Brimful

S2 E7: Navigating the Genitourinary Syndrome of Lactation with Dr. Sinead Dufour

Genitourinary Syndrome of Lactation: The Postpartum Symptom Nobody Talks About
Episode SummaryMany postpartum parents expect sleep deprivation and feeding challenges, but far fewer are warned about vaginal dryness, irritation, urinary symptoms, or discomfort with intimacy while breastfeeding. These symptoms are increasingly being described as Genitourinary Syndrome of Lactation (GSL), a condition linked to the hormonal shifts that occur during lactation.
In this episode, Pamela sits down with pelvic health physiotherapist Professor Sinead Dufour to explore what’s happening in the body during the postpartum period and why so many breastfeeding parents experience changes in their pelvic and vaginal health.
Together, they discuss how the hormonal environment of lactation (particularly lower estrogen levels) can affect vaginal tissue, lubrication, and urinary comfort. They also talk about how these symptoms are often misunderstood or dismissed, leaving many parents feeling confused or unsupported.
This conversation normalizes an experience that is far more common than most people realize and offers practical, evidence-informed guidance for parents navigating postpartum recovery while breastfeeding.
 
In This Episode
What Genitourinary Syndrome of Lactation is and why the term is gaining attention
Why breastfeeding hormones can affect vaginal and urinary tissues
Common symptoms, including dryness, irritation, pain with sex, and urinary discomfort
How these symptoms are sometimes misdiagnosed or overlooked
The difference between normal postpartum healing and symptoms that need support
Practical strategies that may improve comfort during the breastfeeding period
The role of pelvic floor physiotherapy in postpartum recovery
When it may be helpful to speak with a healthcare provider
Why pelvic health conversations need to be part of routine postpartum care
 
About the Guest
Sinead Dufour is an Associate Clinical Professor, Rehabilitation Science at McMaster University, and a pelvic health physiotherapist who supports individuals through pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and other pelvic health concerns. Her work focuses on helping people better understand their bodies while providing practical tools for healing, comfort, and long-term pelvic health.
 
 
Connect & Learn More:
 
Dr. Sinead Dufour, PhD:
Website: https://experts.mcmaster.ca/people/sdufour
Instagram: @dr.sinead 
Embodia: https://embodiaapp.com
 
Pamela Tessmann, IBCLC:
Website: www.brimfamilycare.com
Socials: @brim.familycare
Buy me a Coffee: www.buymeacoffee.com/brim.familycare

S2 E6 Rethinking Exercise After Baby with Dr. Davenport

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Margie Davenport, a leading Canadian researcher in perinatal physical activity and a professor at the University of Alberta. Dr. Davenport directs the Pregnancy and Postpartum Health Research Program, where her work focuses on how movement, rest, and recovery affect parents and babies from preconception through the first year postpartum.
We begin by exploring how Dr. Davenport came to this work and why the postpartum period has long been under-researched despite being such a critical time for physical and mental health. From there, we dive into the newly released 2025 Canadian Guidelines for Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour, and Sleep During the First Year Postpartum.
A major focus of this conversation is the relationship between exercise and breastfeeding. Dr. Davenport breaks down what the research actually shows about milk supply, milk quality, infant growth, injury risk, and the long-standing myths around lactic acid and “exercise ruining breast milk.” We also discuss nutrition, hydration, breast support during activity, and practical ways parents can move their bodies without pressure or unrealistic expectations.
We then zoom out to look at mental health and sleep. Dr. Davenport shares compelling evidence that even small amounts of physical activity in the early postpartum period are associated with meaningful reductions in postpartum depression and improvements in sleep quality. Importantly, this episode reinforces that postpartum recovery is not linear, not universal, and not something to rush.
This conversation is a grounding, evidence-based reminder that postpartum care must be individualized, compassionate, and supported at the family and societal level.
Helpful Links & Resources
Dr. Margie Davenport – University of Alberta Exercise & Pregnancy Program
https://www.ksr.ualberta.ca/exerciseandpregnancy/
2025 Canadian Guidelines for Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour, and Sleep During the First Year Postpartumhttps://csepguidelines.ca/postpartum/
General Information on Physical Activity During Pregnancy & Postpartum (Health Canada)https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health-promotion/healthy-living/physical-activity.html
 
Connect with host Pamela Tessmann
www.brimfamilycare.com
hello@brimfamilycare.com
Support the Podcast
If you value evidence-based conversations like this and want to support the ongoing work of Brim Lactation & Family Care and the Brimful podcast, you can do so here:
Buy Me a Coffee – Brim Lactation & Family Carehttps://buymeacoffee.com/brim.familycare
Your support helps keep thoughtful, research-informed conversations about infant feeding, mental health, and family care accessible.

S2 E5 Navigating Holiday Feeding When Your Breastfed Baby Has Food Reactivity — with Dr. Trill

The holidays can be a joyful - and challenging - time for parents of breastfed babies, especially when food reactivity is involved. In this episode, I chat with Dr. Trill from Free to Feed, an expert in supporting families navigating infant food sensitivities.Dr. Trill walks us through:How to identify true food reactivity versus what might be latching difficultiesWhat an elimination diet might look likeTips for managing your own nutrition and well-beingStrategies to enjoy holiday meals without stress or guiltWhat to expect long-termThis episode is full of evidence-backed, practical guidance to help you feel confident and supported. Be sure to share it with your support people or your friends and family who may be navigating these challenges.Connect with Dr. Trill:Website: https://www.freetofeed.com Social Media: @free.to.feedConnect with Pamela:Website: www.brimfamilycare.comSocial Media: @brim.familycare Support The Brimful Podcast:buymeacoffee.com/brim.familycare

S2 E4: Neurodivergent Care in the Perinatal Season with Doula Alix Meyers

In this episode, Pamela sits down with Alix Meyers, doula and founder of Tenderly, a practice dedicated to supporting neurodivergent families through fertility, pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Alix shares her path from a career in marketing to becoming a doula, the journey of discovering neurodivergence within her own family, and how her lived experience shaped the neuro-affirming lens she brings to her work.Together, Pamela and Alix explore the sensory, communication, and executive-function realities that can shape a birthing or postpartum experience, especially for those who may not yet realize they're neurodivergent. They discuss why so many birthing people don’t receive the support they need, how masking can disguise overwhelm, and how simple shifts in practice can help birth workers provide truly neuro-affirming care.Alex also shares how virtual doula support can be a powerful accessibility tool, what families can expect when working with her online, and the upcoming self-paced birth planning course she’s creating specifically with neurodivergent brains in mind.In this episode:• How Alix discovered her path into birth work• Why neurodivergence often goes unrecognized until the postpartum period• Sensory overload, executive functioning, communication differences, and how they shape the perinatal experience• What “neuro-affirming care” actually means• Tips for advocating for your needs with care providers• How virtual doula support creates accessibility for neurodivergent families• A peek into Alex’s upcoming neuro-affirming birth planning courseIf you or someone you support is navigating pregnancy or postpartum with a neurodivergent lens, this conversation offers clarity, validation, and tools for cultivating a more supported experience.Connect with Alex:Website - https://www.lovetender.ly/Social Media - @lovetender.ly_doulaEmail - alix@alixmyers.comSupport Brim Lactation & Family Care:If you’d like to support the podcast and ongoing educational work, you can do so here:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/brimfamilycareMore episodes, services, and offerings: www.brimfamilycare.com

S2 E3: Why We Don’t Give Permission to Quit, with IBCLCs Erin Dykstra & Pamela Tessmann

In This Episode:How breastfeeding can lower stress hormones and inflammation — key factors linked to depression.How exclusive breastfeeding supports better sleep quality and quantity for mothers.The bidirectional link between mental health and lactation: each impacts the other.The protective effects of breastfeeding for trauma survivors.How poor or dismissive support increases depression risk, and positive support decreases it.Rethinking the idea of “permission to quit” through the lens of autonomy, respect, and real care.References Mentioned:Kendall-Tackett, K. A. (2015). Depression in New Mothers: Causes, Consequences, and Treatment Alternatives. Available via PubMed Central: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4842365/Key findings: Breastfeeding reduces cortisol and inflammation, improves sleep, and protects against depression — especially in trauma survivors.Dennis, C.-L., & McQueen, K. (2016). The relationship between infant-feeding outcomes and postpartum depression: A longitudinal study. CMAJ Open, 4(1), E103–E109. https://www.cmajopen.ca/content/4/1/E103Study of 380 mothers in Calgary: 88% experienced feeding difficulties. When support was perceived as positive, risk of postpartum depression dropped from 14.9% to 5.25%. Negative or dismissive support did not improve outcomes.Connect with us:Host: Pamela Tessmann, IBCLC www.brimfamilycare.ca Instagram: @brim.familycare Buy Me a Coffee to support the show: buymeacoffee.com/brim.familycareGuest: Erin Dykstra, IBCLC Sweet Spot Lactation Instagram: @sweetspotlactationFind a Lactation Consultant in BChttps://bclca.wildapricot.org/

S2 E2: Gentle Cesarean Recovery with Janelle Fontaine, RMT

In this episode, I’m joined by Janelle Fontaine, Registered Massage Therapist and founder of Nurturing the Mother. Janelle's practice focuses on perinatal and postpartum bodywork, helping parents heal, reconnect, and restore balance after pregnancy and birth.Through her hands-on work and teaching, Janelle is transforming how we understand postpartum recovery. She offers specialized post–cesarean and scar tissue massage, and she also trains other RMTs and health professionals to provide this essential care in their own practices.We talk about what real postpartum recovery looks like, the often-overlooked impact of c-section scars, and how compassionate touch can help rebuild trust and connection within the body after birth.Whether you’re a new parent, a perinatal professional, or someone passionate about holistic healing , this conversation will leave you feeling grounded, inspired, and deeply seen.What inspired Janelle to create Nurturing the MotherThe power of bodywork in postpartum and cesarean recoveryCommon misconceptions about c-section scars and healing timelinesThe emotional side of postpartum touch and body reconnectionHow Janelle teaches other RMTs to support postpartum clientsWhy postpartum recovery deserves the same care and attention as birth itselfWebsite: www.nurturingthemother.caInstagram: @nurturingthemotherCourses and Resources:The Cesarean Recovery Guide (for parents and clients):nurturingthemother.thinkific.com/courses/the-cesarean-recovery-guide NTM: Cesarean Massage & Rehab for Health Care Providers (for RMTs and professionals):nurturingthemother.thinkific.com/courses/NTM-CesareanMassage&RehabforHCPsConnect with Pamela Tessmann, IBCLC:Website: brimlactation.caInstagram: @brim.familycareSupport the Brimful Podcast:buymeacoffee.com/brim.familycare

S2 E1: Lactation for the Rest of Us: A Conversation with Jacob Engelsman, IBCLC

In this episode of Brimful, Pamela sits down with Jacob Engelsman, IBCLC, (He/Him) - lactation consultant, educator, and author of Lactation for the Rest of Us - to talk about making infant feeding support more inclusive, accessible, and rooted in real-life experiences.Jacob shares what inspired his book, the gaps he sees in traditional lactation education, and how we can move toward care that celebrates diversity and meets families where they are. Together, Pamela and Jacob discuss breaking down barriers in the field, centering compassion over perfection, and building a culture of feeding support that truly fits the rest of us.Whether you’re a parent, perinatal professional, or advocate for family-centered care, this episode offers insight, honesty, and a refreshing perspective on what inclusive lactation support can look like.Learn more about Jacob’s (He/Him) work:Website: https://www.lactationfortherestofus.comInstagram: @lactationfortherestofusConnect with Pamela (She/Her) (Host):Website: https://www.brimfamilycare.caInstagram: @brim.familycareSupport this podcast and the work we do:buymeacoffee.com/brim.familycare

S1 Ep. 6 Unlocking Restful Nights with Cayla Solomon

In this episode, we sit down with Cayla Solomon, the compassionate and knowledgeable founder of Sleeping Beauties. Cayla is dedicated to transforming sleep for individuals and families through her unique, holistic approach. Her philosophy centers on addressing the root causes of sleep disruptions while considering family dynamics and paramedical factors, offering a truly bespoke and sustainable path to better rest.The Science of Sleep: Cayla shares key insights into why sleep challenges occur and how they impact overall well-being.Holistic Solutions: Discover how Cayla’s approach goes beyond conventional sleep training to address every aspect of a family’s life, ensuring no root issue is overlooked.Empowering Families: Hear real-life stories of how Cayla has supported families in regaining control of their sleep and mental health.Practical Advice: Get tips and actionable strategies for improving sleep, even in complex or unique situations.Parents struggling with their child’s sleep patterns.Individuals experiencing personal sleep challenges.Anyone curious about the connection between sleep, mental health, and family dynamics.Cayla Solomon is a sleep expert with a difference. Through Sleeping Beauties, she offers unbiased, tailored support that avoids one-size-fits-all solutions. Cayla’s dedication to empowering families and addressing the deeper causes of sleep disruption has made her a trusted guide for achieving long-lasting change.🌐 Visit her website: Sleeping Beauties📸 Follow her on Instagram: @OfficialSleepingBeauties📧 Connect with Cayla: Send her a messageA downloadable sleep progression guide: Get Your Free Guide HereWorkbook: Transform Contact to Independent Sleep. Get yours for only $27 HereWe’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode!Join the Conversation: Share your sleep challenges or breakthroughs by tagging us on Instagram @brim.familycareLeave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, rate and review our podcast! Your feedback helps us bring more valuable content to listeners like you.Follow Us: Stay connected for more episodes on perinatal mental health, parenting, and wellness:Instagram: @brim.familycareWebsite: brimfamilycare.comTune in now and unlock the secrets to a good night's sleep! 🌙

S1 Ep. 5 The Power of Touch: Baby Massage, Post-Surgical Healing and More with Kirsten Werner

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Kirsten Werner, RMT, owner of Cumberland Village Wellness and founder of Wellness Business Coaching. Kirsten shares her inspiring journey from certified aromatherapy massage practitioner in 2001 to becoming a Registered Massage Therapist in 2008, and how she has built a thriving practice deeply rooted in the Comox Valley community.We dive into her unique offerings, including infant and toddler massage classes, post-surgical care for mastectomy, top surgery and c-section patients. Kirsten also reveals her passion for teaching—helping parents connect through touch and guiding wellness practitioners to create sustainable, successful businesses.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The incredible benefits of baby and toddler massage for connection, development, and relaxation.How Kirsten supports clients recovering from surgeries, including her specialized training for mastectomy care.The role of therapeutic c-section massage in postpartum recovery and wellness.Kirsten’s approach to helping wellness practitioners build aligned, profitable practices.Her connection to the community fuels her work.Connect with Kirsten Werner:Website: Cumberland Village WellnessInstagram: @cumberlandvillagewellness & @wellnessbusinesscoachingWellness Business Coaching: Learn more hereResources Mentioned in This Episode:Mastectomy Guide for Health Professionals trainingInfant Massage classes and workshopsGet Involved:Love this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your community. Let us know what resonated most by tagging us on Instagram @brim.familycare or connect with us at our website www.brimfamilycare.comLet Kirsten’s passion and expertise inspire your journey in wellness, whether you’re seeking healing touch for yourself or tools to build a fulfilling business.Tune in and let the healing begin!

S1 Ep. 4 Perinatal Mental Health with Tasha Page

In this episode, we delve into the critical but often overlooked topic of perinatal mental health, discussing the challenges faced by both parents during the perinatal period. We'll explore perinatal mood disorders, such as postpartum depression and anxiety, and how they impact not only mothers but fathers and partners as well.Our special guest, Tasha Page, a registered social worker specializing in perinatal mental health, gives us an inside look at what a typical counseling session looks like with her. She shares her approach to providing compassionate, personalized care and guiding parents through their emotional struggles during infertility, pregnancy and postpartum. Tasha also talks about her fertility support group, which provides a safe, supportive space for individuals and couples navigating the often difficult and emotionally taxing journey of infertility.Whether you're a parent, parent-to-be, or someone facing fertility challenges, this episode offers valuable insights and resources for mental health and emotional well-being during the perinatal period.Tune in to learn more about how you can prioritize mental health during one of life’s most transformative experiences.Credits:Produced by: Pamela TessmannMusic by: PK TessmannContact info: Tasha Page - www.glaciercounselling.com, hello@glaciercounselling.comPamela Tessmann - www.brimfamilycare.com, hello@brimfamilycare.comBooks Recommendations:I had a miscarriage Jessica ZuckerGood Moms have Scary Thoughts- Karen KliemanFor something a little more academic: In (M)other Words, Andrea O'ReilyHow to Keep House While Drowning, KC Davis The book Tasha is working on is slated to be called Barren: An Exploration of the Journey to Parenthood and will be published by Demeter press next year (2025). They have a number of amazing books on the experience of mothering, pregnancy loss, etc https://demeterpress.org/Recommended Resources to Have Listed Nearby:Emergency Mental Health 9-88 Call or text 24/7 Crisis LineText: 250-800-3806 6pm – 10pm 7 days per weekCall: 1-888-494-3888 24/7 Postpartum Support Internationalwww.postpartum.nethelpline for access to resources: 1.800.944.4773-        Access to online resources in multiple languages-        Online support groups on a wide variety of topics-        Local support and specialized coordinators-        Directory of therapists with training specific to perinatal mental health Pacific Post Partum Support Societywww.postpartum.orgHelp line to speak to a support Counselor: 1-855-255-7999-        Online support groups.-        Excellent online resources with information about perinatal mental health for all members of the family in multiple languages.