Ask Physio Kath - is it too late to fix my abdominal muscle separation after pregnancy?

Send us a textStarting solids with your baby can feel exciting — and scary. I’ll never forget the nerves I had watching my own little ones gag for the first time. In this episode, I sit down with paramedic and Baby Safe Basics founder Eliza Leslie to talk about the difference between choking versus gagging, and how to approach mealtimes with more confidence and less fear.Here’s what we cover:Why choking is the No. 1 concern for parents starting solidsChoking versus gagging — how to tell them apartWhat to do (and what not to do) if your baby is gaggingThe simple, effective first aid steps for chokingWhen it’s time to call emergency servicesPractical tips to help you start solids safely and calmlyWhy preparation and knowledge make all the differenceConnect with Eliza:WebsiteInstagramLINKS: Preparing for birth Pelvic health checklist Free 7 Day Trial Pregnancy Workouts Free 7 Day Trial Postnatal Workouts FitNest Mama Website Instagram @kathbaquie.physio 1:1 Consultation with Physio Kath at Hatched House ** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition.

Send us a textStill noticing tummy weakness months (or even years) after having your baby? You’re not alone. In this episode, I answer a member’s question about ab separation — and share why it’s never too late to feel strong again.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:What ab separation (diastasis recti) really is — and why the term “separation” can be misleading.What counts as normal postpartum abdominal changes (hint: a mild gap is not a problem).Why the “missed window” for recovery is a myth.Safe, functional exercises to begin rebuilding your core.When a gap might need professional assessment — and why fear, not the separation itself, often holds women back.How to reframe the question from “How do I close the gap?” to “How strong can I get today?”LINKS: Preparing for birth Pelvic health checklist Free 7 Day Trial Pregnancy Workouts Free 7 Day Trial Postnatal Workouts FitNest Mama Website Instagram @kathbaquie.physio 1:1 Consultation with Physio Kath at Hatched House ** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition.

Send us a textThird-time mum Emma joins me to share her honest, inspiring story of birth, recovery, and returning to the sport she loves. From induction and epidural challenges to tackling breastfeeding pain and setting her sights on the Berlin Marathon, Emma’s journey is one many mums will relate to.In this episode we cover:Emma’s experience of three inductions and how her third birth unfoldedWhat happened when her epidural only worked on one sideHow she managed the transition and quick five-minute pushThe early struggles of breastfeeding and the turning point with a GP–Lactation ConsultantDifferences in postnatal recovery between her first, second, and third birthsWhy she prioritised a pelvic floor assessment before returning to runningHow the FitNest Mama return-to-running program helped her rebuild safelyEmma’s advice to her younger, first-time-mum selfLINKS: Preparing for birth Pelvic health checklist Free 7 Day Trial Pregnancy Workouts Free 7 Day Trial Postnatal Workouts FitNest Mama Website Instagram @kathbaquie.physio 1:1 Consultation with Physio Kath at Hatched House ** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition.

Send us a textIf you’ve ever wondered whether your morning sickness is something more, this episode is for you. I’m joined by Dr Emily Rubinstein, women’s health GP, for an honest conversation about morning sickness and hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) - a condition that can make pregnancy incredibly challenging.Together, we explore what HG really is, how it differs from typical morning sickness, and the treatment and support options available. My hope is that this episode helps you feel less alone and more empowered with knowledge to navigate pregnancy and seek the support you deserve.In this episode, we chat about:What hyperemesis gravidarum is and how it differs from morning sicknessPossible causes and risk factors that may increase your likelihood of experiencing HGWhen to seek help and how to advocate for yourself with healthcare providersMedical treatment options including vitamins, antihistamines, anti-emetics, and IV fluidsNon-medical approaches such as food and fluid strategies, supplements, and complementary therapiesThe link between HG, pelvic floor health, and mental wellbeingWhy a strong support system at home and in healthcare makes such a differenceHow to prepare for future pregnancies if you’ve experienced HG beforeConnect with Dr Emily RubinsteinInstagramWebsiteLINKS: Preparing for birth Pelvic health checklist Free 7 Day Trial Pregnancy Workouts Free 7 Day Trial Postnatal Workouts FitNest Mama Website Instagram @kathbaquie.physio 1:1 Consultation with Physio Kath at Hatched House ** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition.

Send us a textYour pelvic floor does so much more than you think — it supports your growing baby, helps during birth, and plays a vital role in your recovery. In this episode, I share why pelvic floor exercises while pregnant are one of the most powerful ways to prepare your body for birth and beyond.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why a strong and functional pelvic floor matters during pregnancy and labourThe difference between strength, responsiveness, relaxation, and coordinationHow pelvic floor exercises can reduce the risk of interventions like forcepsWhen to start pelvic floor exercises during pregnancyCommon challenges such as fatigue and pelvic girdle pain, and how to manage themWhen to see a women’s health physiotherapist for extra supportA simple guided set of pelvic floor exercises for birth preparation and recoveryTune in until the end for a guided pelvic floor exercise session you can try at home.LINKS: Preparing for birth Pelvic health checklist Free 7 Day Trial Pregnancy Workouts Free 7 Day Trial Postnatal Workouts FitNest Mama Website Instagram @kathbaquie.physio 1:1 Consultation with Physio Kath at Hatched House ** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition.

Send us a textWhen you hear the words “forceps birth,” you might think of fear, pain, or a negative experience. But in today’s episode, you’ll hear a very different story.I chat with Kelsey, a first-time mum and past FitNest Mama member from Canada, who shares her positive forceps birth story. From an unexpected induction to using different pain relief strategies, Kelsey’s journey is proof that birth can still feel calm, empowering, and beautiful—even when it doesn’t go to plan.In this episode, we discuss:Kelsey’s vaginal birth story with forceps and how she stayed calmHer experience with an induction at 41+5 weeksPain management strategies she used, including:Breathing techniquesThe showerAn epiduralA comb in the carWhy clear communication with her care team made all the differenceHow FitNest Mama supported her safe and confident postpartum recoveryThis is a reassuring, real-life reminder that no matter the path, birth can be a positive experience.Episode mentioned:Types of Birth: Childbirth Options, with Dr Amber MooreLINKS: Preparing for birth Pelvic health checklist Free 7 Day Trial Pregnancy Workouts Free 7 Day Trial Postnatal Workouts FitNest Mama Website Instagram @kathbaquie.physio 1:1 Consultation with Physio Kath at Hatched House ** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition.

Send us a textThinking about induction of birth or been told it might be part of your birth plan? In this podcast episode, I sit down with Dr Shavi Fernando, an experienced obstetrician and gynaecologist, to break down everything you need to know. From why inductions are recommended to common myths, pain relief, and recovery—we cover it all in a way that’s clear, practical, and reassuring.In this episode, we discuss:What induction of birth means and when it might be recommendedThe most common reasons women are offered an inductionMyths and concerns, including the “cascade of interventions”Pain relief options, including epidurals and their impact on birth outcomesDifferent methods of induction (balloon, pessary, prostaglandin gel, oxytocin drip)How induction compares to spontaneous labour in terms of recoveryWhy asking questions and debriefing after birth is so importantThis is an episode I wish I’d listened to before my own induction—and I trust you’ll find it just as valuable.Connect with Dr Shavi FernandoWebsiteInstagramLINKS: Preparing for birth Pelvic health checklist Free 7 Day Trial Pregnancy Workouts Free 7 Day Trial Postnatal Workouts FitNest Mama Website Instagram @kathbaquie.physio 1:1 Consultation with Physio Kath at Hatched House ** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition.

Send us a textWhy your pelvic floor exercises might not be workingThink you’re doing everything right but still not seeing results? You’re not alone. In this episode, I break down the reasons your pelvic floor may not be improving - and what you can do instead.What you’ll hear in this episode:Why pelvic floor improvements can be slow or subtle postpartumHow incorrect technique can limit your resultsThe role of prolapse and what symptoms to look out forWhy an assessment with a pelvic floor physio is so importantWhen a pessary might be recommended for prolapse supportUnderstanding an overactive pelvic floor and why “more kegels” aren’t always the answerHow constipation and bowel health affect your pelvic floorThe impact of hormones and how vaginal oestrogen cream can helpWhy whole-body strength is just as important as pelvic floor strengthIf you’ve been feeling frustrated or discouraged, this episode will give you clarity, reassurance, and practical steps to move forward with confidence.** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition. LINKS: Preparing for birth Pelvic health checklist Free 7 Day Trial Pregnancy Workouts Free 7 Day Trial Postnatal Workouts FitNest Mama Website Instagram @kathbaquie.physio 1:1 Consultation with Physio Kath at Hatched House ** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition.

Send us a textA beautiful, honest conversation with first-time mum Eugenie, who shares her positive induction birth story alongside her journey managing mental health and postnatal recovery. From early waters breaking to making confident feeding choices, Eugenie’s experience is full of practical insights and reassurance for mums-to-be.In this episode, we cover:Eugenie’s journey from eating disorder recovery to pregnancyMental health strategies during pregnancy and postpartumEarly waters breaking at 36 weeks and induction at 37 weeksUsing a TENS machine, Calm Birth techniques, and an epiduralPositive vaginal birth with no instrumental deliveryDeciding not to breastfeed and expressing colostrum antenatallyBuilding a strong postpartum support network with family helpPhysical recovery tips from pelvic floor physio and gentle return to exercisePerfect listening if you’re preparing for birth, navigating mental health during motherhood, or looking for empowering birth stories.LINKS: Preparing for birth Pelvic health checklist Free 7 Day Trial Pregnancy Workouts Free 7 Day Trial Postnatal Workouts FitNest Mama Website Instagram @kathbaquie.physio 1:1 Consultation with Physio Kath at Hatched House ** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition.

Send us a textStruggling with low supply, unsure when to supplement, or wondering if formula will derail your breastfeeding goals?In this episode, I’m joined by Jaimie Zaki—nurse, doula, mum of five, and IBCLC—for a conversation about supplementing with formula while breastfeeding. We explore how to use formula as a supportive tool (not a failure), how to advocate for your feeding goals in the hospital, and Jaimie’s SMART method for confident, informed supplementation. Whether you're exclusively breastfeeding, combo-feeding, or somewhere in between—this is a must-listen for any parent navigating early feeding decisions.  What We Cover: Myths around formula and breastfeedingHow early formula use in hospitals can impact breastfeeding outcomesWhy preparation for breastfeeding should start before birthRed flags to look out for before introducing formulaThe SMART supplementing method:Supplementing method (bottle, cup, tube, etc.)Measured amountA clear reasonRight formula choiceTiming of feedsUnderstanding oral dysfunction, fussiness, and supply issuesHow to find trustworthy breastfeeding support (even if you're rural)Why birth interventions can influence early feeding—and what to do about itThe emotional side of feeding choices and letting go of guiltConnect with Jaimie Zaki: Website Instagram LINKS: Preparing for birth Pelvic health checklist Free 7 Day Trial Pregnancy Workouts Free 7 Day Trial Postnatal Workouts FitNest Mama Website Instagram @kathbaquie.physio 1:1 Consultation with Physio Kath at Hatched House ** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition.