

    56 min
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About

Birthing on the Prairies is a cozy, honest space for real birth stories from rural Alberta and beyond. Hosted by doula Kristy Cooper, each episode gently guides you through the highs, lows, and unexpected twists of pregnancy and birth on the prairies. These stories offer encouragement, insight, and community—especially if you’re preparing for your own birth and want to feel supported, informed, and less alone on this journey.

Information

  • Creator
    Kristy Cooper
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2024
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Kristy Cooper
  • Show Website
    Birthing on the Prairies