Elephant in the Womb
By Elephant in the Womb
Topics: family health, parenting, women's health (inclusive), LGBTQ+, reproductive and/or sexual health, hot topic health issues, children's safety and development
Elephant in the Womb Nov 06, 2023
Managing Fevers in Young Children (Sick Day Management Series)
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see a trusted and/or accessible healthcare provider. Views are my own.
The podcast adaptation of Common Misconception About Fevers in Babies and Young Children, part of our Daycare Outbreaks/Sick Day Management Series.
I think fevers are so often misunderstood. There is a surprising amount of misinformation surrounding them; a general misunderstanding of what actually constitutes a fever; and, lots of confusion surrounding their physiology and treatment. Fevers are a symptom that are extremely common, among children especially.
Let's talk about fevers, what they are and how they differ from hyperthermia, how they are treated as per best practice recommendations and possible complications. Along the way we will bust some common myths around fevers.
Stay tuned for 2 more episodes relating to fevers on thermometers and febrile seizures, coming soon!
All About Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) {Sick Day Management Series}
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see a trusted and/or accessible healthcare provider. Views are my own.
The podcast adaptation of Managing Pink Eye in Children, from our blog daycare outbreak series and podcast Sick Day Management Series!
Red eyes = pink eye? Maybe. Lets take a look at pinkeye, also known as conjunctivitis, which is definitely common in daycare, school and beyond. And yes – adults can get it too. Listen for symptom and spread overview, home management and where to start in the healthcare system, as well as discussions around over the counter remedies and current evidence about antibiotic treatment for conjunctivitis from Choosing Wisely Canada.
Mental Health Nurses and Family Health (Who is on my Healthcare Team? Series)
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see a trusted and/or accessible healthcare provider. Views are my own.
Feb 21st is Mental Health Nurses Day in Canada - and so I thought it would be appropriate and fun to have a mental health nurse on the podcast to talk about when and how you might come into contact with one, what they do and can do to support you/your family, and the importance of mental healthcare. If you are a Mental Health Nurse - thank you for all that you do!
*This episode will be a part of a new series I am starting on the blog and podcast called "Who is on my Healthcare Team?"
Ep 47 Journaling With Your Child ft. The Mindful Parent and Child
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
So happy to welcome Seema of the Mindful Parent and Child onto the podcast. You may remember, if you follow me on my personal Instagram, that I shared the calming toolkit on my feed last month. Seema is here talking about the toolkit and the journals they make, and how they can benefit you, your child, your family, and more!
You can find The Mindful Parent and Child
Ep 46 Fifth Disease (Sick Day Management Series)
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see a healthcare provider. Views are my own.
This podcast has an associated blog post which can be found here.
Fifth disease is sometimes referred to as erythema infectiosum – infectious erythema or red skin. You’ll see why red skin is relevant in the episode as we look at the illness, symptoms, home management and where/when to seek further advice. Great resources in Ontario are your primary care provider (if you have one); a pharmacist; and Health 811 or similar triage services.
Ep 45 Influenza and the Flu Shot: Mythbusting (Part 2 of 2)
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see a healthcare provider. Views are my own.
This is part 2 of Episode 44 on Influenza and the Flu Shot! This portion of the episode we are looking at common myths and claims around influenza and the flu shot itself and discussing how to navigate these claims and where to look for more information.
Associated blog post: Click Here
Part 1 of blog post: Click Here
Additional Resources:
Vaccine Types - U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
FAQ About Flu Vaccines - Baltimore City Health Department (includes links to recent study results)
Vaccines When Your Child Is Sick - Center for Disease Control
Ep 44 Influenza and the Flu Shot (Part 1 of 2)
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see a healthcare provider. Views are my own.
This is part 1 of 2 on influenza and the flu shot - this first part is associated with this blog post, and covers the basics around influenza and the flu vaccines. Part 2 will bust some common myths around the flu shot and influenza - coming soon.
Additional Resources:
City of Toronto - Influenza Vaccine Fact Sheet 2023-2024
Government of Canada - Flu: Prevention and Risks
CDC - Key Facts About Influenza
Ep 43 Roseola (Sick Day Management Series)
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see a healthcare provider.
This podcast has an associated blog post which can be found here.
We're talking about Roseola today and through recording this episode I discovered how truly contradictory or ambiguous different evidence-based resources can be. As a result, I've provided current evidence and recommendations in this episode with the caveat of contacting your own or an available regulated healthcare provider as needed - and not having any guilt about having to do that! Nurse's lines like Telehealth in Ontario are also incredibly useful for helping you triage and identify concerns. For the most part, Roseola is a mild illness though and doesn't usually require intervention, being managed at home. Listen to learn more...
Ep 42 Hand Foot and Mouth Disease (Sick Day Management Series)
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see a healthcare provider.
The first episode back after a hiatus and we're jumping right into sick-o season. Today I'm talking about Hand, Foot and Mouth disease, which I've previously covered in blog posts (overview and our experience managing it). This is the first episode in a new series on Sick Day Management and how to make it through some of the most common daycare/school illnesses. As always, your most reliable resource for health information is your healthcare provider - and I discuss a few ways you can still access them (or similar services) without going into the office in this episode.
Ep 41 Navigating Prenatal Screening: eFTS and NIPT
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see your healthcare provider.
One topic that I think fills the minds of moms-to-be, especially first timers, is all the testing. Understandably so – I think it can be equally as thought consuming in each pregnancy really. Enhanced First Trimester Screening (eFTS) and Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) are two prenatal screening tests that may be offered to you in early pregnancy. In this episode, I share some information about both tests including accuracy, possible screen results, risk/benefit comparison of the tests, coverage criteria for Ontario (OHIP) and how to navigate these screenings and make the most of your time with your healthcare provider. I also talk about my own experience with these tests in pregnancy.
For more information on prenatal screening options in Ontario, please see the Prenatal Screening Ontario or BORN websites. If you are in the US, you can refer to the ACOG's website for a general overview but also look into public health and local resources for exact information. As always - your best resource is your own, personal healthcare provider who knows your community & your personal health information.
Prefer to read and click links for more info? Check out my blog post on this topic.
Ep 40 Car Seats & Safety with Jen Shapka, CPST
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see your doctor or healthcare provider.
So happy to share this incredibly informative episode with Jen Shapka, who is a CPST (Child Passenger Safety Technician) in Canada. She answered submitted questions about car seats and booster seats, and gave some truly valuable information. She has also shared the resources below for those looking for more assistance:
Ep 39 An IVF Story: Veronika's Story
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see your doctor or healthcare provider.
This episode features Veronika, who shares her fertility and IVF journey. Topics include: low ovarian reserve, low AMH, IVF, pre-eclampsia, COVID during pregnancy and pelvic physiotherapy. So happy to be able to share Veronika's journey with you all and stay tuned for a part two soon, where Veronika will share her birth, postpartum and NICU journey...
Ep 38 Pediatric Headshape & Helmet Therapy with Sarah from ROKband Clinics
Check out ROKband's website here and their IG account here!
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see your doctor or healthcare provider.
This episode features Sarah, a kinesiologist and Headshape Management Clinician at ROKband clinics, located across Canada. We talk about different factors that affect infant headshape in the womb and after birth; common terminology; helmet therapy and what to expect at a ROKband clinic appointment; and more! Give it a listen or share with a friend who it might be relevant to.
Don't forget to like & subscribe for more pediatric, family, reproductive and women's health topic episodes coming soon!
Ep 37 Addressing Fears Around Childhood Vaccinations: Myths & Evidence
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see your doctor or healthcare provider.
My first solo podcast episode is here - I'll be adapting some of my more popular informative blog posts into episodes! You can read the associated post for this podcast here.
Let's talk about these fears around vaccinations for our little ones. Remember – this is a non-judgmental space. What I care about – as always – is providing you with the evidence, risks and benefits so you can make an informed decision about yours or your child’s health. You should also always speak to your provider about any concerns or questions you have.
Additional Resources
Canadian Paediatric Society – Vaccine Safety: Canada’s System
Canadian Paediatric Society – Vaccine Safety: Examine the Evidence
Vaccine Safety: Myths and Misinformation (Geoghegan et al., 2020)
Safety of combination vaccines: Perception versus reality (Halsey, 2001)
Ep 36 Plus Size Pregnancy & The Healthcare System
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see your doctor or healthcare provider.
I am so happy to finally bring you this episode with my returning guest, Kaitlyn! Today, Kaitlyn shares her experience as a plus size woman accessing the healthcare system during pregnancy. She shares her struggles and wins, and highlights areas where improvements are needed in terms of care delivery. We also talk about the lack of supports, information and resources in quite a bit of detail... tune in for a great episode and thank you to Kaitlyn for once again sharing her story with me.
Two instagram accounts she mentioned in the podcast are: @plussizebirth and @plussizebabywearing !
Ep 35 Certified Sleep and Parent Coach Cayla Answers More of Your Questions!
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see your doctor or healthcare provider.
This episode I am chatting once again with Cayla Solomon of Sleeping Beauties - Certified Sleep and Parent Coach.Several weeks ago I called for questions and got so many submissions as usual! Cayla addresses all submitted questions in this episode. We're talking first about the new SIDS research and AAP updates - so there is a trigger warning in this episode. The rest is sleep talk across the life span - including a little bit about tweens & sleep! If you love this episode, like us or hit subscribe! Cayla will be back on again soon.
Note: I mention a post about constipation in little ones, here is the link to that post.
Updated AAP Recommendations can be found here.
Ep 34 Speech Language Pathology (SLP): Your Questions Answered with Gina-Marie Principe, SLP
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see your doctor or healthcare provider.
This episode I am chatting once again with a Speech Language Pathologist, Gina-Marie, who is answering all your submitted questions about SLP therapy for your little ones - we talk about the updated CDC guidelines for speech and language milestones; hearing loss; and more!
You can find her on Instagram here. Please check the blog for the list of the Instagram accounts she mentions in the episode + a list of resources. Thank you.
Ep 33 An IVF Story: Lainey's Story
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see your doctor or healthcare provider.
This episode features Lainey, who shares her fertility and IVF journey. Topics include: depleted ovarian reserve, azoospermia, IVF, donor sperm and more. So happy to be able to share Lainey's journey with you all.
Ep 32 An Induction & Medicated Vaginal Birth Story (Sandra's Story)
Ep 31 Endometriosis Awareness: Destiny's Story
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see your doctor or healthcare provider.
This month, I am amplifying the voices of those who have endometriosis, for Endometriosis Awareness Month. Awareness months help raise awareness, but really this is something we should be actively working towards at all times of the year. This episode features Destiny, sharing her endometriosis journey. She talks about her more unique symptoms and her treatment plan thus far, and how it has impacted her life.
Ep 30 Endometriosis Awareness: Tara's Story
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see your doctor or healthcare provider.
This month, I am amplifying the voices of those who have endometriosis, for Endometriosis Awareness Month. Awareness months help raise awareness, but really this is something we should be actively working towards at all times of the year. This episode features Tara, sharing her endometriosis journey. She talks about managing it alongside her mental health, her surgeries and experiences with the medical system and how endo has impacted her whole life. Check it out - and if you like this podcast, hit subscribe!
Ep 29 Endometriosis Awareness: Jo's Story
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see your doctor or healthcare provider.
This month, I am amplifying the voices of those who have endometriosis, for Endometriosis Awareness Month. Awareness months help raise awareness, but really this is something we should be actively working towards at all times of the year. This episode features Jo, sharing her endometriosis journey, struggles with fertility and insight on being your own advocate. Check it out - and if you like this podcast, hit subscribe!
Ep 28 My Planned Home Birth Story
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see your doctor or healthcare provider.
Surprise! It's me sharing my second birth story today. My son was born on February 4th, 2022 at home at 40+2 gestation. I am so excited to share my planned home birth story! Please note that the first 37 minutes of the episode are covering my first birth (overview) and pregnancy care experience this time (including my experience with an abnormal anatomy scan & maternal fetal medicine). The second part of the episode, from 38 minutes forward, covers my labor and birth. Please feel free to skip ahead if you're head for L&D!
If you like this podcast, please subscribe & share with another parent who might enjoy it!
Ep 27 A Preemie & C-Section Birth Story (incl. Dental Tips for Pregnant Mamas and Toddlers - with Katie the Dentist!)
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see your doctor or healthcare provider (dentist).
Today, Katie is sharing her C-section birth story, which includes details about her premature birth and her daughter's NICU stay. We also talk about feeding challenges, lip/tongue ties, and tips for dental care for pregnant mamas and toddlers (Katie is a dentist and was so kind to share her story AND her knowledge in this episode!). Check it out.
If you like this podcast, please subscribe & share with another parent who might enjoy it!
Ep 26 Nutrition during Pregnancy and Beyond with Registered Dietitian Emma-Claire Ziolkowski
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see your doctor or healthcare provider.
In this episode, Emma-Claire Ziolkowski, RD and I are chatting about nutrition during pregnancy, postpartum and breastfeeding, as well as the toxicity of the world of diet culture. Trigger warning: We do briefly mention eating disorders and body dysmorphia, and how these might factor into pregnancy/beyond.
You can connect with Emma-Claire via her social media:
Twitter: @emmaclaire_z https://twitter.com/emmaclaire_z
Instagram: @emmaclaire_z
Website: https://eclaireeats.com
Ep 25 Speech Language Pathology (SLP) & Your Little Ones
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see your doctor or healthcare provider.
This episode I am chatting with a Speech Language Pathologist, Gina-Marie, who is answering all your submitted questions about SLP therapy for your little ones - we talk about early intervention, tips & tricks for speech promotion and more!
You can find her on Instagram here.
Ep 24 COVID-19 Vaccine Questions Answered with Dr Theresa Patton OBGYN
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see your doctor or healthcare provider.
Today's episode is answering your submitted COVID-19 vaccination questions! We are talking about the vaccine in relation to fertility concerns, mammograms, menstruation, TTC, pregnancy, breastfeeding and more! Check it out! Thanks to Dr Theresa Patton OBGYN for kindly providing her knowledge to answer the questions in this episode!
Ep 23 PAP Talk: All About the Pap Experience, HPV Vaccine & Common FAQs
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Disclaimer: this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is NOT medical advice. If you need medical advice, please see your doctor or healthcare provider.
We are talking all about the pap smear today! Including an interesting history of what came before (not much) and hopes for the future; pap experiences; answers to common questions; HPV vaccine info; and more!
Note: we do mention trauma-informed care, and how trauma can be approached when it comes to the pap smear, but do not talk about any experiences or anything that should be triggering.
Ep 22 Your Infant & Toddler Sleep Questions Answered By Cayla @officialsleepingbeauties
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Cayla is back on the podcast! She was previously a guest in Ep 7 and she's back today answering more of your infant & toddler sleep questions! If you submitted a question via our Twitter or my personal IG page, your question is answered in this episode! Check it out!
You can find Cayla at https://sleepingbeauties.ca and on her Instagram here.
Ep 21 A Medicated Vaginal Birth Story with @mymommyspost
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
The Birth Experiences series is a set of interviews with moms sharing their unique birth story, and answering common questions about their different experiences. What is labor & birth like? Well it's different for everyone - tune in monthly to hear about all the different ways it can go and the variety of challenges that can be faced. No birth experience is exactly the same.
Today's guest is @mymommyspost and we are talking all about her medicated vaginal birth experience. We discuss epidurals, postpartum body image, morning sickness and more. Take a listen and if you like the episode hit subscribe or leave us a review!
Ep 20 Emergency C Section & Recovery with Christen
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
The Birth Experiences series is a set of interviews with moms sharing their unique birth story, and answering common questions about their different experiences. What is labor & birth like? Well it's different for everyone - tune in monthly to hear about all the different ways it can go and the variety of challenges that can be faced. No birth experience is exactly the same.
Today's guest is Christen and we are talking all about her emergency C-section birth experience. We discuss birth plans and expectations, "super stitch" pain, C-section recovery and more. Take a listen and if you like the episode hit subscribe or leave us a review!
UPCOMING EPISODE: Medicated Vaginal Birth Experience with My Mommy Posts!
Ep 19 Vaginal Twin Birth & Postpartum Experience
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
The Birth Experiences series is a set of interviews with moms sharing their unique birth story, and answering common questions about their different experiences. What is labor & birth like? Well it's different for everyone - tune in monthly to hear about all the different ways it can go and the variety of challenges that can be faced. No birth experience is exactly the same.
Today's guest is Rachael Flick and she is sharing her vaginal twin birth experience & a lot about her postpartum experience as well. Topics include: pregnancy care, breastfeeding, early labor at 17 weeks, twin vaginal birth, induction, postpartum hemorrhage, nipple shields, lip ties, first postpartum period, postpartum physical recovery and more! Tune in!
Rachael Flick, LPCC, NCC is a licensed counselor. She translated her B.S in Kinesiology and love of photography into a business as a doula and family/birth photography. Tragically, Rachael lost her husband of ten years on February 5, 2018. Now, a young widow with two young children, Rachael is walking through her own journey of grief while challenging others to persevere and overcome their own circumstances. Rachael speaks and writes poignantly about internal transformation and finding resilience through hope. As she has clung to the promise of God’s faithfulness, Rachael has discovered wisdom and authority found only in suffering. Rachael has the ability to wrap captivating language and infuse hope around challenging systemic issues through her vulnerable style of storytelling. Rachael continues to watch the redemption of God through her story in her therapeutic counseling practice as she works with those suffering from trauma and PTSD. You can connect with Rachael on her podcast: The Hopecast with Rachael Flick, and on her website www.RachaelFlick.com
Ep 18 C-Section TWIN Birth Experience!
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
NOTE: I made a little mistake when I was talking at the beginning mostly in my wording - because truly the placenta is so complex! Here is a better breakdown of chorion vs placenta. And here is a good video breaking down the fetal membranes.
The Birth Experiences series is a set of interviews with moms sharing their unique birth story, and answering common questions about their different experiences. What is labor & birth like? Well it's different for everyone - tune in monthly to hear about all the different ways it can go and the variety of challenges that can be faced. No birth experience is exactly the same.
Today's guest is Ashleigh and she is sharing her identical twin birth experience. Tune in!
Ep 17 Pelvic Physiotherapy Explored (With a Pelvic Physiotherapist!)
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
We're talking all things pelvic physiotherapy on this episode! I have Robyn on, a pelvic PT. We talk prenatal (birth prep), postpartum recovery (C and V births), trauma-informed care, diastasis recti, and pain during intercourse! You'll want to tune in!
Please note that these opinions are our own and do not reflect the views of our employers. No aspect of this podcast is medical advice - if you need medical advice, please seek the guidance of your healthcare provider.
If you like the podcast, hit subscribe!
Ep 16 Teaching Special Education During COVID-19
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
We've all been living in a pandemic for what feels like an eternity. But what is it like working in a pandemic - as a teacher?
The voices of teachers throughout the past year have been largely overlooked, so I am excited to be sharing this experience with you all. In-school teaching has had its ups and downs, twists and turns; and the events of this year haven't come without a price for both children and school staff alike.
This is the second episode where I have had a teacher on to discuss their experiences working during the COVID-19 pandemic. This episode discusses special education classes specifically, with Kaitlyn.
Please note that these opinions are our own and do not reflect the views of our employers. No aspect of this podcast is medical advice - if you need medical advice, please seek the guidance of your healthcare provider.
Ep 15 Postpartum and Delaying the Initial Bath with Dr Heather DNP RN
This is not medical advice, this podcast is for informational purposes only. Views are those of the speakers and do not reflect their employers.
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
In this episode, I interview Dr Heather DNP RN and OB nurse about her research into delaying the initial bath for baby. We also talk about postpartum experiences in general. Check it out!
If you like this podcast, hit subscribe!
Ep 14 Birth Experiences: C-Section, Placenta Previa, and More
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Please note: this episode includes a related blog post with more information on placenta previa which we discuss in the episode. Note that this podcast is for informational purposes only. This is not medical advice.
The Birth Experiences series is a set of interviews with moms sharing their unique birth story, and answering common questions about their different experiences. What is labor & birth like? Well it's different for everyone - tune in monthly to hear about all the different ways it can go and the variety of challenges that can be faced. No birth experience is exactly the same.
Ep 13 Postpartum Expectations vs Reality with a Maternity/NICU Nurse
This is not medical advice, this podcast is for informational purposes only. Views are those of the speakers and do not reflect their employers.
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
In this episode, I interview a Maternity/NICU nurse about her role, and a variety of postpartum-related topics from breastfeeding to postpartum mental health. Tune in to hear more!
Ep 12 Career Experiences: Teaching During COVID-19
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
We've all been living in a pandemic for what feels like an eternity. But what is it like working in a pandemic - as a teacher?
The voices of teachers throughout the past year have been largely overlooked, so I am excited to be sharing this experience with you all. In-school teaching has had its ups and downs, twists and turns; and the events of this year haven't come without a price for both children and school staff alike.
Please enjoy this episode and I can't wait to share more on this new season of Elephant in the Womb!
Ep 11 Birth Experiences: Induction & Medicated Birth, TWO Experiences
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
The Birth Experiences series is a set of interviews with moms sharing their unique birth story, and answering common questions about their different experiences. What is labor & birth like? Well it's different for everyone - tune in to hear about all the different ways it can go and the variety of challenges that can be faced. No birth experience is exactly the same.
The overarching goal of the Elephant in the Womb podcast is to give women a place to speak; to give women a platform for their voices and experiences to be heard.
Learn a bit more about Brennan, our special guest, below:
My name is Brennan Mitchell and I am 24 years old. I am wife to Dylan and mom to Evelyn (2.5) and Dylan Jr. (1.5) and also pregnant with baby #3 due Jan. 31st! I absolutely love being a mom to these two and would not have it any other way!
Ep 10 Birth Experiences: One Slow, One Fast- Two Home Birth + Water Birth Experiences
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
The Birth Experiences series is a set of interviews with moms sharing their unique birth story, and answering common questions about their different experiences. What is labor & birth like? Well it's different for everyone - tune in to hear about all the different ways it can go and the variety of challenges that can be faced. No birth experience is exactly the same.
The overarching goal of the Elephant in the Womb podcast is to give women a place to speak; to give women a platform for their voices and experiences to be heard.
Mary is an ICU nurse. She speaks about her experiences birthing her two sons at home (they are now in their teens), using water birthing techniques. Her birth experiences are so different from each other, it's interesting to hear about. She speaks specifically about the stigma she experienced in her workplace for having a home birth, how she helped to educate others about her experiences, and how being a nurse helped her when it came to pregnancy and birth.
Ep 9 Parenting Experiences: Lone, Single Parenting with Janis Isaman
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
Janis Isaman is a lone parent. She wrote about her experience here. When Janis messaged me about being on the podcast and I took a look at this article, I knew it was something I wanted to talk about.
What is a lone parent? It is a form of single parenting - where you have no support from a partner. No one to have your back or cover your me time. This can be due to a variety of reasons such as the loss of a partner, or maybe lack of interest in raising a child.
In this episode of the podcast, Janis builds on the discussion in her article about being a lone parent, which she has been since the very beginning. I talk to her about her struggles, her wins and highlights, her day to day life, and how she seeks support.
Tune in to hear her story! And feel free to contact her via Instagram @mybodycouture.
Ep 8 Birth Experiences: Unmedicated Birth, IUGR, and Gestational Diabetes
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
The Birth Experiences series is a set of interviews with moms sharing their unique birth story, and answering common questions about their different experiences. What is labor & birth like? Well it's different for everyone - tune in to hear about all the different ways it can go and the variety of challenges that can be faced. No birth experience is exactly the same.
The overarching goal of the Elephant in the Womb podcast is to give women a place to speak; to give women a platform for their voices and experiences to be heard.
A.K.A. - Kirsten's Hollywood Birth! It'll make sense when you listen to the episode. Lots of topics covered in this one.
Provider: OBGYN
Experiences: Unmedicated Birth, IUGR (Intrauterine Growth Restriction), Gestational Diabetes, military spouse
Learn a little bit more about Kirsten below:
Hello! My name is Kirsten. I'm a twenty two year old first time mom to Ryder, who is one. I'm a stay at home mom, but I also do digital art on the side. I'm married to Austin, my high school sweetheart, and we are currently living in Texas, USA with our black cat, Axle, and our Pit, Darla!
Ep 7 It's SIDS Awareness Month: Sleep Specialist Talk
Please note: I had some mic issues during this episode, so I sound a bit choppy but Cayla sounds excellent! That's what matters.
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
That's right - we're not just about only birth experiences anymore. I have expanded the scope of the podcast to also include interviews with other specialists, and there will be even more to come!
In this episode, I am speaking with Cayla, the pediatric sleep specialist behind Sleeping Beauties (www.sleepingbeauties.ca or @officialsleepingbeauties on Instagram). We talk SIDS, safe sleep, bed-sharing, co-sleeping, and she answers a ton of questions about sleep with lots of great survival tips for new parents with babies 0-12 months and beyond.
Ep 6 Birth Experiences: All About Midwives (Pt 2)
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
NOTE: This is the second part of the interview, please listen to the first part to hear the entire interview!
The Birth Experiences series is a set of interviews with moms sharing their unique birth story, and answering common questions about their different experiences. What is labor & birth like? Well it's different for everyone - tune in monthly to hear about all the different ways it can go and the variety of challenges that can be faced. No birth experience is exactly the same.
In this episode, I am interviewing a former midwife about her former role; past experiences with deliveries and pre and postnatal care; and having her answer some specific question from listeners.
Kim is a former midwife in the province of Ontario. Tune in to learn more about her!
Ep 6 Birth Experiences: All About Midwives (Pt 1)
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
The Birth Experiences series is a set of interviews with moms sharing their unique birth story, and answering common questions about their different experiences. What is labor & birth like? Well it's different for everyone - tune in monthly to hear about all the different ways it can go and the variety of challenges that can be faced. No birth experience is exactly the same.
In this episode, I am interviewing a former midwife about her former role; past experiences with deliveries and pre and postnatal care; and having her answer some specific question from listeners.
Kim is a former midwife in the province of Ontario. Tune in to learn more about her!
Ep 5 Birth Experiences: All About Doulas (Pt 2)
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
The Birth Experiences series is a set of interviews with moms sharing their unique birth story, and answering common questions about their different experiences. What is labor & birth like? Well it's different for everyone - tune in monthly to hear about all the different ways it can go and the variety of challenges that can be faced. No birth experience is exactly the same.
Episode 4 (parts 1&2) are a little different: I'm interviewing a doula, Mariana from Bump to Babies, about her role and experiences. Another special guest, Rebecca from the first episode, is back! She is in school to become a doula currently and adds an interesting perspective to the interview. I recommend this episode for all mamas, anyone interested in birth work/becoming a doula, and other healthcare professionals.
Here is a bit more about Mariana and Rebecca:
Mariana Rodrigues is owner of Bump to Babies,a doula and a newborn care specialist! She lives in Louisiana, is married to her sweet husband Austin, they have two pups and their first baby is on the way! Mariana has always had such a passion for the birth world and decided to pursue a career helping to educate and advocate for the best births and postpartums. What started as a blog a few years ago has grown into a community and has led to so many moms feeling empowered and educated in how they chose to birth their sweet babies and raise them. Mariana’s biggest goal is that all moms feel supported through all things #bumptobabies.
Hey friends! I am Rebecca, and I reside in Ohio in the states. I'm a mom to a beautiful girl named Piper. I had a water birth, which was the most empowering decision I have ever made for myself. In fact, my birth influenced me to become a doula after discovering a passion for being an advocate for myself (and others) and finding empowerment in education. I invite you to check out my blog at https://coil.com/u/TheWrongOrder to learn more about birth, motherhood, and creativity.
Ep 5 Birth Experiences: All About Doulas (Pt 1)
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
The Birth Experiences series is a set of interviews with moms sharing their unique birth story, and answering common questions about their different experiences. What is labor & birth like? Well it's different for everyone - tune in monthly to hear about all the different ways it can go and the variety of challenges that can be faced. No birth experience is exactly the same.
Episode 4 (parts 1&2) are a little different: I'm interviewing a doula, Mariana from Bump to Babies, about her role and experiences. Another special guest, Rebecca from the first episode, is back! She is in school to become a doula currently and adds an interesting perspective to the interview.
I recommend this episode for all mamas, anyone interested in birth work/becoming a doula, and other healthcare professionals.
Here is a bit more about Mariana and Rebecca:
Mariana Rodrigues is owner of Bump to Babies,a doula and a newborn care specialist! She lives in Louisiana, is married to her sweet husband Austin, they have two pups and their first baby is on the way! Mariana has always had such a passion for the birth world and decided to pursue a career helping to educate and advocate for the best births and postpartums. What started as a blog a few years ago has grown into a community and has led to so many moms feeling empowered and educated in how they chose to birth their sweet babies and raise them. Mariana’s biggest goal is that all moms feel supported through all things #bumptobabies.
Hey friends! I am Rebecca, and I reside in Ohio in the states. I'm a mom to a beautiful girl named Piper. I had a water birth, which was the most empowering decision I have ever made for myself. In fact, my birth influenced me to become a doula after discovering a passion for being an advocate for myself (and others) and finding empowerment in education. I invite you to check out my blog at https://coil.com/u/TheWrongOrder to learn more about birth, motherhood, and creativity.
Ep 4 Birth Experiences: C-section, Induction, and Failure to Progress
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
The Birth Experiences series is a set of interviews with moms sharing their unique birth story, and answering common questions about their different experiences. What is labor & birth like? Well it's different for everyone - tune in monthly to hear about all the different ways it can go and the variety of challenges that can be faced. No birth experience is exactly the same.
Episode 3 features Morgan, who is speaking about her C-section experience.
Other topics that are covered include induction, failure to progress, midwifery care, and c-section postpartum recovery.
Overall this episode covers a very positive experience with C-section so I'm recommend it as a listen for anyone who has one scheduled (or just anyone because as you can see from this episode, you never know what will happen).
Learn a little bit more about Morgan below:
My name is Morgan, I am twenty eight years old, from Michigan and a stay at home mom to Liam!
Ep 3 Birth Experiences: Medicated Birth, Induction, & Pre-Eclampsia
A podcast brought to you by Elephant in the Womb blog (www.elephantinthewomb.ca).
The Birth Experiences series is a set of interviews with moms sharing their unique birth story, and answering common questions about their different experiences. What is labor & birth like? Well it's different for everyone - tune in monthly to hear about all the different ways it can go and the variety of challenges that can be faced. No birth experience is exactly the same.
Episode 2 features two parts, the second part here involving Paige.
Other topics that are covered include pregnancy experience during COVID-19, pre-eclampsia monitoring in your second pregnancy, and more.
Learn a little bit more about Paige below:
My name is Paige and I’m a 24 year old mom from New York! I’m an obstetrics RN pursuing my masters degree as an advanced practice RN. I love movie marathons, baseball, and all things autumn. I have an almost nine month old who was born after an induction due to a preeclampsia diagnosis at 38 weeks.