This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast I'm here to answer a question that I get asked ALL the time in my DMs...what gifts or gift basket items should I get for my labor and delivery team??

While nurse gift baskets are very much appreciated, they absolutely aren’t expected and certainly don’t have any impact on the care you receive during your birth.

But since I do get asked about this topic a lot, I wanted to take a moment to share some potential nurse gift basket ideas with you today! 

Anxious about packing for the hospital?

Grab the FREE Hospital Bag Checklist created by a practicing L&D nurse and feel 10000% certain you’ve got everything you need on the big day!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related Episodes

• EP165: What (and What Not!) to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Birth and a Bit About Eating During Labor

In today’s episode we're diving into a topic that sometimes hides in the shadows — anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum.

Anxiety isn't just confined to the postpartum period; it can weave its way into the fabric of pregnancy too. So in this episode we unravel the layers of anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum, explore natural remedies to ease the journey, and talk about when medication is the right move.

If you or a loved one is suffering from ANY perinatal mood disorder, know that there is help out there. Call your provider right away and let them know that something isn't right.

For more acute situations, call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262).

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy info out there?

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related Resources and Episodes

• EP142: Mental Health in Pregnancy, Postpartum, and Motherhood with Dr. Ashurina Ream
• EP157: Discussing Perinatal Mental Health with Perinatal Psychiatrist, Nichelle Haynes
• EP187: Understanding Postpartum Psychosis with Erica Djossa
• Find a perinatal therapist
• National Maternal Mental Health Hotline number: 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262)

Did you know that an estimated 60% of expecting couples take a babymoon before the birth of their first child? It’s true! And while it’s most common among first-time parents – veteran parents can (and do!) take a babymoon before their next baby’s birth as well.

So in today's episode, I thought it would be fun to talk more about babymoons! We'll talk about why you should do it, when you should do it, planning tips, destination ideas, and more.

But first, I'll start the episode with some pregnancy travel advice and tips so that you can travel safely during your pregnancy! I've got info surrounding flying during pregnancy, long car rides, what to pack, and lots of other great advice.

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy info out there?

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related Episodes

• EP160: Ask an OBGYN Anything with Dr. Jennifer Lincoln

This week we are talking all about infant car seat safety with a certified child passenger safety technician and preventable injury specialist, Brigette Watson.

This is a topic that I am always happy to discuss and bring awareness to because car seats are something many of us use every day with our little ones, and it’s actually so easy to make mistakes without even realizing it. I know even I can be guilty of it!

Stressed about your baby registry?

Get the FREE Baby Registry Checklist created by an L&D nurse and veteran mom for insider tips and an organized list of the things you *actually* need!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

*Hi guys! Liesel here. I wanted to let you know that the Mommy Labor Nurse podcast as you know it is currently getting a HUGE facelift!

In the meantime, please enjoy this re-air of a fan favorite episode!! And stay tuned to my instagram for updates on when the new and improved Mommy Labor Nurse podcast will be back with all new episodes!*

******

This week on the podcast, I had my sister Jenna come on the show for a fun and light hearted episode that I’m really excited to share with you guys.

Jenna and I watched some birth videos – but not the kind of birth videos that you’re thinking of! – and react to them live on the episode.

I thought it’d be interesting coming from me as a labor and delivery nurse and from Jenna, who you know has never been pregnant and doesn’t have any kids.

I’m not gonna spoil too much of the episode. It was a lot of fun to record, but was also a big pain in the butt to get ready for, so I hope you guys like it!

Related Podcast Episodes:

• EP116: Pregnancy and Birth Trivia

• EP68: The Labor Games

• EP61: What’s It Like to Be a Labor and Delivery Nurse

******

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy & birth info out there? I got ya covered!

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

What do TikTok and anesthesia have in common? Well, nothing really - unless you’re my friend Dr. Maggie Printz who joined me for this week’s episode of The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast.

Dr. Magnolia Printz is a board-certified anesthesiologist from Wisconsin, and at the time of recording she has over 800k followers on TikTok.

In this episode, I sat down with Maggie, and we chatted about all things anesthesia – especially as it relates to birth.

Want to feel confident before your epidural birth?

Get the FREE Epidural Birth Prep Pack to gain a sense of control before the big day!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast I have an induction birth story for guys! Caitlyn Karl is a fellow mom who was on the podcast way back in episode 78. During that episode she shared with us all about her infant adoption story for her son AJ.

It was such a cool conversation and I learned SO much about what the infant adoption process looks like. At the time of recording for that show, Caitlyn was actually pregnant and expecting her first biological baby!

Want to feel confident before your epidural birth?

Get the FREE Epidural Birth Prep Pack to gain a sense of control before the big day!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast I'm excited to share Natalie Portman and her birth story with you guys! Natalie reached out to me to share the story of her positive, natural birth!

Natalie hopes that her story will help women who are on the fence about unmedicated birth or that are just scared about giving birth, in general, to know that although you can’t control everything about the situation, there is still a lot you can do. In her words, knowledge is power, and trust is power.

Want to birth without an epidural?

Get the FREE Natural Birth Prep Pack for the confidence you need, because simply wanting it might not be enough!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Welcome back to another episode of The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast! Today, we're diving deep into the world of baby movement during pregnancy with special guest, Kimberly Isburg from one of my favorite organizations, Count the Kicks!

Kimberly is a passionate advocate for maternal health causes and is honored to work for an organization that is dedicated to improving birth outcomes and saving the lives of moms and babies.

Inside the interview, I will be exploring crucial aspects of kick counting during pregnancy with Kimberly. She will share her insights on the importance of kick counting, dispel myths surrounding fetal movement, provide valuable tips for expectant mothers, and more!

Want to eliminate stress before birth?

Get your FREE 3rd Trimester Prep Pack to know everything is done and feel completely confident with your birth plan and hospital bag!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related Episode and Resources

• EP127: Stillbirth Prevention Tips
• Count the Kicks Website
• Count the Kicks FREE App
• Count the Kicks Instagram

About Kimberly Isburg

Kimberly Isburg is the Communications Manager for Healthy Birth Day, Inc., the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that created the Count the Kicks stillbirth prevention program. Kimberly used Count the Kicks to get to know her babies’ normal movement patterns during both of her pregnancies and is proud to be the mom of two healthy boys.

She is a passionate advocate for maternal health causes and is honored to work for an organization that is dedicated to improving birth outcomes and saving the lives of moms and babies.

*Hi guys! Liesel here. I wanted to let you know that the Mommy Labor Nurse podcast as you know it is currently getting a HUGE facelift!

In the meantime, please enjoy this re-air of a fan favorite episode!! And stay tuned to my instagram for updates on when the new and improved Mommy Labor Nurse podcast will be back with all new episodes!*

******

Labor induction – this is a topic that comes up a LOT in my DMs over on Instagram and in the MLN community in general!

So, today on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast I’m doing a Q&A-style episode all about planned inductions. Your most burning labor induction FAQs, answered!

I see it all the time, women are nearing the end of their pregnancy, and not planning on an induction, and then all of a sudden, they need one!

When this happens, there’s not always a ton of time to research, prepare and sort through all the info that’s out there. So, I thought I’d put together this episode with some of the most common questions I get about inductions. Let’s go!

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Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy & birth info out there? I got ya covered!

CLICK HERE to get free birth plan templates straight from the brain of an L&D nurse - that’s me!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast I'm happy to share the birth stories of Kat Tepylo Murphy with you guys!

Kat reached out to me to share about the redemptive, natural birth of her son after a traumatic first birth.

Want to birth without an epidural?

Get the FREE Natural Birth Prep Pack for the confidence you need, because simply wanting it might not be enough!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

It's Week 10 of 12 of the 12 weeks of BIRTH! 

In this week’s episode of The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, we talked ALL about preparing for labor….and specifically 10 things you shouldn’t forget! Because for most mamas, birth feels like the great unknown amiright?

You’re going to your prenatal visits, checking things off your third-trimester to-do list, maybe your hospital bag is even packed. 

Yet as your due date draws closer, feelings of anxiety, what-ifs, and maybe even some fear are filling your head. Maybe you’re actually thinking, “Can I really do this?”

I’m here to tell you that you CAN. It’s going to be ok! In this podcast episode, my main focus is giving you 10 things you should do before labor starts. 

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

I am so excited for this week's episode because I have a longtime friend coming on to the podcast to talk about her birth experiences, as well as share her expertise on how to approach tough decisions in pregnancy (and life!).

Natalie Bacon is a certified mindfulness life coach, and helps moms do inner work to overcome daily challenges and live a more purpose driven life.

Natalie was on the podcast about 2 years ago to talk about mindset tips for pregnancy and birth. It's actually one of the most popular episodes on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast - definitely check it out if you haven't done so already!

Want to erase anxiety and actually feel excited about birth?

Get instant access to my FREE Birth Workshop to learn tons of pain-coping strategies and actionable tips today!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related episode

• EP106: Mindset Tips for Pregnancy and Birth with Natalie Bacon

About Natalie Bacon

In this episode, Madison shares her positive natural induction story with her daughter Everly.

Want to birth without an epidural?

Get the FREE Natural Birth Prep Pack for the confidence you need, because simply wanting it might not be enough!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

About Madison

Madison is a former teacher turned stay-at-home mom after the birth of her first daughter, Everly, in October 2019. Through her blog, Little Teacher Wife, she shares posts about marriage, family, and teaching to help make fellow mom’s lives a little bit easier!

It's officially week 1 of The 12 Weeks of Birth! This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, I have a really exciting birth story to share with you guys! I actually had a personal friend of mine, Tess Camp, come on the show to tell the story of her three very different deliveries, with an emphasis on her extremely precipitous labor and second birth!

Want to erase anxiety and actually feel excited about birth?

Get instant access to my FREE Birth Workshop to learn tons of pain-coping strategies and actionable tips today!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

*Hi guys! Liesel here. I wanted to let you know that the Mommy Labor Nurse podcast as you know it is currently getting a HUGE facelift!

In the meantime, please enjoy this re-air of a fan favorite episode!! And stay tuned to my instagram for updates on when the new and improved Mommy Labor Nurse podcast will be back with all new episodes!*

******

Caitlin Karl, a fellow mom who’s actually currently pregnant, came on to share all about her journey to adopting her son AJ. Caitlin shares that she and her husband always knew they wanted to grow their family through adoption and biologically, and was never really quite sure in what order it would happen.

Ultimately, they decided to pursue adoption first because they knew there was a lot of time, resources, and energy required to go through the process of adopting a baby. So in the summer of 2019, they started the whole process and by July they brought their sweet baby boy home.

Caitlyn Karl’s Bio:

Caitlyn Karl is a working mom who lives in the suburbs of Chicago with her husband Jake, son AJ, and soon daughter (due at the beginning of June). Caitlyn and Jake started their family through the adoption of their son this past year. 

You can find Caitlyn Karl on social media here:

Instagram: @k.adoption.journey

Resources from the episode:

• Be the Bridge Transracial Adoption Guide

• The Connected Child: Bring Hope and Healing to Your Adoptive Family Book by David R. Cross, Karyn B. Purvis, and Wendy Lyons Sunshine

• Angela Tucker: Transracial adoptee and Public Speaker. @angieadoptee on Instagram, “The Adoptee Next Door” Podcast, “Closure” documentary

• Brandi Ebersole: Adoptee and Adoptive Mom. @brandi_ebersole on Instagram

• Wreckage and Wonder: Torie is an adoptee who shares her perspective on adoption

• Cam Lee Small: Adoptee and adoption informed therapist. @therapyredeemed on Instagram, 

• Ashley Mitchell: Birth mother, adoption reform advocate, founder of Lifetime Healing Foundation. @bigtoughgirl on Instagram, “Twisted Sisterhood” Podcast

• Adoption Education Keys: Adoption education from the perspective of a birth mother. @adoptioneducationkeys on Instagram

• Adopt Well: Two adoptive moms who educate about adoption.  “Adopt Well Podcast”, @adoptwell on Instagram 

• Kindredand.Co: Adoption community, blog, profile books, run by adoptive mom Hannah Eloge. @kindredand.co on Instagram

• Susan VanSyckle: This is the adoption consultant Caitlin and her husband worked with

******

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy & birth info out there? I got ya covered!

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Happy New Year podcast fam! If you are listening to this in real time, then you know that this is the very first episode of 2023, and we’re kicking off the year with a super fun “Ask Me Anything” style episode. This time, I asked our community over on Instagram for their most embarrassing questions that they had around birth (you know, the kind of things that you might be a little bit shy to ask but you really want to know), and let me tell you, you guys delivered - no pun intended!

I had such a great time doing this episode for you because I love talking about embarrassing stuff. And we had so many questions come in that I actually broke it up into two parts for you, with part two airing next week.

Want to erase anxiety and actually feel excited about birth?

Get instant access to my FREE Birth Workshop to learn tons of pain-coping strategies and actionable tips today!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related episodes and resources discussed in this episode:

• Episode 11: Jeanice Talks To Us About Pelvic Floor Sexual Health
• Episode 58: FAQs About Labor and Delivery
• Episode 121: Tearing During Birth
• Episode 137: Ask Me Anything About Labor and Delivery
• Episode 155: Ask Me Anything About Pregnancy and Birth

On this episode of The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, Mae Yoshikawa joined me all the way from Japan to share her 2 epidural-free birth stories.

Her first was born in a birth center in South Japan, and was rather traumatic. Mae dealt with a long, intense labor with a significant amount of pain throughout. Eight years later, she used the wisdom that she's learned from years of intense practice as a yoga and meditation teacher and applied it to her birth. She was able to have an all natural and almost pain free water birth at her home with her husband and midwife by her side.

Mae’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact that your mindset can have on your birth experience. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did recording it!

Anxious about packing for the hospital?

Grab the FREE Hospital Bag Checklist created by a practicing L&D nurse and feel 10000% certain you’ve got everything you need on the big day!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

About Mae Yoshikawa

Mae is an author, yoga & meditation practitioner, teacher, and mother. In 2006, she became the first Japanese woman to be authorized by the founding school of Ashtanga Yoga in India. Since then, Mae has been a trailblazing force in the wellness field throughout the Asia-Pacific region as Japanese Yogini magazine featured her on 42 consecutive covers.

As the face of Adidas yoga, Mae was awarded the “Yoga People’s Award” in 2016 for her remarkable social impact in the wellness field. Her upcoming book, Kizuki: Life’s Tidal Waves + Epiphanies = Love Beyond Time and Death is a heart-wrenching and heart-arousing memoir that chronicles her experience of finding herself again through grief after the sudden loss of her husband in 2018. 

Learn more about Mae and her upcoming book Kizuki at her Flagship Website or on Instagram. 

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast we're talking all about labor signs! And more specifically the weird signs of labor you might not know about yet!

I think it’s safe to say that if you’ve ever been pregnant, you’ve probably found yourself googling, “Is XYZ a sign of labor?”. And there are actually quite a few weird things that happen before labor!

The anticipation of meeting your little one soon can definitely cause mamas to be on high alert for any sort of body changes. And this is a good thing! It’s great to be in tune with your body, especially during pregnancy. 

Aside from the obvious signs of labor: contractions and water breaking (which isn’t always as obvious as you might think!) there are quite a few other things that can give you a clue that labor is near! 

Anxious about packing for the hospital?

Grab the FREE Hospital Bag Checklist created by a practicing L&D nurse and feel 10000% certain you’ve got everything you need on the big day!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Sponsor

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Click HERE to learn more about Luna and order one for your breastfeeding and pumping journey. And as a special offer for MLN podcast listeners you can get 15% off site-wide, including the Luna plus all supplies and accessories with code: MLN23. Some exclusions may apply.

There are a lot of questions and fear surrounding labor! In this episode, I go over some common labor and delivery fears such as pooping, tearing, C-sections, and more!

*Hi guys! Liesel here. I wanted to let you know that the Mommy Labor Nurse podcast as you know it is currently getting a HUGE facelift!

In the meantime, please enjoy this re-air of a fan favorite episode!! And stay tuned to my instagram for updates on when the new and improved Mommy Labor Nurse podcast will be back with all new episodes!*

******

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast I am sharing a twin birth story, but not the kind of twin birth story you are thinking of…no this mom, or should I say moms were not pregnant with twins! I had Sierra and Hailey on the podcast this week, and THEY are twins!

About Sierra:

Sierra O’Toole is a mom to 18-month-old daughter, Kora, and lives in Ventura, CA with her husband Sean O’Toole.

She works as a Marketing Manager for Primal Kitchen and in her free time enjoys surfing, family beach days, reading, cooking, and listening to birth story podcasts.

Connect with Sierra and birth resources she loved:

Instagram: @sierrapartridge 

Precipitous Labor Facebook Group

Doula: Anastasia Stone IG: @my_lovestones

OBGYN: Dr Melissa Drake IG: @dr_melissa_drake 

About Hailey:

Hailey O’Rourke is mom to 18-month-old son, Patrick, and is currently pregnant with her second baby boy, due in July 2022.

She lives in a suburb of Denver, CO with her husband, Eamonn O’Rourke, and works as a flight attendant for a major US Airline. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, cooking, skiing, surfing, and walking her French Bulldog, Finnegan.

Connect with Hailey and birth resources she loved:

Instagram: haileyjorourke

Doula: Anissa Cornelius

Dr. Sterling & Dr. Cassidy’s Prepared Postpartum Course: https://thesterlinglife.com/courses/

******

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy & birth info out there? I got ya covered!

CLICK HERE for our FREE mini birth class. You will discover my top tips for a more positive birth in this 45-minute class.

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Kayleigh Summers joined me to share the story of her son's birth. Kayleigh went in for what she anticipated to be a routine induction to meet her son, only to suffer an incredibly rare complication known as an amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) right as she was beginning to push him out.

Amniotic fluid embolism happens in approximately 1 in 100,000 births. The infant survival rate is only about 70%, and the maternal survival rate is somewhere between 30-50%. Basically everyone's worst nightmare!

Luckily Kayleigh is here to tell her story today of being an AFE survivor, and I'm honored I had the opportunity to sit down with her and share it with you guys.

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast I’m excited to have a first-ever kind of “birth” story for this show, and that is an infant adoption story!

Caitlin Karl, a fellow mom who’s actually currently pregnant, came on to share all about their journey to adopting their son AJ. Caitlin shares that she and her husband always knew they wanted to grow their family through adoption and biologically, and was never really quite sure what the order would like that.

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

In this episode, I go over a highly requested topic that you guys have sent me: EPIDURALS!!

Here are the questions we go over!

Sponsor

Larken was born out of a struggle to find a comfortable and simple way to nurse and pump. While pumping and nursing their daughters, the Larken co-founders tried several bulky, ill-fitting tops and bras with irritating elastic and cumbersome snaps and zippers. Frustrated with the options on the market, they knew there had to be a better way. So they designed it.

Their all-in-one nursing and hands-free pumping bra is the first without any irritating elastic, snaps, zippers, or other hardware. It's super easy to use and ultra-comfortable. It provides relaxed support without being restrictive.

All of their products are hardware free and are made with incredibly soft, breathable materials with great stretch and recovery so they can adapt to mom's changing body. Their customers have shared that they love being able to wear them all day for easy transitions between nursing and pumping without ever having to change bras or undress, and they also sleep in them at night because of how comfortable they are. 

They've been named by The Bump, Scary Mommy, US Weekly and New York Magazine as a best hands-free pumping bra.

Use code LIESEL10 for 10% off any Larken products.

A question I get asked during almost every shift at the hospital is for a list of pharmaceutical pain medications other than epidurals.

And while epidurals are kind of the gold standard when it comes to contraction pain - there actually are some other choices!

So, today on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast I'm going to dive into pain meds other than epidurals, with a special focus on IV narcotics and nitrous oxide for labor.

I'll be touching on some non-medical pain management options and ideas too.

Want to feel more in control of your birth experience?

No matter how you plan to deliver, the FREE Birth Prep Guide is here to help you prepare.

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related Episodes

• EP171: Epidurals 101: Get Informed About Epidurals for Birth

Many expectant mothers experience heartburn during pregnancy - a fiery sensation in your chest that is simply no fun!

Today we will explore what heartburn is, why it is so common during pregnancy, and most importantly, we’ll go through 14 effective home remedies to help you feel a bit better!!

Feeling overwhelmed in the first trimester?

Get support in the early weeks with our FREE 1st Trimester Prep Pack and gain a sense of control!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related episodes

• EP5: Everything from Red Raspberry Tea, Turning a Breech Baby, Round Ligament Pain & More!
• EP195: Itching During Pregnancy: What's Normal and What's Not!

Sponsor

Ritual

I know first hand the importance of nourishing your body, especially during pregnancy. That’s why I want to share Ritual and their ‘Essential for Women’ Prenatal Multivitamin with you.

This is the prenatal I took during my pregnancy after researching a ton of different options. Ritual is all about transparency. They make sure that 100% of their ingredients are made traceable, so you know exactly what you are putting into your body.

Ritual offers a subscription based service with free shipping, control over your delivery date, and savings when you bundle. And they are so confident in their products that they offer a 30-day, money-back guarantee.

Visit ritual.com/mommylabornurse and 40% off your first month of Ritual will be applied at checkout!

This week on The Mommy Labor Podcast, I had the chance to chat with Dr. Darria, an ER doctor, regular contributor on CNN, NBC, and The Dr. Oz Show, and auther of Mom Hacks.

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, I am joined by MLN Community mama, Andrea, where she shared her inspiring natural birth story.

Inside the episode, you'll hear Andrea talk about the calm and focus she felt during the labor process, which she attributes to all the physical, mental, and educational preparation she did ahead of time.

Andrea tapped into breathing techniques, movement, and mindset to labor at home for the majority of her birth, arriving at the hospital at 7 centimeters and delivering a healthy baby girl!

If you're interested in birthing without an epidural, this is exactly the kind of positive and inspiring story that you need to hear!

Want to birth without an epidural?

Get the FREE Natural Birth Prep Pack for the confidence you need, because simply wanting it might not be enough!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related Episodes

• Episode 172: How One Mama's Birth Started with the Midwives' Brew 
• Episode 178: Marissa's Positive Planned Induction story 

Sponsor

Simply Magnetic Me

Simply Magnetic Me offers GOTS certified 100% organic cotton essentials like footies, coveralls and bodysuits—all featuring safety-tested magnetic closures. No fumbling with tiny snaps or buttons during those middle of the night diaper changes. You can get baby dressed quickly so everyone can get back to sleep!

You may have heard of Magnetic Me. Simply is their new sister brand that offers the same beloved magnetic closures at a more affordable price. You can create a custom bundle on their website, combining the prints, styles, and sizes you want, with outfits as low as $15. The more outfits in your cart, the more you save. And trust me, babies need a lot of outfits.

Say no to snaps and head to simplymagneticme.com to stock up on no-fuss essentials and use code MLN20 for 20% off your order.

On this episode of The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, I'm talking all about the first 48 hours after birth.

We'll start with details about the very first hour - also known as the golden hour. This is because an uninterrupted first hour of life is actually filled with evidence-based benefits for both mama and baby!

Then we'll get into the duration of your hospital stay so that you’re totally prepared for that too! The first 48 hours after birth are a critical time of recovery for you, and there’s a lot you can do during your hospital stay to make your transition home with your baby a bit easier.

Not sure how to care for yourself down there after birth?

Access our FREE Postpartum Essentials Checklist to know you’ve got what you need to feel clean and comfortable while you’re healing from birth.

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

In this episode, I’m going to talk about how to prepare for your labor induction by going through the do's and don'ts before your big day. Some are more obvious than others, but I'm going to be as thorough as possible. 

I also want you to know that this list is intended for low-risk moms with uncomplicated pregnancies and scheduled inductions. It’s a bit different if you have a high-risk pregnancy with complications like preeclampsia or being preterm.

Want to eliminate stress before birth?

Get your FREE 3rd Trimester Prep Pack to know everything is done and feel completely confident with your birth plan and hospital bag!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related Episodes and Resources

• Episode 72: Help! What is an induction?
• Episode 117: Black Maternal Morbidity + Advocacy in Pregnancy and Birth
• MLN Birth Plan Templates
• Hospital Bag Checklist

Sponsors

Aeroflow

Did you know that your health insurance will cover the cost of a breast pump? It’s true! In fact, many health insurance plans also cover milk storage bags, breastfeeding prep courses, and more.

At Aeroflow Breastpumps, you can shop top-rated breast pumps from brands like Medela, Spectra, and Motif without ever opening your wallet. Fill out their quick and easy insurance eligibility form and they’ll take care of the rest! It might just be the easiest thing you do this pregnancy.

Visit aeroflowbreastpumps.com/mommylabornurse to find out why more than 1 million moms have chosen Aeroflow Breastpumps to get their pump through insurance.

Simply Magnetic Me

Simply Magnetic Me offers GOTS certified 100% organic cotton essentials like footies, coveralls and bodysuits—all featuring safety-tested magnetic closures. No fumbling with tiny snaps or buttons during those middle of the night diaper changes. You can get baby dressed quickly so everyone can get back to sleep!

You may have heard of Magnetic Me. Simply is their new sister brand that offers the same beloved magnetic closures at a more affordable price. You can create a custom bundle on their website, combining the prints, styles, and sizes you want, with outfits as low as $15. The more outfits in your cart, the more you save. And trust me, babies need a lot of outfits.

Say no to snaps and head to simplymagneticme.com to stock up on no-fuss essentials and use code MLN20 for 20% off your order.

This week I am back to answer your most embarrassing birth questions, part 2! I had so much fun with last week’s episode, I just had to come back and answer more of your questions because we got so many good ones!

Not only are these “Ask Me Anything” style episodes fun, but it’s my hope that they are really informational and educational for you as well. We all have questions that we might be a little embarrassed to ask our provider (even I do!), but have no fear, I’m here to unpack it all.

And be sure to tune into next week's episode, where I chat with OBGYN Dr. Nicole Rankins on what it's like to be an OBGYN, doula care, midwifery care, and much more! You definitely don't want to miss this one!

Anxious about packing for the hospital?

Grab the FREE Hospital Bag Checklist created by a practicing L&D nurse and feel 10000% certain you’ve got everything you need on the big day!

Want to feel in control before birth?

Use our FREE Birth Plan Templates to take the first step towards the birth experience you desire.

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related episodes and resources:

• Episode 20: Liesel Answers Your Most Common Breastfeeding Questions - Part 2
• Episode 137: Ask Me Anything About Labor and Delivery
• Episode 155: Ask Me Anything About Pregnancy and Birth
• Episode 161: Your Most Embarrassing Birth Questions Answered - Part 1

It's week 7 of The 12 Weeks of Birth!

In this re-air, I interview my friend Jeanice all about pelvic floor sexual health!!

Here are the questions we go over!

1. What exactly happens during pregnancy (and during delivery) to disrupt sexual health?
2. How long should I wait to have sex postpartum?
3. Should sex hurt at all? What should I do if it does?
4. Give me your best tips for having a pain-free experience.
5. When should I seek help from a pelvic floor specialist? How do I even find one?
6. What should I expect a typical visit to look like? How long does treatment typically last?
7. I’m SO embarrassed (and nervous/scared), and I can’t even think about going to a pelvic floor specialist...what should I do?
8. Sex has never really felt great to me, and now that I’ve had a baby it’s even worse. Is this something that pelvic floor therapy can help with?
9. Any last tips you have for moms struggling with sexual health after pregnancy?

Feeling alone on your postpartum journey?

CLICK HERE to get supportive tips and advice from an L&D nurse and veteran mom sent straight to your inbox each week!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

You can learn more about Jeanice here:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFfloD1PWUhP_IlWbt9ZvWA?view_as=subscriber
• Instagram: @mypelvicfloormuscles
• Website: mypelvicfloormuscles.com or myPFM.com

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast I was joined by psychologist and couples therapist, Dr. Tracy Dalgleish to talk all about preparing your relationship for baby before they're here!

Inside of the episode, you'll learn actionable tips and systems you can put into place now, hear about common pitfalls and obstacles that couples often have so that you can prepare for them, and so much more!

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy info out there?

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast you'll hear an Ask Me Anything style episode, where I give in-depth answers to a few labor and delivery questions left on the podcast hotline. 

I'm covering questions about extra placental lobes, timing an epidural to potentially avoid blood pressure-related side effects, postpartum hemorrhages (particularly if you've had one before!), and if there are any specific things that moms can do in their second pregnancies to prepare for birth.

If you have a burning question about pregnancy, birth, or postpartum that you'd like me to answer on the show, all you have to do is call 919-213-8719 and leave a voicemail!

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy info out there?

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related episodes and resources

• Episode 168: Ask Me Anything
• Sibling Basket Ideas

Sponsor

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Click HERE to learn more about Luna and order one for your breastfeeding and pumping journey. And as a special offer for MLN podcast listeners you can get 15% off site-wide, including the Luna plus all supplies and accessories with code: MLN23. Some exclusions may apply.

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast we're going to tackle a topic that many of you may relate to: keeping your pregnancy a secret during those early stages. 

I remember this all too well with BOTH of my pregnancies...cue the image of me stealthily filling an empty beer bottle with water – gotta love those clever hacks!

It's incredibly common for women to want to keep their pregnancy under wraps until the end of the first trimester when the risk of miscarriage tends to decrease.

But let's face it, hiding your pregnancy while dealing with all those less-than-pleasant first-trimester symptoms can be quite the challenge! In today's episode, I've got some great tips to help you out!

Feeling overwhelmed in the first trimester?

Get support in the early weeks with our FREE 1st Trimester Prep Pack and gain a sense of control!

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy info out there?

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related Episodes

• EP179: All Your First Trimester Questions Answered

This week I'm talking all about third trimester FAQs! As that due date gets closer and closer it inevitably seems like we naturally get more questions that come up!

In this episode I’m going to discuss nausea in the third trimester, traveling during pregnancy, baby movements, itchy feet, labial swelling, hip pain, what to do if you water breaks unexpectedly, and more!

Want to eliminate stress before birth?

Get your FREE 3rd Trimester Prep Pack to know everything is done and feel completely confident with your birth plan and hospital bag!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

In this episode of The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, I am joined by Charles Johnson, the founder of 4Kira4Moms. 

Charles tragically lost his wife Kira during a routine C-section at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles, California in 2016. This experience led him to create 4Kira4moms in 2017.

The goal of 4Kira4Moms is to be a voice for other mothers and families facing unnecessary maternal loss and to help put an end to the black maternal mortality health crisis.

It is a sad reality that in the US, black women are four times more likely to die during pregnancy and childbirth than white women. This is due to implicit bias and systemic racism within the healthcare system, as well as a lack of access to high-quality maternal healthcare and resources.

Inside the episode, Charles and I discuss this tragic epidemic and talk about what platforms like 4Kira4Moms are doing to spark change and shed light on the issue. Then we get into what we can do to support his mission!

Tune in to hear Kira's story and learn how you can help make a difference.

Learn more about Charles Johnson

Charles Johnson has dedicated his life to the pursuit of what his own family failed to receive – safe, respectful, and equitable maternal health outcomes in America. His passion for systemic change is driven by his love for his wife, Kira, who passed away following the birth of their second child. In April 2016, Kira underwent a routine C-section following an uncomplicated pregnancy. Hours later, she died from internal hemorrhaging despite adamant pleas for help from medical professionals by her husband and loved ones. Her story exemplifies the current crises happening in America: rising rates of maternal mortality and the silencing of Black voices.

After experiencing the unimaginable, Charles harnessed his pain and used it to pursue the highest level of good. He channeled his grief into founding 4Kira4Moms, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving birth outcomes in America. Charles knows childbirth should be empowering and free of fear for all mothers. 4Kira4Moms advocates for improved maternal health policies and regulations, educates about the impact of maternal mortality in our communities, provides support to victims’ loved ones, and approaches maternal mortality as a human rights issue. Mothers are the very framework of our society. They teach us how to love unconditionally and are willing to protect the most vulnerable among us. The loss of even one at the hands of an unjust system robs our country of what it needs most.

Charles has used his voice and story to advocate for change at countless events and media appearances all over the country. He is a board member of March for Moms and serves as Chairman of the Fairness of Injured Patients Act, which seeks to restore the rights of victims of medical negligence in California. Charles has testified twice before Congress and helped pass key legislation including: the Preventing Maternal Death Act of 2018, the Protecting Moms Who Served Act of 2021, and the California Momnibus. He is currently working with Congress to pass the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act, an unprecedented set of bills addressing every aspect of the maternal health crisis happening in America. Charles was also honored by Oprah Winfrey on OWNSpotlight’s 2020 fatherhood special entitled, “Honoring our Kings – Celebrating Black Fatherhood.”

In addition to his advocacy work, Charles is busy raising his two beautiful boys, Charles V and Langston, who keep their mothers’ spirit alive powerfully every day.

Learn more about 4Kira4Moms

• 4Kira4Moms
• HR 1318 - Preventing Maternal Death Acts of 2018
• Kira Johnson Act
• Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act of 2021

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast we’re going to talk all about birthing without an epidural, and answer a question I get all the time - “How do I have a natural birth?”

And while there is no secret formula…I definitely have some insight into what you can do to set yourself up for success.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

On this episode, Carly talks about her journey to motherhood. Carly is a part of a two-mom family, and she's actually now pregnant with her 3rd baby! She and her wife used the same sperm donor for all three of their babies, but the way Carly got pregnant was different all three times.

It's a very interesting, and heartfelt story that you don't want to miss!

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy info out there?

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

Want to erase anxiety and actually feel excited about birth?

Get instant access to my FREE Birth Workshop to learn tons of pain-coping strategies and actionable tips today!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Today we're diving into a topic that often remains in the shadows despite its profound impact on women's health – the pelvic floor! 

Pelvic floor health isn't just a topic for medical professionals; it's something that affects millions of women, and yet, it's often met with silence or uncertainty. That's why we're thrilled to have the "Down There Doctors" here with us today.

Dr. Karyn Eilber and Dr. Victoria Scott are passionate urogynecologists, who have made it their mission to shine a spotlight on pelvic floor health and break the stigma surrounding it.

They're also the co-authors of the candidly titled book, A Woman's Guide to Her Pelvic Floor. What The F*@# is Going On Down There.

In this episode, we'll discuss common challenges women face during and after pregnancy, and uncover practical solutions to empower women with knowledge about their bodies.

Throughout our conversation, we'll learn about the importance of pelvic floor health, break down myths and misconceptions, and uncover how their book aims to empower women with the knowledge they need to navigate this often-overlooked aspect of their well-being.

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy info out there?

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related Resources

• A Woman's Guide to Her Pelvic Floor. What The F*@# is Going On Down There. 
• Down There Doctors
• Instagram: Down There Doctors
• Instagram: Dr. Victoria Scott
• Instagram: Dr. Karyn Eilber

About Dr. Karyn Eilber

Karyn is a Professor of Urology and Associate Professor of Obstetrics & Gynecology at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and the Program Director for the Cedars-Sinai Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS) fellowship training program. Prior to joining Cedars-Sinai, Dr. Eilber practiced at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.

She completed medical school, urology residency and a fellowship in female pelvic medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Dr. Eilber’ s research focus has been in the areas of urogynecology and female sexual dysfunction, and she has published multiple peer-reviewed manuscripts and book chapters. She has lectured nationally and internationally and instructs other physicians across the country on how to perform certain FPMRS surgical procedures. She is the co-founder of Glissant Intimate Care and a founding medical partner of Doctorpedia.

About Dr. Victoria Scott

Victoria has a long-standing interest in quality-of-care research in female pelvic medicine that began during her medical school training at UCLA. She completed her urology residency and a fellowship in FPMRS at UCLA.

While a resident and fellow at UCLA, her research was focused on developing quality-of-care indicators for women with urinary incontinence and vaginal prolapse and improving the quality of care delivered to women with recurrent urinary tract infections. Currently, her efforts are aimed at better educating primary care providers in the treatment of female pelvic floor disorders to further improve the care of women with these conditions.

She has published multiple peer-reviewed manuscripts and presented her research at numerous national conferences. Before joining her current practice with Optum, she was Director of Education for the Cedars-Sinai FPRMS fellowship training program and on the faculty of the Cedars-Sinai Urology Residency training program.

In this episode, I dive into my full birth story! 

I begin by talking about the year I got pregnant, finding out I was pregnant, and my first trimester! I experienced some bleeding in my first trimester that was quite scary. After dealing with that, my pregnancy went pretty smoothly and I genuinely enjoyed every second!

Flash forward to a few days before I gave birth, I did EVERYTHING I could think of to get myself into labor.....and....it worked! The next morning I woke up contracting, labored at home for 14 hours, and then headed up to my hospital (the one I work at!). After about 6 hours of labor, my son Walter was born!

Want to birth without an epidural?

Get the FREE Natural Birth Prep Pack for the confidence you need, because simply wanting it might not be enough!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Sponsor

This episode was sponsored by TUSHY!

Do you wipe your booty with toilet paper after you poop? Of course you do, we all do! If you had poop on ANY other part of your body, would you just wipe it away with DRY PAPER?? OF COURSE YOU WOULDN’T, EW IT’S POOP!

Tushy is a sleek, bidet attachment you can hook up to the back of ANY toilet! It sprays your butt completely clean with fresh water (NOT toilet water), and replaces your toilet paper! It has CHANGED MY LIFE YOU GUYS and I tell everyone I can about them!

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast I had a chance to chat with the founders of Feeding Littles!

Feeding Littles is a platform that’s dedicated to helping parents learn how to confidently feed their babies, toddlers, and older kids. They offer online courses and resources to share their knowledge as feeding experts with families around the world.

Feeling alone on your postpartum journey?

CLICK HERE to get supportive tips and advice from an L&D nurse and veteran mom sent straight to your inbox each week!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

This week on the podcast, I had my sister Jenna come on the show for a fun and light hearted episode that I'm really excited to share with you guys.

Jenna and I watched some birth videos - but not the kind of birth videos that you're thinking of! - and react to them live on the episode.

I thought it'd be interesting coming from me as a labor and delivery nurse and from Jenna, who you know has never been pregnant and doesn't have any kids.

I'm not gonna spoil too much of the episode. It was a lot of fun to record, but was also a big pain in the butt to get ready for, so I hope you guys like it!

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy info out there?

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

In this episode, I interview my friend Sandy, an IBCLC, and we answer all of your breastfeeding questions!

Not sure how to care for yourself down there after birth?

Access our FREE Postpartum Essentials Checklist to know you’ve got what you need to feel clean and comfortable while you’re healing from birth.

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Sponsor

Mommy Knows Best empowers all moms with the tools and resources necessary to give your newborn the best start in life! From an assortment of delicious lactation cookies to supplements and beyond, their products contain all natural herbal remedies traditionally and effectively used for generations to treat low milk supply.

Whether you’re a new mom or a pro, Mommy Knows Best gives you plenty of options, all of which are created with the health and safety of both baby and mom in mind. 

Plus, I’m really excited to tell you they just added a new gluten and dairy free lactation cookie mix this week! 

Use code LABORNURSE10 to get 10% off all Mommy Knows Best products valid at MommyKnowsBest.com!

On this week's episode of The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, I took a call about epidurals from our listener line. This mama shared the challenges she faced with an epidural during her first birth and she's got some pressing questions about what to expect with her second labor and delivery.

Today, we'll chat about it and explore the possibility of that same reaction happening again in a future birth, the alternatives to pain medication, and whether either might lead to increased C-section rates.

Our aim, as always, is to provide you with evidence-based, thorough information to help you make the best decisions for your birth journey!

Want to feel confident before your epidural birth?

Get the FREE Epidural Birth Prep Pack to gain a sense of control before the big day!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Sponsor

Ritual

I know first hand the importance of nourishing your body, especially during pregnancy. That’s why I want to share Ritual and their ‘Essential for Women’ Prenatal Multivitamin with you.

This is the prenatal I took during my pregnancy after researching a ton of different options. Ritual is all about transparency. They make sure that 100% of their ingredients are made traceable, so you know exactly what you are putting into your body.

Ritual offers a subscription based service with free shipping, control over your delivery date and savings when you bundle. And they are so confident in their products that they offer a 30 day money back guarantee.

The essential for women prenatal  is a prenatal multivitamin that’s packed with clinically studied nutrients that are essential for both you and your baby!

Visit ritual.com/mommylabornurse and 40% off your first month of Ritual will be applied at checkout!

*Hi guys! Liesel here. I wanted to let you know that the Mommy Labor Nurse podcast as you know it is currently getting a HUGE facelift!

In the meantime, please enjoy this re-air of a fan favorite episode!! And stay tuned to my instagram for updates on when the new and improved Mommy Labor Nurse podcast will be back with all new episodes!*

******

In this episode, my friend Cierra shares her traumatic birth experience with her first, and her amazing, empowered birth experience with her second after taking Birth it Up!

Cierra’s Birth Story:

After having a traumatic 1st birth of her son, Cierra wanted to have a different experience with the birth of her daughter. Switching providers and educating herself lead to the unmedicated water birth she dreamed of. She had some hurdles breastfeeding at first, but was able to go on to exclusively breast feed for 4 months and counting.

Cierra’s Bio:

Cierra is from Dayton Ohio. She’s married to her husband, Nathan, and a stay at home mom to her two children, Ezekiel and Hannah.

You can find Cierra on social media here:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/cierraivey

******

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy & birth info out there? I got ya covered!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

This week on the podcast we are talking all things TODDLERS! I know a lot of you guys that listen to the podcast each week are veteran moms, who might have toddlers at home.

One topic that is brought up, again and again, is how adding a new baby to your family can affect your other kiddos. 

Devon Kuntzman joined me today from Transforming Toddlerhood, to talk about tips you can do during your pregnancy to help prep your little (or littles) for your new baby!

We talked about behaviors you can expect, tips for that first meeting, how to cope with dividing your time now that you have an additional child, and more!

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy info out there?

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

This episode of The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast is light-hearted and fun! I always like to feature interesting and unconventional birth stories, interview experts on various pregnancy symptoms and complications, and discuss all things labor and delivery.

But every once in a while, I like to do an episode that is just, well, FUN! And that’s where this idea came from.

My sister Jenna (who has never been pregnant and is not currently pregnant!) came on for a little segment I’m calling “labor games”. I broke it up into four categories – and they were all a total hit!

So, if you’re looking for some easy listening, pregnancy-related fun, you’re in the right place.

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy info out there?

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

This episode of The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast is all about the realities of black maternal health here in the US, and what we can do to spark change!

I actually put this podcast out last year, but I wanted to re-release it this week in honor of Black Maternal Health Week 2022.

To spark any kind of change surrounding racism in healthcare (and specifically in black maternal health), I truly believe that awareness is the first step.

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy info out there?

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast I am focusing exclusively on the first trimester of pregnancy!! It's an ask me anything style episode which I LOVE doing for you guys!

All of the questions on today's show were submitted via Instagram stories. I selected a bunch that I wanted to answer with more detail than I can on Instagram - and this episode was born!

Are you ready to learn how to tackle nausea, fatigue, anxiety, and so much more? Let's get into it!

Feeling overwhelmed in the first trimester?

Get support in the early weeks with our FREE 1st Trimester Prep Pack and gain a sense of control!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related Episodes and Resources

• Episode 1: Perinatal Mental Health Interview With Dr. Ream
• Episode 35: FAQ’s About the First Trimester!
• MLN Weekly Pregnancy Email Series
• Expectful App
• Ritual Prenatal Vitamins

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This week, I’ve got a special treat for you guys! We are traveling back in time and re-airing the most popular episode in the history of this podcast. 

I'm so excited to put this out again for you guys because I’m talking to Gail Tulley (full bio below) and she is such a wealth of knowledge! She is the founder of Spinning Babies, which talks about the physiology of your baby in the womb and the importance of creating as much space in the pelvis as possible. 

In this episode, we talked about ample fetal positioning and why it’s so important to consider which way the baby is facing and how flexed the head is. Gail makes all this really, really easy to understand.

We also talked about exercises and movements, posterior babies, what to do when your baby is breech and so much more!

Enjoy part one of this super informative episode on how to have an easier birth.

Want to birth without an epidural?

Get our FREE Natural Birth Prep Pack to gain the confidence you need - because simply wanting it might not be enough!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related Episodes and Resources

• Spinning Babies techniques and resources 
• Optimal Fetal Positioning book by Jean Sutton and Pauline Scott 
• Ina May Gaskin's book about orgasmic birth
• Debra Pascali-Bonaro's work on orgasmic birth

About Gail Tully

Gail Tully is a Midwife, renowned author and educator and creator of the Spinning Babies® approach that has contributed to a paradigm shift in childbirth care around the world.

In her home town of Minneapolis, USA, Gail has been coordinator and consultant to multiple well known Doula Programs and is a founding mother of the Childbirth Collective, one of the largest doula organizations in the USA. 

Books by Gail Tully
Breech Birth Quick Guide
Spinning Babies® Quick Reference
Belly Mapping® Workbook

Videos by Gail Tully 
Spinning Babies® Parent Class
Daily Essentials (with Sarah Longacre of Blooma)
Resolving Shoulder Dystocia

Listen in to hear Lindsay's 2 very different C-section birth stories!

Scheduled C-section on the horizon?

Get the FREE C-Section Birth Prep Pack to take control of your experience!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, I chatted with Sally about the birth of her first son, Bodey. 

Sally and her husband Ash are a queer couple that conceived at home with donor sperm from a good friend of theirs!

Once pregnant, Sally discussed navigating hyperemesis gravidarum, switching care providers later in her pregnancy, and a pretty scary event that disrupted Bodey’s entrance into this world.

Want to feel in control before birth?

Use our FREE Birth Plan Templates to take the first step towards the birth experience you desire.

Want to erase anxiety and actually feel excited about birth?

Get instant access to my FREE Birth Workshop to learn tons of pain-coping strategies and actionable tips today!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

In this week's episode, I am going to answer two questions submitted by mamas to the MLN listener line!!

The first question is from Sarah, who is currently pregnant and looking for more information about placenta previa! I love this question because it is actually pretty common to get told you have a previa at your anatomy scan - but there is still a LOT of time for it to move. Listen in as I answer her question and educate about previas in general!

The second question will have us shifting to postpartum to talk about what's normal and what's not when it comes to rib pain after birth.

And if YOU want to submit a question to be answered on an upcoming show, simply call 919-213-8719 and leave a voicemail!

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy info out there?

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related Episodes and Resources

• EP137: Ask Me Anything About Labor and Delivery
• Placenta previa balloon demo

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast we are talking about perinatal mental health – a topic that is near and dear to my heart. My guest, Dr. Nichelle Haynes is a Clinical Psychiatrist who specializes in perinatal mental health.

There’s not a lot of psychiatrists who specialize in the pregnant and postpartum population. So Dr. Haynes and I talk about a day in her life, what sort of patients she sees, and what’s the first step if you’re struggling.

We also talk about the difference between a psychiatrist, a psychologist, and a therapist because there’s a big difference. We also discuss medication, when to intervene with medication, and what signs and symptoms you should be looking for.

And finally, you’ll hear us debunk the unfortunate societal stigma surrounding psychiatric medications.

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy info out there?

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

In this episode, my Mommy Labor Nurse team members and I continue the conversation about my second postpartum experience with Ryland!

Not sure how to care for yourself down there after birth?

Access our FREE Postpartum Essentials Checklist to know you’ve got what you need to feel clean and comfortable while you’re healing from birth.

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

In this episode of The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, Sami shares her birth story where she tried a well-known, and semi-controversial method to kickstart labor! I have never actually talked to anyone who has tried this before so it was very interesting to hear about her experience!

When she was pregnant with her daughter, she tried a bunch of things to jump-start labor, but ultimately ended up being induced. But for her son, she thought she’d try the same things plus one other method that we will talk about today. So stay tuned to see if it worked!

Want to feel in control before birth?

Use our FREE Birth Plan Templates to take the first step towards the birth experience you desire.

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related resources

• The Midwives' Brew: A Natural Way To Induce Labor You've Probably Never Heard Of...

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Click HERE to learn more about Luna and order one for your breastfeeding and pumping journey. And as a special offer for MLN podcast listeners you can get 15% off site-wide, including the Luna plus all supplies and accessories with code: MLN23. Some exclusions may apply.

In this episode I share actionable ways that you can educate and advocate for yourself throughout pregnancy and birth and shed some light on the tragic black maternal death rates in the US – because it NEEDS attention!

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy info out there?

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

In this episode, Anita Lambert, pelvic floor PT, shared her expertise on diastasis recti so that we could do a deep dive for you guys! In the interview, you'll learn about what diastasis recti is, how to tell if you're suffering, what pregnant women can do proactively to help prevent it from happening, and what to expect if you do have a separation and seek out professional help!

Feeling alone on your postpartum journey?

CLICK HERE to get supportive tips and advice from an L&D nurse and veteran mom sent straight to your inbox each week!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, we’re talking about a twin birth story. But it’s not just any old twin birth story - it’s about MoMo twins!

MoMo twins are the rarest type of twins out there - occurring in less than 1% of twins, and .1% of all pregnancies.

Most people don't realize that when it comes to twins, it's not just fraternal versus identical. There are actually quite a few types!

Molli joins me on the podcast to share her story of pregnancy and birth with MoMo twins. Molli did a fabulous job of telling her story and shedding light on the medical, emotional, and physical aspects of a MoMo twin pregnancy and birth.

Want to feel in control before birth? 

Use our FREE Birth Plan Templates to take the first step towards the birth experience you desire.

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

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You may have heard of Magnetic Me. Simply is their new sister brand that offers the same beloved magnetic closures at a more affordable price. You can create a custom bundle on their website, combining the prints, styles, and sizes you want, with outfits as low as $15. The more outfits in your cart, the more you save. And trust me, babies need a lot of outfits.

Say no to snaps and head to simplymagneticme.com to stock up on no-fuss essentials and use code MLN20 for 20% off your order.

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast I had the chance to interview the amazing Dr. Jennifer Lincoln! Jen is a board-certified OB/GYN that works as an OB hospitalist, and she is also an IBCLC. 

In addition to her bedside work, Jen is a total TikTok Doc celebrity with 2.8 million followers where, in her words, she makes educational videos that are “the health class you wish you had in high school”.

Inside of today’s episode, we did an “ask an OBGYN anything” based on questions submitted by the MLN community. We covered a broad range of topics and used questions that we saw submitted frequently to make sure they would appeal to the widest audience.

Want to erase anxiety and actually feel excited about birth?

Get instant access to my FREE Birth Workshop to learn tons of pain-coping strategies and actionable tips today!

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy info out there?

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, I had the opportunity to chat with the lovely Dr. Natalie Crawford all about infertility and more specifically secondary infertility.

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

On this episode of The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, I had the opportunity to chat with Erica from Happy as a Mother. She’s a registered psychotherapist with a master’s degree in counseling psychology and postgraduate certificates in couples and family therapy as well as maternal mental health.

Feeling alone on your postpartum journey?

CLICK HERE to get supportive tips and advice from an L&D nurse and veteran mom sent straight to your inbox each week!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

In this episode, my Mommy Labor Nurse team members and I discuss my second postpartum experience with Ryland!

Not sure how to care for yourself down there after birth?

Access our FREE Postpartum Essentials Checklist to know you’ve got what you need to feel clean and comfortable while you’re healing from birth.

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

In this episode, my friend Meaghan shares her induction experience followed by an agonizing 4th degree vaginal tear.

Today, we talk about that golden hour after birth and what to expect in the first 48 hours of your hospital stay. 

The golden hour is the uninterrupted first hour of a baby's life and is filled with such great evidence base benefits for both baby and mama, that it’s becoming standard practice in more and more hospitals around the country. We’ll discuss those benefits and after we talk about what to expect from the first 48 hours after birth, because it’s a critical time of recovery for the mom and baby.

It's important to remember that while the golden hour can be beneficial, it should only be pursued if it’s safe. Safety and stability are always the top priorities, and there should be no guilt if the golden hour cannot be achieved due to medical reasons.

Not sure how to care for yourself down there after birth?

Access our FREE Postpartum Essentials Checklist to know you’ve got what you need to feel clean and comfortable while you’re healing from birth.

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related Episodes

EP114: C-Section vs. Vaginal Birth: What is the Better Option?

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast we’re going to address itching during pregnancy and cover what’s normal and what’s not!

The thing about itching in pregnancy is that it might be nothing, but it might actually be a sign of something more serious – which is why I wanted to do an episode about this!

During pregnancy, your body goes through so many changes. The changes can be physical, emotional, psychological, or a combination of all three! It can be really hard, especially if it’s your first pregnancy, to know whether or not something is normal and when you need to notify your provider.

You are probably familiar with the big red flags: vaginal bleeding, severe pain, and decreased fetal movement, but itching isn’t one of those things that we typically think of as being concerning during pregnancy. And it actually can be!

Want to erase anxiety and actually feel excited about birth?

Get instant access to my FREE Birth Workshop to learn tons of pain-coping strategies and actionable tips today!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related Episodes

• EP107: Let's Chat Third Trimester FAQs

Resources from this Episode

• Grandpa’s Pine Tar Soap

This week on the podcast I am joined by friend Nikki over at the BelleMethod and we're talking all about pelvic floor health!

Nikki is a women’s fitness expert, Master Pilates Trainer, and passionate pelvic health advocate.

We talked about pelvic floor strength after birth, diastasis recti, signs that you may have pelvic floor weaknesses (or tension), getting back into fitness post-birth, and more!

Feeling alone on your postpartum journey?

CLICK HERE to get supportive tips and advice from an L&D nurse and veteran mom sent straight to your inbox each week!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast I did a solo episode talking all about C-section recovery! 

As the basis for this episode, I was able to pull recovery tips that veteran C-section mamas dropped for me over on Instagram. I figured there is no one who can better speak to this better than the mamas that have gone through it first hand.

I start off the episode by talking about what veteran C-section mamas wish they had put in their C-section hospital bag. In fact, I pulled this info from an article I put together last year (read it here!) because you guys blew me away with the suggestions! There is so much good advice.

Scheduled C-section on the horizon?

Get the FREE C-Section Birth Prep Pack to take control of your experience!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

his episode of The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast is all about the realities of black maternal health here in the US, and what we can do to spark change!

We’ve done some feed posts over on IG about this topic before to help raise awareness, but I knew I wanted to take more of a deep dive over here.

It’s a topic that can be really heavy in some ways, but it’s one that needs a LOT of light! If we’re going to spark any kind of change surrounding racism in healthcare (and specifically in black maternal health) I truly believe that awareness is the first step.

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy info out there?

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

It's week 6 of The 12 Weeks of Birth! We're halfway through :) This week I chose to air an episode all about birth fears. I talk about pooping, contraction pain, tearing, c-sections, and more!

**CLICK HERE to read the tearing article I reference in the episode!

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy info out there?

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver. Use code MLN20 to save 20% off your enrollment until June 30th!

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

In this episode, my friend Marley talks all about how maternity care differs in the UK!

Prenatal care feeling tricky to navigate?

My FREE 45 Minute Workshop will teach you what to expect, educate you about important tests and procedures, and ensure you’re making the most of your prenatal care!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

About Marley Hall

In this episode, I interview my friends Julie and Meagan all about VBACs!

The VBAC Link’s mission is to make birth after Cesarean better by providing education, support, and a community of like-minded people. Organized by Julie Francom and Meagan Heaton, VBAC moms, doulas, educators, and doula trainers, they have supported over 700 women on their individual VBAC journeys and have a community of thousands of women all over the world. 

In this episode, I do an extended Q&A taking questions that you guys have given me about breastfeeding - part 2!

Here are the questions we go over!

1. How long should my baby nurse at each feeding? How do I know if baby is finished?
2. How do I really know if my baby is getting enough milk?
3. What to do if my baby is having difficulty latching?
4. How does ovulation play into breastfeeding? Can you still get pregnant while you breastfeed?
5. What do I do about leaking breasts?
6. What to do about sore nipples?
7. Clogged ducts!! What to do?
8. Should I stop breastfeeding if I am sick?

Not sure how to care for yourself down there after birth?

Access our FREE Postpartum Essentials Checklist to know you’ve got what you need to feel clean and comfortable while you’re healing from birth.

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Sponsor

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All of their products are…

• USDA certified organic 
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• Bottled in glass

Use code MLN15 or visit https://wellements.com/labornurse for 15% off any products!

In this episode, I interview my friend Dr. Mona Amin! She is a board-certified pediatrician and answers some of your most common pediatric questions! 

Here are the questions we go over!

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast I’m going to share tips for choosing a pediatrician. Because as you’re working your way through (your seemingly endless) to-do list before birth, one important task is choosing a provider for your newborn.

In this episode, I'll share a list of considerations for choosing a pediatrician, questions to ask a pediatrician before deciding, and even a little bit about what to expect from your newborn pediatrician visits. Let’s tackle this item that’s been sitting on your to-do list mama! And let’s take it on with confidence!

Want to eliminate stress before birth?

Get your FREE 3rd Trimester Prep Pack to know everything is done and feel completely confident with your birth plan and hospital bag!

Stressed about your baby registry?

Get the FREE Baby Registry Checklist created by an L&D nurse and veteran mom for insider tips and an organized list of the things you *actually* need!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

In this episode, I interview my friend Brookes, a nurse practitioner, all about women's health! We talk about PCOS, fertility, endometriosis, and more!

Prenatal care feeling tricky to navigate?

My FREE 45 Minute Workshop will teach you what to expect, educate you about important tests and procedures, and ensure you’re making the most of your prenatal care!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

About Brookes Vaughn

Brookes is the founder of The Women’s Health Company and a Board Certified Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner with over 5 years of experience in Women’s Healthcare.

Brookes received her BS in Public Health from UGA and her WHNP from Vanderbilt University. Brookes’ passion is to educate, equip, and empower women to become whole and healthy by providing them with evidence-based Women’s Health resources and life-giving encouragement.

Brookes is a lover of the Georgia Dawgs, dirty chai lattes, and healthy baking. She lives outside of Athens, GA with her husband, Schuyler, and golden retriever, Riggins.

You can learn more about Brookes here:

• Instagram: @thewomenshealthcompany and @brookesbvaughan_np
• Website: thewomenshealthcompany.com

Resources

• Recommended Registered Dietician

In this episode, we dive into all things car seats! 

Here are the questions we go over!

1. Can you review the basics of buckling in a newborn?
2. Talk to me about the “pinch test”. 
3. What about my baby’s head and how it hangs? I’m concerned he can’t breathe!
4. How do I buckle my baby in with a coat? What if he is cold?
5. What about sleeping babies in car seats? How long is that ok?
6. Rear-facing vs. front facing - what are the biggest safety concerns? When is it safe to switch my child to front-facing?
7. I’m concerned my baby’s legs are bent too much and he is uncomfortable rear-facing?
8. Where should I go or who should I contact if I need help installing my car seat and/or making sure my baby is buckled in?

Stressed about your baby registry?

Get the FREE Baby Registry Checklist created by an L&D nurse and veteran mom for insider tips and an organized list of the things you *actually* need!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

The MLN Podcast is on pause..but not for long!! 

In this candid episode, I share a short personal update on the challenges I've faced in recent months that led to re-airing old podcast episodes. I open up about the real-life struggles that have drained my energy and delayed new content creation. 

But now, I'm thrilled to announce that I'm back with renewed vigor and exciting plans!! I've been working hard on building a new content studio with a fake hospital room to deliver more visual and engaging educational content. 

Mark your calendars for April 2, 2025, when the new format of the Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast will debut. I can't wait to share this fresh, fun, and insightful content with all of you!! 

And...I'd love you forever if you'd subscribe to my YouTube channel to experience the episodes in their full glory. Let's embark on this exciting journey together!!

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, I'm excited to be answering some questions submitted by listeners from the podcast hotline!

First, we have a mom-to-be who is hoping for a VBAC. She explains that she's already feeling some discomfort around her C-section scar. She is wondering if this could indicate an increased risk for uterine rupture and if pursuing a VBAC is a safe option for her.

Next, we have Taylor, a second-time mom who is curious if her second labor will be similar to her first, which involved very frequent contractions that lead to an epidural she was hoping to avoid.

If you want to submit your question to be featured on the show, all you have to do is call the hotline and leave a voice message! The number is 919-213-8719.

Want to erase anxiety and actually feel excited about birth?

Get instant access to my FREE Birth Workshop to learn tons of pain-coping strategies and actionable tips today!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related Episodes

• EP168: Ask Me Anything

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast I talked ALL about your birth team! These are the people who will help support you throughout your labor. 

First, I discussed the different types of providers that can deliver your baby! There are two main “categories” of providers you can choose from for this job – an obstetrician or a midwife, and both come with their own set of benefits!

Then I’ll differentiate between two other essential birth team members – doulas and labor and delivery nurses (like me!).

Want to feel in control before birth?

Use our FREE Birth Plan Templates to take the first step towards the birth experience you desire.

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

In this episode, Erin shares her traumatic birth story with her twin daughters and her redemptive unmedicated birth story with her son.

Want to birth without an epidural?

Get the FREE Natural Birth Prep Pack for the confidence you need, because simply wanting it might not be enough!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

About Erin

• Ina May's Guide to Childbirth: Helpful book Erin read to help prepare for her second delivery
• http://www.chicagobirthboutique.com/: Erin's doula, Lauren Elliott in Chicago

In this episode, my friend Marta shares her birth story having TRIPLETS!

Want to erase anxiety and actually feel excited about birth?

Get instant access to my FREE Birth Workshop to learn tons of pain-coping strategies and actionable tips today!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

This week I interviewed Maranda Bower, CEO and Founder of Postpartum University®. Maranda lives in her beautiful homestead in Alaska with her husband, 4 children, and many unruly chickens! She’s had 4 home births, each of which has uniquely taught her about herself, and her postpartum experiences. Maranda has such a unique, beautiful story and I can’t wait to share it with you all!

Not sure how to care for yourself down there after birth?

Access our FREE Postpartum Essentials Checklist to know you’ve got what you need to feel clean and comfortable while you’re healing from birth.

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

About Maranda Bower:

Maranda Bower is the CEO and Founder of Postpartum University®, dedicated to empowering both mothers and professionals in redefining maternal well-being. With her extensive expertise in biology, nutrition, and perinatal mental health, she stands as a pioneering figure in the field.

Maranda possesses a profound understanding of the intricate physiological processes that underpin postpartum well-being. As a prolific researcher and accomplished author, including the bestselling book "Reclaiming Postpartum Wellness," her impactful work extends globally. She’s also the founder of the Postpartum Nutrition Certification Program, the only functional nutrition certification dedicated to the unique period that is postpartum!

Learn More & Connect With Maranda Here:

www.PostpartumU.com/Podcast

In this episode, my friend Carly shares her VBAC experience after having two C-sections and finding a great provider who was supportive of her wishes!

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, I had the opportunity to chat with a male L&D nurse, which is not something I come across every day!

You guys are going to absolutely love AJ, he was so much fun to chat with, and he is also HILARIOUS! I thought he was the perfect person to join me this week, and I can't wait for you guys to listen!

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy info out there?

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Hooray! I am so excited about this podcast! Episode one of the MLN podcast is NOW LIVE! :)

In this episode, I do an extended Q&A session taking questions that you guys have given me from Instagram.

You can expect everything from enemas, membrane strips, and what to expect at your first prenatal appointment in this episode!!

Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy info out there?

CLICK HERE to get helpful and supportive tips, info, and resources from an L&D nurse sent straight to your inbox every week, and never sort through search results again!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Today, we'll be diving into a topic that's near and dear to every mom's heart: the often overwhelming expectations of motherhood and the importance of reclaiming joy and fulfillment amidst the chaos.

Joining us is Erica Djossa, a maternal mental health specialist and the founder of the Momwell community. Throughout our conversation, we'll explore Erica's journey into the maternal mental health space, the inspiration behind her book, and some key takeaways that moms everywhere can implement in their own lives.

To hear more from Erica, I encourage you to listen to my two other interviews with her! She came on the show in Episode 79 to talk about the invisible load of motherhood, and in Episode 187 we unpacked postpartum psychosis.

Not sure how to care for yourself down there after birth?

Access our FREE Postpartum Essentials Checklist to know you’ve got what you need to feel clean and comfortable while you’re healing from birth.

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related Episodes and Resources

• EP79: The Invisible Load of Motherhood

• EP187: Understanding Postpartum Psychosis with Erica Djossa

• Momwell Workshops & Courses

• Momwell Community

• Erica Djossa’s New Book: "Releasing the Mother Load"

In this episode, Brittany shares her unplanned 39-hour long induction at 37 weeks.

Want to feel confident before your epidural birth?

Get the FREE Epidural Birth Prep Pack to gain a sense of control before the big day!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

About Brittany Dougherty

Brittany Dougherty is a mom to a 1.5 year old and is currently pregnant with baby number two. She lives in Reno, Nevada with her husband, son, and two dogs. She is a civil engineer by trade, but she enjoys talking about pregnancy and babies whenever she gets the chance.

You can learn more about Brittany here:

• Growing Our Family Podcast & Blog Website: https://growingourfamily.com/
• Instagram: @growingrfamily

Resources

• Listen to Brittany's podcast episode that I was on here!

In this episode, my friend Mallory shares her experience with postpartum depression and later I do a Q&A answering your questions about it.

Here are the questions I go over in the Q&A!

1. What should I do if I need help?
2. What are some of the common treatment methods?
3. Are there certain risk factors?
4. What should I say to people if they think I’m fine, because I don’t look sick?
5. How long will it take for me to feel better?

Feeling alone on your postpartum journey?

CLICK HERE to get supportive tips and advice from an L&D nurse and veteran mom sent straight to your inbox each week!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Welcome back to another episode of The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, your go-to destination for all things pregnancy and birth!

Today we're diving into a magical moment in every pregnancy journey - those first baby movements!

In this episode, I’ll unpack quickening in pregnancy and provide you with the information you need to know including a fun segment where veteran moms describe what those first movements felt like. I promise you don't want to miss it!

After finishing this episode, you’ll know exactly what to look for when it comes to those first baby movements. So let’s get into it!

Pregnancy to-dos piling up already?

Get your FREE Second Trimester Prep Pack to create your registry with ease and know you’re staying on track!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related Resources

• PUSH for Empowered Pregnancy
• Count the Kicks App

In today's episode, I will dive into the critical topic of improving maternal health outcomes for black women and the promising programs that are making a difference.

Black women often face discrimination and stress during their pregnancies, birth and postpartum, leading to the highest rates of maternal mortality and health complications in the US. 

However, there is hope on the horizon and Dr. Venice Haynes and Natalie Davis are joining me today to discuss the positive changes that are happening around this topic!

Venice is the Senior Director of Research and community engagement at United States of Care and brings over 14 years of public health experience. And Natalie is the CEO and co-founder of United States of care with nearly two decades of shaping American health care policies. 

I'm so thrilled to share this interview in honor of black maternal health week as a means to help raise awareness and support wider adoptions of these crucial programs and practices. And if you want to keep listening to learn more about the realities of black maternal health, I encourage you to listen to Episode 73 after this one.

Resources and Related Episodes

• "Bright Spots" Report from United States of Care

• Nurse Family Partnerships - Provides resources and support for first-time moms.

• Black Mom of Glowing - Peer support group for maternal mental health.

• Family Solutions - Provides resources and support for parents and children in rural communities in South Carolina

• Maven Clinic - Provides reproductive and family healthcare for members.

• Ocean Family Center - Has a program that gives free virtual psychotherapy appointments for mothers.

• Shades of Blue Project - Offers a postpartum support group through journaling in Houston, Texas.

• Spinning Babies - Provide resources on a physiological approach to preparing for and caring for birth.

• EP73: The Realities of Black Maternal Health

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast we're going to dive into the topic of medical induction of labor. I'm going to talk about the reasons you might be induced and the various induction methods your provider may use. 

But before we get into it, I want to quickly review what induction is, just in case you're not quite sure! Induction of labor is exactly what it sounds like: you aren't in labor yet so we put you into labor (or we attempt to push you into labor!) through different methods.

There comes a point in pregnancy where the risk of continuing the pregnancy is actually greater than the benefits of keeping baby inside. And that point can be different for different moms!

Keep listening to learn more about why you might need one and how we might do it.

Want to erase anxiety and actually feel excited about birth?

Get instant access to my FREE Birth Workshop to learn tons of pain-coping strategies and actionable tips today!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

Related episodes

• Episode 72: Help! What is an induction?
• Episode 36: Haley's Positive Induction Story! 

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This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast I have a birth story to share with you. I want to give a content warning for this episode because we do talk about child loss. If this subject could trigger you, please skip this episode and tune in next week.

Shea’s daughter was diagnosed with Trisomy 13, which was found at a genetic screening in the first trimester. Trisomy 13 is a genetic disorder caused by an extra 13th chromosome. This extra chromosome can cause severe mental and physical problems. Unfortunately, this diagnosis is usually associated with a short life expectancy, and some babies are not even born alive.

Even though this specific diagnosis is rare, I wanted to have Shea share her story on the podcast this week about what it’s like to receive a life-limiting diagnosis during pregnancy and how to navigate that journey.

Feeling overwhelmed in the first trimester?

Get support in the early weeks with our FREE 1st Trimester Prep Pack and gain a sense of control!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

In this episode, Samantha shares her powerful unmedicated birth story with her third using mindfulness and meditation techniques!

You can learn more about Samantha here:

• Blog: Evidence-Based Mommy
• Pinterest: pinterest.com/evidencemommy

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast I have Jordan joining me to talk about her birth story! Jordan is a black woman & first-time mom who had a fairly uneventful pregnancy but unfortunately dealt with some traumatic events that occurred during the birth of her son.

Jordan tells me in the episode that while pregnant, she had educated herself about the racial disparities that unfortunately exist here in the US and she felt informed, and prepared going into her birth. She never really thought she would actually be treated differently because of the way that she looked. 

Stressed about your baby registry?

Get the FREE Baby Registry Checklist created by an L&D nurse and veteran mom for insider tips and an organized list of the things you *actually* need!

Want to erase anxiety and actually feel excited about birth?

Get instant access to my FREE Birth Workshop to learn tons of pain-coping strategies and actionable tips today!

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

This week I had a chance to chat with Katie from The Breastfeeding Mama. Katie is a mom of three boys, and after the birth of her second baby, she faced a ton of challenges with breastfeeding.

That’s where her journey towards becoming The Breastfeeding Mama started, and really where her passion for helping other women succeed at breastfeeding began too.

Not sure how to care for yourself down there after birth?

Access our FREE Postpartum Essentials Checklist to know you’ve got what you need to feel clean and comfortable while you’re healing from birth.

Have an even better birth!

CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver.

And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!