Pulling Curls Podcast: Pregnancy & Parenting Untangled Hilary Erickson

Welcome to episode 235 of the Pulling Curls Podcast! Today, host Hilary Erickson, a seasoned nurse and mom of three, dives into the concept of the cascade of interventions in childbirth. Hilary untangles how one medical decision can lead to another, influencing the course of labor and delivery. She discusses various scenarios such as inductions and epidurals, and shares personal insights to demystify the process. Join us as we explore how to make informed choices during labor. Let’s get those tangles out!

Big thanks to our sponsor The Online Prenatal Class for Couples -- it is going to help you make your own choices and understand how they can affect future choices, don't miss it!

Timestamps:

00:00 Epidural can lead to possible cascade of interventions.
04:45 Choices in childbirth impact future interventions.

Keypoints:

Definition of Cascade of Interventions: Hilary starts the episode by explaining the concept of the "cascade of interventions," which refers to a sequence of medical decisions during labor and delivery that lead to additional interventions. Induction as an Example: Hilary uses the example of induction to illustrate how one decision (inducing labor) can increase the likelihood of subsequent interventions like a cesarean section or the need for an epidural. Natural Labor Comparison: The host contrasts staying at home during early labor versus going to the hospital for an induction, explaining that the former can potentially reduce the need for an epidural. Epidural and its Effects: Hilary discusses the procedures followed after choosing an epidural, such as administering extra fluids and potential adjustments if the baby shows signs of distress. Personal Experience: Hilary shares her personal experience with being induced and her hesitations about interventions, specifically about breaking her water, which she held off on out of fear of a rigid commitment to further interventions. Outcome of Decisions: Ultimately, Hilary acknowledges that refusing certain interventions initially made her labor longer, suggesting that embracing some interventions earlier might have led to a quicker delivery. IV Placement Misconceptions: The episode addresses common misconceptions about the placement of an IV, clarifying that it does not necessarily start a cascade of interventions. Philosophy on Making Choices: Hilary emphasizes that making one choice in labor can open some doors while closing others, akin to a "choose your own adventure" scenario, stressing the importance of making informed decisions at each step. Advice on Managing Fear: Hilary advises against letting fear guide labor decisions, recommending that listeners embrace the necessary interventions as they come rather than worrying excessively about future possibilities. Conclusion and Season Wrap-Up: The episode concludes with Hilary wrapping up season 5 of the podcast, thanking listeners and inviting them back for the next season after a summer break.
Producer: Drew Erickson

Keywords:

cascade of interventions, labor and delivery, epidural, c-section, induction, prenatal class, doula, pregnancy, childbirth, interventions in labor, IV fluids, Pitocin, blood pressure, delivery options, hospital birth, natural labor, labor choices, pain management in labor, maternal health, childbirth education, birthing process, labor induction risks, medical interventions during labor, pushing during labor, birthing experience, delivery complications, anesthesia in labor, pregnancy and parenting, choose your own adventure, labor progression.

Welcome to episode 234 of the Pulling Curls Podcast, where host Hilary Erickson explores the transformative power of weekly organizing. Dive into practical tips for creating and maintaining organizational systems in your home, making the process manageable and stress-free. Whether you're tackling clutter in your closet or sorting through paperwork, this episode offers guidance to refine your space little by little, every single day of the week. Join Hilary as she untangles the challenges of keeping a home organized, even in the busiest of times.

Big thanks to our sponsor my free weekly cleaning plan: https://www.pullingcurls.com/the-benefits-of-weekly-cleaning-schedule/


Timestamps:
00:00 Update and refine systems without feeling overwhelmed.
03:35 Refining cleaning system by assigning tasks weekly.

Keypoints:

Hilary Erickson introduces the topic of weekly organization plans on the Pulling Curls Podcast episode 234. The episode is sponsored by Hilary's free weekly cleaning plan, accessible in the show notes. Hilary discusses the creation of organizational systems in the home and their need for adjustments due to changes and interactions with family members. She emphasizes the importance of small, manageable updates to organizational systems rather than overwhelming revamps. Daily and weekly routines are highlighted, assigning specific rooms to specific days for focused cleaning and organizing. Practical examples include organizing a bedroom closet by sections and deciding what clothes to keep or donate. Hilary shares her personal feelings about organizing difficult areas and her strategy for document management, especially during tax season. The episode includes a structured weekly schedule assigning days to various household areas, improving consistency and focus. Hilary reflects on the psychological benefits of having predetermined tasks, reducing the feeling of being overwhelmed. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to review, share, and subscribe to the podcast for more insights on simplifying pregnancy and parenting challenges.
Producer: Drew Erickson

Keywords:

weekly organization plan, Pulling Curls podcast, weekly cleaning plan, home organization, organizing systems, Hilary Erickson, pregnancy and parenting, clutter management, daily cleaning tasks, room-specific organization, minimalism, decluttering, organizational tweaks, system updates, wardrobe organization, document filing, tax preparation, productivity tips, simplifying routines, maintaining order, living space optimization, household management, personal efficiency, organizing habits, reducing overwhelm, storage solutions, cleaning schedule, workspace organization, time management, organizing challenges

Welcome to Episode 233 of the Pulling Curls Podcast where we discuss an important postpartum condition - postpartum preeclampsia. Host Hilary Erickson, a nurse and mom of three, dives into the key symptoms and preventative measures for this condition that can occur up to a year after childbirth. This episode is a must-listen for expecting mothers, as well as their families and friends, to stay informed about the potential signs and necessary actions associated with postpartum preeclampsia. Join Hilary as she untangles the complexities of this postpartum issue, sponsored by Postpartum Care Made Easy.

Timestamps:

00:00 Postpartum warning signs for pregnant and post-baby.
06:31 Notice changes in swelling, bleeding, and mood.
07:23 Upcoming topics: to-do lists, interventions, growth.

Keypoints:

Topic Introduction: Hilary Erickson introduces the topic of postpartum preeclampsia, emphasizing its occurrence up to a year after childbirth and the importance of recognizing the warning signs. Sponsor Mention: The episode is sponsored by "Postpartum Care Made Easy," a resource aimed at educating about postpartum care including recognizing the symptoms of preeclampsia. Importance of Awareness: Hilary highlights the need for both the new mothers and their support systems to be aware of postpartum preeclampsia symptoms, as postpartum individuals may be too overwhelmed to notice the signs themselves. Key Symptoms: The major symptoms to watch for include severe headaches, blurry vision, and upper-right quadrant pain which could indicate liver enlargement. Home Monitoring Advice: Hilary stresses the importance of having a home blood pressure monitor to help track any significant changes in blood pressure which is a common sign of preeclampsia. Differentiating Symptoms: Hilary discusses how to differentiate normal postpartum symptoms from those of preeclampsia, such as distinguishing between usual and sudden onset facial swelling. Medical Response: Urgent medical care is encouraged if severe symptoms like the "worst headache of your life" occur, as delaying treatment could lead to severe complications like seizures (eclampsia). Medication and Management: Discussion on the necessity of using blood pressure medication, like labetalol, to manage high blood pressure postpartum to prevent cardiac issues. Communication with Healthcare Providers: The importance of informing healthcare providers that you are in the postpartum period so they can consider preeclampsia as a potential diagnosis. Reminder of Progression: The notion that postpartum recovery should typically show gradual improvement and any sudden worsening of symptoms should prompt immediate medical attention.
Producer: Drew Erickson

Keywords:

postpartum preeclampsia,

In this enlightening episode of The Pulling Curls Podcast, join Hilary as she delves into the intricate world of fear-based parenting. We'll explore the transition from parenting out of fear to practicing a more positive, reality-based approach, touching on sensitive topics like children's use of cell phones, social media interactions, and personal attire. Hilary shares her personal journey and insights, offering valuable tips for fellow parents navigating these challenging waters. Tune in to untangle the complex knots of fear-based parenting with us on episode 232.

Big thanks to our sponsor Family Routines -- the best option to help your family get involved more!


Links for you:
My episode with my son: https://www.pullingcurls.com/podcast-073-teen-tips/

Timestamps:

00:00 Marketing creates fear around cell phones, lacking perspective.
04:34 Monitoring phone use, creating responsible habits.
07:53 Parenting marathon, growing and learning, improving.

Keypoints:

Pulling Curls podcast, fear-based parenting, positive parenting, parenting advice, Hilary Erickson, simplifying parenting, Family Routines, parenting mistakes, church influence on parenting, cell phone safety for kids, social media for children, setting phone restrictions, BeReal app, YouTube Shorts, consequences for children, teenage phone habits, college preparation, managing screen time, understanding technology, clothing choices for children, church dress codes, opposite gender interactions, teen dating rules, co-ed social events, communication with children, parenting challenges, raising teenagers, late-in-life parenting, postpartum preeclampsia, weekly to-do list organization.

Producer: Drew Erickson

Keywords:

providers, pregnancy and delivery, Julie Kyle, certified nurse midwife, Pennsylvania, hospital bag checklist, nurse with 20 years of experience, four main providers, free birth, risks and unknowns, knowledgeable provider, training and experience, healthcare providers, qualifications, absence of midwives, spectrum of lending, formal education, certification, regulations, lay midwives, fees, value of knowledge, Ma on a little house on the prairie, historical role of midwives, birth centers, home births, Arizona, board centers, certified professional midwives (CPMs), licensing process, number of babies delivered, certified nurse midwives (CNMs), stereotypes about midwives, hospital setting, collaborative practice, integrated approach, terminology, full title, background in nursing, master's degree, misconceptions about midwives, certified professional midwives (CPMs), licensing and state laws, administering drugs, tasks performed by midwives, obstetricians, education and training for doctors, residency, specialization

In this episode of The Pulling Curls Podcast, Hilary Erickson delves into the world of labor inductions, debunking common myths and sharing personal anecdotes. Hilary, a seasoned nurse and mother, brings her professional insight and experience to the table as she addresses the pain levels associated with inductions, the potential duration of the process, and the discussion surrounding doctor-recommended inductions. Whether you’re curious about the induction experience or navigating the decision-making journey yourself, this episode offers a candid look at what to expect when you're expecting... an induction. Tune in to Episode 231, "Busting Induction Myths," to get the full untangled truth.

Big thanks to our sponsor Inductions Made Easy: https://pregnurse.com/induction-class/ if you don't have time for a FULL class (or feel like you only want to review inductions) -- it's the quick class for you!

Links for you:
My other episode on choosing an induction (episode 206).

Timestamps:

00:00 Long inductions depend on cervix readiness.
04:50 Discuss induction with doctor to understand reasons.
06:58 Exciting upcoming episodes on Pulling Curls podcast.

Keypoints:

Episode 231 of the Pulling Curls Podcast, hosted by Hilary Erickson, is dedicated to debunking common myths surrounding labor inductions. Hilary, with her background as a nurse and a mom of three, shares her personal experiences with being induced and provides insights based on her professional knowledge. One prevalent myth addressed in the episode is that inductions are more painful than natural labor, but Hilary explains that the pain levels are quite similar, as supported by the Arrive trial. The duration of an induction is another myth tackled; while some can be lengthy, especially when the cervix isn't ready, others can be relatively short if the cervix is favorable. Hilary emphasizes that, contrary to the myth, inductions are not always pushed by doctors; they are instead offered as an option, and the decision to induce should be a collaborative one between the patient and the provider. The podcast suggests that listeners should engage in open communication with their healthcare providers to better understand the reasons behind the suggestion for induction. Hilary advises discussing alternatives to induction, such as monitoring with non-stress tests (NSTs) and biophysical profiles (BPPs), when the need for an induction isn't urgent. By sharing her own story, Hilary provides a balanced perspective that while providers may strongly suggest inductions for medical reasons, the final decision lies with the patient. The podcast promotes Hilary's own online resource, Inductions Made Easy, for those expecting and considering induction, as well as the online prenatal class for couples. In future episodes, listeners can look forward to topics such as family travel anxiety and postpartum preeclampsia, indicating the podcast's continued focus on important pregnancy and postpartum issues.
Producer: Drew Erickson

Keywords:

induction myths, Pulling Curls podcast, prenatal class, inductions made easy, labor induction, overdue pregnancy, natural labor, augmented labor, Pitocin, menstrual cramps, Arrive trial, labor pain comparison, active labor, long inductions, cervix status, preeclampsia, baby growth, short inductions, OBGYN, ultrasound, NST (non-stress test), BPP (biophysical profile), glucose intolerance, fourth-degree tear, ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists), 39-week induction, provider communication, family travel, postpartum preeclampsia, podcast reviewing.

In this episode of The Pulling Curls Podcast, host Hilary Erickson talks about the dynamics of confrontation and how to handle tough conversations. As a nurse and mother of three, she shares valuable tips for navigating confrontational situations, whether it's with healthcare providers, office staff, or in other areas of life. Whether you're pregnant or just looking to improve your communication skills, this episode provides practical advice for untangling confrontation.

Links for you:
Timestamps:

00:00 Address confrontation discomfort with pregnancy and parenting.
05:44 Doctor struggles with patient's unwanted c-section decision.
06:33 Yelling at clerk like you yell at kids.

Keypoints:

Confrontation can be challenging, but it's essential to address situations assertively. It's important to separate emotions from facts when dealing with confrontation in professional settings. Both parties in a confrontational situation usually want the same outcome, which can help establish common ground. After a confrontation, it's helpful to clarify the next steps and understand each party's understanding of the resolution. Approaching confrontations with the assumption that the other party is well-intentioned can lead to better outcomes. Stick to the facts, like a detective, when addressing confrontational situations. Tears should be avoided in confrontations if possible, but in certain situations, they can be effective. It's crucial to address confrontations assertively, just as it is important to communicate assertively with children. Developing skills for holding tough conversations is essential for effective confrontation. The upcoming episodes will address topics such as induction stories and fear-based parenting.
Producer: Drew Erickson

Keywords:

confrontation, communication, assertiveness, pregnant, labor and delivery, healthcare provider, office staff, emotions, facts, negotiation, confrontation tips, difficult conversations, customer service, problem resolution, conflict resolution, confrontation skills, confrontation strategies, tough conversations, inductions, fear-based parenting, hospital experience, patient advocacy, assertive communication, assertiveness training, interpersonal skills, parenting challenges, emotional intelligence, self-advocacy, assertive behavior