Moon & Mother Podcast

Moon & Mother Podcast

di Kyra Patch
Stagione 1
My Favorite Birth Tools and How to Cope in Labor
Labor doesn’t come with a single magic trick and what works beautifully for one person may be completely useless to another. In this episode, we’re talking about some of my favorite tools for labor, why I love them, when they can be useful, and how to actually use coping techniques instead of simply knowing that they exist. We’ll talk about physical comfort measures, movement, breathing, positioning, touch, temperature, sound, your environment, and the mental side of getting through contractions. Because coping with labor isn’t necessarily about making every contraction painless. Sometimes it’s about learning how to work with your body instead of fighting against it. Your birth toolbox should contain OPTIONS. If something feels amazing, use it. If something makes you want to launch your partner across the room, abandon it. You are allowed to change your mind. Something that felt wonderful at 4 centimeters might be completely unbearable at 8 centimeters. That’s normal. Coping isn’t the same thing as being comfortable. Labor can be intense, overwhelming, emotional, loud, messy, and powerful—and you can still be coping beautifully. Your partner doesn’t have to “fix” labor. Sometimes the most helpful thing they can do is create a calm environment, remind you to breathe, offer physical support, get you water, help you change positions, or simply stay present. Depending on the person, situation, and birth environment, some of my favorite tools include: Birth ball Peanut ball Shower or tub Heating pad or warm compresses Cold washcloths Counterpressure Hip squeezes Massage Movement and position changes Slow, rhythmic breathing Vocalization TENS Rebozo techniques Partner touch Low lighting Music Essential comfort items from home Affirmations or grounding phrases A supportive birth team The goal isn’t to use every tool!
Overstimulated & Over Touched, The Reality of Motherhood
Motherhood is beautiful, but it can also be incredibly overwhelming. In this episode, we’re having an honest conversation about a side of motherhood that isn’t talked about enough: feeling overstimulated and over touched. From constant requests for snacks and attention to being touched all day by babies, toddlers, and even partners, many moms find themselves craving personal space while simultaneously feeling guilty for needing it. If you’ve ever hidden in the bathroom for a few moments of peace, felt overwhelmed by noise, or struggled with sensory overload, this episode is for you. We’ll discuss: • What it really means to be overstimulated as a mom •Why feeling “touched out” is more common than you think • The mental and emotional impact of constant caregiving • Signs your nervous system may need support • Practical ways to create small moments of rest and regulation throughout your day • Letting go of guilt when you need space This episode is a reminder that needing a break doesn’t make you a bad mother it makes you human. You deserve support, rest, and moments to reconnect with yourself outside of your role as “Mom. Whether you’re in the newborn stage, chasing toddlers, or navigating motherhood with older children, this conversation is for you. Connect with me: https://beacons.ai/doulakyra Doula.kyra25@gmail.com
Colic, Reflux & Surviving the Hard Days
In this episode, we’re talking about one of the hardest and most isolating parts of early parenthood caring for a baby struggling with colic, reflux, excessive crying, feeding difficulties, and sleepless nights while trying to survive mentally and emotionally yourself. This conversation is for the parents pacing the floors at 2am, the families being told “it’s normal” when their instincts say something feels off, and the caregivers carrying the emotional weight of trying everything while feeling completely exhausted. We discuss: • What colic actually is and why it can feel so overwhelming • Signs and symptoms of infant reflux • The emotional toll excessive crying can have on parents • How reflux and feeding struggles can impact sleep, bonding, and mental health • The difference between “normal newborn behavior” and when to seek support • Advocacy in medical settings when you feel dismissed • Supporting both baby and parent during difficult postpartum seasons • Coping strategies for surviving the hard days • Why parents deserve support, validation, and rest too This episode is not medical advice, but rather an honest conversation meant to educate, validate, and support families navigating a really difficult chapter. If you’re currently in the thick of it… You are not failing. You are not alone. And your concerns deserve to be heard. Resources & Support: • Speak with your pediatric provider about ongoing feeding concerns, poor weight gain, projectile vomiting, breathing concerns, or persistent distress • Postpartum Support International: Postpartum Support International • Reflux education & parent support: Infant Reflux Information & Support Association (IRIS) Follow along for more postpartum, birth, and motherhood conversations: •Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moonandmotherdoulacare?igsh=bmlrYmhxanh5ZjA5&utm_source=qr •https://beacons.ai/doulakyra
Why Having Me as Your Doula Just Hits Different
Not all doulas are the same and in this episode, I’m breaking down exactly why working with me hits different. This isn’t just about birth support. It’s about advocacy, education, real-life experience, and showing up for you in a way that actually makes a difference. I’m sharing what I bring to the table as both a doula and a mom, how I support my clients through pregnancy, labor, and postpartum, and why personalized, judgment-free care matters more than anything. If you’ve ever wondered what a doula really does or what kind of support you deserve this episode is for you. Email: Doula.kyra25@gmail.com https://beacons.ai/doulakyra
Postpartum Psychosis
Postpartum psychosis is one of the most misunderstood and rarely talked about maternal mental health conditions and yet, it’s one of the most serious. In this episode, we’re opening the door to a conversation many shy away from. Postpartum psychosis doesn’t make someone a bad mother, it means they need urgent care, support, and compassion. Behind the stigma are real families, real pain, and stories that deserve to be told with honesty and humanity. We talk about what postpartum psychosis actually is, the warning signs that should never be ignored, and why early intervention can save lives. This episode is especially close to the heart, shedding light on the reality many suffer in silence. Whether you’re a parent, partner, doula, or someone supporting new families, this is a conversation that could make all the difference. In this episode, we cover: What postpartum psychosis is (and how it differs from postpartum depression and anxiety) Early warning signs and symptoms to look out for Risk factors and when it’s most likely to occur The importance of immediate medical attention and support How partners, family, and providers can respond effectively Breaking stigma and leading with compassion Important Note: Postpartum psychosis is a medical emergency. If you or someone you know may be experiencing symptoms, seek immediate help by calling emergency services or contacting a healthcare provider right away. Awareness saves lives. No one should have to suffer in silence, and no one should have to navigate this alone! More of our resources like our free maternal mental illness presentation can be found here: https://beacons.ai/doulakyra
Dads Matter Too
In a world where motherhood often takes center stage, we sometimes forget the powerful, irreplaceable role fathers play. This episode is a reminder that dads matter too, not just as providers, but as emotional anchors, partners, and active participants in the parenting journey. We’re talking about the unseen weight dads carry, the pressure to “stay strong,” and the lack of support many fathers face especially during pregnancy, postpartum, and early parenthood. From showing up at appointments to navigating their own mental health, dads deserve space, recognition, and support just as much as moms do. Whether you’re a father, co-parent, or someone supporting a growing family, this conversation opens the door to more compassion, understanding, and balance in parenting. Key takeaway: Strong families are built when both parents feel seen, supported, and valued. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a dad or partner who needs to hear this. Let’s start normalizing support for fathers too. find more of our resources here: https://beacons.ai/doulakyra
Let’s Talk About Sex After Birth
Esplicito
Sex after birth is one of the most talked about but least honestly discussed parts of postpartum life. In this episode, we’re breaking it all down in a real, non-judgmental, evidence-based way. We’re talking about why the standard 6-week wait isn’t just a suggestion it’s about healing from a literal internal wound where the placenta detached. Think about it this way: you wouldn’t ignore medical guidance for healing anywhere else in your body your uterus deserves that same care. But healing isn’t just physical. From shifting hormones to sleep deprivation, identity changes, and mental health your desire (or lack of it) makes sense. We normalize all of it here. We also dive into: Why postpartum bodies feel different during sex Vaginal dryness, pelvic floor changes & discomfort The emotional side of intimacy after birth Why you might not feel “ready” at 6 weeks and why that’s okay The reality of increased fertility postpartum (yes, even before your first period) Birth control considerations you may not have thought about And most importantly we explore ways to rebuild intimacy without pressure: connection, communication, touch, and redefining what closeness looks like in this season. This episode is for anyone navigating postpartum recovery, supporting a partner, or wanting honest, shame-free education about sex after birth. link to our other resources: https://beacons.ai/doulakyra
10 cm But Not Ready to Push? Let’s Talk About It
Just listened to this episode and feeling a little overwhelmed? That’s where I come in! Coaching gives you a space to ask questions, talk things through, and actually feel supported not just informed. Because hearing it is one thing… having someone guide you through it is everything. Let’s connect 🤍 Link: https://beacons.ai/doulakyra
Surviving the ‘Is It Time?’ Texts
If you're in the final weeks of pregnancy, you know exactly what I'm talking about. Your phone starts buzzing constantly… “Any baby yet?” “Still pregnant?” “Is today the day?” And while these messages usually come from a place of love and excitement, they can feel overwhelming, frustrating, and even emotionally exhausting when you're already navigating the final stretch of pregnancy. In this episode, we’re talking about how to survive the flood of “Is the baby here yet?” texts without losing your sanity. I’m sharing practical ways to protect your peace, set boundaries, and shift the focus back to what actually matters you, your body, and your baby. In This Episode We Talk About: Why the final weeks of pregnancy can feel mentally heavier than people expect Why constant check-ins can unintentionally add pressure Simple ways to set boundaries with friends and family Scripts you can use when responding to messages Letting go of the pressure to update everyone in real time Protecting your emotional space as you prepare for labor Because the truth is: Babies arrive on their own timeline not the group chat’s. And you deserve the space to experience the end of pregnancy without feeling like you’re constantly reporting in. Resources for Expecting Parents If you’re pregnant or preparing for birth and want more support, education, and real-life tools for navigating pregnancy and postpartum, I’ve created resources just for you. Visit my website to explore: • Birth and postpartum support • Free educational resources for parents • Doula services in New Hampshire and Maine • Helpful tools for navigating pregnancy, birth, and the newborn stage 👉 Check it out here: https://beacons.ai/doulakyra If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to: ⭐ Follow the podcast ⭐ Leave a review ⭐ Share this episode with a pregnant friend who might be drowning in “any baby yet?” texts. And if you're local to New Hampshire or Maine and looking for a doula, I’d love to connect with you.
Jordyn’s Birth Stories
Esplicito
In our longest episode yet, we’re welcoming our very first guest, Jordyn Franke. Jordyn is a military spouse and mom of two who courageously shares her real, raw journey through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. In this episode, Jordyn opens up about the highs, the challenges, and the deeply personal moments that shaped her experiences becoming a mother. From navigating pregnancy to processing her birth experiences and adjusting to postpartum life, her story is honest, powerful, and incredibly important. Real lived experiences matter, and Jordyn’s story is one that so many parents will be able to connect with, learn from, and feel seen by. If you’re pregnant, postpartum, or deep in motherhood, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Interested in sharing your story on the podcast? I’d love to connect. Email me at doula.kyra25@gmail.com to chat about being featured on a future episode. ✨ Because every birth story deserves to be heard!
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