Podcast Episode #217
Pregnancy, Birth & Recovery Story with Charlotte Cushing
Charlotte Cushing is no stranger to the social professional and mental pressures of daily life but nothing could possibly prepare her for motherhood. As a clinical nurse of 10 years, she thought she had the edge over being a mum, however she is here today to share her story and explain what a crazy transition its been!
As a proud representative of Australia not once, but 3 times on the international stage competing in beauty pageants around the world, she has now dived head first into her greatest journey yet of becoming a mother!
Charlotte is a new mum to her premature bundle of joy, Winston Wolf born on March 11th 2024 after her waters broke early at 36 weeks.
She is here to share her own birth story, and talk about the pressures we put on ourselves being a first time mums, along with her new found joy of being a parent with fiancé, Michael Turnbull.
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In this article you'll find tips to:
- Prepare for birth with flexibility to accommodate unexpected situations.
- Maintain fitness during pregnancy to aid in post-birth recovery.
- Learn about childbirth by attending education classes to understand the process and potential complications.
- Manage early breastfeeding challenges with strategies for issues like delayed lactation.
- Listen to your body and adjust activities accordingly during and after pregnancy.
- Seek professional advice when unsure to address any uncertainties or issues.
- Mentally prepare for the significant lifestyle changes that accompany becoming a new parent.
- Understand postpartum recovery and manage physical changes and complications like tearing during childbirth.
Charlotte Cushing
Charlotte Cushing, a seasoned clinical nurse with a decade of experience, never imagined that motherhood could be so overwhelming. Having been in high-pressure environments, both in her professional life and as a three-time international beauty pageant contestant representing Australia, Charlotte thought she was well-prepared for any challenge. However, the transition to motherhood has proven to be her most profound yet. Charlotte is now a proud new mum to her son, Winston Wolf, who made a surprise early arrival in March 2024, after her waters broke at 36 weeks. Together with her fiancé, Michael Turnbull, Charlotte is navigating the joys and pressures of being first-time parents.
Charlotte Cushing’s Pregnancy Journey
Charlotte’s journey into motherhood was marked by a blend of anticipation and the unexpected. Despite her extensive medical knowledge, Charlotte faced the typical uncertainties of a first-time mum, compounded by the early arrival of her son. Her pregnancy was a time of learning and adaptation, balancing her demanding career with the physical changes and preparations for a new life. Charlotte’s active lifestyle, including her involvement in beauty pageants and her rigorous routine as a nurse, provided her with resilience, yet the path was filled with new lessons about her limits and needs.
Charlotte Cushing’s Birth Story
The birth of Winston Wolf was a whirlwind, beginning with the premature rupture of Charlotte’s waters at 36 weeks. Despite her professional background, nothing could have fully prepared her for the realities of childbirth. The experience was fast-paced and intense, with Charlotte undergoing a spinal tap during a relatively quick labour. Her story highlights the unpredictable nature of childbirth and how personal strength and adaptability play crucial roles in navigating these critical moments.
Charlotte Cushing’s Recovery Journey
Postnatal recovery was another area where Charlotte had to recalibrate her expectations and listen intently to her body. Her recovery was significantly influenced by her pre-pregnancy fitness level and the active maintenance of her health throughout her pregnancy. Even with a smooth physical recovery, including managing a second-degree tear, Charlotte faced challenges such as adjusting to breastfeeding, which was complicated by her delayed lactation. Her openness in sharing these experiences provides valuable insights into the complexities of postnatal life.
Charlotte Cushing’s Motherhood Journey
Motherhood has been a profound transformation for Charlotte. It has reshaped her identity from a nurse and beauty queen into a devoted mother, dealing with the daily demands and delights of caring for a newborn. Charlotte discusses the pressures and unrealistic expectations that first-time mothers often face, emphasising the importance of patience, support, and self-care. Her journey underscores the unpredictable, roller-coaster nature of motherhood—a profound, rewarding, and continually evolving adventure.
Charlotte Cushing’s experience shows the life-changing journey of motherhood, filled with challenges, learning, and immense joy. Her story offers encouragement and support to other new mothers navigating this beautiful, albeit daunting, path.
Links:
- Preparing for birth Pelvic health checklist
- Free 7 Day Trial Pregnancy Workouts
- Free 7 Day Trial Postnatal Workouts
- FitNest Mama Website
- Instagram @fitnestmama
- Charlotte Cushing’s Instagram: @charlotte.p.cushing
Today’s Sponsor:
Enter code FITNEST20 for 20% off Solidea’s maternity range. www.solidea.com.au
