The Ultimate Birth Partner Podcast

Sallyann Beresford

Everything a pregnant woman and her partner need to know to support them in preparation for labour, birth, and the early days with a new baby. This podcast gives both you and your partner the confidence and knowledge about the role they play throughout your birth, so they don't undermine or ruin the birth for you. Throughout these episodes, my guests and I will share with you our experience of being a birth keeper and advocate for women across the globe. This podcast is inclusive and invites guests from all backgrounds to enable you to hear a wide range of experiences. 

  1. HACE 1 DÍA

    Episode 156 - The Wobble – How to Feel Supported in Labour if You Say 'I Can’t Do This Anymore'

    Send us a text Every birth has a moment that feels impossible. For many women, it comes right before the pushing stage — a sudden rush of overwhelm, doubt, or fear. This is what I call 'The Wobble'. In this episode of The Ultimate Birth Partner Podcast, I’m diving deep into this essential topic. You’ll learn: What the Wobble really is — why it happens, when it usually shows up, and how to recognise itWhy it’s not a crisis, but a turning point in labourWhat partners can do in the moment to support her with calm, strength, and reassuranceThe words and actions that help most (and the ones to avoid)How to protect the birth space so she feels safe, supported, and able to move through itThe Wobble can sound like: * 'I can’t do this anymore'. * 'Something’s wrong'. * 'I want to stop'. But instead of signalling failure, these words often mean she’s closer than ever to meeting her baby. With the right support, the wobble passes — and she finds her strength again. If you’re a birth partner, this episode is also for you. Your steady presence in this moment can make all the difference. Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode Download the Wobble Cheat Sheet for your partner: HereExplore my Discover Your North Star course for tools and strategies to prepare for birth: HereFollow me on Instagram for more tips and resources: Here💌 If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a friend or partner who’s preparing for birth. And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode. If you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.link/sallyannberesford If you would like to buy a copy of either of the books that accompany this podcast please go to your online bookseller or visit Amazon:- Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner - click here:-https://bit.ly/Labouroflove The Art of Giving Birth - Five Key Physiological Principles - https://amzn.to/3EGh9df Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth' - Black and White version https://amzn.to/3CvJXmO Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth' - Colour version https://amzn.to/3GknbPF You can find all my classes and courses on my website - www.sallyannberesford.co.uk Follow me on Instagram @theultimatebirthpartner Book a 1-2-1 session with Sallyann - https://linktr.ee/SallyannBeresford Please remember that the information shared with you in this episode is solely based on my own personal experiences as a doula and the private opinions of my guests, based on their own experiences. Any recommendations made may not be suitable for ...

    25 min
  2. 21 SEP

    Episode 155 - Are Doulas Guardians or Gatekeepers?

    Send us a text In light of the recent NMC and Doula UK video, I decided to record this special episode as I felt it relates this this season's theme: The Reality of Birth. The video tried to define the role of a doula but missed the mark — suggesting we simply reinforce what midwives advise. That’s not the truth. You can watch it here - https://youtu.be/bXqIBMTZHDs Many care providers still remain confused about the role of a doula — despite us providing care for 25 years or more in some cases. But that confusion isn’t what matters. What matters is that you and your partner are crystal clear on why you’ve chosen your doula, and how their continuous support aligns with your birth vision. In this episode of The Ultimate Birth Partner Podcast, I explore: ✨ Why the recent video missed the mark about doula support. ✨ What families need to know when choosing a doula or birthkeeper. ✨ Why the woman herself is the true guardian and gatekeeper of her birth. ✨ How midwives can embrace this truth if they are to practise woman-centred care. I also share how a group of local doulas in my area have been working collaboratively with the hospital to build stronger relationships with midwives — and why this kind of real-world connection is far more valuable than any video. 💡 Key Takeaway: A doula is neither a guardian nor a gatekeeper. The woman is both. Everyone else — doulas, partners, midwives, and doctors — are there in service to her. If you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.link/sallyannberesford If you would like to buy a copy of either of the books that accompany this podcast please go to your online bookseller or visit Amazon:- Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner - click here:-https://bit.ly/Labouroflove The Art of Giving Birth - Five Key Physiological Principles - https://amzn.to/3EGh9df Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth' - Black and White version https://amzn.to/3CvJXmO Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth' - Colour version https://amzn.to/3GknbPF You can find all my classes and courses on my website - www.sallyannberesford.co.uk Follow me on Instagram @theultimatebirthpartner Book a 1-2-1 session with Sallyann - https://linktr.ee/SallyannBeresford Please remember that the information shared with you in this episode is solely based on my own personal experiences as a doula and the private opinions of my guests, based on their own experiences. Any recommendations made may not be suitable for ...

    30 min
  3. 14 SEP

    Episode 154 - Expectations vs. Reality — The Untold Elements of Poppy’s 2nd Birth Story

    Send us a text In this episode of The Ultimate Birth Partner Podcast, I’m joined by Poppy Child from Pop That Mumma, who shares parts of her second birth story that she has never spoken about publicly before. Poppy went into her pregnancy journey believing that a pain-free birth was achievable, but the reality unfolded in ways she hadn’t expected. In this conversation, she opens up about the untold elements of her experience, offering an honest reflection on how expectations can differ from reality in birth. We explore: The vision of a pain-free birth and how it contrasted with realityThe unplanned circumstances that shaped Poppy’s second birthThe emotional impact of unmet expectationsWhy speaking about the less-shared parts of birth matters so deeplyPoppy’s openness is a true gift, and I’m so grateful for her courage in sharing the sides of her story that have remained unspoken. Her reflections will reassure and support anyone who has felt the gap between what they imagined birth would be and the reality they experienced. Resources & Links: Connect with Poppy on instagram: @PopthatmummaFollow me on Instagram: @ultimatebirthpartnerExplore more episodes: The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastIf you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.link/sallyannberesford If you would like to buy a copy of either of the books that accompany this podcast please go to your online bookseller or visit Amazon:- Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner - click here:-https://bit.ly/Labouroflove The Art of Giving Birth - Five Key Physiological Principles - https://amzn.to/3EGh9df Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth' - Black and White version https://amzn.to/3CvJXmO Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth' - Colour version https://amzn.to/3GknbPF You can find all my classes and courses on my website - www.sallyannberesford.co.uk Follow me on Instagram @theultimatebirthpartner Book a 1-2-1 session with Sallyann - https://linktr.ee/SallyannBeresford Please remember that the information shared with you in this episode is solely based on my own personal experiences as a doula and the private opinions of my guests, based on their own experiences. Any recommendations made may not be suitable for ...

    57 min
  4. 7 SEP

    Episode - 153 - The Romanticism of Birth – Beyond the Picture-Perfect Vision

    Send us a text Season Six - The Reality of Birth Today Welcome to a brand-new series of The Ultimate Birth Partner Podcast In this first episode, I am exploring the romanticised idea of birth that we can sometimes hold. I share Where the romantic image of birth comes fromWhy relying only on a partner can be overwhelmingHow the 'bubble' can burst in labour and postpartumPractical preparation tips for birth partnersA listener’s question on intimacy vs. supportReflection prompts to help you prepare realisticallyWhether you’re planning a freebirth, a homebirth, a midwife-led birth, or a hospital birth, this series will guide you through the truth of birth today — so you can prepare with clarity, confidence, and compassion. Resources & Links: Follow Sallyann on Instagram: @theultimatebirthpartnerLearn more about Sallyann’s courses and resources: https://sallyannberesford.co.ukSubmit your questions for future episodes: hello@sallyannberesford.co.ukIf you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.link/sallyannberesford If you would like to buy a copy of either of the books that accompany this podcast please go to your online bookseller or visit Amazon:- Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner - click here:-https://bit.ly/Labouroflove The Art of Giving Birth - Five Key Physiological Principles - https://amzn.to/3EGh9df Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth' - Black and White version https://amzn.to/3CvJXmO Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth' - Colour version https://amzn.to/3GknbPF You can find all my classes and courses on my website - www.sallyannberesford.co.uk Follow me on Instagram @theultimatebirthpartner Book a 1-2-1 session with Sallyann - https://linktr.ee/SallyannBeresford Please remember that the information shared with you in this episode is solely based on my own personal experiences as a doula and the private opinions of my guests, based on their own experiences. Any recommendations made may not be suitable for ...

    27 min
  5. 25 MAY

    Episode 152 - Dr Rachel Reed - Meconium Stained Amniotic Fluid: variation or complication?

    Send us a text It's the season finale, and I’m delighted to wrap up with a powerful and thought-provoking conversation featuring the incredible Dr Rachel Reed - midwife, educator, author, and advocate for physiological birth. In this episode, we dive deep into the topic of Meconium-Stained Amniotic Fluid something that often triggers alarm bells during labour. But should it? Rachel helps us unpack the physiology, the myths, and the medical responses surrounding meconium in the waters. This conversation is essential listening for anyone preparing for birth, especially those wanting to feel informed and empowered in situations where the language of risk is used to justify intervention. We explore: What meconium actually is - and when it’s considered 'normal'Why the presence of meconium doesn’t always mean distressThe difference between thin and thick meconium - and why that mattersHow maternity systems often respond to meconium stained amniotic fluidHow to approach decision-making with confidence and contextAbout Dr Rachel Reed: Rachel is renowned for her evidence-based approach and her ability to reframe complex birth topics with clarity and wisdom. She’s the author of Reclaiming Childbirth as a Rite of Passage, and Why Induction Matters. Her MidwifeThinking blog became a go-to resource for birth professionals and parents alike. Resources mentioned: Rachel’s website: www.rachelreed.websiteRachel's Blog https://www.rachelreed.website/blogInstagram: @dr.rachel.reedThank you for joining me this season. Whether you’ve listened to one episode or every single one, I’m so grateful for your time and energy. This show is for you - for every birth partner, mother, and supporter who wants to walk into birth feeling prepared, powerful, and protected. I’ll be back in September with more conversations that challenge, inform, and inspire. If this episode spoke to you, please leave a review or share it with someone preparing for birth. Your support helps this podcast reach those who need it most. If you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.link/sallyannberesford If you would like to buy a copy of either of the books that accompany this podcast please go to your online bookseller or visit Amazon:- Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner - click here:-https://bit.ly/Labouroflove The Art of Giving Birth - Five Key Physiological Principles - https://amzn.to/3EGh9df Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth' - Black and White version https://amzn.to/3CvJXmO Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth' - Colour version https://amzn.to/3GknbPF You can find all my classes and courses on my website - www.sallyannberesford.co.uk Follow me on Instagram @theultimatebirthpartner Book a 1-2-1 session with Sallyann - https://linktr.ee/SallyannBeresford Please remember that the information shared with you in this episode is solely based on my own personal experiences as a doula and the private opinions of my guests, based on their own experiences. Any recommendations made may not be suitable for ...

    1 h y 5 min
  6. 18 MAY

    Episode 151 - Amelia's Story - MLU Birth with High BMI and Gestational Diabetes

    Send us a text In this inspiring episode, I’m joined by Amelia, who shares her powerful birth stories - welcoming both of her daughters in a Midwife Led Unit, despite being labelled ‘high risk’ due to a high BMI and insulin-controlled gestational diabetes. Amelia’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when a woman is supported to trust her instincts, advocate for herself, and remain at the centre of her care. In our conversation, Amelia reflects on: The challenges and judgements she faced due to her BMIHow she stayed informed and confident in her choicesBuilding a relationship of trust with her midwivesNavigating the medicalised narrative around gestational diabetesThe difference respectful, individualised care made in her outcomesThis episode offers hope to anyone who’s been told their body isn’t capable of physiological birth - and a reminder that evidence-based care and personal autonomy can and should go hand-in-hand. If you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.link/sallyannberesford If you would like to buy a copy of either of the books that accompany this podcast please go to your online bookseller or visit Amazon:- Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner - click here:-https://bit.ly/Labouroflove The Art of Giving Birth - Five Key Physiological Principles - https://amzn.to/3EGh9df Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth' - Black and White version https://amzn.to/3CvJXmO Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth' - Colour version https://amzn.to/3GknbPF You can find all my classes and courses on my website - www.sallyannberesford.co.uk Follow me on Instagram @theultimatebirthpartner Book a 1-2-1 session with Sallyann - https://linktr.ee/SallyannBeresford Please remember that the information shared with you in this episode is solely based on my own personal experiences as a doula and the private opinions of my guests, based on their own experiences. Any recommendations made may not be suitable for ...

    1 h y 9 min
  7. 11 MAY

    Episode 150 - Why I Left the NHS - Midwife Insights with Rosemary

    Send us a text In this powerful episode, I’m joined by former NHS midwife Rosemary, who bravely opens up about her time working within the UK’s maternity system - and why she ultimately made the difficult decision to walk away. With her knowledge and experience of women-centred care, Rosemary speaks candidly about the challenges she faced as a midwife, from rising pressures to the emotional toll of witnessing care that didn’t align with her values. Rosemary shares what it means to support physiological birth within institutional constraints, and why leaving was the only way to stay true to herself - and what she’s doing now Whether you’re pregnant, a birth worker, or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes of the maternity system, Rosemary’s story will stay with you. You can find Rosemary here  Or on her website here - https://houseofrosemary.com If you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.link/sallyannberesford If you would like to buy a copy of either of the books that accompany this podcast please go to your online bookseller or visit Amazon:- Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner - click here:-https://bit.ly/Labouroflove The Art of Giving Birth - Five Key Physiological Principles - https://amzn.to/3EGh9df Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth' - Black and White version https://amzn.to/3CvJXmO Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth' - Colour version https://amzn.to/3GknbPF You can find all my classes and courses on my website - www.sallyannberesford.co.uk Follow me on Instagram @theultimatebirthpartner Book a 1-2-1 session with Sallyann - https://linktr.ee/SallyannBeresford Please remember that the information shared with you in this episode is solely based on my own personal experiences as a doula and the private opinions of my guests, based on their own experiences. Any recommendations made may not be suitable for ...

    1 h y 21 min
  8. 4 MAY

    Episode 149 - Postpartum Prolapse - And Why We Need to be Talking About It!

    Send us a text In this essential episode, I open up a conversation with Hayley Schoenberg and Dr Margo, where they explain, that far too many women are suffering from postpartum prolapse - in silence.  Despite how common it is, prolapse is rarely discussed during pregnancy, and even less so after birth. Yet it can have a profound physical and emotional impact on a woman's life. It's time to break the silence. In this episode, we explore: What postpartum prolapse actually isThe symptoms that are too often dismissed or normalisedWhy so many women feel shocked, ashamed, or let down when they discover they have a prolapseHow the language we use around birth and recovery plays a role in this silenceWhy informed preparation before birth is key to preventing or reducing riskWhat real support looks like - and how we can do betterWhether you're a birth partner, a birth professional, or someone navigating your own postpartum recovery, this episode is for you. Let’s shine a light on this hidden struggle and advocate for real change in postpartum care. Get support: Reach out to pelvic health specialists or women's health physiotherapists in your area. Contact Hayley on Instagram - @thebadassbirthcompany  Contact Margo on Instagram - @pospartum_pop_pt  Margo's Website https://www.p4moms.com for her membership community and resources.  If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Let’s change the narrative - one birth at a time. If you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.link/sallyannberesford If you would like to buy a copy of either of the books that accompany this podcast please go to your online bookseller or visit Amazon:- Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner - click here:-https://bit.ly/Labouroflove The Art of Giving Birth - Five Key Physiological Principles - https://amzn.to/3EGh9df Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth' - Black and White version https://amzn.to/3CvJXmO Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth' - Colour version https://amzn.to/3GknbPF You can find all my classes and courses on my website - www.sallyannberesford.co.uk Follow me on Instagram @theultimatebirthpartner Book a 1-2-1 session with Sallyann - https://linktr.ee/SallyannBeresford Please remember that the information shared with you in this episode is solely based on my own personal experiences as a doula and the private opinions of my guests, based on their own experiences. Any recommendations made may not be suitable for ...

    1 h y 7 min

Tráiler

4.9
de 5
8 calificaciones

Acerca de

Everything a pregnant woman and her partner need to know to support them in preparation for labour, birth, and the early days with a new baby. This podcast gives both you and your partner the confidence and knowledge about the role they play throughout your birth, so they don't undermine or ruin the birth for you. Throughout these episodes, my guests and I will share with you our experience of being a birth keeper and advocate for women across the globe. This podcast is inclusive and invites guests from all backgrounds to enable you to hear a wide range of experiences. 

También te podría interesar