PregTASTIC Pregnancy Podcast

You’ve chosen to have a hospital birth. What are the routine hospital procedures for both you and your newborn after childbirth? What steps are mandatory and what choices can you make to ensure a more natural experience? OB/GYN Dr. Robert Biter discusses important options available to you and your baby. Plus, PregTASTIC's host and producer, Sunny Gault, says goodbye to the show and to fans.

PregTASTIC partners with Natural Baby Pros to empower expectant women with amazing birth stories. In this episode, Natasha tells us about her decision to give birth at home, naturally, with loved ones nearby. How did she overcome her doubts and deliver her baby boy Jax, despite having some unknown problems with her placenta? Plus, learn how you can empower other pregnant women through an online auction!

The pelvic floor plays a crucial role in the body, and it can be greatly impacted by childbirth. What are the different layers and how do those layers help your body? How can tears and episiotomys effect how those layers function? What are kegals and how can they help prepare your body before labor and repair your body afterward? Physical therapist, Catherine Veeser, shares some great tips for keeping your body healthy and strong.

If you've ever had your cervix manually dilated, you may be at risk for having cervical scar tissue. Increased amounts of scarring may prevent you from having a successful vaginal birth. It's an issue few people are talking about, yet it's impacting women everywhere. How do you know if you have cervical scar tissue? What can be done about it to ensure you have the birth you desire? Doula Dawn Thompson shares her personal experience with this problem and her success in overcoming it.

If you're struggling with infertility, you're not alone. Fortunately, there's a non-invasive approach that's helping women all over the world. It's called hypnofertility and it helps eliminate all the unhealthy messages which may prevent you from becoming pregnant. Can it relieve physical issues as well? Will it resolve "unexplained infertility"? And does it work with men? Hypnotherapist Carol Yeh-Garner explores the benefits of this new treatment.

The joy of feeling your baby kick... and knowing it's not just indigestion! Find out which mama-to-be is able to pick up on the signs better in her second pregnancy. Has another panelist actually experienced "the perfect pregnancy"? Is that even possible? Planning a homebirth proves easier when one of our panelists find the perfect midwife. Plus, Sunny and Rachele announce the gender of their babies.

To become the best mom possible, we draw from our own personal experiences. But, what happens when the relationship with your own mother is strained? How can you overcome these emotional obstacles? Can simply trying not to "be like your parents" backfire? And what does it mean to be a "good enough parent"? Psychologist Jennifer Schere sheds some light on this important topic, submitted by a PregTASTIC listener.

Our PregTASTIC Panelists bare it all. Who's bladder is waking her up eight times each night? With only two months to go, which panelist is having a hard time choosing a baby name? Who just felt their baby kick at 15 weeks? When it comes to maternity clothes, should you lend them to friends? Plus, the challenges of searching for a new home while pregnant and our attempts to still be a good mom to the children we already have while our body prepares for the next one.

A rosy glow isn't the only thing that happens to a woman's skin during pregnancy. Perhaps you're one of many women experiencing chloasma (the pregnancy mask) or acne? What can you do to prevent or reduce these and other skin conditions such as spider veins, skin tags and the dreaded stretchmarks? Annette Rubin, co-founder of Belli, gives us some great advice. Plus, your chance to win one of Belli's most popular products!

Did you know a mother's behavior during pregnancy can impact the way her baby's genes express themselves? It's all part of a new science called "Epigenetics". Will eating fattening food increase your child's odds of becoming obese? Can exercise strengthen your baby's mind? Does breastfeeding have long term effects? Jena Pincott, author of the book "Do Chocolate Lovers Have Sweeter Babies?" shares more about this exciting science of pregnancy. Plus, your chance to win a free copy of her book!

Our PregTASTIC panelists are back to share their current pregnancy high and lows. Who has to get up every couple hours at night to pee? Which panelist has pregnancy to thank for her new pair of "porn star" boobs? And which pregnant mama-to-be has the constant urge to spit? Plus, we're chatting via video skype with a listener in Houston, Texas... and the winners of our Belli contest are revealed!

Managing relationships, your job and your new role in parenthood should be smooth, happy and healthy- and that's the goal of pregnancy concierge and baby planning services. Looking for a doula? Need personal breastfeeding tips? How about an extra hand with childcare? Today we'll explore how these services can help you prepare for life with your newborn. Plus, some great stroller, bottle and baby carrier recommendations from the ABC Kids Expo!

It's the question most pregnant women ask themselves throughout their pregnancy, "Am I normal? Do other pregnant women feel the same way I do?" Well, you're not alone. While each pregnancy is different, most of us seem to struggle with the same issues including health and nutrition, finances and what life will be like once your little one arrives. Today we'll explore some of the common questions we ask ourselves during our nine month waiting period.

We all know it’s important to “eat right” when pregnant, but what exactly does that mean? Today we're exploring the five must-have foods every pregnant woman should have on her grocery list... and there are some shockers! How do these foods help you and your baby, and what are some great ways to prepare them? What are some options for vegans and vegetarians? Plus, we'll answer some of your top questions about what you should and shouldn't eat while pregnant.

Cloth or disposable? When we're pregnant, we spend lots of time trying to figure out which option is best for our babies. What if there was a more natural approach to pottying that actually works with your child's own instincts? Elimination Communication is all about using timing, cues and your motherly instinct to address your baby's elimination needs. But how does it work? And is it right for you? Two moms, who practice elimination communication with their own children, share their experience with our PregTASTIC panel.

Nobody ever said childbirth was going to be easy. In fact, most of us probably think about the worse case scenarios as our due date draws near. That's exactly what www.thebump.com explores in their recent article Top 10 Labor and Delivery Fears . So, what’s your biggest fear when it comes to labor and delivery? Today we’re checking in with our PregTASTIC panelists and our facebook fans to find out.

Whether you're planning to go natural or you prefer the medicinal route, we have some great pain relief options to help you throughout your labor and delivery. What are some simple ways to change up your room to make it more relaxing? What positions seem to help relieve the pain? What is a tens machine and how can it help? Plus, an anesthesiologist explains how epidurals impact your body, your baby and breastfeeding.

Are you planning on having two (or more) kids under the age of two? If so, then you'll be part of a growing trend known as "baby bunching". But what type of parents are best suited for this lifestyle? Dr. Frederick Johnson, Chief of Pediatrics at Sharp Mary Birch Hospital (and self-proclaimed baby buncher) gives some great parenting tips including how to feed both kids at once, how to handle nap times and sleep schedules, as well as additional advice he's learned as a parent to five children.

Many changes happen during pregnancy, both emotional and physical. Sometimes fully embracing these changes is easier said than done- especially when it comes to our own body image. Today, Dr. Jennifer Schere, a psychologist specializing in women’s issues, explores the importance of looking at your body differently during pregnancy. How do we make this mental shift? How can we stop being so judgmental of our own bodies, and how do we know if we really need a professional to help get us through these difficult times?

Former PregTASTIC panelists are back to share things they wish they had known before their babies were born. How do you conquer initial fears of the pain associated with labor and delivery? When is the best time to try on pre-pregnancy jeans to see if you've lost the baby weight? Also, great tips for creating your birth plan (or avoiding one altogether) and encouraging words for moms whose babies are having trouble breastfeeding.

We're having a no holds barred conversation about intimacy during and after your pregnancy. What positions typically work best to accommodate your growing belly? How can you feel sexy again after giving birth? Do kegels really help? What about incontinence issues and episiotomy scars? Dr. David Ghozland, OB/GYN, shares some tips on how to dramatic improve your sex life during this important time.

C-section deliveries are on the rise, so it's best to be prepared before your big day. Today we're exploring the top c-section secrets! What does the surgery feel like? What can and can't you do in the operating room? And what can you do to reduce the dreaded c-section scar? Dr. Colleen McNally, an OB/GYN at Sharp Mary Birch, reveals the top things no one ever told you about having a c-section.

Flying while pregnant? We have some perks to helps make your trip more enjoyable. Feeling pressures to reveal your baby's name? You're not the only one. And which of our PregTASTIC panelists is celebrating her 40th birthday, all month long? Our special guest call-in describes what it was like to be pregnant in Japan when the earthquake hit. Plus, our panelists answer your pregnancy-related questions.

Shopping at any stage of pregnancy can be a lot of fun, but it can also be overwhelming once you're standing in front of that full length mirror. When is the best time during your pregnancy to start shopping? What type of fabrics are most comfortable and easy to maintain? How can you still look professional at the office while accommodating for your growing bump? Plus a breakdown of our maternity must-haves.

Research shows that many birth defects can be prevented with some advanced planning and be taking precautions throughout your pregnancy. Will a glass of wine really hurt your baby? What about second-hand smoke, hair dye and household cleaning supplies? How does obesity impact your unborn child? Learn more about what's causing the most common birth defects and what you can do to help prevent them.

What complications threatened Rachele’s birthplan and the possibility of a stillbirth? How she got through her very painful contractions and her thoughts about her midwife having to leave during active labor. Rachele’s husband's thoughts about delivering his baby by himself, and the moment their healthy baby boy was born. Plus, Rachele’s postpartum experience and sticking with breastfeeding.

What delivery options do you have when pregnant with twins? Is a home birth an option? What's the possibility of needing an emergency c-section? Who and what is needed to effectively deliver multiples? Are there differences with anesthesia? What is the recovery process? Are postpartum issues increased with multiples? Dr. Sean Daneshmand, a Perinatologist at Sharp Mary Birch Hospital for Women and Newborns, is this week's expert.

Every pregnancy is different, but it can be VERY different for women carrying multiples. Weʼll explore some of these differences including the changes that will be happening to your body and how to manage those changes. What is the difference between Monozygotic and Dizygotic? What are some signals of preterm labor? What are the risks associated with having twins, and what's the importance of an Amniocentesis ? Dr. Sean Daneshmand, Perinatologist at Sharp Mary Birch is this week's expert.

If youʼre expecting twins and you donʼt yet know what to expect, youʼre not alone. How much more folic acid should you be taking? What your diet should consist of? Why so many extra trips to the OB? What percent of women with twins will deliver early and how many will have Cesareans? Plus, how you can decrease the risk of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia? Dr. Amy French, an OB/GYN affiliated with the Sharp Mary Birch Hospital for Women and Newborns, is this week's expert.

During pregnancy, exercise can help you stay in shape and prepare for labor and delivery. And after your baby is born, those extra endorphins can improve your overall mood, making you healthier inside and out. Those are the facts. But, there are also many myths surrounding exercise, both prenatal and postpartum. Connie Marshall, a certified personal trainer, is this week's PregTASTIC expert.

Will you be co-sleeping with your baby? What are the benefits, short and long term, to co-sleeping? Is co-sleeping safe? What constitutes a safe sleeping environment regardless of where baby sleeps? Does co-sleeping effect your babies ability to fall asleep in his/her bed when older? Is there a correlation between co-sleeping and SIDS? Dr. Fredrick Johnson, Chief of Pediatrics at Sharp Mary Birch Hospital is this week's PregTASTIC expert.

Have you thought about what to do with your placenta after the birth of your baby? Did you know your placenta can continue to provide both you and your baby essential nutrients for weeks after giving birth? What is placenta encapsulation? What are the benefits to eating or consuming the placenta and what is the process? What are hospital policies for taking your placenta? Fruit of the Womb's Mykael Richards answers our questions and offers advice for parents who wish to learn more about the benefits of consuming the placenta.

What exactly is the placenta, its function, and why is it essential to the survival of a developing baby? What are some common placenta problems women may face and how are they overcome? What is placenta previa? Placenta abruption? What can expecting mothers do to help make their placentas strong and healthy? What is the lifespan of a placenta? Certified childbirth educator and owner of Babies in Bloom, Rochelle McLean is this week's PregTASTIC expert.

After months of waiting, youʼve successfully made it through labor and delivery... now what? Silvia Bustamante, Health Educator Specialist for Kaiser Permanente joins us with “Baby Care Basics”. Is your home safe for a newborn? How do you care for your newborn's umbilical cord stump? When and how to feed, burp and swaddle your new baby, and what are the common mistakes new parents make? Plus, back to sleep and what's a Peepee Teepee?

We know "breast is best" but what if you can't breastfeed? What if you have an abundance of milk and would like to help someone who can't breastfeed? What are the requirements to receive milk and how do milk banks prioritize? What are the requirements of being a donor and how to receive your donor number? What is the minimum you can donate and when is the best time to donate to a breast milk bank? What are the costs and/or does insurance cover it? Dr. Nancy Wight is this week's PregTASTIC expert.

Infertility is relatively common, occurring in about 11% of couples of childbearing age. Fortunately more than 80% of couples with fertility problems will get pregnant. Dr. Arlene Morales, Founder and Medical Dir. of Fertility Specialists Medical Group, is this week's expert. When should you look into medical treatments? What are some of the more common treatments and their success rates? What problems and treatments are recommended for males? Why can secondary infertility be an issue? And how to speak and comfort a friend, family member or colleague about their struggles with infertility. Plus, infertility myths vs. facts..

For some, getting pregnant was a long, difficult, and expensive process. In fact one in six couples trying to get pregnant experience some degree of infertility. Sky Williams and her husband struggled with infertility for 3+ years but earlier this year they welcomed the birth of their baby girl. Sky shares her experience and how she is helping raise awareness while giving women confidence to be there for others who may be struggling with infertility.

Throwing a baby shower is an honor and lots of fun, but it can also be stressful. Much like planning a wedding, everyone seems to have their personal opinion on what works best. Today our PregTASTIC panel of mommies-to-be tackle the tough issues surrounding baby shower etiquette. Who should throw the baby shower? Who pays? Do co-ed baby showers really work? What about “virtual” baby showers... one of our expectant moms tells us all about her experience. Plus, what the heck is a baby “sprinkle”?

We love birthing stories! PregTASTIC panelist Gina is back with hubby Dave, and their new baby, and shares details about their shocking last minute midwife issues. Plus, the decision to go to the hospital and Dave's lecture to the hospital staff. Gina shares her birthing technique and how a hot tub and Dave's back rubs helped when pain was setting in. How her chiropractor helped with breastfeeding.

Prenatal Dance Fitness is a transformational wellness program safe for pregnancy combining; breath work, visualization, yoga, labor prep, mindful movement, graceful dance, energy work, baby bonding and relaxation. Feel balanced, beautiful and graceful as you dance your way to becoming a mother. Great for lower back and leg pain. Jennifer Jiminez of www.letsdancetogether.net is this week's PregTASTIC expert.

Research shows that babies who are carried cry, on average, 43% less overall, and 54% less during the evening hours. Besides easing your baby’s cries, babywearing is convenient and can even help with postpartum depression. And, it’s a great way for other family members or caregivers to bond with your baby! How is it good for baby’s neural and physical development? How can it bring out the best in you and your baby? Babywearing International Alma Gordillo is this week’s babywearing and baby carrier expert.

Women, infants, and children or WIC, is a federally funded program providing residents with nutritious foods, nutrition education, and referrals. WIC serves pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, and infants and children under age five who meet WIC eligibility guidelines. What are these guidelines and how can WIC be a great resource for you as you become a new mom? Maryann Miernicki, RD, CLE Nutrition Education Coordinator, WIC Program in San Diego and this week’s expert.

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Pregnancy changes everything including your skin: dry skin, stretch marks, acne, dark splotches... Have you ever thought about what potentially harmful products are in some makeup, sunscreens, moisturizers, and cleansers? What are retinoids, salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acids? How about soy? Which are safe and which are harmful? And why you should be reading the labels while shopping when pregnant.

While you're reading books, visiting online forums, listening to PregTASTIC, attending birthing classes... what is your husband or partner doing? Does he know your birth plan? Is he up on midwives, doctors, or doulas? The Bradley method, Hypnobirthing, Lama ze? How will he handle seeing you in pain? How will he cope with a complicated delivery? Is he doing any research about cribs or car seats?

What’s the difference between screenings and diagnostic tests? Why do you need a full bladder, and why do you have to pee in a cup every time you see your midwife or OB? What are the routine and optional tests of each trimester? What are the risks involved with those tests? And, who can best tell how big your baby is and/or going to be? Certified nurse midwife and family nurse practitioner Alisa Smallwood is this week's expert.

Natalie’s 1 of 4% to give birth on her due date, with a worked-like-it-should epidural at the hospital! Did everything else go so smoothly? How is breastfeeding coming? Also, how hypnobabies, yoga, a birthing ball, water, and mostly the toilet helped Jean’s unmedicated birth at the birth center. Why her husband didn’t tell her the baby’s gender, and what to do with those nipple shields?

Now that you’re pregnant, what is going on with your body through the stages of pregnancy? What’s the pituitary gland got to do with it? What tests will you take and what do they test for? Why might you experience anxiety, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, swelling, aches and pains, and solutions for these symptoms. When is exercise and diet important? Plus, how does your body know when to start labor? Is the baby telling your body or your body telling your baby it’s time?

During the early weeks, optimal positioning and a proper latch are especially important. When you and your baby are well positioned and latched correctly, your nipples stay healthy and your baby can feed most efficiently. Eve Moran, this week’s breastfeeding expert, joins us with information, tips and techniques on the proper way to position and hold your baby while breastfeeding and the importance of a proper latch.

A mom's healthy, balanced diet is essential for future breastfeeding. Mothers often have questions about which foods are important to eat and which foods should be avoided when nursing their babies. What are some helpful nutritional guidelines? How important is calcium, iron, protein? What foods and snacks are best? And the importance of staying hydrated. April Boyle, a board certified lactation consultant and registered dietitian is this week’s expert.

Breastfeeding Basics: What are some advantages for both mom and baby? When will your milk come in? How much and how often should you feed your newborn? When should you consider purchasing a breast pump, bottles and other breastfeeding gear? When is your window of opportunity to introduce a bottle? Plus, common breastfeeding hiccups and ways to overcome them. Is there a genetic factor? Dr. Eyla Boise, Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at University California San Diego School of Medicine is this week's breastfeeding expert.

Rid your pregnant self of toxins! Shampoo, lotions, laundry detergent, produce, clothing and even your furniture can have toxins that can be dangerous to both you and your unborn baby. What are some non-toxic options? How to set up a green baby registry and what to consider when setting up your baby's nursery. Plus, where to find a produce shopper’s guide to pesticides and money saving tips to help you get started with going green. EcoMom Kimberly Danek Pinkson is this week's expert.