Let's get real. More often than not, when a mom gives birth, the focus from loved ones and, sadly, most health care professionals, shifts completely to the baby. As a result, the maternal health space tends to focus on common concerns pertaining to the after effects of birthing and thereafter, it's generally check ups for the baby and mom as far as her body's health.

However, in this episode, Simeca speaks with relationship coach, Chelsea Skaggs and women's health physiotherapist, Kimberly Hoffman where they highlight why it's important to continue to focus on mom as much as baby.

From the relationship standpoint, Chelsea speaks about the changes that occur for relationship dynamics and strategies that parents and partners can implement to adjust.

From the physiotherapy perspective, Kimberly speaks on the importance of pelvic floor exercises and the positive impact it can have for mothers.

Key takeaways include:

- Acknowledging what normal looks like - what it was versus what it is in the current moment.

- Focusing on communication improvements with your partner as mind-reading is not real.

- As much as the process and experience in beautiful, it's not always pretty and glamourous. In fact, it's rarely a glamourous experience.

- Set realistic expectations for your process into motherhood leading up to birth and after. For example, the physical changes of the body, and the interpersonal changes within the unionwith your partner.

Yes, these conversations and more are part of maternal health. The experience doesn't exist in a vacuum.

Both guests highlight that seeking help from a relationship coach and women's health physiotherapist at all phases - before, during, AND after the birth of your bundle(s) of joy.

This episode might open some eyes and minds as to why maternal health goes beyond the cliché. Tune in and leave us a comment or two!