The transition into new parenthood can feel… a lot. We spend months prepping for labour and delivery, only to be completely blindsided by the postpartum roller coaster 0 the hormones, the relationship shifts, the sleep (or lack thereof), the identity shake-ups - all of it.
In this episode, Dr. Alicia sits down with Dr. Pip Houghton to unpack the realities of perinatal mental health and why a little anticipatory guidance goes a long way. They dive into the most common challenges new parents face, why sleep is non-negotiable, how expectations (societal and self-imposed) shape our experience, and what a truly supportive postpartum setup can look like.
They also get real about maternal guilt - why it shows up, how to recognize it, and what you can actually do about it. If you’re pregnant, newly postpartum, or supporting someone who is, this episode is equal parts grounding, practical, and “oh thank goodness, it’s not just me."
Subscribe to The Pregnancy to Parenthood Podcast Series! For the low, one-time cost of $47, get full access to over 40 informative episodes supporting you week by week, focused on the trimester and stage of pregnancy you are in. Tune in every week, or binge listen all at once and come back to the episodes you found most helpful as you move through pregnancy to parenthood!
*This episode is a re-release. Original release date: June 9, 2021.
Pregnancy is undeniably a time of rapid physical change, and for women with a history of avoiding their bodies or engaging in behaviours that reinforce negative body image, that avoidance suddenly becomes impossible. While this can feel incredibly challenging, it can also open the door to meaningful healing around your relationship with food and your body.
Join Dr. Sarah and Shannon Smith, a Registered Nurse with over 14 years of experience in mental health and a specialty in eating disorders, as they explore the foundations of negative body image, practical steps toward cultivating a healthier one, the impact of diet culture, and the principles of intuitive eating.
This episode is grounded, compassionate, and deeply needed - especially if you’ve ever struggled with how you see or care for your body. It’s one you won’t want to miss!
For more great resources on Body Image, Diet Culture and Intuitive Eating, check out:
*This episode is a re-release. Original release date: September 15, 2021.
In today's episode, Drs. Sarah and Alicia dive into what low iron and anemia in pregnancy really mean, and how they can affect both childbirth and your newborn. They break down how to test your iron levels and share practical recommendations for treating low iron or anemia during pregnancy.
We’re also highlighting a trusted resource we love: Kidstar Nutrients, who make an great iron supplement called BioFe.
Use promo code SFH15 for 15% off at kidstarnutrients.com!
Sign up for our FREE Birth Preferences Mini-Course to ensure you are as prepared as possible for your big day!
*This episode is a re-release. Original release date: March 3, 2021.
The experience of pain in labour is shaped by many factors - previous experiences, as well as emotional, physical, motivational, cognitive, social, and cultural circumstances.
In this episode, Drs. Alicia and Sarah explore both medicinal and non-medicinal strategies for managing pain, with a special focus on epidurals (a topic we’re often asked about!). Understanding your options is key to making decisions that feel right for you, even when labour doesn’t go entirely according to plan.
To support you, we’ve put together a free handout on the Risks and Benefits of Epidurals and How to Support Your Partner in Labour, along with related episodes on Hypnobirthing and Waterbirths.
Subscribe to The Pregnancy to Parenthood Podcast Series! For the low, one-time cost of $47, get full access to over 40 informative episodes supporting you week by week, focused on the trimester and stage of pregnancy you are in. Tune in every week, or binge listen all at once and come back to the episodes you found most helpful as you move through pregnancy to parenthood!
*This episode is a re-release. Original release date: April 19, 2023.