Explore the realms of pregnancy, childbirth, and pelvic floor health with Clare Bourne, a renowned pelvic health physiotherapist and author. In an open conversation about pelvic wellness, Clare addresses the often-taboo topics of pregnancy and childbirth, providing invaluable insights for anyone interested in understanding or improving their pelvic health.

This conversation is particularly powerful for those preparing for childbirth, navigating pregnancy, or seeking to connect more deeply with their bodies. Clare’s expertise and guidance are sure to leave you feeling enlightened, empowered, and in control.

Preparing for Birth with Pelvic Health Exercises

Clare emphasises the importance of pelvic floor exercises during pregnancy, not only for strengthening but also for increasing bodily awareness. She shares simple, effective techniques to prepare the body for labour, helping expectant mothers feel more in control and resilient. By investing time in pelvic health, you set a foundation for smoother recovery and long-term well-being.

The Power of Self-Education in Birth

One of Clare’s core messages is about taking control of your birth experience through self-education. Understanding options and preparing for the unpredictability of birth allows women to feel empowered, even when faced with challenges. Clare highlights how self-education can reduce fear, giving expectant mothers the tools to make informed decisions and trust their bodies through each stage of pregnancy and delivery.

Embracing Birth’s Unpredictability

Every birth journey is unique, and Clare speaks about how to embrace the fact that no two births are the same. For many, this unpredictability can be daunting, but Clare encourages a mindset that focuses on flexibility and openness. Learning to adapt and trust the process can help mothers navigate their experience with confidence and calm.

The Rise of C-Sections: An Open Conversation

Clare and Phoebe delve into the topic of caesarean sections, discussing why more women are choosing or requiring C-sections and the nuances surrounding this choice. Clare offers insights on preparing both mentally and physically, whether planning a natural birth or considering surgical options. Understanding the pros, cons, and recovery process for C-sections allows women to make empowered choices.

Overcoming Birth Fears and Building Trust

Fear is common during pregnancy, especially for first-time mothers. Clare offers practical ways to work through these fears, emphasising the importance of trusting your body. Her insights into techniques like hypnobirthing help women approach childbirth with a positive mindset, reducing anxiety and helping them focus on the beauty of the experience.

Hypnobirthing for Natural Support

Hypnobirthing is a method Clare highly recommends, sharing how this technique can naturally support the body and mind through the birthing process. This approach helps mothers stay grounded and calm, using visualisation and breathing to ease pain and promote a sense of safety. Clare’s guidance on hypnobirthing techniques provides an empowering option for mothers who want to approach labour mindfully and naturally.

Pelvic Health Tips During Pregnancy

Clare offers three essential tips for maintaining pelvic health throughout pregnancy:

• Practise Gentle Pelvic Exercises: Incorporate simple pelvic floor exercises to build strength.
• Stay Mindful of Body Changes: Listen to your body’s signals, respecting your limits.
• Seek Support When Needed: Consider seeing a pelvic health physiotherapist for personalised guidance.

These practices help mothers-to-be feel strong, connected, and resilient as they navigate the physical changes of pregnancy.

Safe Exercises and Postpartum Recovery

Understanding which exercises are safe during pregnancy is crucial for maintaining health and preventing injury. Clare offers guidance on adapting workouts to keep the body active without overexerting, highlighting the importance of patience and listening to one’s body. Postpartum recovery, she explains, consists of three essential phases to help mothers regain strength, rebuild core stability, and support pelvic health for long-term wellness.

Building an Online Business as a Health Practitioner

As a business owner herself, Clare shares her experience of creating a meaningful online business that helps women worldwide. She offers tips for building an online presence, connecting authentically with clients, and finding balance between work and family life. Her journey highlights how passion, dedication, and a clear mission can lead to success and fulfilment in the digital space.

Balancing Family and Entrepreneurship

Clare’s journey is also a story of balancing motherhood with business. She shares candid insights into managing the demands of a career while nurturing a family, emphasising the importance of setting boundaries, prioritising self-care, and embracing support. Clare’s story serves as inspiration for mothers who want to pursue their professional passions while creating a balanced, fulfilling family life.

Want to learn more about embracing your own journey with confidence and empowerment? Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcast and discover how to connect with your pelvic power through pregnancy, childbirth, and beyond.

About Consciously Alive

Consciously Alive is a podcast for those seeking to lead more empowered, fulfilling lives. Each episode invites listeners to discover inspiring journeys, life-changing insights, and practical guidance to awaken to their full potential.