06. The Gut Microbiome, Probiotics, and Pregnancy: What the Research Actually Shows
Gut microbiome, probiotics during pregnancy, GBS (Group B Strep), brain-gut connection, vaginal seeding, baby's microbiome — this episode is a deep dive into a topic that deserves way more attention during pregnancy.
In this solo episode, I'm breaking down the gut microbiome and probiotics during pregnancy in simple, non-overwhelming language. We talk about what the microbiome actually is, why it matters so much more than just digestion, and how it connects to your immune system, your hormones, your inflammation, your mental health, and even your baby's long-term health.
I cover the research on probiotics and GBS (Group B Strep), including how certain lactobacillus strains may help support a healthier vaginal microbiome, the fascinating brain-gut connection and why antibiotics can affect your mood, how pregnancy itself changes your microbiome, and how your baby's microbiome develops during and after birth, including options like vaginal seeding for babies born via C-section.
I also share practical, everyday ways to support your gut through food, fermented foods, fiber, and probiotics, without needing to buy into expensive wellness culture or feel overwhelmed. My hope is that this episode helps you feel more informed and more connected to your body, and reminds you just how intelligent your body really is.
WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@gentlebeginningsofficial
TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:
- What the microbiome is, and why it plays a role in your pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and your baby's long-term health.
- The brain-gut connection, probiotics and GBS research, and how antibiotics affect your gut and mood.
- How baby's microbiome develops, including vaginal seeding after a C-section, and simple food-based ways to support your gut daily.
CONNECT WITH TOBY:
- Follow Toby on IG: https://www.instagram.com/gentlebeginningsofficial/
- Website: https://www.gentlebeginnings.life/
Need support? Here are a few resources:
- Brain Body Birth Course: https://www.gentlebeginnings.life/bbb
- Free Mindfulness Track: https://www.gentlebeginnings.life/FreeMindfulnessTrack
- Healthy Breakfast Lactation Cookies: https://www.gentlebeginnings.life/cookies
- WhatsApp Community for women who are pregnant or love learning about birth: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DAcXJqhMM0aCCBniRr6VPj
RESEARCH & STUDIES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
- Protective Effect of Lactobacillus crispatus against Vaginal Colonization with Group B Streptococci in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9506259/
- The Benefits of Prebiotics and Probiotics on Mental Health: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10490379/
- The Maternal Gut Microbiome during Pregnancy: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5648614/
- Can Vaginal Seeding at Birth Improve Health Outcomes of Cesarean Section-Delivered Infants? A Scoping Review: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12195427/
About Toby: Toby Deutsch created Gentle Beginnings because she saw how many expectant mothers were entering birth feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and unsure of what to expect. In a world filled with conflicting advice and fear-based stories, it can be difficult to know what to trust or how to prepare in a way that truly supports both mother and baby. Through her work, Toby focuses on something that is often overlooked in traditional childbirth preparation: the powerful connection between the mind, the nervous system, and birth outcomes.
