The Pregnancy Diaries with Midwives Amanda and Jess
The Pregnancy Diaries is an intimate, expert-guided podcast that follows your journey from pre-conception to birth and beyond. Hosted by midwives Amanda and Jess, it blends personal diary-style reflections with clear, evidence-based information for every stage of pregnancy. The show aims to be honest, raw, and reassuring, covering both the physical changes in your body and the emotional highs and lows. It offers clarity and comfort for women at any point in their pregnancy journey.
Episodes
Episode 37 | Birth Preferences And Preparing For The Unexpected | Part Two
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 birthElective caesareans and preparing for a planned birth in theatreEmergency caesareans and navigating unexpected changes during labou
Episode 36 | Birth Preferences: Preparing For The Unexpected with Lana | Part One
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 throug
Episode 35 | The Pelvic Floor Series Guide Part 2: Postpartum Recovery,Returning to Exercise & Myths
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
Episode 34 | The Pelvic Floor Series Guide Part 1: Pregnancy, Birth Preparation and Postpartum
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
Episode 33 | The Motherhood Breakdown Nobody Talks About: Birth Trauma, PPD and Rebuilding Yourself
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 ma
Episode 32 | The Psychology Of Becoming A Mother | Part 2
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🤍 I
Episode 31 | The Psychology of Becoming a Mother with Rebecca Black | Part One |
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
Episode 30 | What Every Pregnant Woman Wishes She Knew Before Birth with Lizzie from Midwife & Me
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 bi
Episode 29 | Fourth trimester Survival Guide | Part Two | Mental Health and Relationships
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, ask
Episode 28: Fourth Trimester Survival Guide | Part One | Everything You Need To Know
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 hom
Episode 27 | CPR and First Aid with Safe Kids First Aid. What Every Parent Should Know.
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, feve
Episode 26 | Low Iron in Pregnancy: Symptoms, Fatigue, Iron Levels & What Can Help
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
Episode 25 | Creating Nursery Wall Inspiration & Styling with Pickawall
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 al
Episode 24: Things You Shouldn’t Say During Pregnancy or Postpartum.
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 t
The Newborn Series Guide | The First Week With Your Newborn: What No One Tells You.
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, u
The Newborn Series Guide | What to Expect Straight After Birth For You and Your Newborn.
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
Episode 23. The Amniotic Fluid Guide. Tricky trickle? Colour? All Explained.
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 conta
Friday Chats: Births, Besties and Behind the Scenes.
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
Episode 22: Group B Streptococcus (GBS) in Pregnancy: A Midwife’s Guide
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 positi
Q&A Friday: Biomama Skincare & Pregnancy Skin Changes: What’s Normal,What’s Not & What Helps.
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 o
Episode 21: Respectful Maternity Care: Your Body, Your Consent.
In this episode, we’re talking about something every woman deserves to understand before entering pregnancy, labour and birth and that is consent.After a recent story in the media, where a woman was awarded compensation following a vaginal examination, it’s clear this conversation is long overdue.As midwives, we see how often women don’t realise they still have full bodily autonomy in medical sett
Q&A Friday: Yoga intentions during pregnancy, tea and creating rituals for yourself with Hayley.
In this episode of The Pregnancy Diaries, we’re joined by Hayley Snow, founder of Harmony Blends and yoga instructor, for a beautiful and grounding conversation all about slowing down and connecting with your baby during pregnancy 🤍Together, we explore the power of gentle movement, breath, and intention, and how creating small, mindful rituals can support both your body and your nervous system thr
Episode 20: The Glucose Tolerance Test No One Warns You About: GTT & Gestational Diabetes
In this episode of Pregnancy Diaries, we’re diving into the test that so many women hear about… but aren’t fully prepared for — the Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT).If you’ve got your test coming up, or you’ve already experienced that drink, this episode walks you through exactly what to expect, from fasting, to the test itself, to how your body might feel during those long two hours.We also talk abou
Monday Chats: Safe Sleeping on Your Side & How to Make It Comfy with Bumpnest
This episode is brought to you by Bumpest. In this mini episode of Pregnancy Diaries, we’re talking all about safe side sleeping during pregnancy — why it’s recommended, how it supports you and your baby, and what to do if you’re finding it uncomfortable.As your body changes, getting a good night’s sleep can become a challenge, especially when you’re adjusting to sleeping on your side. We share si
Episode 18: The Nourishment Guide Every Mum Needs: Conception, Pregnancy & Postpartum.
In this episode, we’re joined by dietitian and nutritionist Millie Padula from Collagen Co. to bring you the ultimate nourishment guide for every stage of motherhood.From preparing your body for conception, to navigating each trimester, to postpartum recovery and supporting breastfeeding, we cover what actually matters when it comes to fuelling your body.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by conflict
Episode 17. Natural Ways to Encourage Labour: What Actually Works & What’s An Old Wives Tale.
Spotify Episode TitleNatural Ways to Encourage Labour What Actually WorksEpisode DescriptionIn those final weeks of pregnancy the waiting can feel so long and you have probably heard every suggestion under the sun for how to get labour started 🤰In this episode of Pregnancy Diaries we dive into the most talked about natural ways to encourage labour from walking and birth ball exercises to dates, ra
Episode 16: Early Pregnancy Bleeding & Miscarriage: What’s Normal and When to Seek Help
Trigger Warning:This episode discusses miscarriage, pregnancy loss and early pregnancy bleeding. If this is something that may feel difficult or triggering for you right now, please feel free to skip this episode and come back to it when or if you feel ready.In this episode of The Pregnancy Diaries, we talk about early pregnancy bleeding and miscarriage — something many women experience but not en
Episode 15: Third Trimester Survival Guide and How to Feel Prepared Calm and Ready for Birth.
The third trimester is here and things are getting real. Your body feels heavier sleep can be harder to come by and birth is suddenly just around the corner. In this episode we walk you through a practical and empowering survival guide for the final stretch of pregnancy.We talk about managing physical discomfort, boosting energy through simple nutrition tips, preparing for labour with confidence,
Episode 14: Stages of Labour Explained: What to Expect During Vaginal Birth
In this episode of Pregnancy Diaries, we walk through the stages of labour and what you can expect during birth.From early labour to active labour, pushing and delivering the placenta, we explain what is happening in your body, how labour typically progresses, and the signs that things are moving forward. We also talk about common hospital processes, when to come in, and how birth can unfold diffe
Q&A Friday: Third Trimester Extras & What’s Comfy To Wear After Birth.
This episode is brought to you by Bodie Maternity. We discuss some things we forgot in our survival guide. Such as moisturising oil, comfortable shoes and clothing that is leak free and cotton for comfort. Enjoy!
Q&A Friday: Skin to Skin After Birth Explained | Benefits for Baby, Mother and Bonding
Skin to skin contact after birth is more than just a cuddle. In this episode, we explain what actually happens during immediate skin to skin, why it is so powerful for your baby’s heart rate, breathing and temperature regulation, and how it supports breastfeeding and bonding in the first hour after birth.We also talk about the golden hour, what happens hormonally for mum, and what to do if birth d
Episode 13: Elective Caesar’s Vs Emergency Caesar’s Everything You Need to Know Explained
In this episode we break down everything you need to know about elective and emergency Caesar births.Why are some Caesar births planned while others happen unexpectedly? Does emergency always mean something went wrong? And what actually happens in theatre during a Caesar?We talk through what a planned Caesar can look like, why some women choose or require one, and how emergency Caesars are categor
Episode 12: The Second Trimester Survival Guide.
The second trimester is meant to be the easy part but let’s be honest it can still feel like a lot. In this episode of Pregnancy Diaries Amanda and Jess share your ultimate Second Trimester Survival Guide. From changing bodies and energy shifts to work relationships mental health movement and what appointments to expect we cover it all with honesty reassurance and real midwife insight. Whether you
Episode 11 : Morphine and Gas- What you want to know!
In this episode of Pregnancy Diaries, Amanda and Jess talk through two of the most commonly used pain relief options in labour, morphine and gas. We explain how each one works, what they feel like, when they are usually offered and the pros and cons of each option. We also discuss how they can affect labour, recovery and baby, and who they may suit best. This episode is designed to help you feel i
Episode 10: The Induction Conversation No One Talks to You About
In this episode, Amanda and Jess walk through exactly how inductions work, from how each method is inserted or administered to what the process actually feels like in real time. They also explain why you may be offered or choose an induction, including medical, baby-related, and personal reasons. From balloon catheters and hormone gels to breaking waters and the oxytocin drip, they unpack what hap
Q&A Friday: What to pack in your hospital bag!
Packing your hospital bag but don’t know where to start? In this episode, we walk you through exactly what to pack for labour, birth, and those first precious hours with your baby without overpacking or forgetting the essentials. From labour comfort items and postpartum must haves to baby basics and partner prep, we cover what you truly need and what you can leave at home.Whether you’re weeks away
Episode 9: The Early Labour Guide Every Parent Needs
Labour can feel confusing in those early stages. Is this the real thing or just Braxton Hicks? Should you call your midwife or wait it out? In this episode, we break down the true signs of labour, how to tell the difference between early labour and false labour, when to call your maternity unit, and what you can safely do at home to stay calm, comfortable and supported.We also chat about our absol
Q&A Friday: Vaccinations in pregnancy
In this episode, we’re talking all things vaccinations in pregnancy, including the regular recommended schedule, what’s offered, when, and why. We break down how pregnancy vaccines help protect your baby in those early weeks after birth and what protection they provide during pregnancy too. This is a guide to what’s recommended, but ultimately it’s always your decision how you choose to move forwa
Episode 8. NIPT and scans- Everything you need to know!
In this episode, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about pregnancy scans and testing in Australia without the medical overwhelm. From your first dating scan to the 20 week morphology scan, we explain what each appointment looks for, why it matters, and what’s normal to feel while waiting for results.We unpack NIPT in simple terms, what it screens for, what it doesn’t, and how it comp
Q&A Friday : Decreased Fetal Movements
Decreased fetal movements can be one of the most anxiety-provoking experiences in pregnancy, yet it’s often misunderstood or brushed off as normal.In this episode, we talk through what decreased fetal movements actually mean, how to recognise a change in your baby’s usual pattern, what to do the moment you notice something feels different, and when to seek medical help. We also explain what happen
Episode 7. The First Trimester Survival Guide: What’s Normal, What’s Not & When to Worry
The first trimester can be one of the most overwhelming stages of pregnancy. From nausea and exhaustion to cramping, spotting and constant anxiety, it can feel like everything is happening at once and no one really prepares you for it.In this episode, we walk you through what is normal in the first trimester, what symptoms are common but still unsettling, and when it’s important to seek medical ad
Q&A Fridays: Epidurals- Everything you need to know!
Epidurals are one of the most common forms of pain relief in labour, but they often come with a lot of questions, mixed opinions and misinformation. In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about epidurals so you can make an informed choice that feels right for you. We cover how epidurals work, when they can be given, the benefits and potential side effects, how they may impact l
Episode 6. Your Birth Options in Australia: Public Hospital, Private Care or Home Birth
Choosing how and where to give birth can feel overwhelming, especially when you are trying to understand the differences between public care, private care and home birth in Australia. In this episode we break down each option in a clear and honest way, covering what care looks like, what is funded by Medicare, what costs may be involved, what home birth programs look like and how private midwifery
Q&A Friday. Genital Herpes, Pregnancy & Birth – What You Need to Know
In this episode, we have an open, honest and stigma free conversation about genital herpes HSV during pregnancy, labour and birth. A diagnosis can feel confronting, especially when you are expecting, but many people with HSV go on to have healthy pregnancies and safe births. We talk about how common genital herpes is, how it can affect pregnancy, and what the actual risks to baby are, as well as w
Episode 5. Nausea and Vomiting.
Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy is something almost everyone has heard about, but far fewer people talk honestly about how relentless and exhausting it can actually be. In this episode, we’re having a real conversation about what nausea and vomiting in pregnancy can look like, from those constant waves of nausea that never seem to settle, to vomiting that takes over your days, nights and headspac
Q&A Friday: What Partners Should Know In the Labour Room
We’re kicking off Q and A Fridays with a short and practical conversation on how birth partners can best support women during labour. We cover what helps, what doesn’t, and simple ways partners can feel confident and supportive in the birth space. A quick 15 minute listen for anyone preparing for labour and birth.
Episode 4. Two pink lines, what now?!
You’ve just seen those two pink lines, congratulations! But what happens next? In this episode we walk you through the first steps after a positive pregnancy test. We cover when to contact your GP, the blood tests you may need, and what to expect at your viability and dating scans. We also explore genetic testing, including NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing), and other options to help you make i
Episode 3. Jo and Luke’s Fertility Story- Scar Tissues, Heartbreak and Miracles.
In this week’s episode, we sit down with Jo to unpack a fertility journey full of unexpected twists and turns. What started as a simple assumption that her fiancé Luke’s past procedure would be the biggest hurdle quickly changed course when Jo discovered she had her own underlying fertility challenges.Despite having fallen pregnant easily in the past, Jo soon found herself navigating two emotional
Episode 2. How to Actually Time Sex to Get Pregnant Faster (+ Gender Sway Explained)
Disclaimer: Everything spoken in this podcast is our own thoughts and experiences, we are sharing for your entertainment and not medical advice, please always chat with your qualified healthcare team when making any decisions about your health. This episode discusses sensitive topics that may be distressing for some listeners. Please take care while listening, seek medical advice if required.Today
Episode 1. Welcome to The Pregnancy Diaries. Raw, real and unfiltered
Welcome to Week 1 of The Pregnancy Diaries Podcast. We launched! Meet us and listen to pre-pregnancy chats. Basically two midwives talking and hoping it makes sense.It's giving choas, oversharing and real talk a platform.#pregnancydiariespodacstToday we will cover Pre pregnancy chatPregnancy informationImmunisationsDelivery setting and Maternity care in AustraliaWoman centered careInvestigationsKn
Introduction
Welcome to The Pregnancy Diaries with Midwives Amanda and Jess
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