Expert Chat - Induction of Birth, with Dr Shavi Fernando
Send us a textThinking about induction of birth or been told it might be part of your birth plan? In this podcast episode, I sit down with Dr Shavi Fernando, an experienced obstetrician and gynaecologist, to break down everything you need to know. From why inductions are recommended to common myths, pain relief, and recovery—we cover it all in a way that’s clear, practical, and reassuring.In this episode, we discuss:What induction of birth means and when it might be recommendedThe most common reasons women are offered an inductionMyths and concerns, including the “cascade of interventions”Pain relief options, including epidurals and their impact on birth outcomesDifferent methods of induction (balloon, pessary, prostaglandin gel, oxytocin drip)How induction compares to spontaneous labour in terms of recoveryWhy asking questions and debriefing after birth is so importantThis is an episode I wish I’d listened to before my own induction—and I trust you’ll find it just as valuable.Connect with Dr Shavi FernandoWebsiteInstagramLINKS: Preparing for birth Pelvic health checklist Free 7 Day Trial Pregnancy Workouts Free 7 Day Trial Postnatal Workouts FitNest Mama Website Instagram @kathbaquie.physio 1:1 Consultation with Physio Kath at Hatched House ** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition.
Send us a textWhy your pelvic floor exercises might not be workingThink you’re doing everything right but still not seeing results? You’re not alone. In this episode, I break down the reasons your pelvic floor may not be improving - and what you can do instead.What you’ll hear in this episode:Why pelvic floor improvements can be slow or subtle postpartumHow incorrect technique can limit your resultsThe role of prolapse and what symptoms to look out forWhy an assessment with a pelvic floor physio is so importantWhen a pessary might be recommended for prolapse supportUnderstanding an overactive pelvic floor and why “more kegels” aren’t always the answerHow constipation and bowel health affect your pelvic floorThe impact of hormones and how vaginal oestrogen cream can helpWhy whole-body strength is just as important as pelvic floor strengthIf you’ve been feeling frustrated or discouraged, this episode will give you clarity, reassurance, and practical steps to move forward with confidence.** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition. LINKS: Preparing for birth Pelvic health checklist Free 7 Day Trial Pregnancy Workouts Free 7 Day Trial Postnatal Workouts FitNest Mama Website Instagram @kathbaquie.physio 1:1 Consultation with Physio Kath at Hatched House ** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition.
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Birth Story - with Eugenie [Positive Induction, TENS, calm birth, epidural, mental health]
Send us a textA beautiful, honest conversation with first-time mum Eugenie, who shares her positive induction birth story alongside her journey managing mental health and postnatal recovery. From early waters breaking to making confident feeding choices, Eugenie’s experience is full of practical insights and reassurance for mums-to-be.In this episode, we cover:Eugenie’s journey from eating disorder recovery to pregnancyMental health strategies during pregnancy and postpartumEarly waters breaking at 36 weeks and induction at 37 weeksUsing a TENS machine, Calm Birth techniques, and an epiduralPositive vaginal birth with no instrumental deliveryDeciding not to breastfeed and expressing colostrum antenatallyBuilding a strong postpartum support network with family helpPhysical recovery tips from pelvic floor physio and gentle return to exercisePerfect listening if you’re preparing for birth, navigating mental health during motherhood, or looking for empowering birth stories.LINKS: Preparing for birth Pelvic health checklist Free 7 Day Trial Pregnancy Workouts Free 7 Day Trial Postnatal Workouts FitNest Mama Website Instagram @kathbaquie.physio 1:1 Consultation with Physio Kath at Hatched House ** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition.
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Expert Chat - Supplementing formula while breastfeeding, with lactation consultant Jaimie Zaki
Send us a textStruggling with low supply, unsure when to supplement, or wondering if formula will derail your breastfeeding goals?In this episode, I’m joined by Jaimie Zaki—nurse, doula, mum of five, and IBCLC—for a conversation about supplementing with formula while breastfeeding. We explore how to use formula as a supportive tool (not a failure), how to advocate for your feeding goals in the hospital, and Jaimie’s SMART method for confident, informed supplementation. Whether you're exclusively breastfeeding, combo-feeding, or somewhere in between—this is a must-listen for any parent navigating early feeding decisions. What We Cover: Myths around formula and breastfeedingHow early formula use in hospitals can impact breastfeeding outcomesWhy preparation for breastfeeding should start before birthRed flags to look out for before introducing formulaThe SMART supplementing method:Supplementing method (bottle, cup, tube, etc.)Measured amountA clear reasonRight formula choiceTiming of feedsUnderstanding oral dysfunction, fussiness, and supply issuesHow to find trustworthy breastfeeding support (even if you're rural)Why birth interventions can influence early feeding—and what to do about itThe emotional side of feeding choices and letting go of guiltConnect with Jaimie Zaki: Website Instagram LINKS: Preparing for birth Pelvic health checklist Free 7 Day Trial Pregnancy Workouts Free 7 Day Trial Postnatal Workouts FitNest Mama Website Instagram @kathbaquie.physio 1:1 Consultation with Physio Kath at Hatched House ** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition.
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Ask Physio Kath - Are Bladder Leaks in Pregnancy Normal?
Send us a textIn this episode, I’m diving into a topic that comes up all too often — bladder leaks during pregnancy. You might’ve heard bladder leaks are 'normal' during pregnancy, but I’m here to challenge that idea. Just because it’s common doesn’t mean it’s something you have to put up with.In this short episode, I walk you through what’s really going on with your pelvic floor during pregnancy, why leaks happen, and most importantly - what you can do about it.Here’s what I cover:Why bladder leaks might be common, but they’re not something to ignoreWhat actually happens to your pelvic floor during pregnancy and birthThe impact of hormones, posture, and physical changes on your pelvic healthWhy early signs like leaking when sneezing or exercising matterWhat you can do right now:Understanding how to understand your pelvic healthThe importance of diaphragmatic breathingHow to modify movement and exercise safelyWhen to seek help from a pelvic floor physioWhy keeping active during pregnancy can support better postnatal recoveryHow my FitNest Mama app can help you feel strong and supported — anytime, anywhere** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition. LINKS: Preparing for birth Pelvic health checklist Free 7 Day Trial Pregnancy Workouts Free 7 Day Trial Postnatal Workouts FitNest Mama Website Instagram @kathbaquie.physio 1:1 Consultation with Physio Kath at Hatched House ** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition.
About Pregnancy, Birth and Recovery: Kath Baquie from FitNest Mama
A podcast dedicated to helping you have a healthy pregnancy, confident childbirth and strong recovery. In this podcast, we will cover the strategies to help you stay healthy and active during pregnancy, and confidently recover after childbirth, so that you can get back to your old (new) self, with a bubba by your side. You will find some amazing interviews with professionals covering breastfeeding with lactation consultants, childbirth with midwives and doctors, as well as birth stories from mamas just like you, designed to help educate and inform. How do I stay active & healthy during pregnancy? How can I look after my pelvic floor & core muscles? How can I feel confident heading into childbirth? How do I get strong again after birth, so that I can get back to doing what I love? This podcast will leave you feeling supported, inspired and ready to tackle this new journey. FitNest Mama is your workout app, which has online workouts and resources, helping women stay healthy during pregnancy, and have a strong postnatal recovery. Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is general in nature and should not replace the advice of your healthcare professional. For freebies and to find out more information head to https://www.fitnestmama.com or Instagram @kathbaquie.physio.
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New Zealand