In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined again by midwife Erica Spessot to discuss induction of labour. 

This is the first of two episodes and focuses on the preparation phase: how the cervix ripens and how the body is prepared for the induction process.

We also hear from our producer, Sarah, who shares her lived experience of induction of labour (using both methods).

Stay tuned for the next episode, where Rangi and Erica (and Sarah) discuss the subsequent stages of the induction process in more detail.

In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined by Melanie Francis, Clinical Midwifery Educator and Head of Operations ANZ for GynZone.

Together, Rangi and Mel explore the important topic of episiotomies. They explain: 

• What is an episiotomy?
• Why an episiotomy may be recommended during birth and when it can be beneficial for both mother and baby
• Common misconceptions about episiotomies
• What the procedure involves, including the different techniques used
• What to expect during recovery and practical tips for healing

Whether you're preparing for birth or simply want to better understand your options, this episode provides practical, evidence-based information to help you feel informed and confident.

In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined by Melanie Francis, Clinical Midwifery Educator and Head of Operations ANZ for GynZone.

Together, Rangi and Mel take a deep dive into the important - and often daunting - topic of perineal tears. 

• They explain what perineal tears are, why they happen, and the factors that can increase the risk of tearing during birth. 
• They also discuss practical strategies that may help reduce the risk, including perineal massage and the use of warm compresses during labour.
• The conversation also covers the different types and classifications of tears, what recovery looks like, and practical advice for coping and healing after birth.

Join us next week as Rangi and Mel continue the conversation by exploring the important topic of episiotomies.

In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined again by pelvic floor physiotherapist and researcher Professor Helena Frawley to explore the pelvic floor, why it matters, and how to keep it healthy before, during, and after pregnancy.

This is the first of a two-part series. In this episode Rangi and Helena discuss:

• How the Pelvic Floor changes in Birth and Postpartum
• What is common and normal after birth
• How we can improve symptoms at home
• When and how to seek help if you're experiencing issues

As mentioned in the podcast - here are some resources recommended by Prof Frawley:

• A pelvic health physiotherapist is a valuable support. Website to find a pelvic health physiotherapist: https://cfaphysios.com.au/
• Or ask your maternity care providers to link you up with a physiotherapist
• Web-based resources for download: https://www.continence.org.au/resources-and-tools/fact-sheets-booklets/ 
• https://www.pelvicfloorfirst.org.au/

" We encourage women to do the exercises during pregnancy because when you contract a muscle and relax it, it becomes more under your control, so you actually have a better ability to contract and relax when you need it to relax. It also improves the blood supply to the muscles, so they're healthier muscles."

In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined by pelvic floor physiotherapist and researcher Professor Helena Frawley to explore the pelvic floor, why it matters, and how to keep it healthy before, during, and after pregnancy.

This is the first of a two-part series. In this episode Rangi and Helena discuss:

• What the pelvic floor is and the important role it plays. 
• What can happen when the pelvic floor muscles become weakened, including incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. 
• Practical ways to strengthen the pelvic floor, including Helena's evidence-based "2 and 8 is great" exercise program. 
• The perineum, how perineal massage may help reduce the risk of birth-related injury, and practical tips for getting started. 
• The impact of caesarean birth on pelvic floor health. 
• Risk factors that may mean some people need to take a more proactive approach to pelvic floor care. 

As mentioned in the podcast - here are some resources recommended by Prof Frawley:

• A pelvic health physiotherapist is a valuable support. Website to find a pelvic health physiotherapist: https://cfaphysios.com.au/
• Or ask your maternity care providers to link you up with a physiotherapist
• Web-based resources for download: https://www.continence.org.au/resources-and-tools/fact-sheets-booklets/ 
• https://www.pelvicfloorfirst.org.au/

Join us next week for Part 2, where Rangi and Helena continue the conversation, focusing on recovery after birth, pelvic floor health in the postpartum period, and long-term wellbeing.

Preparing for birth and parenthood can feel overwhelming, especially when you're not quite sure what to expect. In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined by Stefanie Pascolo, clinical midwife at Mercy Perinatal and education midwife with Parent Education at the Mercy Hospital for Women, to demystify parent education classes and explain how they can help you feel informed, confident and prepared for the journey ahead.

Together, Rangi and Stef answer some of the most common questions expectant parents ask, including what parent education actually involves, who teaches the classes, when to book, what you'll learn, and whether your partner or support person can attend. They also explore what makes parent education valuable, how classes are structured, and whether the reality is anything like what you've seen on TV.

Whether you're newly pregnant, deciding if a class is right for you, or simply curious about what to expect, this episode is your practical guide to making the most of parent education and preparing for birth with confidence.

Want to hear more from Stef? As mentioned in this episode, Stef is also co-host of the Both Sides of the Bump podcast, you can listen here on Spotify.

In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined again by Dr Laura Whitburn, a physiotherapist-turned-researcher and Senior Lecturer at La Trobe University with a special interest in improving the experience of labour pain and intrapartum communication.

In the second episode of this two-part conversation, Rangi and Laura explore:

• What to look for when searching for information and resources for your birth goals
• Why it’s important for support people to be informed and prepared
• What to expect and how to cope when the plan changes
• A fresh look at intrinsic and extrinsic pain management methods, including TENS and pharmacological pain relief
• Practical tips to help you stay in the “zone” during labour

"What strategies are in your power all the time that you can use whenever you need them? And then what strategies have you got where you might need a little help or support to enact them?"

In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined by Dr Laura Whitburn, a physiotherapist-turned-researcher and Senior Lecturer at La Trobe University with a special interest in improving the experience of labour pain and intrapartum communication.

In the first episode of this two-part conversation, Rangi and Laura explore:

• The power of the mind, support people and environment in shaping labour pain
• How labour pain differs from other types of pain, and how meaning and perception influence the experience
• The impact of the social environment during labour
• Intrinsic and extrinsic approaches to pain management
• The role hormones play in labour and pain
• How support people can help during labour 

Join us next week for part two, where Rangi and Laura continue the conversation on coping with labour pain.

“It’s very personalised - there’s absolutely no ‘one size fits all’. You have to look at the couple or person in front of you and take everything into account.”

In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined once again by fertility specialist Dr Sylvia Ross for an insightful conversation exploring Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART).

Dr Sylvia Ross is a highly experienced Women’s Health specialist who has spent more than a decade helping individuals and couples build families, while also managing complex gynaecological conditions. She is also the co-host of the popular Fertility Untamed Podcast.

In this episode, Rangi and Sylvia discuss:

•  What Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) actually is 
•  The different methods of ART: 
  • Ovulation induction 
  • Intrauterine insemination
  • IVF (briefly introduced ahead of a dedicated episode later this season)
•  How long to try different treatment methods 
•  Navigating the emotional burden of fertility treatment 
•  The approximate costs of private fertility clinics versus the public system, and the differences in care and access 

Stay tuned for a later episode this season, where Rangi and Sylvia will take a deeper dive into IVF.

DISCLAIMER:
This episode discusses fertility struggles and pregnancy loss. If you require support or additional resources, please visit:

• Centre of Perinatal Excellence | COPE
  • COPE provides families and health professionals with evidence-based perinatal mental health screening, resources, education and pathways to care.
• Miscarriage Australia - Navigating miscarriage together
  • Through our research and consultations with individuals, families and healthcare providers, we understand your need for evidence-based information, acknowledgement, and advice regarding miscarriage. We’ve designed this website to help you today, including the myths and facts about miscarriage, treatment options, how to care for yourself and where to seek help and support.
• The Centre of Research Excellence in Stillbirth
  • Access support services, online resources, and information for parents and families in Australia whose baby has died. These links include services offering counselling, practical support, and information to assist you to make to decisions during this difficult time.

"By going to see a fertility specialist - you're already doing everything that you can do, and you need to take some comfort in that and give yourself a break"

In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined by fertility specialist Dr Sylvia Ross for an insightful conversation about fertility and infertility.

Dr Sylvia Ross is a highly experienced Women’s Health specialist who has spent more than a decade helping individuals and couples build families, while also managing complex gynaecological conditions. Dr Ross is also co-host of the popular Fertility Untamed Podcast.

In this episode, Rangi and Sylvia discuss:

•  What infertility is 
•  Risk factors that can contribute to infertility, including lifestyle and environmental factors affecting both partners 
•  Navigating the challenges of unexplained infertility 
•  What to expect when visiting a fertility specialist, including possible investigations and tests 
•  The Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) test - what it measures, what it can indicate, and its limitations 
•  What trying to conceive can look like, and the importance of understanding your menstrual cycle 
•  Signs that may indicate ovulation 
• And finally - how to get an appointment with a fertility specialist

Join us for the next episode, where Rangi and Sylvia will explore Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART).

“Doing anything is better than doing nothing. Feel reassured that anything you can do within the limits of what your obstetrician or doctor has prescribed, is going to be good for you and the baby”

In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined again by pelvic floor physiotherapist and researcher Professor Helena Frawley, to discuss exercise in pregnancy, labour, postpartum and beyond.

This topic has been split into 2 episodes, this episode is all about a safe, realistic, and empowering return to movement after pregnancy. 

We’ll revisit the idea that “something is better than nothing,” and how finding movement you enjoy - within your limits -can support both physical recovery and mental wellbeing. 

Resources mentioned in the episode include:

• RANZCOG: Exercise During Pregnancy
• RANZCOG: Pelvic Floor Health
• RCOG: Physical activity and pregnancy
• MHW Physiotherapy department

"The fitter you go into pregnancy and labour, the fitter you are postnatally, which means you will cope better with all of the stresses, and strains, and pressures of having a newborn"

In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined by pelvic floor physiotherapist and researcher Professor Helena Frawley, to discuss exercise in pregnancy, labour, postpartum and beyond.

This topic will be split into 2 episodes, in this episode Rangi and Helena discuss:

• The safety of exercise in pregnancy,
• How to approach exercise,
• Which activities are best to continue or modify,
• The benefits of exercise in pregnancy

In our next episode, Rangi and Helena will  focus on exercise after birth and how to safely return to exercise, what’s normal when it comes to pain, how to manage it, and when to seek help.

In this episode, our host Rangi is joined by producer Sarah (and mum of two) to discuss flying during pregnancy. They cover safety for mum and baby, potential risks, practical tips and advice, the recommended cut‑off for flying, when you should obtain a doctor’s note, what happens if you feel unwell during a flight, and other key aspects of travelling while pregnant.

Stay tuned for more topics as we continue to release weekly episodes.

In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined by scientist and pregnancy researcher Dr Lucy Bartho to discuss research in pregnancy.

A core component of Mercy Perinatal and it's mission to bring Mum's and Bub's home safely is research. Here Lucy and Rangi cover:

• Journey of a pregnancy researcher
• Some success stories from our research
• Why is pregnancy research so important?
• What types of research are undertaken at the Mercy Hospital for Women?
• How to get involved in research?
• What does being apart of research look like?
• Is research safe? And is my identity private?
• Can I opt out?
• How can I find out about the outcomes of research that I've participated in?

This is a very important discussion with research being crucial to the team answering the big questions in pregnancy to help mum's and babies across the world. Every sample counts.

In this episode, our host Rangi is joined by producer Sarah (and Mum of 2) to discuss finding out (or not finding out) your baby's sex. Other points covered in this episode include:

• What is the difference between sex and gender?
• The different ways to find out the sex
• Home kits - are they worthwhile?
• What to do if you don't want to know the sex
• And old wives' tales - is there any truth there?

Stay tuned for more topics as we continue to publish weekly episodes.

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness of this chronic disease, which affects around 1 in 7 women (approximately 10%). Because endometriosis can take years to diagnose, this month focuses on increasing recognition of the condition, reducing delays in diagnosis, and promoting faster access to appropriate care. It also aims to ensure that people living with endometriosis feel seen, heard, and recognised.

In honour of Endometriosis Awareness Month, Dr Rangi De Silva is joined by Dr Samantha Mooney, a highly skilled gynaecologist & fertility doctor in Melbourne, with specialist training in minimally invasive surgical techniques. Sam is also an early career researcher and PhD candidate at the University of Melbourne with interests in endometriosis, persistent pelvic pain, and infertility. 

This two-part episode will focus on Endometriosis and Pregnancy. This second part Rangi and Sam discuss

• The effects of pregnancy on endometriosis and vice versa
• Endometriosis symptoms in pregnancy
• Adenomyosis
• Limitations of current research
• What this means for my baby, my birth plan, and breastfeeding
• What happens to endometriosis once pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding conclude and periods return
• What happens later in life, after you have finished having your family
• Where to find more information

Endometriosis Resources

• Endometriosis Australia
• Pelvic Pain Foundation for Women
• Pelvic Pain Victoria
• Julia Argyrou Endometriosis Centre
• RANZCOG: Endometriosis
• Matilda Health
• World Endometriosis Society
• ESHRE

DISCLAIMER: This episode briefly mentions Pregnancy Loss, if you require support or resources, please visit:

• Centre of Perinatal Excellence | COPE
  • COPE provides families and health professionals with evidence-based perinatal mental health screening, resources, education and pathways to care.
• Miscarriage Australia - Navigating miscarriage together
  • Through our research and consultations with individuals, families and healthcare providers, we understand your need for evidence-based information, acknowledgement, and advice regarding miscarriage. We’ve designed this website to help you today, including the myths and facts about miscarriage, treatment options, how to care for yourself and where to seek help and support.
• The Centre of Research Excellence in Stillbirth
  • Access support services, online resources, and information for parents and families in Australia whose baby has died. These links include services offering counselling, practical support, and information to assist you to make to decisions during this difficult time.

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness of this chronic disease, which affects around 1 in 7 women (approximately 10%). Because endometriosis can take years to diagnose, this month focuses on increasing recognition of the condition, reducing delays in diagnosis, and promoting faster access to appropriate care. It also aims to ensure that people living with endometriosis feel seen, heard, and recognised.

In honour of Endometriosis Awareness Month, Dr Rangi De Silva is joined by Dr Samantha Mooney, a highly skilled gynaecologist & fertility doctor in Melbourne, with specialist training in minimally invasive surgical techniques. Sam is also an early career researcher and PhD candidate at the University of Melbourne with interests in endometriosis, persistent pelvic pain, and infertility. 

This two-part episode will focus on Endometriosis and Pregnancy. This first part Rangi and Sam discuss:

• What is endometriosis?
• Is it preventable?
• Potential causes and risk factors
• When to seek help
• How endometriosis is currently diagnosed and the challenges
• Types/forms of endometriosis
• How endometriosis can affect other areas, such as fertility
• Current treatments and pain relief options when you are trying to conceive

In next week’s episode, Rangi and Sam will continue the discussion, focusing on endometriosis in pregnancy, labour, and beyond.

DISCLAIMER: This episode briefly mentions Sexual Trauma, if you require support or resources, please visit:

• 1800RESPECT via White Ribbon
  • This is a 24-hour national sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line for any Australian who has experienced, or is at risk of, family and domestic violence and/or sexual assault.
• Blue Knot Foundation
  • Blue Knot provides a safe space for Survivors to access the support and tools they need to heal from the impacts of violence and abuse, and for those supporting them to access the strategies and resources they need themselves.
• Australian Government Resources
  • Services are available to support people escape violence and be safe.

In this episode, Dr Rangi is once again joined by midwife Erica Spessot as they conclude their six-part series exploring the stages of labour.

This episode focuses on the fourth and final stage of labour. It includes the bonding with your baby - the golden hour, contracting of the uterus, hormones, the start of breastfeeding, monitoring you and your baby, resting, going home, and the next steps. 

Next week, in honour of Endometriosis Awareness Month, we’ll be sharing our two-part episode on Endometriosis and Pregnancy with Dr Sam Mooney. It’s a very insightful discussion, and we can’t wait for you to hear it. (And don’t worry, even though this six-part series has finished - Erica will be back again soon!)

In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined by midwife Erica Spessot as they continue their six-part series exploring the stages of labour, right through to your baby’s Birth Day.

This episode focuses on the third stage of labour. It explores the delivery of the placenta and cutting of the umbilical cord.

Topics covered in this episode include:

• Delivery of Placenta
  • active management (with medical intervention)
  • natural third stage, also called physiological or expectant management
• Postpartum bleeding/haemorrhage
• Cutting of umbilical cord

Stay tuned for the next episode, where Rangi and Erica take a deep dive into Stage 4 of Labour (recovery and bonding with baby).

In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined by midwife Erica Spessot as they continue their six-part series exploring the stages of labour, right through to your baby’s Birth Day.

This episode focuses on the second stage of labour. It explores what Erica describes as the "TV show end", where you will be pushing and finally meeting your baby.

Topics covered in this episode include:

• 10cm Dilation of Cervix
• Baby's position and heart rate
• Birthing persons positions
• Duration of second stage and contributing factors
• Pushing
• The urge to open bowels (poo)
• Maternal Exhaustion
• When intervention may be required
• Meeting baby - getting involved

Stay tuned for the next episode, where Rangi and Erica take a deep dive into Stage 3 of Labour (bonding with baby and delivery of placenta).

In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined by midwife Erica Spessot as they continue their six-part series exploring the stages of labour, right through to your baby’s Birth Day.

This episode focuses on the early (active) phase of the first stage of labour. It explores what is happening from when the contractions "are long, strong, regular and here to stay",  right up until it is time to push.

Topics covered in this episode include:

• Contractions
• Waters breaking
• When to contact your healthcare provider/present to hospital
• Pain relief options
• Transition, the final, most intense part of active labor

Stay tuned for the next episode, where Rangi and Erica take a deep dive into Stage 2 of Labour (meeting your baby).

In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined by midwife Erica Spessot as they continue their six-part series exploring the stages of labour, right through to your baby’s Birth Day.

This episode focuses on the early (latent) phase of the first stage of labour. It explores the lead-up to pushing, which can begin days- or even weeks- before birth, as your body prepares and starts giving you signs of what’s to come.

Topics covered in this episode include:

• Nesting
• Braxton Hicks contractions
• Prioritising self-care
• Changes to the cervix (thinning and shortening)
• Mucous plug and discharge
• Key hormones, including oxytocin and melatonin
• Contractions
• Other symptoms that may occur during this stage
• When to contact your healthcare provider for advice

Stay tuned for the next episode, where Rangi and Erica take a deep dive into the next phase of Stage 1- Active Labour - so you know what to expect every step of the way.

In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined by midwife Erica Spessot to kick off a six-part series exploring the stages of labour, all the way to your baby’s Birth Day.

This 16-minute overview walks through every stage of labour, from the very first contraction to recovery and bonding with your baby, highlighting the key moments in between.

The Stages of Labour series includes:

• Overview
• First Stage: Latent (Early) Labour
• First Stage: Active Labour
• Second Stage
• Third Stage
• Fourth Stage

Stay tuned for upcoming episodes, where each stage is explored in greater detail so you know what to expect every step of the way.

We are back for Season 2! In this episode, our host Rangi is joined by producer Sarah (and Mum of 2) to discuss her pregnancy journey and define some key terms that occurred in her pregnancies, such as:

• NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit)
• Cholestasis
• Induction of Labour

We’ll be diving deeper into each of these terms in later episodes throughout the season.

In this episode, Ali and Rangi discuss birth plans — and more importantly, the value of having a flexible birth plan.

They cover the essentials of creating a birth plan, starting with the reminder that there’s no one right way to do it. Your birth plan can be as general or as detailed as you like — it’s entirely up to you.

Key points they explore include:

• Pain management options
• Labour and delivery environment (e.g. music, scents, lighting)
• Support people during labour
• Medical interventions - being informed and making choices
• Postpartum considerations, such as skin-to-skin contact
• Care for other children during birth

Above all, they emphasise that it's perfectly okay to deviate from your birth plan. Think of it as a guide, not a script.

Also mentioned in this episode is The Birth Book by Professor Stephen Tong — a helpful resource to prepare for the big day. You can find out more about it here.

In this episode, Ali and Rangi discuss information overload during pregnancy. 

They explore the benefits of social media, such as finding a sense of community, while also highlighting the dangers, including misinformation and misdiagnosis. 

They also share tips on handling both solicited and unsolicited advice from well-meaning family members and provide guidance on where to find reliable information. 

Most importantly, they’ll remind you why your healthcare provider should always be your go-to source for the real facts.

Here are the resources mentioned in the episode:

Mercy Perinatal

Raising Children Network

The Royal Women's Hospital: A-Z Fact Sheets

Red Nose: What is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)?

RANZCOG: Resource Hub

ACM: Australian College of Midwives

In this episode, Ali is joined again by guest co-host, Professor Sue Walker AO, maternal fetal medicine sub-specialist at the Mercy Hospital for Women, and Co-Director of Mercy Perinatal.

Ali and Sue discuss Miscarriage and address key questions, such as:

• What is Miscarriage? Why do they occur?
• What is the treatment for a Miscarriage?
• What is involved in the recovery of a Miscarriage?
• What does this mean for future pregnancies?
• How can I support a loved one through a Miscarriage?
• Where can I seek support? 

Please note that this episode discusses miscarriage/pregnancy loss, which can be distressing to some listeners. Resources are available including:

• Sands Australia via their webpage www.sands.org.au or their 24/7 phone support on 1300 308 307.
• Red Nose via their webpage www.rednose.org.au or their 24/7 support on 1300 308 307
• The Pink Elephants via their webpage www.pinkelephants.org.au
• Beyond Blue via their webpage www.beyondblue.org.au or 24/7 support on 13 11 14 via Lifeline

In this episode, Ali is joined again by guest co-host, Professor Sue Walker AO, maternal fetal medicine sub-specialist at the Mercy Hospital for Women, and Co-Director of Mercy Perinatal.

Ali and Sue discuss Fetal Growth Restriction answer your burning questions, such as:

• What is Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR)?
• How is FGR detected?
• What are the causes of FGR?
• Can FGR be prevented?
• What happens once my baby has been diagnosed with FGR?
• What does this mean for the birth and my babys future?

In this episode, Ali is joined by guest co-host, Professor Sue Walker AO, maternal fetal medicine sub-specialist at the Mercy Hospital for Women, and Co-Director of Mercy Perinatal.

Ali and Sue discuss COVID-19 in pregnancy and labour and answer your burning questions, such as:

• What does a COVID-19 infection mean for me and my baby?
• Are COVID-19 vaccines safe in pregnancy?
• Do I need to tell my healthcare provider if I have COVID-19?
• Does COVID-19 change my pregnancy care and birth plan?
• Can I still breastfeed?
• Where can I get more information on COVID-19 in pregnancy?

As discussed in the episode, Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI), is a good source of information, you can visit their website here, as well as talking to your healthcare provider.

In this episode Ali and Rangi chat with Professor Lisa Hui about Congenital Cytomegalovirus (cCMV), and discuss what is cCMV, how it is contracted, and what it means for your pregnancy and your child later in life, and also what actions you can take to prevent it.

Prof Lisa Hui is a maternal fetal medicine specialist with research interests in cell-free fetal nucleic acids, prenatal screening and diagnosis. She is a Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the University of Melbourne and Team Leader in the MCRI Reproductive Epidemiology group. She holds clinical appointments at the Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg VIC, and The Northern Hospital, Epping VIC.

As discussed in the episode, CMV Australia has resources and information available to families who are interested in learning more, you can visit their webpage here: https://www.cmv.org.au/

Resource for Clinicians: CPD Education Module, Infections in Pregnancy, What's new in congenital CMV and syphilis

In this episode Rangi and Ali welcome back Professor Stephen Tong to Prepare. Prof Tong is a specialist obstetrician at the Mercy Hospital for Women, Professor at The University of Melbourne, Co-Director of Mercy Perinatal and author of The Birth Book.

With Prof Tong, the team discuss Preeclampsia, what is it, how common is it, what does a diagnosis mean for you and your baby, how is it treated, what are the symptoms and what is on the horizon for treatment. 

In this episode, Ali and Rangi chat with Associate Professor Fiona Brownfoot about Fetal Monitoring, and discuss key points, including:

• What is Fetal Monitoring?
• Why does my baby need Fetal Monitoring?
• What does Fetal Monitoring involve? What are the different methods?
• When does Fetal Monitoring start in a pregnancy?
• How long does it take?
• What does the future look like for Fetal Monitoring?

A/Prof Fiona Brownfoot is a specialist female obstetrician in Melbourne with extensive qualifications and experience in obstetrics and gynaecology. A/Prof Brownfoot is an obstetrician at the Mercy Hospital for Women and Epworth Freemasons, and is a clinician scientist at The University of Melbourne. She leads a multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists focused on developing therapeutics and diagnostics to treat the most dangerous pregnancy complications. A/Prof Brownfoot is also co-founder of Kali Healthcare.

Please note that this episode briefly mentions miscarriage/pregnancy loss, which can be distressing to some listeners. Resources are available such as through Sands Australia via their webpage www.sands.org.au or their 24/7 phone support - 1300 308 307.

Trimesters, placenta, term, uterus, cervix, gestation, vernix, amniotic sac, prenatal, antenatal, postnatal, perinatal... oh my!

In this episode, Ali and Rangi go over and break down some common terms you'll hear on your pregnancy journey.

In this episode Ali and Rangi chat with Associate Professor Lisa Hui about Genetic Screening, and discuss what is screened, how screening occurs and when, the costs associated with screening, and follow up testing that may occur.

A/Prof Lisa Hui is a maternal fetal medicine specialist with research interests in cell-free fetal nucleic acids, prenatal screening and diagnosis. She is Associate Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the University of Melbourne and Team Leader in the MCRI Reproductive Epidemiology group. She holds clinical appointments at the Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg VIC, and The Northern Hospital, Epping VIC.

As discussed in the episode, Down Syndrome Australia has resources available to families who are interested in learning more, you can visit their webpage here: https://www.downsyndrome.org.au

Please note that this episode briefly mentions miscarriage/pregnancy loss, which can be distressing to some listeners. Resources are available such as through Sands Australia via their webpage www.sands.org.au or their 24/7 phone support - 1300 308 307.

In this special episode, we welcome Professor Catherine Chamberlain, descendent of the Trawlwoolway people of Tasmania (Palawa), registered midwife and public health researcher to discuss the importance and logistics of "birthing on country" for indigenous people. In this episode, Ali is joined by guest co-host, Professor Sue Walker AO, maternal fetal medicine sub-specialist at the Mercy Hospital for Women, and Co-Director of Mercy Perinatal.

In this episode Rangi and Ali welcome their very first guest to Prepare, Professor Stephen Tong! Prof Tong is a specialist obstetrician at the Mercy Hospital for Women, Professor at The University of Melbourne, Co-Director of Mercy Perinatal and author of The Birth Book.

With Prof Tong, the team discuss the Placenta, what is it, why is it so important, and what can you do with it once your baby is born.

So you've had a positive pregnancy test, and your GP has confirmed that you're pregnant... what now? Ali and Rangi discuss the different pathways of receiving antenatal care, what each model is, who is the primary team, and the pros and cons of each model of care (including expected costs). Join us as the team navigates you through the different options.

So why exactly does your medical team want to keep seeing you in your pregnancy for appointments? Rangi and Ali discuss all the different things the medical team get up to in your appointment and behind the scenes to ensure you and your baby are best monitored for the best start to life and parenthood.

So you've just found out your pregnant through a home pregnancy test (or planning for this step) - what comes next? Listen in as Ali and Rangi discuss the next steps, including making that first GP appointment, taking vitamins, and sharing the news with your support network.

Please note that this episode briefly mentions miscarriage/pregnancy loss, which can be distressing to some listeners. Resources are available such as through Sands Australia via their webpage www.sands.org.au or their 24/7 phone support - 1300 308 307.

"Prepare" is the Mercy Perinatal podcast dedicated to helping parents prepare for the journey of pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood. “Prepare” is hosted by Dr Rangi De Silva (specialist female obstetrician and gynaecologist) and Alison Abboud (registered midwife and nurse) who are joined by special guests along the way. 

So, who are Rangi and Ali? How did they get to where they are now? What is Mercy Perinatal? What is Prepare? Have a listen and all will be revealed!