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. 1H AGO

    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
  2. 2H AGO

    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
  3. 3H AGO

    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
  4. 5D AGO

    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. 5D AGO

    Pelvic Floor Support Device for Prolapse? My Pelvic Bra 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: Jeanice Mitchell, Inventor @myPelvicBra—an external pelvic floor support device company based out of Central Texas (Killeen). As a pelvic floor physical therapist with prolapse herself, she set out to create a device that offered supportive, discreet, external lift—something she couldn’t find in existing pelvic health products. 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 3:15 how My Pelvic Bra was founded 7:00 how it works 12:31 who is this for 16:17 real world use 20:55 common misconceptions 25:19 rapid fire questions Their devices are currently available online via their website and Amazon, with global shipping (where DHL ships). 💲 ~$49-$79 USD (depending on style and configuration) Discount Code: Active25 (25% off your first product) Website:https://mypelvicbra.shop ⚠️ 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
  6. APR 15

    Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know -SRC Health

    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: Sinead O’Donovan, Founder SRCHealth—an external pelvic floor support garment company based out of Port Melbourne, Australia. After experiencing significant pelvic girdle pain and postpartum recovery challenges, Sinead set out to create a garment that could provide functional, comfortable support for women navigating pregnancy and recovery. We cover:   • how SRC garments work mechanically (panel-based compression)   • the role of perineal support in symptom management   • who it may be a good fit for (and who it’s not)   • how to properly measure and fit the garment   • where it fits alongside pelvic floor rehab and return to activity Time Stamps: 1:00 introduction 3:30 founding SRC 6:49 explaining different support garments 12:05 who these are for 15:45 testing and research 17:46 real-world use 23:19 answering common concerns SRC garments are designed to provide gentle, sustained compression—not high-pressure “shapewear”—to support muscle activation, symptom reduction, and recovery across pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. Their products are available worldwide via their website and through clinicians trained in fitting and prescription. 💲 ~$180–$220 (AUD) ≈ $115–$145 USD (depending on exchange rate) Discount Code: https://srchealth.com/?ref=ACTIVEMOM10 (10% off any purchase) Website:https://srchealth.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
  7. APR 15

    Inside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know -Everform Therapywear

    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: Rosie Dumbrell, physiotherapist and founder of Everform Therapywear—a company developing compression garments designed specifically for pelvic floor support. Everform uses a targeted compression system (Femcore™ technology) to provide more support to the pelvic floor and lower abdomen—aiming to improve symptoms like leakage, heaviness, and pelvic girdle pain. We cover:  • how Everform works mechanically (pelvic floor-first compression + lift effect)  • how it differs from traditional shapewear or compression  • who it may be a good fit for (pregnancy, postpartum, active women, perimenopause)  • how to properly fit and wear the garments  • common mistakes and troubleshooting  • where it fits alongside pelvic floor rehab and return to activity Time Stamps: 1:00 Introduction 2:47 how Everform started 6:20 how it works 10:27 who it’s for 15:53 how to get it 19:59 research involved in design 23:37 quick fire questions Everform garments are designed for daily wear and activity, with options ranging from underwear to full compression leggings. Their products are available globally via their website and through clinician-supported fitting. 💲 ~$99–$159 AUD (~$65–$105 USD)  Discount Code: ACTIVEMOM15 ($15 off your purchase)  Website: https://everformwear.com.au ⚠️ 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!!!!)

    33 min
  8. APR 10

    Prolapse, Levator Avulsions & Pessaries: What’s Actually Happening (Part 2) — with MELISSA DAVIDSON, PT

    Send us Fan Mail In Part 2 of this conversation, I’m joined again by Melissa Davidson, specialist pelvic health physiotherapist, clinical educator, and PhD, to go deeper into the clinical realities of pelvic organ prolapse, levator ani avulsions, and pessary use. This episode moves beyond definitions and into what actually matters in practice: clinical decision-making, patient education, and navigating an evolving pelvic health landscape where access is expanding—but not always with the training to support it. We talk about how to explain complex diagnoses in a way patients can actually understand, why accurate assessment matters, and how clinicians can balance symptom management with long-term capacity building. We also unpack the growing conversation around pessaries—including types, fitting considerations, complications, and the rise of over-the-counter options—and what that means for both patients and providers. This is a nuanced conversation about where pelvic health care is right now… and where it still needs to go. In this episode, we discuss:  Different types of pessaries and how they’re used  What levator avulsions are (and why they matter)  Clinical decision-making in prolapse care  Potential complications and limitations of pessary use  The importance of provider training and ongoing education  What “high tone” actually means (and why it’s often misunderstood)  The role of mental health and psychological support in pelvic floor conditions Time Stamps 1:00 avulsions explained 7:05 proper diagnoses of pelvic floor issues 14:00 over-the-counter pessaries 20:55 cutting through the marketing 29:33 expanding access while preserving quality care 33:33 what we don’t know 40:26 how the research changes clinical practice CONNECT WITH CARRIE IG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/ Website: https://carriepagliano.com CONNECT WITH MELISSA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmelissapelvicphysio/ Website: https://www.drmelissadavidson.com/ 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!!!!)

    46 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.

You Might Also Like