The Birth Lounge Podcast

Hosted by HeHe Stewart

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467

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Aug 2026

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About the show

We’re exploring option from conception to childhood to help women take control of their fertility, birth experience, postpartum healing, and motherhood journey! This is a safe space for all parents to hear what the experts have to say and to hear from influencer parents and their take on parenthood! Join us for all things birth and parenthood for an empowering and educational walk with a birth and newborn expert and the found of Tranquility by HeHe Maternity Concierge, HeHe Stewart.

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August 21, 2026Episode 48019 min

Ep. 478: How Do I know Im in Labor Solocast with HeHe Stewart

Ready to prepare for labor like nobody has before? Head to https://www.thebirthlounge.com/laborlive "How will I know if I'm in labor?" If you've asked yourself this question fifty times already, you're not alone, and I promise it's not because you're missing something obvious. There's no single "poof" moment. No one clear sign that says this is it. Losing your mucus plug, bloody show, even being 3–4 cm dilated can all happen days before active labor actually starts. In this episode, I'm breaking down what's actually happening in early labor and why it feels so confusing. I'll share my own story of sitting at dinner with intense contractions that just... stopped once I rested. (Yes, that happens. No, it doesn't mean anything's wrong.) I'm walking you through how to tell Braxton Hicks from true labor contractions, not just by how they feel, but by their pattern, their predictability, and where you feel them in your body. We'll talk about how hydration, rest, and magnesium can actually help calm things down when it's not time yet. And I'll help you reframe early labor as something you get to live through with a plan, instead of something you're anxiously waiting to survive. I'll also cover when it's actually time to call your provider, and introduce Labor Live, starting September 1, an interactive birth simulation built to help you practice real-time labor decisions before you're actually making them. Because the goal isn't to memorize every possible symptom. It's to know your body well enough to trust yourself when the moment comes. 00:00 False Alarm Contractions 01:00 Why Labor Feels Confusing 02:17 No Single Labor Sign 02:43 Mucus Plug and Bloody Show 03:43 Braxton Hicks vs Labor 05:52 How Contractions Feel Different 07:30 Dilation Isn't Labor 08:54 Waters Breaking Matters 10:00 Early Labor Game Plan 11:57 Symptom Stack and When to Call 13:29 You'll Feel the Shift 14:07 Labor Live Simulation 17:07 Wrap Up and Key Patterns 18:29 Final Thanks and Subscribe SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar . HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

August 19, 2026Episode 4791 hr 6 min

Ep. 477: OCD and Postpartum Intrusive Thoughts with Špela Grašič

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe gets real about one of the most uncomfortable and misunderstood parts of postpartum life: intrusive thoughts. If you've ever had a scary, unwanted thought pop into your head after having a baby and immediately wondered, “What is wrong with me?!”, you are absolutely not alone. HeHe sits down with Špela Grašič, a registered clinical counselor and new mom who has lived with OCD herself, to unpack the difference between common postpartum intrusive thoughts and postpartum OCD. They talk about why so many new parents experience unwanted thoughts about something happening to their baby, and why having an intrusive thought does not mean you want it to happen or make you more likely to act on it. Špela shares her own experience with vivid postpartum intrusive thoughts and explains how OCD can be sneaky, showing up not just through obvious behaviors, but through mental compulsions, reassurance-seeking, checking, avoidance, and constantly trying to make sure you're a “good enough” or safe parent. Together, HeHe and Špela explore how hormones, sleep deprivation, hypervigilance, stress, and the enormous responsibility of caring for a tiny human can all contribute to postpartum intrusive thoughts. They also share practical ways to respond when those thoughts show up, including naming and externalizing them, grounding, breathing, values-based strategies, and finding a therapist who actually understands OCD and perinatal mental health. Most importantly, this episode is about taking the shame out of thoughts you never asked for. Postpartum OCD can be misunderstood or mistaken for anxiety or depression, so knowing what to look for and getting the right support matters. If you've ever been afraid to tell someone what your brain is doing because you're scared they'll judge you, this conversation is for you. You deserve support, you deserve answers, and you do not have to navigate the weird, scary, overwhelming parts of postpartum alone. Chapters: 00:00 You Are Not Broken 01:24 Why Mental Health Feels Taboo 03:12 Meet Špela and Today’s Goals 05:55 Taboo Intrusive Thoughts Explained 07:04 Real Postpartum OCD Stories 10:45 Reassurance and The Data 12:03 Host’s Bank Trigger Moment 16:01 Why Intrusive Thoughts Happen 19:19 Hypervigilance and Bias Battles 30:12 Birth Lounge App Break 34:29 Back to OCD Postpartum Changes 34:43 Postpartum OCD Flareups 35:19 Miscarriage Intrusions Explained 37:47 Compulsions and Leniency 42:09 Reassurance Versus Exposure 48:26 Support and Resources Wrap Guest Bio: Spela Grasic is a new mom and a Registered Clinical Counsellor from Kelowna, BC (Canada). Her journey into mental health started over a decade ago when a friend said, “maybe you should talk to someone.” (Yes, like the book.) She did and, over time, transformed her relationship with herself and her thoughts. She now sits with others as they learn to hold, untangle, and tend to all the messy, painful stuff. Spela holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and a Master of Arts in English from the University of British Columbia (Okanagan). Her S.S.H.R.C funded MA (English) research explored the novel as a space where communities can explore intergenerational trauma encapsulated in everyday interactions, institutions, and languages. Professional qualifications aside, Spela is a quirky, sometimes awkward, new mom, partner, sister, daughter, and friend navigating the messiness of a rich and fulfilling life. Connect with Spela: https://www.instagram.com/spelagrasiccounselling/ https://bcacc.ca/counsellors/spela-grasic/ https://alivecounselling.com/team/spela-grasic/ SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Spela on IG: https://www.instagram.com/spelagrasiccounselling/ BIRTH EDUCATION: Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar . HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection LINKS MENTIONED: Listen to our episode on intrusive thoughts w/ Dr. Kat: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivM-Iqv1qK0 international iCBT foundation: https://icbt.online/ International OCD Foundation: https://iocdf.org/ The Happiness Trap: https://thehappinesstrap.com/ https://www.instagram.com/anxietyocdtreatment/ Postpartum Support International: https://postpartum.net/

August 14, 2026Episode 47836 min

Ep. 476: Failure to Progress? What ACOG Actually Says About Stalled Labor + Avoiding Unnecessary C-Sections

Free Class: How to Avoid an Unnecessarean HeHe is bringing back an updated version of her most-requested birth class with a fresh update of her best strategies for reducing your risk of an unnecessary C-section, plus how to confidently navigate interventions and decisions in the hospital. Join her live August 19 at 1:30 PM ET at thebirthlounge.com/freecall. In this solo episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe breaks down one of the most frustrating labels you can hear in labor: “failure to progress.” Because taking longer than expected does NOT automatically mean your labor is failing. HeHe walks through what ACOG actually considers an active-phase arrest, including the 6 cm threshold, ruptured membranes, and how much time without cervical change is actually needed before calling labor stalled. She also breaks down why the clock can become your biggest enemy in the hospital and how slow labor progress can sometimes turn into an unnecessary C-section simply because everyone gets impatient. You’ll learn practical ways to support your body and your baby’s positioning, from staying upright and changing positions to resting, eating, drinking, and laboring at home longer when it’s safe to do so. HeHe also talks about amniotomy, why breaking your water isn't always the harmless "next step," and why feeling safe and supported can make a HUGE difference in how your labor unfolds. Most importantly, this episode is about knowing when you actually need intervention and when you simply need more time. HeHe shares how to look at your provider’s and hospital’s C-section rates, ask better questions, and choose a care team that understands that every labor is different. 01:23 Welcome & Free Class Announcement 04:26 What Is Failure to Progress? 07:39 Understanding ACOG Guidelines 09:27 Physical Tips to Avoid Failure to Progress 17:53 Rest & Nourishment During Labor 20:04 The Risks of Amniotomy 26:26 Feeling Safe in Your Birth Environment 28:23 Finding the Right Provider & C-Section Rates 34:46 Final Thoughts & Outro SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar . HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app LINKS MENTIONED: Find your hospitals c-section rate here: https://ratings.leapfroggroup.org/

August 12, 2026Episode 4771 hr 22 min

Ep. 475: Bringing Back Home: Postpartum Care with Mama Shafia Monroe

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with veteran midwife, doula trainer, and author Shafia Monroe, aka Mama Shafia, to talk about something we don’t talk about nearly enough: who is taking care of the mother after she has the baby? After a decade of supporting more than 2,000 families, HeHe knows firsthand that birth doesn’t end when the baby arrives. And Mama Shafia has spent decades studying and practicing the kind of community-based midwifery and postpartum care that treats the mother like someone who needs to be cared for, too. Together, they unpack what traditional postpartum support has looked like across cultures, from rest and warmth to keeping baby close, nourishing the mother, and surrounding her with a whole village of support. Mama Shafia shares her journey into midwifery, the lessons she learned from birth workers across the world, and what other countries can teach us about caring for mothers and babies. They also get real about the ways the U.S. maternal healthcare system has made that kind of care harder to access, including hospital closures, limited midwifery access, lack of paid maternity leave, legal barriers, and the loss of important birth skills. And then we get into the postpartum piece that HeHe is especially passionate about: why are we expecting a brand-new mom to take care of everyone else when she is the one who just gave birth? They talk about the importance of rest, warmth, skin-to-skin, community support, letting other people care for YOU, and rebuilding a village when your own mom or family isn't available. If you've ever wondered why postpartum can feel so lonely, overwhelming, or wildly different from what you expected, this conversation will make you rethink what we consider “normal” after birth. Because maybe the problem isn't that new moms aren't doing enough. Maybe we've stopped mothering the mother. Guest Bio: Shafia Monroe is a Master of Public Health, author, veteran midwife, doula trainer, medicine woman, wife, mother and grandmother. She answered her call to be a healer as a young girl taking care of the elderly and stray animal. She founded the first national Black midwives organization in 1991, in 2011 she created Shafia Monroe Consulting personal development, and motivational speaking. And in 2017’ she launched SMC Full Circle Doula Birth Companion Training to teach traditional birth and postpartum traditions, to improve infant and maternal, and honor the legacy of the 20th century African American midwife. Since 2002 she has trained over 5000 doulas. Her mission is to bring healing and happiness to every new mother and increase the number of doulas and midwives who will care for them. In her spare time, she grows medicinal herbs and fragrant flowers and fishes with her husband. On January 27, 2026, she published her book, “Mothering the Mother, African American Postpartum Traditions, Recipes, and Healing,” changing how the country looks at postpartum care. Connect with Mama Shafia here: https://shafiamonroe.com/ SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Mama Shafia on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shafiamonroe/ BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar . HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

August 7, 2026Episode 47653 min

Ep. 474: Changing The Narrative with Girls Who Know® Founder Laurisa Paul

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with registered nurse, birth advocate, and Girls Who Know founder Laurisa Paul for a powerful conversation about changing birth culture long before pregnancy ever begins. After experiencing two intervention-heavy hospital births, Laurisa's perspective on birth completely shifted through an unmedicated birth and later home births that showed her just how capable and intuitive our bodies can be. That journey inspired her to create Girls Who Know, an organization dedicated to helping girls grow up trusting their bodies instead of fearing them. Together, HeHe and Laurisa explore why body literacy, consent, anatomy, menstrual health, and birth education shouldn't start in adulthood... they should start in childhood. They discuss how teaching girls to understand their bodies from a young age can lay the foundation for more confident healthcare decisions, healthier relationships, and more empowered birth experiences later in life. They also talk about why boys deserve this education, too, and how raising an informed generation can help create more supportive partners, stronger families, and a healthier culture around birth. The conversation also covers practical ways parents can encourage body confidence at home, why using anatomically correct language matters, how to normalize conversations about puberty and birth without shame, and the resources Girls Who Know offers to families, schools, and communities. Whether you're raising daughters, sons, or simply dreaming of a future where the next generation enters pregnancy feeling informed instead of fearful, this episode is a beautiful reminder that birth education doesn't begin with a positive pregnancy test... it begins with how we teach our children to know, trust, and advocate for their bodies. Guest Bio: Laurisa Paul is a Registered Nurse, homebirth and midwife advocate and the founder of Girls Who Know®, an organization that inspires girls to love who they are and trust their bodies. Medically trained, Laurisa stumbled across home birth when she was actively seeking for better birth experiences. After personally giving birth in multiple settings, she shifted outside mainstream medicine and began attending homebirths as a midwife assistant. Laurisa has a deep passion for supporting women and connecting with those she loves. She resides in Texas, where she is a mother of four almost-grown sons and one delightful daughter. Laurisa and her team at Girls Who Know® are improving childbirth outcomes through the education of girls while they are young. Connect with Laurisa: girlswhoknow.com , @ officialgirlswhoknow.com , SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Laurisa on IG: https://www.instagram.com/officialgirlswhoknow BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar . HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app LINKS MENTIONED: Interview with Dr. Stu: https://thehighwire.com/ark-videos/the-crisis-in-modern-maternity-care-dr-stu-fischbein/ Get the book, Periods and Vaginas 101 : https://shop.periodnirvana.com/products/vaginas-and-periods-101-a-pop-up-book

August 5, 2026Episode 4751 hr 19 min

Ep. 473 Taking back the title of boy mom with Breeze wood

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe dives into a conversation that's been weighing heavily on her heart since becoming a mom herself: how do we raise boys who grow into emotionally healthy, respectful, and compassionate men? After reflecting on the rise of "boy mom culture" and the messages it often sends about sons, relationships, and masculinity, HeHe sits down with perinatal mental health therapist and mom of five boys, Breeze Weasel, creator of the Better Boys Project. Together, they explore what it actually means to raise boys in today's world. From teaching consent and emotional intelligence to encouraging accountability, empathy, and healthy communication, they discuss how parents can intentionally break generational cycles and help their sons build strong, respectful relationships throughout their lives. HeHe and Breeze also unpack the influence of social media and the "manosphere," why difficult conversations about bodies, puberty, and respect can't wait until the teenage years, and how creating a home where kids feel safe asking questions can protect them from harmful messaging elsewhere. They talk about the importance of repairing after conflict, modeling healthy apologies, and showing children that mistakes don't define us... it's how we respond to them that matters. They also offer encouragement for parents navigating imperfect situations, including co-parenting challenges and relationships where emotional growth isn't always shared equally. Because while we can't control every influence our children will encounter, we can create a home where empathy, curiosity, respect, and accountability are lived out every day. Whether you're raising boys, girls, or both, this episode is a thoughtful reminder that we're not just raising children... we're shaping the adults they'll one day become. And the conversations we have today have the power to change generations. Guest Bio: Breeze is a perinatal mental health therapist, content creator, and mother of 5. She loves creating content about being a millennial, mom, therapist, and comedy (sometimes dark humor because… the state of the world). She is currently in the middle of a series called “The Better Boys Project” where she records conversations about important topics - anything from privilege to menstruation - with her boys to help encourage others to do the same, and raise men who will help in the dismantling of the patriarchy. Follow her if you love: laughs, nostalgia about millennial childhood, feminism + anti-patriarchy content, reality tv takes, and talking shit about the government. SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Breeze on IG: https://www.instagram.com/breezleweezle_/ Connect with Breeze on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@breezleweezle?lang=en BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar . HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

July 31, 2026Episode 47441 min

Ep. 472: Low tox fertility swaps Solocast with HeHe Stewart

Building your baby registry? Grab HeHe's free Low-Tox Baby Registry Guide before you add another item to your cart. After spending more than 60 hours researching everything from car seats and strollers to bottles, bedding, and baby gear, HeHe created a registry focused on reducing toxic load, avoiding unnecessary purchases, and choosing products that are actually worth the investment. Download the complete guide, including her favorite products and exactly why she chose them, at thebirthlounge.com/registry . In this solo episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe shares the low-tox changes she made before pregnancy that helped her feel more intentional about reducing her family's toxic load... without turning life upside down. If you've ever wanted to make healthier choices but felt completely overwhelmed by all the conflicting information online, this episode is for you. HeHe walks through the mindset that helped her focus on progress instead of perfection, explaining why she didn't change everything overnight and how small, sustainable swaps can make a meaningful difference over time. She shares the biggest changes she made before and during pregnancy, from prioritizing whole foods, protein, and key nutrients to switching to cleaner coffee, choosing a high-quality prenatal, and being more mindful about plastics and microplastics in the kitchen. She also talks through simple swaps for laundry detergent, household cleaners, skincare, makeup, toothpaste, and clothing, along with the products she decided weren't worth stressing over. Throughout the episode, HeHe reminds listeners that low-tox living isn't about fear or achieving a "perfect" home. It's about making informed choices, reducing your family's overall exposure where you can, and giving yourself permission to start with the changes that matter most. Whether you're trying to conceive, currently pregnant, building your baby registry, or simply looking for practical ways to create a healthier home, this episode is packed with realistic, evidence-informed ideas that meet you exactly where you are. 00:00 Detergent Wake Up Call 01:30 Non Toxic Registry Plug 05:14 Solo Cast Updates 06:30 Listener Questions Preview 07:51 Low Tox Fertility Plan 11:08 Food Minerals Coffee 15:00 Prenatal And Liver Pills 19:30 Plastics And Microplastics 23:18 Detergents And Cleaners 26:16 Makeup Hair Body Swaps 31:55 Natural Fabrics Dilemma 35:28 Heavy Hitters Mindset 39:13 Cravings And Wrap Up 40:47 Final Outro And Thanks SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Other Episodes Mentioned: Listen to Ep. 447: Microplastics in Pregnancy, Postpartum, and Babies with Dana Zhaxylykova here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yJ4dI5Y7XWk Listen to our episode with Health Illie: https://youtu.be/2njnfdlUa8Q?si=5qk3GpprT33LZQsd Listen to episode 362 to learn about Retinol in pregnancy: https://youtu.be/_HxLknJGHGs?si=--db3Qw_XL91Qhxx BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar . HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

July 29, 2026Episode 4731 hr 17 min

Ep. 471: Mother in Law or Monster in Law with Mom Mom Maria

Today's episode is brought to you by Two Pages Curtains. As a new mom, HeHe quickly realized how much her home environment impacted her postpartum recovery. Two Pages' beautiful cotton and linen curtains helped transform her home into a calmer, cozier space without sacrificing healthier materials. Visit twopagescurtains.com and use code HEHE to save on your favorite styles. In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe tackles one of the most emotional (and surprisingly common) parts of becoming a parent: setting boundaries with the people you love. After becoming a mom herself, HeHe experienced firsthand how quickly family dynamics can shift after a baby arrives. That's why she's joined by Instagram creator and Gen X grandmother Mom Mom Maria, who has become a trusted voice for helping parents and grandparents build healthier, more respectful relationships during the postpartum season. Together, they unpack some of the biggest boundary challenges new parents face, from grandparents calling your baby "my baby" and sharing pregnancy or birth news without permission to expecting unlimited access, pushing for sleepovers, or dismissing your parenting choices with, "Well, we did it this way." HeHe and Mom Mom Maria also share practical strategies for setting boundaries without guilt, responding confidently in the moment, presenting a united front with your partner, and navigating family members who struggle to respect your decisions. They talk about the difference between healthy support and entitlement, why consequences sometimes become necessary, and how protecting your peace in postpartum isn't selfish... it's one of the greatest gifts you can give your growing family. Whether you're pregnant and preparing for these conversations or already navigating complicated family dynamics, this episode will leave you feeling more confident protecting your postpartum experience while creating healthier relationships for everyone involved. Guest Bio: Alexis is on a mission to heal motherhood. As a manifesting generator (iykyk), Alexis achieves this mission in a variety of ways. From business support services for those aligning with her mission, to teaching children and their families social and emotional regulation skills, to helping moms create their own healing plan. Alexis believes firmly that every person is unique and helps them find what works for each individual. Alexis offers birth story debriefs for mothers and doulas, as well as a completely free course and workbook for new moms to complete with their support system. SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Mom Mom Maria on IG: https://www.instagram.com/mommom.maria https://www.facebook.com/people/MomMom-Maria/61577327715507/ BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar . HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

July 24, 2026Episode 47247 min

Ep. 470: Pain Relief Options in the Hospital with Dr. Nicole Rankins [REAIR Ep. 227]

We're bringing back one of our most-loved conversations because the truth is... every parent deserves to know all of their options before labor begins. Whether you're hoping for an unmedicated birth, planning an epidural, or simply want to feel prepared for whatever your birth unfolds, this episode is packed with evidence-based information to help you make informed decisions with confidence. In this re-aired episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with board-certified OB-GYN Dr. Nicole Rankins for a balanced, judgment-free conversation about pain management in the hospital. Together, they break down the full spectrum of comfort measures available during labor, from epidurals and IV medications to nitrous oxide and non-medicated coping techniques, while discussing the benefits, limitations, and considerations of each. They also dive into common misconceptions about epidurals, how different pain relief options can impact labor, and why understanding your choices before contractions begin can help you feel more confident, empowered, and in control throughout your birth experience. Whether you're planning your first birth or preparing for another, this conversation is a reminder that there's no "right" way to give birth. The best choice is the one that's informed, intentional, and aligned with your goals. Guest Bio Dr. Nicole Rankins is a board-certified OB-GYN, childbirth educator, and host of the All About Pregnancy & Birth podcast. A Duke University-trained physician with more than two decades of experience delivering babies, she's passionate about helping parents understand their options so they can make informed, confident decisions throughout pregnancy and birth. Through her podcast, courses, and educational resources, Dr. Nicole empowers families with evidence-based information while championing patient autonomy and shared decision-making. SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Dr. Rankins on IG: https://www.instagram.com/drnicolerankins BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar . HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

July 22, 2026Episode 4711 hr 1 min

Ep. 469: SI joint relief and clenching in pregnancy with Hayley Kava

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with pelvic floor physical therapist Hayley Kava, founder of UMA Pelvic Health, to tackle one of the most common pregnancy complaints that doesn't get nearly enough attention: SI joint pain. If you've been told pregnancy pain is "just part of it," this conversation is your reminder that you don't have to simply suffer through it. Hayley explains what's actually happening in your pelvis during pregnancy, why SI joint pain develops, and how your pelvic floor, core, ribcage, breathing, and overall movement patterns all work together. Together, HeHe and Hayley break down why treating the pelvis in isolation often misses the bigger picture, how pregnancy hormones and your changing biomechanics influence pain, and why small changes to the way you move, stand, breathe, and rest can make a huge difference. They also discuss practical tools like SI belts, belly support bands, Pilates balls, yoga blocks, and gentle movement strategies, along with when those tools can help... and when they might not. Hayley also shares why pelvic floor physical therapy isn't just about internal exams (and yes, those are always optional), how to build a supportive birth team, and why individualized care is one of the best investments you can make during pregnancy. Whether you're already dealing with pelvic pain or hoping to prevent it, this episode is packed with practical, evidence-based strategies to help you move more comfortably, feel more supported, and better understand your changing body throughout pregnancy. 00:00 Stop Blaming Pelvic Floor 01:03 Pelvic Floor Basics 01:56 Meet Hayley Kava 03:19 Why SI Pain Matters 06:43 SI Joint Anatomy 09:18 Normal Asymmetry Patterns 12:20 Pubic Pain and Rolling 15:52 Inhibit Then Retrain 17:56 Rubiks Cube Body Model 20:10 Stop Bracing to Sneeze 21:34 Pregnancy Posture Fixes 25:31 Preparing for Labor Moves 29:14 Build Your Care Team 33:39 Pregnancy Compensation Patterns 34:36 Spotting Habitual Postures 36:46 Mindful Pain Check Ins 38:29 Shifting Stance And Sitting 41:29 Tension Beyond Pelvic Floor 43:23 Guarding And SI Joint Myths 46:16 Ribs Hip And Big Picture 47:57 Internal Exam Is Optional 50:38 Daily Tools And Movement 56:43 Services Access And Wrap Up Guest Bio: Hayley became a pelvic floor therapist in 2017 after a birth injury opened her eyes to the limitations in traditional pelvic rehab. Hayley took her Postural Restoration and Sports Medicine background and dug deep into the literature. Over the years developing an integrative whole person method to treat the pelvic floor. She has become passionate about sharing this method with not only her clients and staff but to the masses via social media, online classes and various trainings for clinicians looking to take a different approach to pelvic rehab. You can learn more about those offerings at hayleykavapt.com SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Hayley on IG: https://www.instagram.com/hayleykavapt/ BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar . HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app LINKS AND RESEARCH MENTIONED: www.umapelvichealth.com www.hayleykavapt.com Kiapour A, Joukar A, Elgafy H, Erbulut DU, Agarwal AK, Goel VK. Biomechanics of the Sacroiliac Joint: Anatomy, Function, Biomechanics, Sexual Dimorphism, and Causes of Pain. Int J Spine Surg. 2020 Feb 10;14(Suppl 1):3-13. doi: 10.14444/6077. PMID: 32123652; PMCID: PMC7041664. Joukar, Amin MS∗; Shah, Anoli MS∗; Kiapour, Ali PhD∗; Vosoughi, Ardalan Seyed MS∗; Duhon, Bradley MD†; Agarwal, Anand K. MD∗; Elgafy, Hossein MD∗; Ebraheim, Nabil MD∗; Goel, Vijay K. PhD∗. Sex Specific Sacroiliac Joint Biomechanics During Standing Upright: A Finite Element Study. SPINE 43(18):p E1053-E1060, September 15, 2018. | DOI: 10.1097/BRS.0000000000002623