Join HeHe in this enlightening episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, where she discusses the essentials of functional movement and strength training during pregnancy and postpartum with physical therapist Elaina Manolis. Discover the crucial role of muscle strength in preventing injuries and ensuring a smoother postpartum recovery. Learn about balancing mobility with stability, the impact of hormones, and the significance of a structured corrective exercise regimen. Elaina provides expert insights based on her extensive experience and personal journey, emphasizing the importance of preparing your body for the physical demands of motherhood. Tune in for actionable tips, evidence-based information, and valuable resources to help you navigate pregnancy and beyond with confidence.

The Importance of Functional Movement During Pregnancy

Common Pregnancy-Related Injuries and How to Prevent Them

Postpartum Functional Movement and Corrective Exercises

Finding the Right Physical Therapist

Guest Bio:

Elaina was born and raised in Albuquerque, NM and has been a studio-trained dancer since the age of 3. She was a member of her high school danced team and won 3 State titles. She then coached that team for 6 years while dancing on her college dance team at the University of New Mexico. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science at UNM in 2010 and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree at UNM in 2015. She got married in 2015 and moved to the Dracut, MA where her husband was born and raised. She started her own self-pay physical therapy practice, EDM Physical Therapy, LLC, and is also a full-time treating therapist at Spaulding Rehabilitation Outpatient center in Boston, MA focusing on injury prevention and performance enhancement. Additionally, she is a contract physical therapist for NeuroTour Physical Therapy, providing backstage treatment to the performers in the Broadway shows that She is currently serving as a committee member for professional development for the International Association of Dance Medicine & Science (IADMS) and is in her final year of studies for her terminal academic degree as a Doctor of Science (ScD) in Physical Therapy through Texas Tech University. Additionally, she is adjunct faculty in the DPT programs at both UMass Lowell and MGH Institute of Health Professions.

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

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Book with Elaina: www.edmphysicaltherapy.janeapp.com

Get 20% off an initial evaluation with the code TBH20 typed in the "How Did You Hear About Us?" section when booking! (The EMR platform I use has not yet integrated an actual discount code section so this is my workaround!)

In this episode of the Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe and Lisa Villani, founder of Empowered Birth Coaching, dive into the significance of prenatal tests and interventions during pregnancy. They discuss first-trimester genetic screening, gestational diabetes testing options, and the controversy around routine ultrasounds. Lisa shares her expertise on how to make informed decisions about these procedures, emphasizing the importance of understanding your options and advocating for your preferences. Tune in to gain valuable insights on managing prenatal care and preparing for a confident birth experience.

Defining Unnecessary Interventions

First Trimester Tests and Genetic Screening

Gestational Diabetes Screening Options

The Controversy of Routine Ultrasounds

Cervical Checks: What You Need to Know

Understanding Cervical Exams

The Importance of Bishop Score

Preterm Labor and Cervical Checks

Consent and Body Autonomy

Making Informed Decisions

Navigating IV Fluids During Labor

The Debate on Birthing Positions

Empowering Your Birth Experience

Guest Bio:

Lisa is an ICF-certified Pregnancy Coach & Doula Mentor. Lisa empowers women to advocate for themselves and navigate the medical system with confidence by helping mothers connect with dedicated doulas. She has made it her mission to amplify the voices of women and birth workers alike so that mothers have the support they deserve! You can find her on IG as @loudmouthdoula or tune into Loud Mouth Doula podcast!

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Connect with Lisa on IG

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

Freebie for doulas: 3 Must-Ask questions for a killer consultation for doulas: www.empoweredbirthcoaching.com/3questions

Fierce Mama Circle online community for pregnant and postpartum mothers: www.empoweredbirthcoaching.com/circle

Use code BIRTHLOUNGE for 1 month free in Fierce Mama Circle

Join HeHe in this insightful episode of The Birth Lounge podcast as she welcomes Dr. Steph Lopez, a former NASA psychologist, to explore the intricacies of pregnancy anxiety, birth preparation, and postpartum mental health. Discover expert tips on managing fears, embracing uncertainty, and building confidence throughout your birthing journey. Learn about the importance of self-acceptance, handling negative self-talk, and breaking generational cycles of trauma. Whether you're preparing for birth or navigating early parenthood, this episode provides valuable strategies to help you feel empowered and informed.

Understanding and Managing Anxiety

The Power of Intuition vs. Fear

Facing Fears in Pregnancy and Birth

The Psychology Behind Failure and Birth Trauma

Dealing with Disregulation and Control

Embracing Life's Challenges

The Power of Acceptance

Self-Acceptance vs. Self-Improvement

Breaking Cycles and Parenting

Navigating Intrusive Thoughts

Guest Bio:

Dr. Steph is an I/O Psychologist and Brain Based Coach. She guides women to heal and become more emotionally resilient so that they feel happy, present, at ease, and capable. She previously worked at NASA and is the founder of The BRAVE Method.

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

Free class on how to ditch anxiety: www.brave-method.com/anxiety

HEHE - $200 off of BRAVE Breathwork, which is designed to recalibrate your nervous system and bring you out of fight or flight