The real importance of prenatal exercise

A woman running on the trails

The year is 2025…and there is still so much confusion about exercise during pregnancy. Should you limit your heart rate? Do you need to give up heavy lifting? Are yoga and swimming my best options? Let’s dive into the research here. The Evidence-Based Benefits of Prenatal Exercise According to the American College of Obstetricians and […]

The problem with cycle syncing

Cycle syncing is a common topic on many social media pages that focus around women’s health. They often discuss how to make your workouts work with your menstrual cycle. You may see posts that say things like “Rest during your period, Train harder during your follicular phase because your hormones are similar to a mans, push […]

Is bloating ever normal? + things I’m sick of on social media…

Starting off hot – I’m really tired of seeing “hot girl IBS” as a trend on social media. Yes it is funny and relatable (trust me – I am one of many with a past IBS diagnosis) – but constant severe bloating, urgent diarrhea, and chronic constipation are not normal. And girl, if you are […]

How to support your luteal phase

A happy Ellyn walks up a hill

First of all – what is your luteal phase? Your luteal phase is the second half of your menstrual cycle. Your luteal phase begins immediately after ovulation. This phase involves the peak then fall of estrogen + progesterone. Your body is preparing your uterus for pregnancy, if a pregnancy does not happen – your period […]

Your pelvic floor during pregnancy!

A happy Ellyn walks up a hill

We talk sooo much about your pelvic floor during birth + postpartum – but what changes are happening during pregnancy? Your pelvic floor has 5 main functions:– Sump pump: involved in blood flow and lymphatic drainage.– Sexual function: involved with rhythmic contractions during orgasm, too much tension or irritation can lead to issues with intimacy/intercourse.– […]

How to start running in postpartum

Running is commonly one of the first types of exercise women resume in postpartum. Running is a single leg impact activity, that has demands on your core and pelvic floor – which have all been affected during birth! It deserves guidance as running is started in postpartum! Keep in mind, this is general and not […]

The ebbs and flows of labor…

a doula supporting a woman in labor

As much as we love to *think* labor progresses in a perfectly linear manner…it actually doesn’t! It is normal for labor to have ebbs and flows. Early labor may not have very consistent contractions, or they may start and stop. There may be a natural pause as you reach transition, or right before pushing. Your […]