Bump & Beyond: The Blog

Tam Carrington | Midwife + Mum | All things pregnancy, birth & beyond!

5 Things Pregnant Me Did That Postpartum Me Is Forever Grateful For

    Postpartum is one of the biggest transitions you’ll experience as a new parent, yet it’s often the part many families feel least prepared for. Looking back at my own experience as both a midwife and a mum, there are a few simple things I did during pregnancy that made those early weeks with a newborn feel far more manageable. They weren’t complicated, but they created a sense of support and calm during a time that can otherwise feel overwhelming. If you’re currently expecting and wondering how to prepare for postpartum, these are five things your future self will be incredibly grateful for.

    My Second Birth Story: A Positive and Empowering Vaginal Breech Birth

      At 36 weeks pregnant, I discovered my baby was breech and suddenly, the birth I had prepared for so intentionally felt uncertain. This isn’t a story about everything going to plan. It’s my honest and ultimately positive vaginal breech birth story - one shaped by informed choice, advocacy and deep trust in my body. If you’re navigating a breech diagnosis or facing unexpected decisions in pregnancy, I hope this story reminds you: you are allowed to ask questions, explore your options and choose what feels right for you.

      Should I Express Antenatally? Here's What You Need to Know

        Have you heard of antenatal expressing? This blog explains why expressing colostrum before birth can help with early feeding, newborn health, and postpartum confidence - especially if you’re navigating gestational diabetes, a small baby, or want to feel more prepared. Learn when to start, how to do it, and why it’s 100% okay if it’s not for you.

        My First Birth Story: A Positive and Empowering Hospital Birth as a Midwife and First-Time Mum

          As a midwife, I’ve supported countless women through birth but becoming a mum myself changed everything. In this deeply personal birth story, I share what it was really like giving birth for the first time in the hospital system: the doubts, the intensity of transition, the moment I begged for an epidural… and the overwhelming pride I felt when I realised I could do it. This wasn’t a perfect birth. It was raw, powerful and transformative - and it reminded me that positive hospital births are absolutely possible when you feel informed, supported, and empowered.

          Why the Mess Can't Wait: Understanding the Mental Load of Motherhood and How to Ease It Postpartum

            Some people say "the mess can wait" but for many new mums, clutter adds to the overwhelm. I share why tidying helped me feel calmer in postpartum, how cleaning can look different during the newborn stage and how to reduce the mental load and bring more peace into your early motherhood journey.

            Am I Too Big or Too Small? Understanding Your Bump In Pregnancy

              Worried your bump looks too big or too small - or changes throughout the day? Here's why that's normal, what actually matters for baby's growth and how to trust your unique pregnancy journey.

              What to Do When a Contraction Hits: 6 Calming Tips for Labour

                When a contraction hits, your instinct might be to tense up and brace but that can actually make labour more intense. Learn how breathing, movement and relaxation can help you work with your body during labour and feel more confident and in control.

                How to Tell If Your Breastfed Baby Is Getting Enough Milk

                  Wondering if your breastfed baby is getting enough milk? You're not alone. This guide will help you spot the signs of healthy feeding, ease your worries and build trust in your body and your baby.

                  5 Reasons Why It's Time to Retire the Phrase "Just Wait Until..." in Motherhood

                    "Just wait until..." is one of the most common phrases women hear in motherhood and one of the most disempowering. Let's explore why it's time to retire this phrase for good. From pregnancy to postpartum, discover how we can support mums with compassion, not caution - and flip the script to something more helpful.

                    “You Can Say No”: Reclaiming Your Power in Pregnancy and Birth

                      We’re often taught from a young age to nod, smile, and say yes to anything a doctor recommends but pregnancy isn’t the time to silence your instincts. Whether it’s declining a test, questioning a procedure, or protecting your birth space, you always have a choice. In this blog, we’re breaking down the hidden power dynamics in the maternity system and sharing 5 powerful reasons why saying “no” is not only okay - but essential. Knowledge is power, and your experience deserves to be led by you.

                      The 6 Essential Ways Your Partner Can Support You Postpartum (And How to Start the Conversation)

                      Postpartum isn’t a solo journey - it’s a team effort. This blog shares 6 practical ways your partner can support you after birth, plus a free guide to help you prepare together.

                      What Are Models of Maternity Care in Australia?

                        Confused about choosing a maternity care model? This evidence-based guide helps you find the option that aligns with your values and needs.

                        Bump & Beyond

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