The Birth Experience with Labor Nurse Mama

Trish Ware, RN
  • 4.6 (62)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

How do I actually push during labor? Should I get an epidural? Why is breastfeeding so hard? What exactly is Pitocin, and how much will induce labor? Is there a secret to having a successful VBAC? What happens if I poop during labor *shudder*? And oh yeah, how do I take care of a newborn? I know you’ve got a ton of questions and fears when it comes to giving birth. How? Because I’ve delivered thousands of babies as a labor nurse! I’ve seen it all...and as @labor.nurse.mama on IG, I’ve helped mamas all over the world stand up to their fears and walk into the labor room with confidence. The Birth Experience with Labor Nurse Mama is here to guide you through every step of your pregnancy, labor, and delivery. I’ll show you how to embrace your inner feminine wisdom and teach you to feel totally comfortable owning the labor room. Your body was made to deliver this baby, mama...let’s face all those fears and doubts and answer those nagging questions — so you can be ready for the most important day of your life!

  1. 2D AGO

    From 3cm to 10cm in One Hour: Our Student Gabi’s Birth Story | 250

    Hey mamas! I am SO excited to share this episode with you. Today I’m chatting with Gabi, one of my Calm Labor Confident Birth students who also activated her Labor Bat Signal. She’s here to tell the raw, real story of bringing her fiery little girl into the world on January 26th, 2025. Gabi went from measuring small with low fluid at 38+5, to an induction she didn’t plan for, a midwife who wanted to break her water way too early, a deceleration scare, and back-to-back contractions that had her questioning everything… to going from 2-3 cm to 10 cm in ONE HOUR and pushing her baby out in just 18 minutes (six pushes!) on hands and knees. She stayed calm and confident because she had the knowledge, the tools, the mantras ("You're one contraction away from meeting your baby"), and the support from the Labor Bat Signal when it mattered most. The toilet was her magic dilation station, she advocated like a boss, and she walked away feeling completely empowered - even when her birth map took some unexpected turns. This episode is proof that when you know your options, trust your body, and have the right support, you can handle whatever labor throws at you. Key takeaways you’ll love: Why a birth map (not a rigid plan) is everythingThe power of saying “no” when you know whyHow the toilet can be your best friend in laborWhy the Labor Bat Signal is a game-changer (especially when things shift fast)Turning fear into fierce advocacy in real time If you’re pregnant and want to feel prepared, calm, and confident - no matter how your birth unfolds - this one’s for you. Gabi’s story will fire you up! Helpful Timestamps: 00:00 Gabi’s Birth Story05:26 Labor Bat Signal07:29 Low Fluid Diagnosis08:55 Induction Advice 10:53 Pitocin Pressure Begins12:21 Toilet Dilation Station14:40 Urge to Push15:39 Toilet to Ten Centimeters19:10 Advocacy and Pitocin Decisions21:44 Empowered Birth Map Mindset22:52 Tear Stitch and Baby Two Join The Calm Labor Birth Bundle - everything you need from bump to baby! Use code POD50 for $50 off! Over 15k mamas have used our classes to prepare for a birth that they love 🤍 ⭐ Download immediately ⭐App available ⭐Life-time access⭐ Connect w/ Trish: On Instagram On YouTube For more pregnancy & birth education, subscribe to The Birth Experience on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Produced and Edited by Vaden Podcast Services

    26 min

  2. MAR 27

    You Asked, I Answered: Pregnancy and Postpartum Questions Your Doctor Is Too Busy To Answer | 249

    This week I grabbed the most common questions you sent me over on Instagram from my 418k followers and answered them the way your bestie labor nurse would - honest, no fluff, and zero fear-mongering. I’m answering: Is that sharp bump pain in the early second trimester normal? (And when to actually call your provider)The 4-1-2 rule for heading to the hospital with your first baby (and why it’s different for your second)How long postpartum bleeding really lasts + the red-flag signs you can’t ignoreThe truth about the 24-hour water-breaking rule (it’s not the automatic emergency most hospitals make it sound like)Postpartum night sweats, when your milk actually comes in, and why those night sweats hit so hardBig baby at 39 weeks - do you have to induce or schedule a C-section? (Spoiler: I’ve got strong feelings on this one)Tips for flipping a breech baby, scar pain in pregnancy, Pitocin realities, and so much more If you’ve ever been up at 2 a.m. Googling your questions while pregnant, this episode is your calm in the chaos. Knowledge flips fear into power, mama - and that’s exactly what we’re doing today. Whether you’re prepping for birth or deep in the postpartum trenches, you’ll walk away feeling seen, informed, and way more confident. More from this episode: Listen to Episode 217: Your Essential Second Trimester Checklist for a Smoother Birth Experience | 217 Calm Labor Confident Birth Course Helpful Timestamps: 00:00 Answering Your Top Questions01:43 Second Trimester Bump Pain02:24 Postpartum Bleeding Timeline03:00 When To Go To Hospital04:30 Water Break 24 Hour Rule05:12 Fear Of Giving Birth05:51 TDAP And Whooping Cough06:21 Flipping A Breech Baby07:19 C Section Scar Pain07:59 Postpartum Night Sweats08:16 When Milk Comes In09:02 What Contractions Feel Like09:43 Pitocin Pros And Risks10:08 Big Baby Induction Pressure11:48 Small Baby Growth Concerns Join The Calm Labor Birth Bundle - everything you need from bump to baby! Use code POD50 for $50 off! Over 15k mamas have used our classes to prepare for a birth that they love 🤍 ⭐ Download immediately ⭐App available ⭐Life-time access⭐ Connect w/ Trish: On Instagram On YouTube For more pregnancy & birth education, subscribe to The Birth Experience on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Produced and Edited by Vaden Podcast Services

    14 min

  3. MAR 20

    Baby Reflux Is Not Normal: What Every New Mom Needs to Know | 248

    I got to sit down with Áine, the Baby Reflux Lady - a leading holistic expert in infant reflux, colic, and digestive discomfort. Drawing from her background in Traditional Chinese Medicine, nutrition, and her own journey as a mom of two babies with severe reflux, Áine shares why she refuses to accept the outdated idea that “this is just how babies are.” We dive deep into the real signs of reflux (it’s not just spitting up!), why so many parents feel dismissed by “they’ll grow out of it,” and how listening to your instincts can change everything. Áine explains the importance of looking at the whole baby, uncovering root causes instead of just managing symptoms, and shares practical steps for overwhelmed moms - from what pregnant mamas can watch for to simple ways to support your nervous system when things feel heavy. If you’ve ever been told your baby’s discomfort is normal, this episode will give you permission to trust yourself and know there is another way. Whether you’re pregnant, newly postpartum, or deep in the thick of sleepless nights and constant crying, Áine’s wisdom offers real hope and clear direction. More from Áine The Baby Reflux Lady: Visit https://www.thebabyrefluxlady.co.uk/ Check out the Symptoms Tracker Follow Áine on Instagram: @babyrefluxlady and FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/theBabyRefluxLady Helpful Timestamps: 00:00 Meet Áine The Baby Reflux Lady06:43 Pregnancy Prep and Early Red Flags10:27 Calming Yourself to Calm Baby14:24 Clear Signs It’s Reflux17:34 Smelly Gas and Gut Discomfort20:45 Breastmilk, Carbs And Stress27:35 Programs And Support Options29:58 Fast Results Story32:08 Where To Find Áine Join The Calm Labor Birth Bundle - everything you need from bump to baby! Use code POD50 for $50 off! Over 15k mamas have used our classes to prepare for a birth that they love 🤍 ⭐ Download immediately ⭐App available ⭐Life-time access⭐ Connect w/ Trish: On Instagram On YouTube For more pregnancy & birth education, subscribe to The Birth Experience on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Produced and Edited by Vaden Podcast Services

    37 min

  4. MAR 13

    Your Doctor Is Not Your Boss: Understanding Informed Consent in Birth | 247

    Your doctor is NOT your boss. They are your medical consultant. You are the decision-maker. Period. In this episode Trish breaks down informed consent in the clearest, calmest, most confident way possible - because this one thing is the #1 reason women walk away from birth feeling powerless. It’s not the pain, not the interventions… it’s not knowing they had the right to say yes, no, or “I need a minute.” You’ll hear the powerful story of my student who went from scheduling a C-section out of pure fear to rocking a beautiful unmedicated birth - simply because she understood her rights and started using them calmly. I also walk you through: What informed consent actually means (it’s NOT just signing a paper)The four powerful questions that turn any “order” into a conversationWhy labor makes us forget our rights, and exactly how to protect them before you even step foot in the hospitalHow to advocate without yelling, arguing, or being labeled “difficult” This isn’t about being combative. It’s about walking in informed, respected, and owning your power - the exact power that changes everything in the birth room. You are becoming a mom. That’s the most powerful role on the planet. Informed consent is how you protect that transition. So take a deep breath, mama. Your voice is the most important one in that room. If this episode hit home (or if you know a pregnant friend who needs to hear she’s the boss), please share it with her. Hit subscribe, leave a quick review, and I’ll see you next week. You’ve got this. ❤️ Helpful Timestamps: 00:00 Your Doctor is Not Your Boss01:00 Birth Student Finds Her Voice02:39 What Informed Consent Means03:23 Orders Versus Options04:39 Calm Advocacy Questions05:08 Emergencies Still Need Consent05:32 Preventing Birth Trauma06:15 You Are The Decision Maker Join The Calm Labor Birth Bundle - everything you need from bump to baby! Use code POD50 for $50 off! Over 15k mamas have used our classes to prepare for a birth that they love 🤍 ⭐ Download immediately ⭐App available ⭐Life-time access⭐ Connect w/ Trish: On Instagram On YouTube For more pregnancy & birth education, subscribe to The Birth Experience on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Produced and Edited by Vaden Podcast Services

    8 min

  5. MAR 6

    Unexplained Infertility: What It REALLY Means & What to Do Next with Dr. Sasha Hakman | 246

    If you’ve ever been told “everything looks normal” but you’re still not pregnant, or if you’re just starting your trying-to-conceive journey and want real answers instead of vague “we don’t know,” this episode is going to feel like a warm hug and a game-changer all at once. I sat down with the incredible Dr. Sasha Hakman, a double board-certified OB-GYN and Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility (REI) specialist at HRC Fertility in Beverly Hills. She’s highly awarded, stays on the cutting edge of research, and is even a subject matter expert for the American Board of OB-GYN in REI board certification. In other words, she knows her stuff - and she explains it in the kindest, clearest way possible. We cover: What “unexplained infertility” actually means - it affects 15-20% of couples with infertility.The hidden endometriosis link and why it can fly under the radar.The basic fertility workup every woman deserves to know about.First-line treatment: superovulation + IUI and the success rates.When to move to IVF, embryo testing, and even whole genome sequencing.Dr. Sasha’s own fertility journey at 39 while helping patients every day.Her top 3 tips if you’re walking this road right now. I walked away feeling so much more informed and hopeful, and I know you will too. Whether you’re deep in this journey, supporting a friend, or just educating yourself ahead of time - go you. I’m so proud of you for showing up and learning. This episode is for every mama who’s ever felt unseen in her journey. I see you. I’m here for you. You are stronger than you know. More from Dr. Sasha Hakman: Listen to her podcast: Trying to Conceive Follow her on Instagram @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepod Helpful Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome Dr. Sasha Hakman03:36 What Unexplained Infertility Means07:26 Hidden Endometriosis Clues12:14 Age And Family Planning15:38 IUI To IVF Decision Point22:05 IVF As Diagnostic Tool23:33 Embryo Genetic Testing Basics25:08 Whole Genome Sequencing Upgrade28:58 IVF Success Rates by Age30:37 Postpartum and Fertility Pressure33:15 Top Three Infertility Tips39:11 Where to Find Dr. Sasha Hakman Join The Calm Labor Birth Bundle - everything you need from bump to baby! Use code POD50 for $50 off! Over 15k mamas have used our classes to prepare for a birth that they love 🤍 ⭐ Download immediately ⭐App available ⭐Life-time access⭐ Connect w/ Trish: On Instagram On YouTube For more pregnancy & birth education, subscribe to The Birth Experience on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Produced and Edited by Vaden Podcast Services

    42 min

  6. FEB 27

    Epidural or Unmedicated? How to Decide Without Regret | 245

    Hey Mama! Ever caught yourself making a birth choice out of straight-up fear? Yeah, me too - with my first baby, needles had me running unmedicated without a clue. But here's the real talk: it's not about the pain or the meds; it's about owning your power. In this episode, we dive into the big question - epidural or unmedicated? - and how to choose without regret. I share my stories from 16 years as a high-risk labor nurse and mama of six, plus three game-changing questions to guide you to a birth where YOU call the shots. Join the Calm Mama Membership: labornursemama.com/cms Leave a review and include your Instagram username for a chance to win our monthly raffle! Key Takeaways:Regret Isn't About the Choice - It's About the Why: I've seen mamas rock both paths and also, regret both. The difference? Feeling informed, involved, and empowered, not rushed or pressured.The pros & trade-offs of choosing the epidural or going unmedicated.Prepping for what YOU want:No winging it, girl! Tools, knowledge, and advocacy are key, whether you're team epidural or going natural.You can pivot without panic: Birth is wild - plans change. Stay flexible and informed, and you'll walk away feeling like the boss you are. No perfect births here, just empowered ones where you say, "I understood, I decided, I owned it." If fear's been your driver, let's flip that script with education and confidence. Share this with a mama who's wrestling with the decision, hit subscribe, drop a review (it means the world!), and remember: you're capable, you're seen, and I've got your back. 💕 Helpful Timestamps: 00:00 Epidural or Unmedicated01:01 Trish’s Birth Story01:49 Regret Comes From Fear02:34 Question One: Know Options03:34 Question Two: Prepare Well03:58 Question Three: Stay Flexible04:23 Empowered Birth Mindset05:41 Final Encouragement Join The Calm Labor Birth Bundle - everything you need from bump to baby! Use code POD50 for $50 off! Over 15k mamas have used our classes to prepare for a birth that they love 🤍 ⭐ Download immediately ⭐App available ⭐Life-time access⭐ Connect w/ Trish: On Instagram On YouTube For more pregnancy & birth education, subscribe to The Birth Experience on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Produced and Edited by Vaden Podcast Services

    6 min

  7. FEB 20

    Did You Know Your Baby’s Sleep & Poop is Tied to Their Gut? with Dr. Stephanie Culler | 244

    What if I told you that 9 out of 10 babies in America are missing key gut microbes right from the start? As a labor nurse who's delivered thousands of little ones and now a proud Gigi, this chat totally rocked my world and got me thinking about my own grandbabies' health. Join the Calm Mama Membership: labornursemama.com/cms Leave a review and include your Instagram username for a chance to win our monthly raffle! I'm thrilled to welcome Stephanie Culler, PhD, co-founder and CEO of Persephone Biosciences. Stephanie's a powerhouse scientist with a PhD in chemical engineering from Caltech, tons of patents in synthetic biology, and a passion for using the gut microbiome to fight disease. Inspired by losing her grandmothers to cancer and her own journey as a first-time mom during COVID, she pivoted from cancer research to baby gut health. She's led the largest U.S. study on infant microbiomes and created groundbreaking products to restore what modern life has stripped away from the gut. In this episode, we dive deep into: Why modern babies are missing crucial bifidobacteria - and how it links to allergies, eczema, asthma, and even long-term risks like cancer.The shocking impact of antibiotics, C-sections, and formula on gut health, and why it's a multi-generational issue.Stephanie's "aha" moment that shifted her from cancer treatments to preventing issues at the source with Persephone's first-of-its-kind synbiotic.Signs your baby's gut needs help: fussiness, colic, constipation, diaper rash, poor sleep - and how this product can turn things around fast.Tips for new moms: Start from day one, even if breastfeeding (mix a smidge into colostrum or on your nipple!), and why it's great for C-section babies too.Bonus: How this could be a game-changer for adults and pregnant mamas, too. More from Dr. Stephanie Culler: Persephone's Daily Synergistic Synbiotic: https://persephone.bio/products/bloom Visit www.persephone.bio Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @persephone.bio Connect with Dr. Stephanie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-culler Helpful Timestamps: 00:00 Meet Dr. Stephanie Culler01:44 Stephanie’s Story: From Cancer Research to Babies05:27 The My Baby Biome Study: The Shocking 9-in-10 Finding09:26 Signs of an Off Microbiome + Benefits Seen11:16 Why Start From Day One15:42 Industrialization & Rising Allergies20:41 Practical Tips for Breastfed Babies (No Bottle Needed)23:15 C-Section Considerations + Final Takeaways for New Parents Join The Calm Labor Birth Bundle - everything you need from bump to baby! Use code POD50 for $50 off! Over 15k mamas have used our classes to prepare for a birth that they love 🤍 ⭐ Download immediately ⭐App available ⭐Life-time access⭐ Connect w/ Trish: On Instagram On YouTube For more pregnancy & birth education, subscribe to The Birth Experience on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Produced and Edited by Vaden Podcast Services

    26 min

  8. FEB 13

    VBAC Student Birth Story: Cassie Gilliam | 243

    Join me, as I talk with one of my VBAC Lab Students and Calm Mama Society Members, Cassie. She's going to be sharing her birth story and how the techniques we've been working on in class, have helped her to move through her birth trauma from her first birth and prepare for an empowered VBAC. Join the Calm Mama Membership: labornursemama.com/cms Leave a review and include your Instagram username for a chance to win our monthly raffle! Cassie gives us all the details, shares the highs and lows of her birth experience, and how ultimately she was able to bring her baby into the world in a way that she was proud of. This episode is packed with so much information and is really empowering for all the mamas out there who want to have an empowered birth. So grab a cup of coffee or tea and settle in for a chat with Cassie. Helpful Timestamps: 00:00 Meet Cassie: A VBAC Lab Student02:16 Cassie's First Birth Experience03:28 Discovering the VBAC Lab07:11 Facing Challenges with the Provider17:53 Preparing for Labor at Home21:34 Arriving at the Hospital24:47 Labor Begins: Early Contractions and Support30:30 Challenges and Swelling33:19 Decision for a C-Section35:48 Meeting the Baby37:52 Reflecting on the Birth Experience40:45 Advice for Expecting Mothers Join The Calm Labor Birth Bundle - everything you need from bump to baby! Use code POD50 for $50 off! Over 15k mamas have used our classes to prepare for a birth that they love 🤍 ⭐ Download immediately ⭐App available ⭐Life-time access⭐ Connect w/ Trish: On Instagram On YouTube For more pregnancy & birth education, subscribe to The Birth Experience on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Produced and Edited by Vaden Podcast Services

    42 min
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How do I actually push during labor? Should I get an epidural? Why is breastfeeding so hard? What exactly is Pitocin, and how much will induce labor? Is there a secret to having a successful VBAC? What happens if I poop during labor *shudder*? And oh yeah, how do I take care of a newborn? I know you’ve got a ton of questions and fears when it comes to giving birth. How? Because I’ve delivered thousands of babies as a labor nurse! I’ve seen it all...and as @labor.nurse.mama on IG, I’ve helped mamas all over the world stand up to their fears and walk into the labor room with confidence. The Birth Experience with Labor Nurse Mama is here to guide you through every step of your pregnancy, labor, and delivery. I’ll show you how to embrace your inner feminine wisdom and teach you to feel totally comfortable owning the labor room. Your body was made to deliver this baby, mama...let’s face all those fears and doubts and answer those nagging questions — so you can be ready for the most important day of your life!

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