Sep 25, 2017
<p> In this weeks episode, Elise Knowles
shares the births of her three children. During Elise's first
labour she was dilated to 5cm without even realising she was in
early labour. This pre-labor went on for several days and she ended
up having some acupuncture and a stretch and sweep. Elise was
admitted later that day and was induced to help progress her
labour. 3.5 hours later Raffety was born and despite having an
episiotomy she suffered a third-degree tear. Elise’s recovery was
slow and difficult as she was physically and emotionally drained
from the delivery. She found breastfeeding Raffety very challenging
which she wasn’t expecting and felt unprepared for this challenge.
She shares how there is very little discussion about how difficult
the initial stages of breastfeeding can be and it can lead to
feelings of guilt and failure when it doesn't all go to
plan.</p>
<p> Raffety was a very unsettled baby who was later diagnosed with severe reflux and readmitted to hospital at 6 weeks of age. During this time in the hospital, while Raff recovered from a burnt oesophagus, it became clear to the staff that Elise was struggling emotionally and they advised her that they suspected she had postnatal depression. With the support and encouragement of her husband and mother, Elise was able to seek help and was connected with Better Beginnings. Her therapist diagnosed her with postnatal anxiety. </p>
<p> Elise openly discusses the slow recovery she experienced with her tear and it was at 3mths that she got the courage to try sex again. After trying for 9mths she fell pregnant again with Tabitha. Unlike her first pregnancy Elise shares she felt much sicker with morning sickness with Tabitha and it was a very different pregnancy overall. To hear more about Tabitha’s birth and Delilah’s tune into the podcast……. </p>
<p> Topics covered: 3rd-degree tear, postnatal depression, pelvic floor exercises, obstetrician, breastfeeding, induction, jaundice, prolapse, placenta encapsulation, </p>
<p> Elise Knowles https://www.instagram.com/eliseknowles/ </p>
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<p> Show Sponsors: Franjos Kitchen </p>
<p> The lovely Fran and Jo from Franjos Kitchen are the sponsors of this episode. They are offering listners 20% off their first order with the discount code ABS. https://franjoskitchen.com </p>
<p>If you'd like my FREE guide on perineal massage click HERE</p>
<p>If you'd like my FREE 5-minute breathing exercise click HERE</p>
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