In pregnancy there are a lot of different factors impacting digestion. From food aversions that often limit new moms to constipating foods, nausea, and to the slowing of transit time effects of progesterone, the odds of constipation are pretty high. There are many different tools that can be used to encourage regular bowel movements. When we say regular, we mean once a day. This episode outlines more about why the pregnant-state lends itself to constipation, and some tips & tricks for navigating constipation & hemorrhoids in pregnancy (really for anyone).

There are many reasons for why the first trimester can have many challenges. Most are hormonal, some are due to societal norms, and other due to lifestyle hurdles. Often what helps the most is prioritizing the basics. In this episode various ways to navigate the most common first trimester woes are discussed, in addition to honoring the emotional navigation of pregnancy after miscarriage.

Have you wondered why most supplements, especially herbal supplements, have the warning of “contact your physician before taking if you are pregnant”? In this episode the use of herbal medicine in pregnancy is reviewed with a discussion of why this warning exists. While the scope of herbal medicine is very broad, this episode provides an overview of when herbs are used throughout navigating the pregnancy journey. Please discuss with your medical provider before initiating any herbal medicine.

The nutritional journey of pregnancy begins many months prior to conception. Each stage of pregnancy comes with its own challenges based on symptom navigation and decreased physical volume for digestion. This podcast will not only provide basics of pregnancy nutrition, but also some tips and tricks we have learned along the way. Overall, the goal is just to do the best you can to keep your blood sugar balanced, eat a variety of vegetables, stay hydrated & not to be too hard on yourself.

No one visualizes or plans for a hospital birth ending in a cesarean when preparing for a home birth. Inspired by the author, Courtney Jarecki, of a wonderful birth resource called, “Homebirth Cesarean”, in this episode Dr. Sara & Dr. Jackie discuss the realities of unplanned belly births after desiring and planning a home birth.

Dr. Sara’s favorite topic, water birth. Water birth is a popular request, or at least topic of conversation, for home births. In this episode we first review some research on water birthing for maternal and fetal outcomes (thanks to Evidence Based Birth!), then get into some of the logistics around when is the best time to get into the tub during labor, how do we set up a tub, and Dr. Jackie’s own experience with water birth. Whether planned or unplanned, water immersion during labor or water birth is a safe and beneficial practice for uncomplicated deliveries.

After ordering a unique birth kit to Dr. Sara, which includes the appropriate disposable medical supplies, everything else for your home birth is easily found in your home. From towels and hot water, to baby wipes and a couple baskets, the biggest part of preparing for your home birth is really gathering these household items in one area for the midwifery team to access when the big day arrives. With a few tips regarding hoses for water birth and getting tricky stains out of fabric, this episode is all about what supplies are needed from the birthing family to have your birth at home.

From the birthing person’s partner, to friends, family members, doulas & photographers, who you may want to invite to your birth can depend on many variables that are difficult to control when birthing at home. While the midwifery team strives to provide the type of support the birthing person needs, there may be other support people that can create the environment & experience that is most desirable. Overall, when it comes to birth, we need to surrender to it being what it is going to be. When it comes to who all is going to be involved, we must remember that the birth space is sacred & it is important to be intentional with who you invite.

Something that makes a home birth even more special is the ability to include older children & pets. While this is something that is either not possible or allowed in other birth settings, you may be wondering what including these family members in your birth can look like. Ultimately, the best plan

An introduction to the hosts, naturopathic midwifery & our podcast. This podcast is hosted by Sara Ohgushi, ND & Jackie Kirihara, ND.