PregTASTIC Online Radio

You’ve chosen to have a hospital birth. What are the routine hospital procedures for both you and your newborn after childbirth? What steps are mandatory and what choices can you make to ensure a more natural experience? OB/GYN Dr. Robert Biter discusses important options available to you and your baby. Plus, PregTASTIC's host and producer, Sunny Gault, says goodbye to the show and to fans.

While there are many birthing options available for soon-to-be moms, many choose to give birth in a hospital. And while there are some standard procedures, you still have choices about the type of care you want. Today OB/GYN Dr. Robert Biter explores what options you have during labor and delivery, to help ensure the best experience for both you and your baby.

Pregnancy has been described as one of the biggest roller coaster rides of all time! You may find yourself tumbling and turning with huge highs, extreme lows and twists and turns of all kinds. And that’s what this episode is all about. It’s time to get real ladies. 

PregTASTIC partners with Natural Baby Pros to empower expectant women with amazing birth stories. In this episode, Natasha tells us about her decision to give birth at home, naturally, with loved ones nearby. How did she overcome her doubts and deliver her baby boy Jax, despite having some unknown problems with her placenta? Plus, learn how you can empower other pregnant women through an online auction!

The pelvic floor plays a crucial role in the body, and it can be greatly impacted by childbirth. What are the different layers and how do those layers help your body? How can tears and episiotomys effect how those layers function? What are kegals and how can they help prepare your body before labor and repair your body afterward? Physical therapist, Catherine Veeser, shares some great tips for keeping your body healthy and strong.

If you've ever had your cervix manually dilated, you may be at risk for having cervical scar tissue. Increased amounts of scarring may prevent you from having a successful vaginal birth. It's an issue few people are talking about, yet it's impacting women everywhere. How do you know if you have cervical scar tissue? What can be done about it to ensure you have the birth you desire? Doula Dawn Thompson shares her personal experience with this problem and her success in overcoming it.

If you're struggling with infertility, you're not alone. Fortunately, there's a non-invasive approach that's helping women all over the world. It's called hypnofertility and it helps eliminate all the unhealthy messages which may prevent you from becoming pregnant. Can it relieve physical issues as well? Will it resolve "unexplained infertility"? And does it work with men? Hypnotherapist Carol Yeh-Garner explores the benefits of this new treatment.

The joy of feeling your baby kick... and knowing it's not just indigestion! Find out which mama-to-be is able to pick up on the signs better in her second pregnancy. Has another panelist actually experienced "the perfect pregnancy"? Is that even possible? Planning a homebirth proves easier when one of our panelists find the perfect midwife. Plus, Sunny and Rachele announce the gender of their babies.

Former PregTASTIC Panelist, Amy, recently gave birth to her first child, a beautiful baby girl. Did she make it past her due date? What other important person in her life gave birth on the same day? What does she think started her labor and what did the doctor say that completely shocked her? Plus breastfeeding woes and how she overcame them.

To become the best mom possible, we draw from our own personal experiences. But, what happens when the relationship with your own mother is strained? How can you overcome these emotional obstacles? Can simply trying not to "be like your parents" backfire? And what does it mean to be a "good enough parent"? Psychologist Jennifer Schere sheds some light on this important topic, submitted by a PregTASTIC listener.

Weaning is simply part of the breastfeeding process. But, when should you start? Which feedings should you eliminate first and why? And how can the medication sudafed help with the whole process? Plus, do you need to wean once you become pregnant? Robin Kaplan from the San Diego Breastfeeding Center shares some tips to help moms with their breastfeeding challenges.

Our PregTASTIC Panelists bare it all. Who's bladder is waking her up eight times each night? With only two months to go, which panelist is having a hard time choosing a baby name? Who just felt their baby kick at 15 weeks? When it comes to maternity clothes, should you lend them to friends? Plus, the challenges of searching for a new home while pregnant and our attempts to still be a good mom to the children we already have while our body prepares for the next one.

A rosy glow isn't the only thing that happens to a woman's skin during pregnancy. Perhaps you're one of many women experiencing chloasma (the pregnancy mask) or acne? What can you do to prevent or reduce these and other skin conditions such as spider veins, skin tags and the dreaded stretchmarks? Annette Rubin, co-founder of Belli, gives us some great advice. Plus, your chance to win one of Belli's most popular products!

PregTASTIC Panelist Michelle is back to share her birth story. Did she get an epidural or go med-free as she fantasized about? What was the one question she never expected the nurses to ask? And what does grilled cheese have to do with any of it? Plus, how milk allergies make breastfeeding a little more challenging.

Did you know a mother's behavior during pregnancy can impact the way her baby's genes express themselves? It's all part of a new science called "Epigenetics". Will eating fattening food increase your child's odds of becoming obese? Can exercise strengthen your baby's mind? Does breastfeeding have long term effects? Jena Pincott, author of the book "Do Chocolate Lovers Have Sweeter Babies?" shares more about this exciting science of pregnancy. Plus, your chance to win a free copy of her book!

Our PregTASTIC panelists are back to share their current pregnancy high and lows. Who has to get up every couple hours at night to pee? Which panelist has pregnancy to thank for her new pair of "porn star" boobs? And which pregnant mama-to-be has the constant urge to spit? Plus, we're chatting via video skype with a listener in Houston, Texas... and the winners of our Belli contest are revealed!

Managing relationships, your job and your new role in parenthood should be smooth, happy and healthy- and that's the goal of pregnancy concierge and baby planning services. Looking for a doula? Need personal breastfeeding tips? How about an extra hand with childcare? Today we'll explore how these services can help you prepare for life with your newborn. Plus, some great stroller, bottle and baby carrier recommendations from the ABC Kids Expo!

It happens to the best of us. You and your beautiful bump are minding your own business, when suddenly you hear an outrageous statement from a complete stranger. "Was it planned?" "Are you sure you're not having twins?" "You look like you're ready to pop!" Today our brave panelists and facebook fans share their most horrifying stories.

For many women, the toughest part of pregnancy is dealing with morning sickness. What exactly is morning sickness and what causes it? How about ways to prevent it? Nux Vomica? Ginger? Preggie pops? Plus, a 48 hour morning sickness remedy that will help you feel better throughout your pregnancy!

Taking maternity leave soon? One of our panelists shares what to expect from your boss. Some spot bleeding sends another mommy-to-be to her doctor. Did everything turn out ok? Handicap parking when pregnant? Yes, it's possible. Find out how you can apply. Plus, your chance to win pregnancy body wash and body lotion from our partners at Belli Skincare.

It's the question most pregnant women ask themselves throughout their pregnancy, "Am I normal? Do other pregnant women feel the same way I do?" Well, you're not alone. While each pregnancy is different, most of us seem to struggle with the same issues including health and nutrition, finances and what life will be like once your little one arrives. Today we'll explore some of the common questions we ask ourselves during our nine month waiting period.

Designing your baby’s nursery can be a daunting process- especially of you’re a first time parent. What are the must-have items and what can you live without? What kind of crib should you buy? Do you really need all that baby bedding? How can you arrange the furniture to save space? Plus, some money saving tips allowing you to design your perfect nursery without breaking the bank.

We all know it’s important to “eat right” when pregnant, but what exactly does that mean? Today we're exploring the five must-have foods every pregnant woman should have on her grocery list... and there are some shockers! How do these foods help you and your baby, and what are some great ways to prepare them? What are some options for vegans and vegetarians? Plus, we'll answer some of your top questions about what you should and shouldn't eat while pregnant.

Our PregTASTIC panelists are baring it all. Who's experiencing extreme hot flashes in her second trimester? Which panelist has strange cramps and pains in the morning after sleeping through the night? Is itching during early pregnancy normal? Plus, a surprise announcement from Sunny and a video skype call from our special guest in Hong Kong.

Cloth or disposable? When we're pregnant, we spend lots of time trying to figure out which option is best for our babies. What if there was a more natural approach to pottying that actually works with your child's own instincts? Elimination Communication is all about using timing, cues and your motherly instinct to address your baby's elimination needs. But how does it work? And is it right for you? Two moms, who practice elimination communication with their own children, share their experience with our PregTASTIC panel.

PregTASTIC panelist, Mercedes, is back to share her birth story at age 40. Did her boy arrive on the 4th of July like everyone wanted? What song was playing in the operating room the moment her son was born? Plus, what happened to make it impossible for Mercedes to encapsulate her placenta?

Nobody ever said childbirth was going to be easy. In fact, most of us probably think about the worse case scenarios as our due date draws near. That's exactly what www.thebump.com explores in their recent article Top 10 Labor and Delivery Fears. So, what’s your biggest fear when it comes to labor and delivery? Today we’re checking in with our PregTASTIC panelists and our facebook fans to find out.

Our PregTASTIC panelists share the highs and lows of their pregnancies. Which panelist had a "baby overload" and literally took a break from all things baby-related? Whose chiropractic appointment and prenatal message helped to relieve her intense backaches? One panelist prepares for her amniocentesis while another preps her nursery. Plus, two new preggies join the PregTASTIC team!

PregTASTIC Panelist Theresa is back to share her birth story. Did she succeed at a planned VBAC? What was her husband's clever way of sharing the birthing experience with family and friends around the country? How is their older son adapting to the family's new addition? And why did Theresa feel like she was starving her baby?

Whether you're planning to go natural or you prefer the medicinal route, we have some great pain relief options to help you throughout your labor and delivery. What are some simple ways to change up your room to make it more relaxing? What positions seem to help relieve the pain? What is a tens machine and how can it help? Plus, an anesthesiologist explains how epidurals impact your body, your baby and breastfeeding.

Are you planning on having two (or more) kids under the age of two? If so, then you'll be part of a growing trend known as "baby bunching". But what type of parents are best suited for this lifestyle? Dr. Frederick Johnson, Chief of Pediatrics at Sharp Mary Birch Hospital (and self-proclaimed baby buncher) gives some great parenting tips including how to feed both kids at once, how to handle nap times and sleep schedules, as well as additional advice he's learned as a parent to five children.

Many changes happen during pregnancy, both emotional and physical. Sometimes fully embracing these changes is easier said than done- especially when it comes to our own body image. Today, Dr. Jennifer Schere, a psychologist specializing in women’s issues, explores the importance of looking at your body differently during pregnancy. How do we make this mental shift? How can we stop being so judgmental of our own bodies, and how do we know if we really need a professional to help get us through these difficult times?

Former PregTASTIC panelists are back to share things they wish they had known before their babies were born. How do you conquer initial fears of the pain associated with labor and delivery? When is the best time to try on pre-pregnancy jeans to see if you've lost the baby weight? Also, great tips for creating your birth plan (or avoiding one altogether) and encouraging words for moms whose babies are having trouble breastfeeding.

This mother of three gives birth to her first son. How did her "Made in America" birthing experience compare to her previous pregnancies in Germany? Did she make it past her due date as she confidently predicted? And who was keeping the delivery room laughing throughout her labor? Former PregTASTIC panelist Jane is back with her husband Johannes to share their birth story.

Having a baby changes everything. But before you give birth, you probably have some items you’d like to cross off your “to-do” list. It’s called a Baby Bucket List. Today we'll learn more about these lists and hear what items our panelists are hoping to accomplish before their babies arrive.

Forget regular maternity photos, find out which one of our panelists is baring it all for her intimate photo shoot. Morning sickness returns for one of our girls during her third trimester! Plus, fears about taking maternity leave- what will your colleagues think? And what in the world is a baby celebration? Our panelists are back to share their current pregnancy ups and downs.

We're having a no holds barred conversation about intimacy during and after your pregnancy. What positions typically work best to accommodate your growing belly? How can you feel sexy again after giving birth? Do kegels really help? What about incontinence issues and episiotomy scars? Dr. David Ghozland, OB/GYN, shares some tips on how to dramatic improve your sex life during this important time.

You had a cesarean section with your first baby, and now you're hoping for a VBAC. Is there anything you can do to improve your chances? What are the risks to both mom and baby? And how do you find a hospital that will perform the procedure despite possible legal issues? Dr. Colleen McNally, OB/GYN at Sharp Mary Birch, explains the important facts to help you make an informed decision.

C-section deliveries are on the rise, so it's best to be prepared before your big day. Today we're exploring the top c-section secrets! What does the surgery feel like? What can and can't you do in the operating room? And what can you do to reduce the dreaded c-section scar? Dr. Colleen McNally, an OB/GYN at Sharp Mary Birch, reveals the top things no one ever told you about having a c-section.

Flying while pregnant? We have some perks to helps make your trip more enjoyable. Feeling pressures to reveal your baby's name? You're not the only one. And which of our PregTASTIC panelists is celebrating her 40th birthday, all month long? Our special guest call-in describes what it was like to be pregnant in Japan when the earthquake hit. Plus, our panelists answer your pregnancy-related questions.

PregTASTIC Panelist Heather is back to share the birth story of two beautiful twin girls. Learn more about her planned c-section. Would she do it all over again? What's a cervical cerclage and how does it impact labor and delivery? Plus, her struggles with feeding her newborns and her big battle with the baby blues.

PregTASTIC panelist LaShonda is back to share her birth story. She spent weeks preparing to deliver her baby naturally, so what ultimately happened at the birthing center? How many hours of labor was too many? And why did she try to escape from the hospital in the middle of the night?

Our PregTASTIC panelists are back to share their most recent pregnancy ups and downs. Find out which mommy-to-be was recently thrown a virtual baby shower. Who just passed their three hour glucose tolerance test? And which panelist felt completely overwhelmed when registering for gifts at Babies R Us? Plus, leg cramps, backaches, "belly bras" and much more.

Shopping at any stage of pregnancy can be a lot of fun, but it can also be overwhelming once you're standing in front of that full length mirror. When is the best time during your pregnancy to start shopping? What type of fabrics are most comfortable and easy to maintain? How can you still look professional at the office while accommodating for your growing bump? Plus a breakdown of our maternity must-haves.    

Betsy, our first PregTASTIC panelist to be pregnant with twins, is back to share her birth story. Was she able to avoid the dreaded mixed delivery? Is she able to breastfeed both twins? What was the worst pain of her life that she was not prepared for? Plus, her advice for other mothers expecting twins.

Research shows that many birth defects can be prevented with some advanced planning and be taking precautions throughout your pregnancy. Will a glass of wine really hurt your baby? What about second-hand smoke, hair dye and household cleaning supplies? How does obesity impact your unborn child? Learn more about what's causing the most common birth defects and what you can do to help prevent them.

Our PregTASTIC panelists share their most recent pregnancy ups and downs. Plus, listeners submit their questions to the panel and a special guest call-in from Philadelphia.

We want our babies to have all the benefits of breastmilk, even when we’re not able to provide it. That’s when many moms turn to the pump. Mary Ann Jones, Program Manager for Lactation at Sharp Hospital explores how to properly pump and maintain your milk supply.

When our bodies are sick, many of us turn to conventional medicine to find a cure. However, these prescriptions don’t treat the actual cause for the problem, just the symptom. Pamela Klein, a Homeopathic Practitioner, tells us how homeopathy and its remedies can help heal your body and the body of your baby.

A caring touch is good for everyone, but for babies, the benefits are endless. Kimberly Bianco, a childbirth educator, doula and infant massage instructor, explores tips and techniques for massages that bring immediate and lasting results to your baby.