The Midwife Memos

Lauretta Hamilton
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 Welcome to the midwife memos, raw educational and inspiring chats. Exploring all things, conception, pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Each week, we'll dive into a memo on a particular topic, tap into the brains of birthing experts and share stories. I'm your host, Lauretta birth educator, midwife and mum, and I'm on a mission to support women and their partners to build a strong mindset, connect with their body and give birth their way. So come along with me as I overshare the real and vulnerable talent like it is, and guide you through how to feel confident and capable for your birth & beyond.

  1. MAR 2

    S2 Ep 17: Zoe’s Birth story - Feeling in charge (even when birth takes turns)

    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 here Other Resources: Supporting Women’s instinctive pushing behaviour during birth - Rachel Reed  PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia)COPE (Centre of Perinatal Excellence): 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.

    1h 9m

  2. FEB 16

    S2 Ep:16 Your First Trimester Survival Guide

    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 me What’s actually happening in your body during the first trimester  Practical ways to manage early pregnancy exhaustion while juggling life, work, and other children Nausea, vomiting, food aversions and hydration — plus when to seek help Bleeding 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 You Want 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 Pillow Other 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.

    27 min

  3. 08/11/2025

    Ep 15 - The Memo on: Tongue ties & Oral restrictions

    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 issue This 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: @midwifetamika 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.

    1h 17m

  4. 07/28/2025

    The Memo on: What’s Normal for Baby Sleep with Hannah Willsmore

    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 sleep The 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 parents How 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 Sleepybelly Want 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: @heldmidwifery Hannah’s Course – Held in Sleep & Motherhood A beautiful, evidence-based online course to support infant sleep and maternal wellbeing Resources Mentioned: NDC / Possums ApproachEvidence-based sleep, feeding & mental health support  https://possumsonline.com The 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.

    25 min

  5. 07/14/2025

    The Memo on: Body Prep for Birth - Why it matters & what you can do

    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 pelvis What tension in the body can tell us — and how to address it 3 simple things you can do today to support your body for birth Links mentioned: Free Birth Prep Guide  Your Birth Class (+in depth body prep) - online & in person classes Internal Pelvic Release Info Internal Pelvic Release Aus wide Practitioner Directory This season of The Midwife Memos is sponsored by Sleepybelly—my go-to for better pregnancy sleep - check them out here Sleepybelly 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. Disclaimer

    19 min

  6. 06/25/2025 · BONUS

    Ask a Chinese Medicine Practitioner, Acupuncturist & Midwife

    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 @themamasalchemist Based 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.

    5 min

  7. 06/23/2025

    The Memo on: Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture for Pregnancy, Labour & Postpartum

    The Memo: Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture for Pregnancy, Labour & Postpartum with Private Midwife + Chinese Medicine Practitioner, Kate Thomson from The Mamas Alchemist This 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 & births What Chinese medicine actually is (and why it’s more than just needles) The “40 days for 40 years” philosophy for postpartum recovery What a typical treatment looks like across trimesters How we can all apply chinese medicine practices in simple ways How Kate blends her midwifery and Chinese Medicine background to support women 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 @themamasalcehmist Based 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 Sleepybelly 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.

    50 min

  8. 06/09/2025

    The Memo on: Perinatal & Birth Trauma

    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 postpartum The nervous system's role in how we experience trauma — and how symptoms can show up emotionally, physically, cognitively, and behaviourally Common but misunderstood signs of trauma, including “mum rage”, avoidance, panic, or disconnect How partners can also experience trauma, and what that might look like The overlap between trauma and mental health How trauma affects relationships and parenting What is EMDR and somatic approaches for trauma What to look for when seeking support from a practitioner Fiona’s memo moment & takeaway message If you feel you need support please speak to your GP or contact PANDA or COPE Guest info: If you'd like to connect with Fiona her website is linked here & she is on Instagram @fionarogerson.counsellorperth Disclaimer: This season of The Midwife Memos is sponsored by Sleepybelly—my go-to for better pregnancy sleep - check them out here Sleepybelly Want 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  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.

    45 min
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About

 Welcome to the midwife memos, raw educational and inspiring chats. Exploring all things, conception, pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Each week, we'll dive into a memo on a particular topic, tap into the brains of birthing experts and share stories. I'm your host, Lauretta birth educator, midwife and mum, and I'm on a mission to support women and their partners to build a strong mindset, connect with their body and give birth their way. So come along with me as I overshare the real and vulnerable talent like it is, and guide you through how to feel confident and capable for your birth & beyond.

Information

  • Creator
    Lauretta Hamilton
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Lauretta Hamilton
  • Show Website
    The Midwife Memos

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