Ask Dr. Sterling Podcast

In this episode, Dr. Sterling discusses cervical exams during pregnancy and labor, emphasizing patient consent and comfort. Learn about why these exams are performed, how to make them more comfortable, and get a brief introduction to membrane sweeping as a potential labor-inducing procedure.Key MomentsYour Right to ConsentPurpose of Cervical ExamsBishop Score ExplainedMaking Exams More ComfortableIntroduction to Membrane SweepingConnect With Us: Join the Sterling Parents community at sterlingparents.com Follow us on Instagram @askdrsterlingpodcast Email your questions to podcast@sterlingparents.com

In this comprehensive episode, Dr. Sterling breaks down everything you need to know about gestational diabetes screening during pregnancy. From test procedures to understanding results, this guide helps expectant parents navigate this important aspect of prenatal care with confidence and clarity.Key MomentsOne-Step vs. Two-Step ScreeningTest Preparation & What to ExpectUnderstanding ResultsAlternative Testing OptionsImportant RemindersDr. Sterling emphasizes that abnormal results don't mean you've "failed" a test, and that the majority of people who have an abnormal one-hour test will not be diagnosed with gestational diabetes after the three-hour test. For those who are diagnosed, 70% can manage with diet and exercise changes alone.Connect With Us: Join the Sterling Parents community at sterlingparents.com Follow us on Instagram @askdrsterlingpodcast Email your questions to podcast@sterlingparents.com

In this mini episode, Dr. Sterling walks you through everything you need to know about the second trimester anatomy ultrasound—what it is, what to expect during your appointment, and how to make sense of the findings. Whether you’re wondering why your bladder needs to be full, what a “low-lying placenta” means, or why you might be asked to come back for another scan, this episode is packed with clarity and reassurance.From understanding how the ultrasound works to breaking down common findings (like EIFs and choroid plexus cysts), Dr. Sterling gives you the facts—without the fear.Key MomentsWhat the anatomy ultrasound actually looks forWhat happens during the appointmentCommon reasons you might be asked to come backFindings that sound scary but usually aren’tWhat "limited by maternal habitus" actually meansConnect With UsJoin the Sterling Parents community: www.sterlingparents.comFollow us on Instagram: @askdrsterlingpodcastSend your questions to: podcast@sterlingparents.com

In this mini episode, Dr. Sterling explores the fascinating world of fetal movement during pregnancy—when it begins, how it feels, and what to expect as your pregnancy progresses. Whether you're experiencing those first subtle flutters or wondering about movement patterns, this episode provides clarity and reassurance about this exciting milestone.Key MomentsEarly Movement DetectionWhat Movement Feels LikeTiming DifferencesMonitoring MovementConnect With UsJoin the Sterling Parents community at sterlingparents.com Follow us on Instagram @askdrsterlingpodcast Email your questions to podcast@sterlingparents.com

In this comprehensive episode, Dr. Sterling breaks down the complex world of genetic screening and testing in pregnancy. From understanding the difference between screening and diagnostic tests to navigating the various options available at different stages, this guide helps expectant parents make informed decisions about their prenatal care journey.Key Moments - Screening vs. diagnostic testing explained - First trimester screening options - Cell-free DNA testing benefits - Second trimester screening approaches - Special considerations for twin pregnancies - Making informed decisionsConnect With UsJoin the Waitlist: sterlingparents.comInstagram: @askdrsterlingpodcastAdvanced Maternal Age ClassThe Libido & Orgasm LabThe Complete VBAC Guide

In this insider's guide to first trimester care, Dr. Sterling pulls back the curtain on what really happens at your early prenatal appointments. From transvaginal ultrasounds to weight discussions, genetic screening options to aspirin recommendations, she provides a comprehensive roadmap while sharing practical tips most providers don't tell you.Key MomentsFirst appointment expectationsWeight discussions and recommendationsPhysical exams and testing explainedGenetic screening conversationsAspirin recommendations for preeclampsiaInsider tips for navigating careConnect With UsJoin the Waitlist: sterlingparents.comInstagram: @askdrsterlingpodcastSubmit questions: podcast@sterlingparents.comAdvanced Maternal Age Class

In this episode, Dr. Sterling addresses one of pregnancy's most challenging emotions: fear of loss. Drawing from both professional expertise and personal experience, she offers a groundbreaking approach to managing anxiety while making decisions about sharing pregnancy news, using home dopplers, and building essential parenting skills.Powerful Quotes"Emotions aren't good or bad - they're pieces of information and data that our body and brain are sending us." - Dr. Sterling"I would rather honor my boundaries and have you be upset with me than to betray myself." - Dr. SterlingConnect With UsJoin Sterling Parents Membership Instagram: @askdrsterlingpodcastSubmit questions: podcast@sterlingparents.com

In this special series premiere, Dr. Sterling shares exclusive content from the Sterling Parents pregnancy course, breaking down pregnancy guidelines with a refreshing, evidence-based approach centered on personal wellness. Moving beyond rigid rules, she explains the science behind common recommendations while emphasizing the importance of individual decision-making and self-compassion. Get ready for the do's and don'ts of food safety guidelines, caffeine and alcohol, beauty product safety, exercise recommendations and more. Connect With UsJoin Sterling Parents Membership Instagram: @askdrsterlingpodcastSubmit questions: podcast@sterlingparents.com

In this special series premiere, Dr. Sterling shares exclusive content from the Sterling Parents pregnancy course, breaking down exactly what you need to know in those first crucial weeks after seeing those two pink lines. From calculating your due date to choosing the right provider, this episode offers evidence-based guidance for starting your pregnancy journey.Key Moments [35 mins]00:00 - Series introduction and app announcement 03:15 - Calculating your due date accurately 08:30 - When to schedule first appointments 15:45 - Choosing your healthcare provider 22:30 - Prenatal vitamin essentials 28:15 - Managing early pregnancy emotionsExpert InsightsDr. Sterling breaks down:Why 8-10 weeks is standard for first appointmentsExceptions for earlier careNICU levels and hospital selectionPractice styles and their pros/consPrenatal vitamin componentsEarly pregnancy emotional changesConnect With UsJoin Sterling Parents Membership Instagram: @askdrsterlingpodcastSubmit questions: podcast@sterlingparents.com

In this insightful episode, Dr. Sterling welcomes Dr. Cassidy Freitas, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in maternal mental health. Using her powerful "car metaphor," Dr. Cassidy breaks down how to develop a new relationship with anxiety during the reproductive years and beyond, offering practical tools for managing anxious thoughts without trying to eliminate them completely.Powerful Quotes"Anxiety is like a backseat passenger in your car - it has important data to share, but it shouldn't be in the driver's seat." - Dr. Cassidy "We can only avoid these parts of ourselves for so long until they get louder and louder to the point where we can't ignore them anymore." - Dr. Cassidy Connect With UsFollow Dr. Cassidy: @drcassidy and check out drcassidymft.com Join Sterling Parents: sterlingparents.comSubmit questions: podcast@sterlingparents.com

In this powerful episode, Dr. Sterling sits down with Erica Djossa, registered psychotherapist and founder of Momwell, to unpack the invisible mental load of motherhood. From her personal breakdown-turned-breakthrough after her third postpartum experience to creating an innovative maternal mental health platform, Erica shares insights on why mothers carry so much invisible work and how to create more equitable partnerships.Key Moments [45 mins]00:00 - Introduction to the mental load crisis 07:15 - The "laundry mountain" breaking point 15:30 - Gender roles and societal conditioning 22:45 - Partner dynamics and sharing knowledge 32:20 - Raising boys to challenge default patterns 38:45 - Creating sustainable support systemsConnect With UsFollow Momwell: @momwellJoin Sterling Parents: sterlingparents.comSubmit questions: podcast@sterlingparents.com

Join Dr. Sterling and she dives deep into the science behind nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (NVP), affecting over 90% of pregnant people. Drawing from both current research and her personal experience with severe pregnancy nausea, Dr. Sterling breaks down why it happens, what's normal, and most importantly - how to get help when you need it.Key Moments [45 mins]00:00 - Introduction and prevalence of NVP 05:30 - The science behind pregnancy nausea 15:45 - Risk factors and genetic components 22:30 - Treatment options and medication safety 35:15 - Nutrition strategies and prenatal vitamins 40:00 - When and how to advocate for yourselfMyth-Busting Quotes"It's not in your head. There's a reason you feel so terrible - we have the science to prove it." - Dr. Sterling"We are prescribing too few medications for this and aren't moving people through the treatment algorithm at a fast enough pace." - Dr. SterlingConnect With UsJoin Sterling Parents Membership Instagram: @askdrsterlingpodcastSubmit questions: podcast@sterlingparents.com

Episode SummaryIn this powerful episode, Dr. Sterling sits down with Kimberley Quinlan, a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD, anxiety, and self-compassion. With her unique background in cognitive behavioral therapy from Oxford and extensive experience treating anxiety disorders, Kimberley shares profound insights on why self-criticism often intensifies in motherhood and how to break free from perfectionism.Key Moments [45 mins]00:00 - Introduction to Kimberley Quinlan's expertise 05:30 - The evolutionary roots of self-criticism 12:15 - Why self-compassion is harder in motherhood 18:45 - Breaking free from achievement-based worth 25:30 - Practical self-compassion exercises 35:20 - Modeling self-kindness for our childrenPowerful Quotes"The practice of self-criticism and self-judgment actually has played a role in our evolution... However, now we're not in that threatening environment. We're overusing a strategy that can be helpful in dire situations in everyday life." - Kimberley Quinlan"Being willing to feel your emotions is actually, it's so simple. But listen... these very simple things of being slightly kinder to yourself and feeling your emotions... can be life changing." - Dr. SterlingResources MentionedKimberley's Website & PodcastKimberley's Instagram: @youranxietytoolkitSterling Parents MembershipConnect With UsFollow Ask Dr. Sterling: @askdrsterlingpodcastJoin Sterling Parents Membership for expert supportSubmit questions: podcast@sterlingparents.com

In this candid mini episode, Dr. Sterling and co-host Claire share their personal stories of being shockingly unprepared for postpartum. After a listener reached out through their new broadcast channel asking how an OB-GYN could be unprepared, Dr. Sterling breaks down the reality of postpartum preparation in 2024 versus her first experience in 2017.Quick Listen Highlights [25 mins]00:00 - Introduction and listener question 03:45 - Dr. Sterling's 2017 postpartum experience 08:30 - The Pinterest-perfect nursery trap 12:15 - What actually matters postpartum 16:40 - Physical vs emotional preparation 20:30 - Critical life skills for new parentsReal Talk TakeawaysWhy physical prep isn't enoughThe mental load no one talks aboutHow social media has changed postpartum expectationsWhy nursery decoration shouldn't be your priorityEssential emotional preparation strategiesWhat Actually Matters"Challenging doesn't have to mean terrible. There are ways to prepare ourselves with life skills, but they're not things you can learn at 32 weeks from a blog." - Dr. SterlingSterling Parents TipsStart emotional preparation early in pregnancyFocus on your bedroom setup over nursery decorationBuild critical life skills before baby arrivesCreate a healing, calming space where you'll actually spend timeInvest in support systems over aesthetic itemsConnect With UsJoin our Broadcast Channel: @drsterlingobgyn on InstagramSterling Parents MembershipSubmit your questions: podcast@sterlingparents.com

Join Dr. Sterling as she sits down with Dr. Emily Seidler, a double board-certified reproductive endocrinologist at Boston IVF and Harvard Medical School instructor, who shares her powerful transition from fertility specialist to IVF patient. Learn how her professional expertise shaped her personal fertility journey, including her decision to freeze eggs at age 33 and ultimately use them to conceive her daughter through IVF at age 39.Key Moments00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Emily Seidler's story 05:30 - The decision to freeze eggs in her early 30s 12:45 - Transitioning from doctor to patient 18:20 - Making the choice to use frozen eggs 25:30 - The IVF transfer process and success 35:40 - Professional insights gained from personal experienceEpisode Highlights"Egg freezing is not an insurance policy, but it's a reassurance policy." - Dr. Emily SeidlerExpert InsightsDr. Seidler debunks common fertility myths and shares evidence-based approaches to:Timing of fertility treatmentsGenetic testing optionsEmbryo transfer protocolsAge-related fertility decisionsManaging treatment expectationsFollow Dr. Emily Seidler: @EmilySeidlerMD on InstagramConnect With UsFollow Ask Dr. Sterling Podcast: @askdrsterlingpodcastJoin Sterling Parents MembershipSubmit your questions: podcast@sterlingparents.com

Enjoy one of our top episodes from 2024!As someone who is obsessed with finding effective ways to manage stress, it’s time for Dr. Sterling to share her insights and practical tips to help you navigate the stressful periods of trying to conceive, pregnancy, and postpartum.Co-host, Claire, brings questions from the listeners on the often-debated topic of self-care and how you can possibly incorporate stress reduction into a busy life, leading Dr. Sterling to open up about her own postpartum challenges. Tune in to a conversation that promises to leave you feeling empowered and ready to tackle your stress head-on._____________The Ask Dr. Sterling podcast is here to tackle your burning questions - the ones you are too nervous to ask your OB. Have a question for Dr. Sterling to answer on the podcast? Send it to podcast@sterlingparents.com!Follow us at @askdrsterlingpodcast on Instagram & tiktok and check out the only membership designed to reduce the worries & anxieties of pregnancy and postpartum - Sterling Parents MembershipHost: Dr. Sterling, Board Certified ObGyn & Founder of Sterling Parents Membership

Enjoy the top episode from this season!Do you have burning questions about birth that you're too embarrassed to ask? In this entertaining & eye opening Q&A episode of the Ask Dr. Sterling Podcast, Dr. Sterling answers the most common (and awkward!) questions she gets about childbirth. From the reality of pooping during labor to whether epidurals really slow things down, Dr. Sterling shares the truth behind these labor myths and more!Have you ever wondered if you should shave or wax before delivery? Or maybe you’ve heard stories of women having orgasms during childbirth and are curious if that’s actually a thing. What about using a mirror during labor? And what’s the deal with those intense labor shakes? Dr. Sterling covers it all in this no-holds-barred conversation.Tune in to this episode and get the answers to all those questions you’ve been dying to ask but didn’t know who to turn to!______________________________The Ask Dr. Sterling podcast is here to tackle your burning questions - the ones you are too nervous to ask your OB. Have a question for Dr. Sterling to answer on the podcast? Send it to podcast@sterlingparents.com!Follow us at @askdrsterlingpodcast on Instagram & tiktok and check out the only membership designed to reduce the worries & anxieties of pregnancy and postpartum - Sterling Parents MembershipHost: Dr. Sterling, Board Certified ObGyn & Founder of Sterling Parents Membership

In this eye-opening episode of Ask Dr. Sterling, Dr. Sterling sits down with licensed perinatal therapist Gayane Aramyan, LMFT, to dismantle the common myth of maternal instinct—that every mom will feel an immediate, overwhelming bond with their baby.Together, they explore why bonding doesn’t always happen instantly and why it’s normal. From physical recovery and mental health to a baby’s unique temperament, Dr. Sterling and Gayane unpack the complex realities of early motherhood. They also discuss how to stop blaming yourself, reframe unrealistic expectations, and embrace self-compassion during one of life’s biggest transitions.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The Myth of Maternal Instinct: Why society’s idea of an “instant bond” can be harmful—and what bonding really looks like.The Factors That Influence Bonding: How recovery, mental health, and even a baby’s temperament impact the early connection.Reframing Expectations: Practical ways to stop self-blame and embrace the learning curve of motherhood.When to Seek Support: Tips for identifying when to ask for help and how to access resources for postpartum mental health.Why You Should Listen:If you’ve ever felt guilt or shame for not feeling an immediate bond with your baby, this episode will leave you feeling seen, validated, and supported. Dr. Sterling and Gayane provide a compassionate perspective, reminding moms that love and connection take time—and that there’s no “right” way to become a mother.Resources Mentioned:Gayane Aramyan, LMFT: Follow Gayane for more perinatal mental health insights.Sterling Parents Membership: Access tools, expert guidance, and resources to support you in pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond.Postpartum Support International: (Postpartum.net) Find additional resources and support for postpartum mental health.____________________________________The Ask Dr. Sterling podcast answers the questions you’re too nervous to ask your doctor. Send your questions to podcast@sterlingparents.com or DM us on Instagram @askdrsterlingpodcast.If you loved this episode, don’t forget to rate, review, and share!

In part two of our holiday series, Dr. Sterling and Claire tackle the art of setting boundaries during one of the most challenging times of the year. Whether you’re trying to conceive, pregnant, or navigating the postpartum phase, the holidays often bring unsolicited advice, invasive questions, and well-meaning but stressful family dynamics.Dr. Sterling shares tips on how to set clear, compassionate boundaries while protecting your mental and physical health. From addressing nosy TTC questions to navigating tricky postpartum comments about your weight, this episode is packed with relatable scenarios and empowering advice. Plus, Claire opens up about her own boundary-setting missteps and the lessons learned from those moments.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:TTC and Holiday Pressure: How to respond to invasive questions and unsolicited advice about starting or growing your family.Postpartum Safety and Boundaries: Why it’s okay to say no to Aunt Nancy's party if it doesn’t feel safe or comfortable.Weight and Body Image Comments: Dr. Sterling’s advice on shutting down weight commentary with grace (or sass!).Breaking Free from People-Pleasing: Practical tips for prioritizing your needs and protecting your peace during the holidays.Why You Should Listen:If the holidays have you dreading awkward conversations or exhausting family obligations, this episode is for you. Dr. Sterling and Claire bring humor, warmth, and actionable tools to help you navigate the season with confidence and boundaries that truly stick.Resources Mentioned:Sterling Parents Membership: Support and resources for TTC, pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting.Join the Broadcast Channel on IG! @drsterlingobgyn____________________________________The Ask Dr. Sterling podcast answers the questions you’re too nervous to ask your doctor. Send your questions to podcast@sterlingparents.com or DM us on Instagram @askdrsterlingpodcast.If you loved this episode, don’t forget to rate, review, and share!

In this episode of Ask Dr. Sterling, Dr. Sterling and Claire dive into the realities of motherhood during the holiday season. From the surge of positive pregnancy tests that follow the holidays to the often-overwhelming mental load moms carry this time of year, this episode is packed with relatable moments and practical advice.Dr. Sterling offers insights into why moms don’t want another vacuum for Christmas (hint: we’re dreaming of sleep and a real break) and shares tips on how to ask for what you really need.Why You Should Listen:If you’re a mom feeling overwhelmed by holiday stress, this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Sterling and Claire bring humor, warmth, and actionable advice to help you reclaim joy and ease during the most wonderful (and chaotic) time of the year.Connect With Us:The Ask Dr. Sterling podcast answers the questions you’re too nervous to ask your doctor. Send your questions to podcast@sterlingparents.com or DM us on Instagram @askdrsterlingpodcast.If you loved this episode, don’t forget to rate, review, and share!