The Pregnancy Diaries with Midwives Amanda and Jess

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  Episode 37 | Birth Preferences And Preparing For The Unexpected | Part Two 11.08.2026 37min

  In part two of our conversation, we continue exploring birth preferences and the importance of feeling informed, supported and confident throughout your birth journey.We dive into:​The second stage of labour and what preferences may look like during pushing and birth​Elective caesareans and preparing for a planned birth in theatre​Emergency caesareans and navigating unexpected changes during labour​The emotions that can come with a change in birth plans​Post birth preferences, including those first moments with your baby and the early postpartum period​How creating preferences can help you feel heard and supported, even when birth takes an unexpected pathBirth doesn’t always follow the path we imagine, but having conversations, understanding your options and knowing what matters to you can help you feel more prepared for any outcome.Trigger warning: This episode discusses caesarean births, interventions, unexpected birth outcomes and postpartum experiences. Please listen in a way that feels supportive for you. 🤍Disclaimer always discuss you birth preferences with your healthcare professional
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  Episode 36 | Birth Preferences: Preparing For The Unexpected with Lana | Part One 04.08.2026 38min

  Birth Preferences: Preparing for the UnexpectedBirth is one of the biggest moments in a person’s life, and while we can’t predict exactly how it will unfold, we can prepare ourselves with knowledge, confidence and understanding.In this episode, we explore the importance of creating birth preferences, why flexibility matters and how understanding your options can help you feel more empowered throughout your journey.We discuss:​The difference between a birth plan and birth preferences​Preparing emotionally for the unexpected​Understanding informed consent and making decisions during birth​Communicating your wishes with your support team and healthcare providers​How to navigate when birth doesn’t go the way you imaginedA conversation about feeling informed, supported and confident as you prepare to welcome your baby into the world.Trigger warning: This episode discusses birth experiences, interventions and the emotional challenges that can come with unexpected outcomes. Please listen in a way that feels supportive for you. 🤍
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  Episode 35 | The Pelvic Floor Series Guide Part 2: Postpartum Recovery,Returning to Exercise & Myths 28.07.2026 48min

  Birth is only the beginning of your recovery journey, and looking after your pelvic floor in the weeks, months and even years after birth is just as important.In Part 2 of our Pelvic Floor Series, Kristina shares what every new mum should know about postpartum recovery, what symptoms are common but not normal, when to book a postpartum pelvic floor assessment, and how to safely return to exercise after having a baby.We also discuss breastfeeding challenges including mastitis and blocked ducts, the biggest misconceptions surrounding pelvic floor recovery, and the advice Kristina wishes every woman heard before becoming a mum.Whether you've recently welcomed your baby or are preparing for postpartum, this episode is full of practical advice to help you recover with confidence.In this episode we cover:​What to expect from your pelvic floor after birth​Postpartum pelvic floor assessments​Symptoms you shouldn't ignore​Returning to exercise safely​Common recovery mistakes​Mastitis and blocked ducts​Pelvic floor myths and misconceptions​Practical tips for long term recovery​​Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is intended for general education only and should not replace individual medical advice. Every pregnancy, birth and postpartum journey is unique. If you have concerns about your pelvic floor, pregnancy or recovery after birth, please speak with your healthcare provider or book an assessment with a qualified pelvic floor physiotherapist. The views shared in this episode are those of our guest and are based on their professional knowledge and clinical experience at the time of recording.
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  Episode 34 | The Pelvic Floor Series Guide Part 1: Pregnancy, Birth Preparation and Postpartum 21.07.2026 48min

  Pregnancy changes your body in ways many women don't fully understand, and your pelvic floor is one of the most important muscles you'll rely on during pregnancy, labour and birth.In Part 1 of our Pelvic Floor Series, we're joined by pelvic floor physiotherapist Kristina to unpack what actually happens to your pelvic floor during pregnancy, why leaking isn't something you should simply accept, and how preparing your body before birth can make a real difference.We also explore what happens during a birth preparation appointment, the role of pelvic floor relaxation, the benefits of perineal massage, and practical ways you can support your body throughout pregnancy.Whether you're newly pregnant or counting down to labour, this episode is packed with evidence based advice to help you feel informed and empowered.In this episode we cover:• How pregnancy affects the pelvic floor• Common symptoms that shouldn't be ignored• When to see a pelvic floor physiotherapist• Birth preparation appointments• Pelvic floor relaxation versus strengthening• Perineal massage• Common myths surrounding pelvic floor healthAs always, always speak to your healthcare professional before undertaking anything new
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  Episode 33 | The Motherhood Breakdown Nobody Talks About: Birth Trauma, PPD and Rebuilding Yourself 14.07.2026 59min

  Trigger Warning: This episode discusses birth trauma, postpartum depression, anxiety, mental health struggles, miscarriage, relationship breakdown and difficult experiences during the postpartum period. Please listen with care and take care of yourself if these topics feel close to home.In this episode of Pregnancy Diaries, I sit down with Mira Claudia to talk about the parts of motherhood that many women experience but don’t always feel safe enough to say out loud.Before becoming a mum, Mira built a successful business, supported hundreds of women and created a life she was incredibly proud of. But after the birth of her son Milan, a traumatic labour, postpartum haemorrhage, and the challenges that followed, everything changed.Mira openly shares the reality of not feeling an instant connection with her baby, the shame and guilt she carried, the mental health struggles that followed, and the journey of finding herself again.We talk about the pressure mothers feel to cope, returning to work before feeling ready, losing your identity after becoming a mum, asking for help, and how the right support can completely change your healing journey.This is a raw and honest conversation about the moments of motherhood that often happen behind closed doors and the reminder that rebuilding is possible, even when life feels like it has fallen apart.Thank you to Mira for sharing the parts of her story that are not always easy to share. We hope this episode helps any mother listening feel less alone.If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, please reach out to a trusted healthcare professional or support service.
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  Episode 32 | The Psychology Of Becoming A Mother | Part 2 07.07.2026 54min

  In Part 2 of my conversation with Rebecca from The Mindful Birth Movement, we continue exploring the psychological journey of becoming a mother and the things many women experience but don’t always talk about.We discuss:🤍 The identity shift that comes with motherhood🤍 Why it’s normal to grieve your old life while deeply loving your baby🤍 Baby blues vs postpartum anxiety vs postpartum depression🤍 Intrusive thoughts and why they don’t define you🤍 How relationships change after having a baby🤍 Breaking generational cycles without putting pressure on ourselves to be perfect🤍 Practical ways to protect your mental health during pregnancy and postpartumMotherhood isn’t just about welcoming a baby into the world. It’s also about a woman being born into a new version of herself.If you’ve ever wondered “why didn’t anyone tell me this part?” this conversation is for you.Trigger warning: This episode discusses postpartum mental health, anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, identity changes and the emotional challenges of early parenthood. Please take care while listening and seek support from a qualified health professional if these topics feel overwhelming or bring up distressing emotions.A huge thank you to Rebecca for sharing her expertise and creating space for these important conversations 🤍You can find Rebecca and learn more about The Mindful Birth Movement via their website and social channels.
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  Episode 31 | The Psychology of Becoming a Mother with Rebecca Black | Part One | 30.06.2026 50min

  In this episode of Pregnancy Diaries, I’m joined by Rebecca, founder and director of The Mindful Birth Movement and perinatal psychologist, to talk about the emotional side of pregnancy, birth and the transition into motherhood.We often spend so much time preparing for the physical side of birth, but what about preparing emotionally?In Part 1, we dive into:🤍 What perinatal psychology is and why it matters🤍 Why pregnancy can bring up anxiety, fear and unexpected emotions🤍 The pressure to love every moment of pregnancy🤍 Preparing mentally for birth🤍 The difference between a difficult birth and a traumatic birth🤍 What birth trauma actually means and why feeling heard and respected matters so muchThis conversation is for anyone who wants to better understand the emotional journey into motherhood, whether you’re pregnant, newly postpartum, supporting someone you love, or planning for the future.Trigger warning: This episode discusses birth trauma, anxiety, pregnancy emotions and postpartum mental health. Some topics may feel difficult or triggering for some listeners. Please listen when and where you feel comfortable. If this episode brings up difficult feelings, consider reaching out to a trusted support person or qualified professional.Thank you Rebecca for sharing your knowledge and helping normalise conversations around maternal mental health 🤍
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  Episode 30 | What Every Pregnant Woman Wishes She Knew Before Birth with Lizzie from Midwife & Me 24.06.2026 54min

  In this episode of Pregnancy Diaries, Jess chats with Lizzie, a midwife, mum of twins and the creator of Midwife and Me, an antenatal education program designed to support parents through pregnancy, birth and those early days with their baby.Lizzie shares her own journey to motherhood, including her IVF experience, later falling pregnant naturally, and her incredible experience having a vaginal birth with twins.We talk about why antenatal education is so important, how understanding birth can help build confidence, the common fears parents have, and how Midwife and Me makes education accessible through in home sessions, group classes and online support.Whether you’re preparing for your first baby, planning another pregnancy or wanting to feel more confident heading into birth, this episode is filled with practical advice and reassurance from a midwife who has both supported families professionally and experienced pregnancy and birth herself.Disclaimer: This podcast is for general education and information purposes only and is not intended to replace personalised medical advice from your healthcare provider. Every pregnancy, birth and parenting journey is unique, and you should always seek advice that is specific to your individual circumstances.
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  Episode 29 | Fourth trimester Survival Guide | Part Two | Mental Health and Relationships 17.06.2026 39min

  The fourth trimester is a huge transition, not only for your baby but for you, your identity and your relationships.In Part 2 of our Fourth Trimester Survival Guide, we dive into the emotional side of becoming a parent. We talk about maternal mental health, navigating the highs and lows of those early weeks, the changes that can happen within your relationship, communication with your partner, asking for support and the practical things that can make life with a newborn feel more manageable.This episode is a reminder that the fourth trimester is about more than just caring for your baby. It is also about caring for yourself, adjusting to a new chapter and finding your feet as a family.Whether you are expecting, newly postpartum or supporting someone through this season, this episode offers honest conversations and reassurance that you are not alone.Listen nowDisclaimer: The information discussed in this podcast is general in nature and intended for educational purposes only. It does not replace personalised medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek advice from your healthcare provider or a qualified professional regarding your individual circumstances.
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  Episode 28: Fourth Trimester Survival Guide | Part One | Everything You Need To Know 10.06.2026 53min

  The fourth trimester can be beautiful, overwhelming, exhausting and everything in between.In this week's episode of Pregnancy Diaries, we're diving into the ultimate Fourth Trimester Survival Guide. From postpartum recovery and newborn sleep to feeding, mental health and practical tips for surviving those early weeks, we're covering everything we wish every new parent knew before bringing baby home.Whether you're preparing for birth, currently in the newborn bubble or supporting someone who is, this episode is packed with honest conversations and evidence based advice to help you feel more confident and less alone.Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace personalised medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding your individual circumstances.
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  Episode 27 | CPR and First Aid with Safe Kids First Aid. What Every Parent Should Know. 03.06.2026 57min

  Today on Pregnancy Diaries Podcast we are joined by Brittany from Safe Kids First Aid, a paediatric emergency nurse with 11 years experience teaching parents and families life saving baby and child first aid skills.After completing a baby and child first aid and CPR course ourselves, we sat down to talk about the emergencies parents fear most including choking, infant CPR, allergic reactions, fevers, head injuries and when to call an ambulance.We also discuss the difference between choking and gagging, how social media can increase parenting anxiety and why learning first aid helps parents feel prepared instead of panicked.This is an episode every parent, grandparent and caregiver should hear.DisclaimerThis podcast episode is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, emergency care or accredited first aid training. If you are experiencing a medical emergency call emergency services immediately.
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  Episode 26 | Low Iron in Pregnancy: Symptoms, Fatigue, Iron Levels & What Can Help 27.05.2026 41min

  In this episode of Pregnancy Diaries, we’re talking all about low iron in pregnancy, including the symptoms I experienced, how quickly my iron levels dropped, and the impact it had on my energy, daily life and pregnancy journey.We discuss:Low iron pregnancy symptomsPregnancy fatigue and exhaustionFerritin and haemoglobin levelsDizziness, breathlessness and brain fogIron tablets and absorptionFoods that support iron levelsThings that can block iron absorption during pregnancyAdvocating for yourself when something feels offIf you’ve ever wondered whether your exhaustion is “just pregnancy” or something more, this episode may help you feel less alone.Whether you’re in your first trimester, third trimester or postpartum, this is an honest conversation about maternal health, pregnancy symptoms and navigating low iron during pregnancy.🎙️ Follow Pregnancy Diaries for more real conversations about pregnancy, birth, motherhood and postpartum.Disclaimer: This podcast episode is based on personal experience and general discussion only and is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor, midwife or qualified healthcare professional regarding your pregnancy, symptoms, iron levels or treatment options.
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  Episode 25 | Creating Nursery Wall Inspiration & Styling with Pickawall 20.05.2026 30min

  In this episode of The Pregnancy Diaries Podcast, we’re joined by Sole Director Brodie from Pickawall to chat all things nursery walls and how simple wall decals can completely transform a baby’s space.We talk about choosing the right nursery wall design, creating a calming feel in the room, popular nursery wall trends, and why removable decals are becoming such a popular option for parents. We also share the inspiration behind our own nursery wall and the design we’ve chosen for baby’s room.If you’re planning your nursery and looking for inspiration to create a beautiful feature wall without paint or wallpaper, this episode is full of ideas and practical tips for parents preparing for baby’s arrival.Go find us and pickawall on Instagram to see the reveal and get inspired 🥰
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  Episode 24: Things You Shouldn’t Say During Pregnancy or Postpartum. 13.05.2026 46min

  Pregnancy and postpartum are some of the most emotional, vulnerable and life changing seasons a woman can go through and sometimes the comments people make can stay with you far longer than they realise.In this episode of Pregnancy Diaries we unpack the things people really should avoid saying to someone who is pregnant or newly postpartum. From comments about body size and gender disappointment to feeding opinions, recovery expectations and the classic “just wait” warnings, we talk honestly about how these words can impact mums during such a sensitive time.This episode is a reminder that support matters, empathy matters and every pregnancy, birth and postpartum journey is completely different. We also share some thoughtful alternatives and ways to better support the mums in your life.Disclaimer: This podcast episode is based on personal experiences and general discussion only and is not intended to replace medical, psychological or professional advice. Please seek support from your healthcare provider for individual advice and care.
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  The Newborn Series Guide | The First Week With Your Newborn: What No One Tells You. 06.05.2026 58min

  The first week with your newborn is something no one can truly prepare you for.Whether you’ve had a public hospital stay, private care, or gone straight home, this episode walks you through what those early days really feel like.From the first 24 hours after birth, to cluster feeding, sleep deprivation, physical recovery, and the emotional shift that can hit around day three… this is the honest, unfiltered reality of week one.If you’re feeling overwhelmed, unsure, or just want to know what’s normal — this episode is for you.This is your reminder that you’re not meant to have it all figured out. You’re learning your baby, and that takes time.Disclaimer: This episode is based on personal experience and general guidance. Always follow advice from your healthcare provider.
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  The Newborn Series Guide | What to Expect Straight After Birth For You and Your Newborn. 29.04.2026 50min

  In Part 1 of our Newborn Guide Series, we’re taking you inside the first few hours after birth — the real, unfiltered version.Beyond meeting your baby, there’s so much happening. We talk about those first feeds and figuring out breastfeeding, but also what’s going on with your body — from tears and swelling to haemorrhoids, ice packs, and that first trip to the bathroom.We cover the things people don’t always say out loud: the discomfort, the emotions, the support you might need, and even that first shower — when it all starts to sink in.This episode is your honest guide to those early hours, so you feel prepared, supported, and a little less surprised by what’s to come.Because it’s not just about your baby being born — it’s about you becoming a mum too 🤍Disclaimer: This episode is based on personal experience and general information and isn’t a substitute for medical advice. Every birth and recovery is different, so always follow the guidance of your healthcare provider.
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  Episode 23. The Amniotic Fluid Guide. Tricky trickle? Colour? All Explained. 22.04.2026 38min

  In this episode of Pregnancy Diaries we talk about one of the most talked about but often misunderstood parts of pregnancy and labour the colour of your waters.We explain what amniotic fluid is, what it can look like when your waters break, and what different colours may indicate including clear, pink, yellow, green, brown and blood stained fluid.We also cover when to feel reassured, when to contact your midwife or hospital, and why changes in colour do not always mean something is wrong but should always be assessed in context.This episode is designed to help you feel more informed and confident if your waters break, whether it happens at home or in hospital.This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Please contact your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about your pregnancy or labour.
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  Friday Chats: Births, Besties and Behind the Scenes. 17.04.2026 50min

  Birth, Besties and Behind the Scenes 🤍This episode is a special one. We sit down with Lana Everitt from Lana Everitt Photography, who is not only an incredible photographer but also a midwife and antenatal educator. Our journey together goes far beyond work… we have actually been at each other’s births, supporting one another through some of the most raw, emotional and unforgettable moments of our lives.We chat about how Lana found her passion for photography alongside midwifery, and how Jess stepped into the world of podcasting with Amanda to create Pregnancy Diaries. This episode is a mix of real birth stories, career pivots, friendship, and plenty of laughs along the way.We also talk about the power of capturing birth, what happens behind the scenes, and why having the right support around you matters so much during pregnancy, birth and beyond.There is also an exciting giveaway happening right now in collaboration with Lana Everitt Photography. Head over to our Instagram to enter and find all the details.Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not replace individual medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for advice specific to your pregnancy and circumstances.
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  Episode 22: Group B Streptococcus (GBS) in Pregnancy: A Midwife’s Guide 15.04.2026 31min

  Group B Streptococcus also known as GBS is something many women hear about late in pregnancy and often with very little explanation. In this episode we talk through what GBS actually is, why it is screened for, and what it can mean for you and your baby.As midwives we break down the evidence in a way that feels clear and not overwhelming. We cover how common GBS is, what happens if you test positive, and the role of antibiotics during labour. We also talk through your options, common questions we hear in practice, and how to approach your care feeling informed and supported.This episode is all about taking away fear and giving you the information you need to make decisions that feel right for you.DisclaimerThis podcast is intended for general informational and educational purposes only and does not replace individual medical advice. Always speak with your midwife, doctor or healthcare provider about your own care and any concerns during pregnancy.
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  Q&A Friday: Biomama Skincare & Pregnancy Skin Changes: What’s Normal,What’s Not & What Helps. 10.04.2026 21min

  Pregnancy changes everything including your skin. From pigmentation and acne to itching and stretch marks, we are breaking down what is normal, what needs checking, and how to safely care for your skin during pregnancy.This episode is brought to you by Biomama, a pregnancy safe skincare range designed to support your skin through every stage of pregnancy and ongoing. Jess gives her honest review on the products over the past 10 days and watch out for Instagram reviews and visuals of the changes. Disclaimer: This podcast is for general education only and does not replace medical advice. Always speak with your healthcare provider for individual concerns.