Dr. Emily Spaeth | Source | CEO, Doctor of Physical Therapy & Lactation Consultant at Be Well Baby PDX
Dr. Emily Spaeth
Dr. Emily Spaeth is a trailblazer in the world of pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and babies. She is the founder and CEO of Be Well Baby PDX. While supporting families as a doctor of physical therapy in the neonatal ICU, Emily saw a deep societal need for a more holistic approach to peripartum care, and decided to blend her background in yoga, massage, and lactation support with her expertise in physical therapy to create a full spectrum peripartum experience for her clients. She runs Beyond Birth: The High Risk Pregnancy Plan where she walks with clients through 6 months of birth and postpartum preparation in a private online community. It's the most comprehensive birth prep out there.
Dr. Emily has worked with countless families helping them prepare for birth, recover from the process, learn about their babies, and settle into this new season of life. Part of that transition includes returning to intimacy after birth. She believes in the process of helping clients find their power when they feel helpless, and as a Certified Trauma Informed Professional, she weaves her passion for trauma-informed care throughout all interactions with her patients and their families.
Specialty Services: Pelvic Floor PT, Craniosacral Therapy, Infant massage, Prenatal/Postpartum Yoga, Lactation Support and more!
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Be Well Baby PDX
CEO, Doctor of Physical Therapy & Lactation Consultant
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The Best Swaddles of 2025 to Help You Achieve Peak Baby Burrito
“Swaddling simulates the deep pressure that was provided by the womb, which allows babies to feel safe,” explains Dr. Emily Spaeth, a physical therapist, lactation consultant and founder and CEO of Be Well Baby PDX. “The pressure of a swaddle helps babies stay asleep for longer stretches.”
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Best Nursing Pads of 2025
Nursing can be wonderful, but it can also be a little messy. When you’re lactating, whether you’re breastfeeding, pumping or a combo of both, you’re bound to experience some milk leakage whenever you’re not actively nursing.
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Hospital Grade Breast Pumps vs. Standard Pumps
As you begin your research into breastfeeding, pumping and the top breast pumps on the market, wading through all of the options can feel overwhelming.
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New Study Highlights Benefits of the "Breast Crawl" for Breastfeeding Success
Dr. Spaeth explains the "breast crawl" as a natural process where newborns use reflexes to find the breast, enhancing breastfeeding success. "Undisturbed breast crawl leads to faster initiation and exclusive breastfeeding," she notes. Alternatives include skin-to-skin contact, even with partners, to support bonding and development. Dr. Spaeth emphasizes observing and supporting the baby's natural instincts. -
Breastfeeding: A Key to Enhanced Infant Development
Dr. Spaeth emphasizes that breastfeeding is crucial for infant development, beyond nutrition and bonding. It enhances motor skills, speech, and social engagement by strengthening orofacial muscles and refining motor pathways. Breastfeeding's complex activity supports better palate formation, reducing risks like sleep apnea. Dr. Spaeth advocates for more therapy and education to support infants unable to breastfeed, ensuring optimal development. -
Navigating Postpartum Hormones: Insights from a Recent Mother
Emily noticed immediate hormonal changes post-birth, including shaking, sweating, and emotional weepiness. She felt more like herself at 12-16 weeks and fully at one year postpartum. Her advice: "Nothing is permanent. Seek support, and remember this is a short chapter in your life." Emily emphasizes the importance of processing emotions with a therapist for postpartum support.
