Mommy Labor Nurse

What actually happens after birth? This episode walks you through the first 48 hours with your newborn – from that golden hour and first latch to bleeding, bathroom trips, and baby checks. No fluff, no fear – just real talk 💁‍♀️

Think you know all things birth? Let’s put that to the test! In this fun and lighthearted episode, we’re playing a round of birth trivia – with real questions and answers that might surprise you 🤓 Play along and learn something new!

Pregnancy and new motherhood can bring on a lot of emotions – and for many, anxiety is part of that picture. In this episode, we talk about recognizing anxiety in pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, and what you can do to manage it. We cover practical coping tools, when to reach out for help, and ways to feel more calm and confident during each stage of the journey. Whether you’re currently expecting, newly postpartum, or supporting someone who is, this conversation will give you real-life strategies and reassurance.

The postpartum period is a whirlwind – and it’s easy to put your own needs on the back burner. In this episode, we’re talking about how to nourish your body and support your healing after birth. From nutrient-rich meal ideas to mindset shifts around self-care, you’ll learn simple ways to boost your energy, balance your hormones, and feel your best during those early months. Whether you’re breastfeeding, recovering from a C-section, or just trying to stay afloat, these tips are for you!

In this heartfelt birth story episode, my guest opens up about her journey through secondary infertility – the challenges, the emotions, and ultimately, the joy of welcoming her new baby. You’ll hear about the ups and downs of trying to conceive again, how her pregnancy unfolded, and the details of her birth experience. If you’ve walked a similar road or love hearing real, unfiltered birth stories, this one will inspire and remind you that you’re never alone in your journey.

Ever wonder how you can help your little one start building language skills from the very beginning? In this episode, I’m joined by The Speech Sisters, two speech-language pathologists and moms who are passionate about helping parents support their baby’s communication journey.  We’re chatting about what’s normal in those early months, how to spot red flags, and easy ways to make everyday moments language-rich. Whether your baby is in your belly, cooing, babbling, or starting to say words, you’ll walk away with practical tips you can use right away!

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, we’re diving into a Q&A episode all about the third trimester! These questions came straight from you on Instagram, and I’m so excited to dig into them with more detail than I can fit in a story slide. The third trimester can be a wild ride – full of physical changes, emotional shifts, and so many “is this normal?” moments. Whether you're prepping for labor, feeling the nesting urge kick in, or just dealing with discomforts, this episode is here to support you through it all 💪 We’re covering: What to expect as labor approaches Tips for easing common third-tri symptoms How to prep your body and mind for delivery Final to-dos before baby arrives And lots more real talk + reassurance Whether this is your first rodeo or your fourth, there’s something here for every mama navigating those final weeks. 🎁 FREE 3rd Trimester Prep Pack This checklist was made by a labor nurse (hi, it’s me!) to help you feel calm, confident, and ready as birth day gets closer. 📥 Download the 3rd Trimester Prep Pack 🎓 Want to Feel Totally Ready for Birth? Our MLN Birth Classes break it all down – from contractions to pushing to postpartum – in a way that’s clear, supportive, and confidence-building. 💻 Explore the MLN All-Access Birth Classes 📲 Join the MLN Instagram Fam Follow @mommy.labornurse for daily pregnancy tips, birth prep guidance, and real support from a labor nurse who’s been there 💛

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, we’re doing another Ask Me Anything – and this time it’s all about the second trimester! These episodes are always a hit (and one of my faves to record!) because I get to answer your real questions from Instagram stories – with way more detail than I can fit into a slide. Inside this episode, we’re covering: What’s up with peeing when you sneeze (and what to do about it) Kick counting basics – when to start and how it works Glucose tolerance testing tips and what to expect What to know about placenta previa Do you really need a birth class? And more second-tri insights you don’t want to miss! Whether you’re 13 weeks or 27, this one’s full of relatable info and practical tips to help you feel more confident in your pregnancy. 🎁 FREE Second Trimester Prep Pack Registry stress? To-do list overwhelm? This free guide is here to help you stay on track and actually enjoy this trimester! 📥 Grab your 2nd Trimester Prep Pack 🎓 Want to Feel Extra Ready for Labor? Our MLN Birth Classes cover everything you need to know – from contractions to confidence – and are perfect for second-tri mamas looking to get ahead. 💻 Check out the MLN Birth Classes 📲 Let’s Stay Connected Follow @mommy.labornurse for daily pregnancy ed, tips, and a supportive community of 700k+ mamas 💛

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, we’re talking all things first trimester! It’s one of our signature Ask Me Anything episodes – and yes, I love doing these for you guys! Every question in this episode was submitted by my IG fam (hey Insta besties 👋) – and I picked the ones that needed a deeper dive than stories allow. So if you’re navigating those early weeks and wondering, “Is this normal??” – you’re in the right place. Inside the episode, we’re chatting about: How to handle nausea without losing your mind Fatigue hacks that actually help What’s up with first-trimester anxiety And so much more! Whether you’re newly pregnant or just want to feel a little less alone in those first 12 weeks, this episode is packed with validation, tips, and real talk 💛 🎁 FREE 1st Trimester Prep Pack Overwhelmed in the early weeks? This free guide will help you feel more in control, more prepared, and more you. 📥 Grab your 1st Trimester Prep Pack here 🎓 Want to Feel Prepared for Every Trimester? Our online birth classes walk you through every stage of pregnancy – from trimester one to postpartum – so you feel confident and supported. 💻 Check out the MLN Birth Classes 📲 Join the MLN Insta Community Follow @mommy.labornurse for daily education, encouragement, and that “you’re not alone” kind of support through pregnancy and beyond 💛

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, we’re welcoming a very special guest – the amazing Dr. Rebecca Dekker from Evidence Based Birth®! Rebecca is a PhD nurse, researcher, educator, and fierce advocate for evidence-based maternity care. She’s also the author of Babies Are Not Pizzas and host of the Evidence Based Birth® podcast, which has over 4.5 million downloads 👏 In this episode, we’re digging into the topic of natural labor induction – what works, what doesn’t, and how to tell the difference. Inside the episode: Evidence behind common natural induction techniques The difference between “throw you into labor” methods vs. gentle nudges Pros, cons, and safety of various approaches How to think critically and make informed decisions around induction Whether you’re hoping to avoid a medical induction or just want to be informed, this episode is a must-listen! 🎁 FREE Birth Prep Guide Want to feel more confident and in control heading into labor? Grab this free guide packed with tips, checklists, and prep strategies from a labor nurse! 📥 Download the Birth Prep Guide 🎓 Need a Complete Birth Prep Plan? My MLN Birth Classes will help you feel so ready – with evidence-based lessons, practical tips, and support for every type of birth. 💻 Check out the MLN Birth Classes 📚 Related Episodes & Resources EP77: Why It’s Important to Prep Your Body for Labor The Miles Circuit by Sharon Muza 👩‍⚕️ About Dr. Rebecca Dekker Rebecca is the founder and CEO of Evidence Based Birth®, where she and her team are on a mission to make research on pregnancy and birth accessible and empowering for all families. She’s a former nursing professor, passionate educator, and mom who’s changing the birth world – one fact at a time. 📲 Learn More from Evidence Based Birth® Visit the Website Follow on Instagram Listen to the Podcast

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, we’re chatting about labor signs – but not the obvious ones like contractions or water breaking. We’re talking about the weird, lesser-known signs that your body might be getting ready for labor 👀 Because if you’ve ever found yourself googling, “Is ___ a sign of labor?”...you’re so not alone. In this episode, I’m sharing: The most common (but surprising!) symptoms I see before labor begins Why it’s totally normal to feel hyper-aware of every body change in the final weeks What to actually pay attention to as you approach labor day Whether you’re 36 weeks or just curious about what’s coming, this episode will help you feel more in tune with your body and what it’s trying to tell you 💛 🎁 FREE Hospital Bag Checklist Feeling anxious about packing? This free checklist was made by a practicing L&D nurse (hi, that’s me!) to help you pack like a pro and actually feel ready. 📥 Grab your Hospital Bag Checklist 🎓 Want to Feel 1000% More Confident for Birth? My online birth classes are designed to help you feel educated, prepared, and in control no matter how you plan to deliver. 💻 Explore MLN Birth Classes 📲 Come Hang with Me on Instagram Follow @mommy.labornurse for daily tips, relatable education, and solidarity through every stage of pregnancy and postpartum.

IV Narcotics, Nitrous Oxide, and More One of the most common questions I get during hospital shifts? “What other pain meds can I get if I don’t want (or can’t have) an epidural?” While epidurals are the go-to for many, they’re definitely not the only option! In this episode of The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, I’m diving into: IV narcotics: what they are, how they work, and what to expect Nitrous oxide (aka laughing gas!): how it’s used for labor pain relief Pros and cons of each option Plus a few non-medical pain relief ideas to consider too! Whether you're planning for an unmedicated birth or just want to know your options, this episode will help you feel more educated, empowered, and in control. 🎁 FREE Birth Prep Guide Want to walk into your birth feeling ready for anything? This free guide helps you get organized, make informed choices, and feel confident no matter your birth plan. 📥 Download the Birth Prep Guide here 🎓 Want to Go Deeper with Your Birth Education? My online birth classes cover everything from labor positions to pain management to pushing – all in an easy-to-digest, confidence-boosting format. 💻 Explore MLN All-Access Birth Classes 🎧 Related Episodes 🔹 Epidurals 101: Get Informed About Epidurals for Birth (EP171) 📲 Let’s Connect! Follow @mommy.labornurse for daily tips, birth ed, and relatable moments from a labor nurse who gets you 💛

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, I’m joined by my friend and fellow podcaster Dr. Mona Amin to chat about those quirky, confusing, and totally normal things newborns do in the early days. Dr. Mona is a board-certified pediatrician and parenting expert who’s all about helping new parents feel calm, confident, and informed. Inside this episode, we’re unpacking: Why your baby’s hiccups are nothing to worry about What’s going on with day/night confusion How much (or little!) your baby really needs to eat in those early days And 7 more newborn behaviors that might surprise you! If you’re a first-time parent or you just want a little reassurance, this episode is full of validation and real talk from two mamas who’ve been there 💛 🎁 FREE Third Trimester Prep Pack Feel organized and so ready for baby with this free printable checklist made by a labor nurse (hi, that’s me 👋) 📥 Grab your 3rd Trimester Prep Pack 🎓 Ready to Feel Fully Prepared for Birth? Whether you’re aiming for an unmedicated birth, planning on an epidural, or prepping for a C-section, our online birth classes will help you feel confident, educated, and in control. 💻 Check out the MLN All-Access Birth Classes 🤱 Sponsored by Motif Luna Looking for a powerful, efficient breast pump that actually fits your lifestyle? The Motif Luna is hospital-strength, insurance-covered, and mom-approved 💪 🎉 Use code MLN23 to get 15% off sitewide – including the Luna pump and accessories (Some exclusions may apply) 🛍️ Click here to learn more and order yours 👩‍⚕️ About Dr. Mona Amin Dr. Mona is a practicing pediatrician, mom of one, and the voice behind the popular PedsDocTalk brand. She’s built a warm, inclusive community of 100k+ parents looking for evidence-based guidance without the judgment. Dr. Mona is passionate about helping new moms and dads actually enjoy those early days through smart, reassuring education. 📲 Stay Connected Follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram for daily pregnancy tips, labor prep, and newborn wisdom from a labor nurse who gets it 💛

Welcome back to The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast! Today we’re talking about one of the most powerful tools you can use to monitor your baby’s well-being in the third trimester: kick counting. I’m joined by Kimberly Isburg from Count the Kicks, an incredible organization that’s helping parents all over the country improve birth outcomes and reduce stillbirth through awareness and education. Kimberly is a mama of two and a passionate advocate for maternal health – and I’m so excited for you to hear her wisdom and warmth. Inside the episode, we’re covering: Why tracking baby’s movement matters so much in late pregnancy Common myths and misconceptions about fetal movement How to use the Count the Kicks method and app Tips for staying calm, confident, and connected to your baby This one’s a must-listen – especially if you’re in your third trimester and want to feel empowered and informed 💛 🎁 FREE Third Trimester Prep Pack Take the stress out of your final weeks with this free checklist + guide made by a labor nurse (yep, me!) 📥 Download your 3rd Trimester Prep Pack 🎓 Need More Support Before Birth? Whether you're planning for an unmedicated birth, thinking about an epidural, or preparing for a C-section, our online birth classes will get you ready, confident, and in control. 💻 Explore MLN All-Access Birth Classes 📲 Stay Connected with Count the Kicks Count the Kicks Website Follow on Instagram 👩‍💼 About Kimberly Isburg Kimberly is the Communications Manager for Healthy Birth Day, Inc., the nonprofit behind Count the Kicks. She’s also a mom of two boys and used the Count the Kicks method in both of her pregnancies. Her work helps save lives, and we’re so honored to have her on the show! 💛 Join the MLN Community Follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram for daily pregnancy tips, labor hacks, and support from a labor nurse who gets it.

When it comes to birth, epidurals are a big part of the conversation – whether you’re planning on getting one or just want to be informed. Most people know that an epidural can take away labor pain…but beyond that? There’s still a lot of mystery around how it all actually works! In this episode of The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, I’m diving into: How an epidural is placed (step-by-step!) Whether it hurts to get one What the needle looks like (spoiler: not as scary as you think) Common epidural side effects And yes – we’re talking about walking epidurals, too! These are your most-asked questions from my DMs, answered 💬 Whether you’re team epidural, team unmedicated, or just figuring it out – you’ll walk away feeling way more confident. 💌 FREE Epidural Prep Pack! Want to feel educated and empowered before you say yes to an epidural? 🎁 Grab my free Epidural Prep Pack – it’s short, sweet, and packed with what you really need to know before the big day. ➡️ Click here to download it now 🎓 Ready for Birth You Actually Feel Ready For? Whether you're planning to get an epidural or not, understanding your options is key to feeling in control. My MLN Birth Classes cover everything from contractions to pushing – and help you feel calm, educated, and confident no matter how your story unfolds. 💛 Check out the MLN Birth Classes here 📲 Join the MLN Community Follow @mommy.labornurse for daily pregnancy tips, birth prep advice, and real talk from a labor nurse who’s been there.

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, we’re talking all about what to pack (and not pack!) in your hospital bag for birth – plus we’re covering snacks and eating during labor too 🍿 Let me tell you, for my first birth? Total slacker. I didn’t get serious about packing my bag until wayyy late in the game – and it could’ve backfired big time. For baby #2? Totally prepared! In this episode, I’m breaking it all down: What to pack in four separate bags: labor, recovery, partner, and baby What to leave at home (because clutter = chaos) My go-to list of snacks for labor and what to know about eating during labor Trust me, being prepared is a major stress reducer – and I’ve got you covered with the ultimate hospital bag prep episode! 🎁 Grab Your FREE Hospital Bag Checklist! This free printable checklist was made by a practicing L&D nurse (hey, it’s me 👋) and it’ll help you feel 10,000% more confident walking into the hospital. ➡️ Download the Hospital Bag Checklist now 💻 Want to Feel Really Ready for Birth? Hospital bag packed? Check. Now let’s prep your mind for labor too. My online birth classes are here to help you feel calm, informed, and in control – no matter how you deliver. 🎉 Click here to explore MLN Birth Classes 🧪 Try This Essential Oil Labor Blend This soothing blend is a fan favorite for labor: 2 drops Ylang Ylang 7 drops Clary Sage 3 drops Lavender 3 drops Frankincense Add to a glass bottle and top off with your favorite carrier oil 💧 💛 Don’t forget to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram for daily tips, education, and relatable mom content – we’re a community of 650k+ strong!

*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!

*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 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. Questions covered in the episode How common is pooping and peeing during birth? How do I clean up all the stuff after birth? What happens if I get diarrhea in a birth pool? How do I pee in a catheter? Does it come out whenever, or do I have to push it out? How often do moms have urinary retention after getting an epidural? Is it difficult to pee during labor? I pooped 3 times – is that normal? What are your tips for first postpartum poop pain? What if I don’t have control of my bladder and pee during contractions? Is it normal for my provider to put their finger in my butt while I am pushing? How common is it to fart during pushing? ****** Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy & birth info out there? I got ya covered! CLICK HERE to get my FREE hospital bag checklist - straight from the brain of an L&D nurse to make sure you are 10000% ready to go! 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!* ****** 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 about 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 great questions come in that I actually broke it up into two parts for you, with part two airing next week. If you love these types of episodes, after listening to this one make sure to check out episodes 58, 137 and 155. Questions covered in the episode: How common are hemorrhoids during delivery, and what causes them? I already have painful hemorrhoids; how much more painful will it get and what can I expect during childbirth? Does the doctor push the hemorrhoids back in while I’m pushing during birth? Can masturbation during labor and delivery help move things along? Why was delivering my baby such a relief and is it normal that it felt similar to having an orgasm? What kind of outfit do I wear during labor, both for the top and bottom? What do I wear in the bathtub or shower if I don’t want to be completely naked? Do lots of people really labor while naked? Can you wear pants and underwear? What can I do if I’m scared to tear badly during labor and delivery? Is it ok to have pubic hair or do I need to shave it? What about waxing? Will my vagina go back to normal after birth, and will sex feel different?    Related Episodes: EP11: Jeanice Talks To Us About Pelvic Floor Sexual Health EP58: FAQs About Labor and Delivery! EP121: Tearing During Birth EP137: Ask Me Anything About Labor and Delivery  EP155: Ask Me Anything About Pregnancy and Birth ****** Overwhelmed by the amount of pregnancy & birth info out there? I got ya covered! CLICK HERE to discover my top tips for a more positive birth in my FREE 45-minute mini birth 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!

*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’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. And if you like what you hear, you can listen to Episode 168 which has the same format. A peek at the questions we covered: Why do I have a tugging sensation around my C-section scar? What is scar tissue? What can affect the sensation of scar tissue? What is a uterine rupture? As a VBAC candidate, am I at a higher risk for uterine rupture? Should I try having a vaginal birth after I had a C-section? What factors should I consider when deciding for a VBAC? What are the benefits of a VBAC? Is my second labor going to be the same as my first? Does labor get shorter with the more babies I have? ****** Want to erase anxiety and actually feel excited about birth? CLICK HERE to get instant access to my free mini birth class to learn tons of pain-coping strategies and actionable tips today! 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!