Active Mom Podcast: Pregnancy, Postpartum, Perimenopause, Menopause & Beyond

Carrie

Welcome to the Active Mom Podcast — where real motherhood stories meet real science. Hosted by Dr. Carrie Pagliano, double board-certified physical therapist, runner, mom of two, and internationally recognized expert in pregnancy, postpartum, pelvic floor, and perimenopause performance. Whether you’re a mom navigating running with prolapse or leakage, a clinician supporting active women, or a lifelong athlete trying to stay strong through every hormonal season — this show gives you evidence-based guidance and real life mom stories without the fear, confusion, or shame. Each week, Dr. Carrie brings candid conversations with researchers, clinicians, elite athletes, and everyday moms to explore what it actually takes to run, lift, jump, and live confidently through pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, and beyond. We talk about: • Postpartum return to running & lifting • Pelvic floor symptoms (leakage, prolapse, pain) • Pregnancy exercise myths & safety • Strength training at every age • Perimenopause performance & hormone changes • Mental health, identity shifts & motherhood • The realities of being an active mom in a busy life Real talk. Real science. Real moms. Because you deserve to feel strong and supported — at every stage of your active life.

  1. 5D AGO

    Wait… so which device is actually right for me? Inside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know with Dr. Christina Prevett

    Send us Fan Mail After interviewing 10 pelvic floor support device companies—6 internal, 4 external—Dr. Carrie Pagliano sits down with researcher and pelvic health physiotherapist and researcher Dr. Christina Prevett to do what she couldn't do alone: process it all. This is the debrief episode for the Inside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know mini-series—and it's where the real clinical conversation happens. Together they unpack what the marketing language actually means, how FDA clearance changes what a company can and can't say, why "neuromuscular facilitation" made Carrie twitch, and what both clinicians and consumers should actually be asking when considering a pelvic floor support device. They also tackle some of the bigger picture questions that came up across the series: When do you use a device alongside PT instead of waiting? What's the difference between a normal anatomical change and a symptomatic one? What does "failing PT" actually mean—and is it even the right framing? Who is a good candidate for internal versus external support? And how do access, cost, and geography affect all of it? This episode is for the clinician trying to make sense of an increasingly crowded market—and for the person with symptoms who just wants to know what might actually help. In this episode: Predispositions for pelvic floor dysfunction and non-modifiable anatomyUsing devices and PT in tandem, not in sequenceNormal pelvic changes versus symptomatic changesFDA-cleared vs. wellness device language—and why it mattersInternal versus external device profiles and patient fitIndustry-funded research: the double-edged swordAccess, cost, and the case for over-the-counter optionsGetting client buy-in when suggesting a device Time Stamps 1:00 introduction 3:15 PTs fitting pessaries and other devices 9:21 prolapse management involving anatomy and symptoms 14:44 physical comfort with pessaries 17:58 cutting through the marketing 20:45 FDA approval versus “wellness” 26:10 studies versus real world use 30:01 reality of external devices 39:44 big takeaways from the series CONNECT WITH CARRIE IG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/ Website: https://carriepagliano.com CONNECT WITH CHRISTINA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.christina_prevett/ Website: https://www.ksr.ualberta.ca/exerciseandpregnancy/ Substack: https://christinaprevettphd.substack.com/ This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or create a provider-patient relationship. The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.   This show has been a long time in the making!    You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.    If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!   If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

    50 min
  2. APR 24

    The Truth About Internal Support Devices: Uresta Explained

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Active Mom Podcast mini-series  Inside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know, we’re speaking with: Lauren Barker, CEO & Co-founder of Uresta—a company developing a self-managed internal support device for stress urinary incontinence. Uresta was designed to provide a more accessible alternative to traditional pessaries by allowing users to size, insert, and manage the device independently. We cover:   • how Uresta works mechanically (intravaginal bladder support)   • who it may be a good fit for (and who it’s not)   • how sizing and fitting works without a clinician   • how to use it correctly and common mistakes   • how it compares to traditional pessaries   • where it fits alongside pelvic floor rehab and return to activity Time Stamps: 1:00 introduction 2:34 how Uresta started 6:37 how to use Uresta 10:46 who this is for 12:52 explaining the studies 16:38 real world use 21:23 common misconceptions 22:18 rapid fire questions Uresta is a reusable device designed for daily or situational use and is available direct-to-consumer without a prescription on their website. 💲 Starter Kit: ~$179 USD  💲 Replacement Size: ~$129 USD Discount Code:  https://uresta.com/ACTIVEMOM (10% off) Website: https://uresta.com ⚠️ Disclaimer: This content is for education only and does not replace individualized medical care. Pelvic floor symptoms are complex and highly individual—always consult your own provider before making changes. The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.   This show has been a long time in the making!    You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.    If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!   If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

    29 min
  3. APR 24

    A Modern Pessary for Prolapse? Reia Explained

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Active Mom Podcast mini-series   Inside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know, we’re speaking with: Ariana Sopher, COO at Reia—a company developing a modern pessary for pelvic organ prolapse. Reia was designed to improve on traditional pessary models by allowing for easier insertion and removal through a collapsible shape and applicator system, making self-management more accessible. We cover:   • how Reia works mechanically (collapsible pessary + applicator system)   • how it compares to traditional pessaries   • who it may be a good fit for (and who it’s not)   • how sizing and fitting works   • how patients access it (prescription-only model)   • where it fits alongside pelvic floor rehab and return to activity Time Stamps: 1:00 introduction 5:27 how Reia works 10:04 who is this for? 15:48 real world use 21:55 common misconceptions 25:27 rapid fire questions Reia is a prescription-only device available in the U.S. and New Zealand and must be ordered through a qualified healthcare provider. 💲: Approximately $200 (pessary + applicator)  Website:https://reiahealth.com Contact: hello@reiahealth.com ⚠️ Disclaimer: This content is for education only and does not replace individualized medical care. Pelvic floor symptoms are complex and highly individual—always consult your own provider before making changes. The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.   This show has been a long time in the making!    You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.    If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!   If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

    31 min
  4. APR 24

    Internal Pelvic Floor Support for Leaks? Revive Explained

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Active Mom Podcast mini-series Inside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know, we’re speaking with: Steve Bollinger, Founder @Revive—an internal pelvic floor support device company based out of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Revive was developed to address stress urinary incontinence and light bladder leakage by providing internal urethral support using a tampon-like applicator system. We cover:   • how Revive works mechanically (intravaginal urethral support)   • who it may be a good fit for (and who it’s not)   • how to use it correctly and common mistakes   • how it compares to traditional pessaries   • where it fits alongside pelvic floor rehab and return to activity Time Stamps: 1:00 introduction  2:52 how Revive started 5:08 how Revive works 9:01 who is this for? 14:34 real world use 19:18 common misconceptions 23:44 rapid fire questions Revive is a reusable device designed for daily or situational use and does not require sizing or clinician fitting, making it more accessible for many users. Their products are currently available in the U.S. via their website, Amazon, and Walmart. 💲 ~$40–$60 per device (reusable; multi-pack options available) Discount Code: DOC10 (10% off any purchase) Website:https://userevive.com ⚠️ Disclaimer: This content is for education only and does not replace individualized medical care. Pelvic floor symptoms are complex and highly individual—always consult your own provider before making changes. The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.   This show has been a long time in the making!    You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.    If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!   If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

    29 min
  5. APR 22

    Custom Pelvic Floor Support? COSM Gynethotics Explained

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Active Mom Podcast mini-series  Inside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know, we’re speaking with: Goli Ameri, PhD (Head of Research) and Cara McDougall, MPT (Clinical Specialist, Founder of Toronto Pessary Clinic) from COSM Medical. COSM was founded by Derek Sham, BEng, MBA, whose background in developing widely used urodynamics systems helped shape a more personalized approach to pelvic health technology. COSM Gynethotics are custom-designed intravaginal devices created using 3D printing technology to match an individual’s anatomy and symptom presentation. We cover:   • how COSM Gynethotics work (internal structural support for prolapse + incontinence)   • how they differ from traditional pessaries (personalization vs standard sizing)   • who they may be a good fit for (including those who haven’t found success with standard devices)   • how the fitting process works (clinical exam + collaborative design)   • what to expect (manufacturing time, trial period, real-world use)   • where they fit alongside pelvic floor rehab and return to activity Time stamps: 1:00 introduction 3:41 how COSM started 7:43 how COSM works 12:06 who it’s for 15:59 dealing with avulsions 17:20 real world use 24:09 common misconceptions 27:19 rapid fire questions These devices are not available over the counter and must be accessed through trained healthcare providers in Canada and the United States, including professionals already fitting pessaries (such as pelvic health physical therapists). 💲 ~$500 CAD per device   Website:https://cosm.care ⚠️ Disclaimer: This content is for education only and does not replace individualized medical care. Pelvic floor symptoms are complex and highly individual—always consult your own provider before making changes. The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.   This show has been a long time in the making!    You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.    If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!   If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

    32 min
  6. APR 22

    Internal Resistance Training for Your Pelvic Floor? Pippa Explained

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Active Mom Podcast mini-series  Inside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know, we’re speaking with: Melody Roberts, CEO & Co-founder of Liv Labs—a company developing a pelvic floor fitness device designed to support active women. Pippa is an internal resistance-based device that works by creating load within the vaginal canal to stimulate neuromuscular activation of the pelvic floor during movement. We cover:   • how Pippa works mechanically (internal resistance vs passive support)   • who it may be a good fit for (active women, runners, fitness-focused users)   • who it’s not designed for (e.g. prolapse support)   • how to use it correctly (applicator-based insertion)   • common misconceptions about strengthening and performance   • where it fits alongside pelvic floor rehab and return to activity Time Stamps: 1:00 introduction 2:30 how Pippa got started 5:59 how Pippa works 8:55 who is this for? 12:34 research and development 15:24 real world use 19:30 common misconceptions 24:26 quick fire questions Pippa is available direct-to-consumer in the U.S. and is designed for reusable, independent use. 💲 Starter Kit: $99  💲 Fit Kit: $149 Discount Code: ACTIVE-MOMS-FOR-THE-WIN (10% off + free shipping)   Website:https://livlabsfitness.com ⚠️ Disclaimer: This content is for education only and does not replace individualized medical care. Pelvic floor symptoms are complex and highly individual—always consult your own provider before making changes. The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.   This show has been a long time in the making!    You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.    If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!   If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

    30 min
  7. APR 22

    Flexible Internal Pelvic Floor Support? SomaFlex Explained

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Active Mom Podcast mini-series  Inside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know, we’re speaking with: Sandra Whittle, pelvic health physiotherapist and inventor of SomaFlex—a device designed to provide a softer, more flexible approach to internal pelvic support. SomaFlex was developed to offer an alternative to more rigid internal devices by using a multi-directional, shape-shifting design that blends with the body’s tissues. We cover:   • how SomaFlex works mechanically (flexible intravaginal support)   • how it differs from traditional pessaries   • who it may be a good fit for (and who it’s not)   • how sizing and fitting works   • how to use it correctly and common mistakes   • where it fits alongside pelvic floor rehab and return to activity Time Stamps: 1:00 introduction 2:45 how SOMA started 8:48 who this is for 10:34 real life application 16:07 common misunderstandings 20:36 dealing with birth injuries 22:51 quick fire questions SomaFlex is available as a starter kit and single units, designed for independent use and flexible wear depending on activity level. 💲 Starter Kit: ~£80  💲 Single Unit: ~£60 Discount Code: CP10 (10% off purchase)  Website:https://somalives.com ⚠️ Disclaimer: This content is for education only and does not replace individualized medical care. Pelvic floor symptoms are complex and highly individual—always consult your own provider before making changes. The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.   This show has been a long time in the making!    You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.    If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!   If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

    29 min
  8. APR 17

    Pelvic Floor Support Underwear for Prolapse HEM Support Wear Explained

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Active Mom Podcast mini-series  Inside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know, we’re speaking with: Lauren Fleming, Founder @HEM Support Wear—an external pelvic floor support device company based out of Central Texas (just outside Austin). HEM Support Wear is a woman-founded pelvic health company redefining what support looks and feels like. After developing pelvic organ prolapse following the birth of her first child, Lauren couldn’t find a discreet, comfortable option that actually helped—so she created one. We cover:  • how the device works mechanically  • who it may be a good fit for (and who it’s not)  • how to use and fit it in real life  • where it fits alongside pelvic floor rehab and return to activity Time Stamps: 1:00 Introduction 2:30 the founding of HEM 4:21 how HEM works 6:30 who this is for 9:31 real world use 12:332 common misconceptions 15:37 rapid fire questions HEM’s patented support garment uses an internal support panel to gently lift and support the pelvic floor—designed to integrate into daily life rather than feel like a brace or medical device. Their devices are currently available online via their website, with shipping across the U.S. and internationally (Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and Canada). 💲 ~$70–$130 (varies by product type and bundle) 💻 DISCOUNT CODE: $15 off with code ACTIVEMOM15 🔗https://hemsupportwear.com ⚠️ Disclaimer: This content is for education only and does not replace individualized medical care. Pelvic floor symptoms are complex and highly individual—always consult your own provider before making changes. The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.   This show has been a long time in the making!    You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.    If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!   If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

    22 min
5
out of 5
30 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Active Mom Podcast — where real motherhood stories meet real science. Hosted by Dr. Carrie Pagliano, double board-certified physical therapist, runner, mom of two, and internationally recognized expert in pregnancy, postpartum, pelvic floor, and perimenopause performance. Whether you’re a mom navigating running with prolapse or leakage, a clinician supporting active women, or a lifelong athlete trying to stay strong through every hormonal season — this show gives you evidence-based guidance and real life mom stories without the fear, confusion, or shame. Each week, Dr. Carrie brings candid conversations with researchers, clinicians, elite athletes, and everyday moms to explore what it actually takes to run, lift, jump, and live confidently through pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, and beyond. We talk about: • Postpartum return to running & lifting • Pelvic floor symptoms (leakage, prolapse, pain) • Pregnancy exercise myths & safety • Strength training at every age • Perimenopause performance & hormone changes • Mental health, identity shifts & motherhood • The realities of being an active mom in a busy life Real talk. Real science. Real moms. Because you deserve to feel strong and supported — at every stage of your active life.

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