Held in Motherhood with Hannah Willsmore

In today's episode I'm so excited to share the story of the birth of our second baby August. We've been in our postpartum bubble the last eight weeks, but I've received so many questions and well wishes on Instagram about our birth so I'm so glad to finally be getting a moment to sit down and record this episode. I hope you really enjoy listening! Just a quick content warning this episode does discuss postpartum haemorrhage and management.Interested in feeling informed and prepared for birth? Explore our Held Birth Classes in Adelaide or online, and download our free hospital packing list - designed to help you feel calmer and more intentional as you prepare for your labour.DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE HOSPITAL PACKING LIST HERE – More than just baby and postpartum items, our list includes tools for managing pain and intensity during labour, helping you feel truly supported throughout birth.Disclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore/Held Midwifery will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability.

In this episode I share an update at 32 weeks pregnant and take you through how I am preparing for birth in a busy season of life, as well as preparing my son for a new sibling. I talk about how common it is for second-time parents to feel like they haven’t prepared enough, and why I’m not worried - because we’re not starting from scratch and those neural pathways from last birth prep are already there. I also explain why I still think it’s important to carve out small pockets of time for birth prep, especially because every birth and baby is different, and especially if this is your first birth. I outline what I’m doing right now to prepare: putting up new birth affirmations, starting a positive birth board, listening to affirmations, and practicing birth breathing throughout the day.  I also cover the bodywork and support I’m prioritising this pregnancy. Can't wait for you to listen! Interested in feeling informed and prepared for birth? Explore our Held Birth Classes in Adelaide or online, and download our free hospital packing list - designed to help you feel calmer and more intentional as you prepare for your labour.DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE HOSPITAL PACKING LIST HERE – More than just baby and postpartum items, our list includes tools for managing pain and intensity during labour, helping you feel truly supported throughout birth.Timestamps:00:00 Welcome + 32-Week Pregnancy Update (Busy Season & Breathlessness)00:49 Juggling Work, Parenting & Prep: Plastic vs Glass Balls03:05 Second-Time Birth Prep Mindset: Neural Pathways, Timing & First-Baby Advice06:25 Confidence After a Positive First Birth 08:56 Birth Prep in Small Pockets: Affirmations, Planning Mindset & Letting Go of Control15:28 Daily Practice: Listening to mp3s, Birth Breathing & Active Positions18:42 Bodywork & Appointments: Physio, Chiro, Massage, Acupuncture + Pelvic Floor Tips25:43 Partner & Practical Prep: OMP Stretches, Birth Plan, Playlist26:20 Preparing the Older Sibling for a Home Birth: Noises, Videos, Books & Support Person32:54 Postpartum Planning: Freezer Meals, One-Handed Snacks & Quick Dinner IdeasDisclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore/Held Midwifery will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability.

In consultations I am often asked about feeding to sleep - is it a bad habit, should you be making sure your baby doesn't fall asleep at the breast, why does my baby always fall asleep at the end of a breastfeed? In this episode we myth bust the idea that feeding to sleep is a bad habit, and explain why babies are often sleepy at the end of a feed (hint theres a powerful cocktail of hormones at play) and why we can actually see this as our superpower, rather than something that we need to change. I also discuss moving away from feeding to sleep and other options if you're wanting to get your partner involved in bedtime or overnight resettles. I would love to hear your thoughts, questions, and ideas for future episodes so please get in touch on instagram - my insta is @heldmidwifery or through my website www.heldmidwifery.com.au. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes, and if you're enjoying the podcast I would be ever so grateful if you could rate and review  on your favourite podcast player. Disclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore/Held Midwifery will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability

Ever wondered why labouring women sometimes say, “I can’t do this anymore”? In this episode, we’re getting real about the transition phase of labour - the powerful, emotional and physical tipping point just before pushing begins. Drawing on hundreds of births as a midwife, I explore what actually happens in your body and mind during transition, why feelings of doubt and restlessness are totally normal, and how support partners can make all the difference with simple words and presence.You’ll learn practical strategies to move through this intense stage, plus why recognising transition can reduce panic and help you feel more confident. We also discuss how your birth team can positively influence your experience and share actionable tips for both mums and partners.Interested in feeling informed and prepared for birth? Explore our Held Birth Classes in Adelaide or online, and download our refreshed free hospital packing list - designed to help you feel calmer and more intentional as you prepare for your labour.DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE HOSPITAL PACKING LIST HERE – More than just baby and postpartum items, our list includes tools for managing pain and intensity during labour, helping you feel truly supported throughout birth.Timestamps:00:00:01 – Introduction & why transition in labour matters00:01:17 – “I can’t do this anymore”: what it means and why it’s so common00:03:12 – What is transition? Understanding this intense phase of labour00:04:34 – The physical and emotional impact of rising adrenaline00:05:59 – How adrenaline and the thinking brain interact during transition00:06:27 – Common signs of transition: doubt, restlessness, and emotional changes00:07:00 – Why partner support matters in transition & positive encouragement examples00:08:01 – Transition: short but intense, and how everyone experiences it differently00:09:08 – Strategies for coping: breathing, position changes, and encouraging words00:11:20 – Special advice for partners: staying calm and confident00:12:12 – The partner’s experience: normalisation and support tips00:13:10 – Every birth is unique: not all mums experience transition the same wayI would love to hear your thoughts, questions, and ideas for future episodes so please get in touch on instagram - my insta is @heldmidwifery or through my website www.heldmidwifery.com.au. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes, and if you're enjoying the podcast I would be ever so grateful if you could rate and review  on your favourite podcast player. Disclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore/Held Midwifery will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability

DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE HOSPITAL PACKING LIST HERE In this episode, I’m reflecting on Christmas and a week away with family, being around newborns again, and knowing we are welcoming another baby this year. I chat about navigating gestational diabetes (again!), the mental load that comes with that, and how I am currently feeling in this pregnancy as I reach the third trimester. I also share where things are at with work and planning for maternity leave. The reality that I only have ten weeks of work left feels wild, and I talk through the indecision I am currently working through, wanting to fully soak up postpartum but loving (and likely missing) my work, and not quite knowing yet what returning to work will look like.This is not an episode about big goals or 2026 resolutions - it's more of a life update and check in about motherhood, uncertainty, and letting some plans remain unfinished until the season reveals itself. Perhaps that's my big goal for the year! If you’re pregnant or postpartum and entering 2026 feeling a little unsure and in between, I hope this episode resonates with you. Gestational Diabetes Podcast Ep Ready to take your birth preparation to the next level? We offer both private sessions and group classes focused on working with fear in birth and building your toolkit for a more empowered experience. Click here to find out more. I would love to hear your thoughts, questions, and ideas for future episodes so please get in touch on instagram - my insta is @heldmidwifery or through my website www.heldmidwifery.com.au. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes, and if you're enjoying the podcast I would be ever so grateful if you could rate and review  on your favourite podcast player. Disclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore/Held Midwifery will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability

Celebrating your first Christmas with your baby? I know the festive period can be both merry and overwhelming! In this episode I explain how to keep feeding on track (and avoid mastitis), manage baby sleep in new environments, and set boundaries with well-meaning relatives. I share my top holiday hacks so you can enjoy the magic while honouring your needs as a new parent.In this episode we cover...Protecting postpartum in the festive seasonBreastfeeding and avoiding mastitis. Why your baby carrier will be your best friend. Breastfeeding and alcohol consumptionNavigating family events and opinions on your parenting. Hot weather and babiesFinal words for your first Christmas with your babyTimestamps:00:00:18 – Overview: Navigating Christmas with a new baby, why it’s challenging00:01:24 – Practical tips for navigating the festive period, focus on feeding and mastitis risks00:02:21 – The importance of flexibility and having backup plans for Christmas Day00:03:07 – Lowering expectations, focusing on what traditions matter most, and reassessing commitments00:04:02 – Discussing family expectations, new environments, and why Christmas can be overwhelming00:05:37 – Managing multiple events, travel, and considering your baby’s needs during festivities00:05:46 – Handling unsolicited advice from family, coming back to your values00:09:00 – Mastitis risks during Christmas: missed or delayed feeds and changing routines00:11:17 – Traveling with a baby during holidays: planning for feeds, car seat time limits00:11:53 – Feeding in new environments, comfort tips for breastfeeding at events00:13:57 – Breastfeeding and alcohol: guidelines, “safe to drive, safe to feed” principle00:18:36 – Coping with hot weather: hydration tips for mum and baby, feeding adjustments00:21:07 – Final thoughts: lowering expectations, focusing on joy.I would love to hear your thoughts, questions, and ideas for future episodes so please get in touch on instagram - my insta is @heldmidwifery or through my website www.heldmidwifery.com.au. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes, and if you're enjoying the podcast I would be ever so grateful if you could rate and review  on your favourite podcast player. Disclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore/Held Midwifery will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability

Feeling anxious, worried, or even fearful about giving birth? You’re not alone! In this episode I explore why fear around birth is so normal, how our brain’s protective instincts show up, and ways to turn worry into a helpful guide for your birth preparation. Learn practical strategies for working with fear instead of fighting against it, including what questions to ask, how to get informed, and the importance of building a supportive birth team. We also discuss the influence of care providers, the power of positive birth preparation, and actionable tips for calming your nervous system when worries arise.DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE HOSPITAL PACKING LIST HERE – Let's make your birthing environment more supportive, soothing, and calm! If you’re pregnant and want to prepare for birth with confidence (and some healthy realism!), this episode is full of compassion, honest conversation, and practical insight from an experienced midwife + childbirth educator.Ready to take your birth preparation to the next level? We offer both private sessions and group classes focused on working with fear in birth and building your toolkit for a more empowered experience. Click here to find out more. Timestamps:00:00:00 – Why fear in birth is so common (and not a sign of weakness)  00:02:26 – Hannah's personal experience with birth and excitement for giving birth again  00:04:45 – The role of media, family stories, and societal negativity  00:07:00 – Tokophobia: How common is significant fear of childbirth?  00:09:02 – Where birth fear comes from: trauma, stories, lack of information, or care provider relationships  00:13:01 – How care providers affect our confidence and managing “what ifs”  00:14:55 – What fear does in our body (adrenaline, oxytocin, and birth physiology) 00:17:35 – Evidence-based steps for working with fear as you prepare for birth  00:19:38 – You can feel scared AND powerful: final thoughts and practical resourcesI would love to hear your thoughts, questions, and ideas for future episodes so please get in touch on instagram - my insta is @heldmidwifery or through my website www.heldmidwifery.com.au. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes, and if you're enjoying the podcast I would be ever so grateful if you could rate and review  on your favourite podcast player. Disclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore/Held Midwifery will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability

Ready for an honest chat about one of the most common breastfeeding challenges? In this episode I dive into the reality of nipple pain and damage for breastfeeding mums, exploring why it happens, what actually helps healing, and which widely promoted products to avoid.Whether you’re struggling now or want to prevent problems before they start, this episode gives you tips and actionable advice from a passionate lactation consultant.Interested in personalised support? We offer both in-home (Adelaide) and tele-health consults. Click here to book a Lactation Consultation with us.DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE HOSPITAL PACKING LIST HERE - Taking the time to plan and pack thoughtfully isn’t just about ticking items off a checklist - it’s about creating a sense of calm and intention around your upcoming birth.Timestamps:00:00:00 – Introduction & why nipple pain is so common00:01:16 – Why pain matters and how it affects breastfeeding journeys00:02:20 – Attachment, positioning, and common causes of nipple pain00:06:05 – The impact of outdated breastfeeding advice & how micro-movements can help00:08:26 – How a full assessment supports healing: looking at mum and baby00:10:15 – My three go to recommendations to support nipple healing.00:13:48 – What NOT to use: hydrogels, medicated pads, and silver nursing cups00:19:22 – When to seek extra support from a lactation consultantI would love to hear your thoughts, questions, and ideas for future episodes so please get in touch on instagram - my insta is @heldmidwifery or through my website www.heldmidwifery.com.au. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes, and if you're enjoying the podcast I would be ever so grateful if you could rate and review  on your favourite podcast player. Disclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore/Held Midwifery will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability

In this weeks episode I chat with Perinatal Mental Health Occupational Therapist Rachel Howe from Belonging in Motherhood. Rachel has a special interest in supporting ADHD, autistic and neurodivergent women in pregnancy and motherhood, so if you've ever felt like your brain works a little differently, or wondered if this is just new mum forgetfulness or something else, then this episode is for you!We discuss:What Rachel does as a perinatal occupational therapist, and how she supports women during pregnancy and early motherhood.Why many women are only diagnosed (or start to suspect ADHD) during pregnancy or postpartum.The hormonal shifts in pregnancy and postpartum that can make the ADHD experience worse. What are some common challenges neurodivergent women experience in pregnancy and postpartum.How do these challenges differer from typical postpartum challenges vs potential signs of ADHD.Sensory preferences and overwhelm, and examples of where this can present during parenting/breastfeeding. My experience receiving a life changing ADHD diagnosis in postpartum. The current process for an ADHD diagnosis in Australia. Tips for neurodivergent mums to implement during pregnancy to support themselves in postpartum.You can find out more about Rachel at her website https://www.belonginginmotherhood.com.au/ or follow her on insta @belonginginmotherhood. For neuro affirming pregnancy, postpartum and breastfeeding support click here to book an appointment with Hannah. I would love to hear your thoughts, questions, and ideas for future episodes so please get in touch on instagram - my insta is @heldmidwifery or through my website www.heldmidwifery.com.au. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes, and if you're enjoying the podcast I would be ever so grateful if you could rate and review  on your favourite podcast player. Disclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore/Held Midwifery will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability

As I prepare for my own upcoming birth, I’ve been reflecting on what I learned from my last birth - what I want to do the same, and what I’ll do differently this time around. In this episode I talk about the small but important things that I will do differently this time (like getting that birth pool filled early and starting the TENS machine from the first twinges of labour!) and why I’ve chosen a slightly different support team this time, and who will be present at out birth. I also shared a little behind the scenes from the Home Birth Australia Conference in Adelaide, including some big insights from childbirth educator Rhea Dempsey on working with pain during labour rather than fighting against it.✨ Learn more about our Adelaide birth classes at Held MidwiferyI would love to hear your thoughts, questions, and ideas for future episodes so please get in touch on instagram - my insta is @heldmidwifery or through my website www.heldmidwifery.com.au. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes, and if you're enjoying the podcast I would be ever so grateful if you could rate and review  on your favourite podcast player. Disclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore/Held Midwifery will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability