Ask Dr. Sterling Podcast

Dr. Noa Sterling
Ask Dr. Sterling Podcast

The Ask Dr. Sterling Podcast tackles the biggest issues facing women in their reproductive years with candor, providing insightful perspectives and wisdom (with a side of laughs). Have a question for Dr. Sterling to answer on the podcast? Send it to podcast@sterlingparents.com! Dr. Sterling is the founder of Sterling Parents, the only membership designed to relieve the anxieties and worries of pregnancy and postpartum, providing 24/7 access to answers you can trust and guidance from an ObGyn and mom-of-3 who has been there. 

  1. 6 HR AGO

    The Truth About Sleep – Expert Advice from a Triple Board-Certified Sleep Physician

    In this episode of Ask Dr. Sterling, Dr. Sterling sits down with Dr. Funke Brown, a triple board-certified sleep physician, to uncover the truth about sleep and its vital role in health and well-being. With expertise in pediatrics, pulmonology, and sleep medicine, Dr. Brown breaks down how sleep impacts physical health, mental well-being, and family dynamics. Whether you’re navigating pregnancy insomnia, toddler sleep regressions, or struggling with your own bedtime routine, this episode is packed with evidence-based tips and validation for anyone searching for better sleep. Key Moments Covered: The Science of Sleep: Dr. Brown explains why sleep isn’t just about rest—it’s essential for brain health, immune function, and overall growth and development.Impact of Sleep Deprivation: How poor sleep affects memory, mood, metabolism, and even long-term health risks like hypertension and Alzheimer’s.Sleep Training vs. Medical Issues: Dr. Brown clarifies the difference between behavioral sleep challenges and medical conditions like reflux or sleep apnea—and why regulation is needed in the booming sleep consultant industry.Practical Sleep Solutions: Tips for optimizing your sleep environment, creating routines for kids, managing pregnancy-related sleep issues, and debunking myths around melatonin. Learn more about Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown's book, Beyond Tired, and her work at Restfulsleepmd.com. 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 @askdrsterling. If you loved this episode, don’t forget to rate, review, and share!

    46 min
  2. 20 NOV

    Let’s Get Awkward: Answering Your Most Embarrassing Pregnancy Questions

    In this lighthearted yet informative episode of the Ask Dr. Sterling Podcast, Dr. Sterling and Claire dive headfirst into the “taboo” pregnancy questions you’ve always wanted to ask—but might have been too embarrassed to bring up with your OB-GYN. From surprising bodily changes to the tricky subject of switching doctors, no topic is off-limits in this candid conversation. To kick things off, Dr. Sterling teases an exciting new project that’s been in the works—something you won’t want to miss! Key Questions Answered in This Episode: Is sex during pregnancy safe for baby?Is hair growth normal...there?Can feet grow in pregnancy?Why are my nipples so dark now?When is it okay to switch doctors, and how should you do it without burning bridges? This episode is packed with Dr. Sterling’s signature blend of warmth, humor, and expert insight. Whether you’re pregnant, postpartum, or just curious about the “awkward” side of reproductive health, you’ll walk away feeling informed, empowered, and maybe even laughing out loud. Resources Mentioned: Sterling Parents Membership: Your go-to resource for expert-led support through pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. _____________________________________- The Ask Dr. Sterling Podcast answers your burning questions—the ones you’re too nervous to ask your OB. Have a question for Dr. Sterling? Send it to podcast@sterlingparents.com! Follow us on Instagram and TikTok at @askdrsterlingpodcast, and explore the only membership designed to reduce the worries and anxieties of pregnancy and postpartum—Sterling Parents Membership. Host: Dr. Noa Sterling, Board Certified OB-GYN & Founder of Sterling Parents Membership

    24 min
  3. 13 NOV

    Hollywood vs. Reality: The Truth About Pregnancy and Birth on Screen

    In this episode of Ask Dr. Sterling, Dr. Noa Sterling and her co-host Claire dive into some of Hollywood’s most memorable (and sometimes outrageous) depictions of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Dr. Sterling breaks down the myths, realities, and surprising accuracies in iconic scenes—from water breaking at inopportune times to fast and furious labors. Join us for an inside look at what TV and movies get right, what they get hilariously wrong, and why it all matters. Key Moments Covered: Iconic Movie and TV Scenes - From Knocked Up to Friends, Dr. Sterling breaks down popular scenes and what’s medically accurate versus pure Hollywood fiction.Water Breaking Dramas - Dr. Sterling explains why Hollywood’s portrayal of dramatic water-breaking moments is mostly fantasy and what it’s actually like when labor starts.The ‘Screaming Through Labor’ Trope - Explore why intense screaming scenes are overdone and how labor varies widely from person to person—no two births are the same, and not every birth is a scene from a movie!Myth of the ‘Instantaneous Baby’ - Dr. Sterling gives a reality check on the typical length of labor versus the ultra-quick deliveries often shown on screen, along with the importance of accurate portrayals for expectant parents.The ‘Perfect Baby Bump’ and 'Snapback' Stereotype - Hollywood often showcases perfectly shaped bumps, but real pregnancies come in all shapes and sizes. Dr. Sterling talks about the range of normal when it comes to pregnancy and postpartum experiences. This episode offers a fun yet educational analysis of Hollywood’s take on pregnancy and birth, providing listeners with insights on what to expect in real life. Whether you’re pregnant, planning to be, or just a fan of pop culture, this episode is a must-listen for an entertaining dose of truth. ------------------------------------------------------ The Ask Dr. Sterling Podcast Dr. Sterling answers the questions you’re too nervous to ask and debunks myths that can leave you stressed and overwhelmed. Have a question for Dr. Sterling? Email us at podcast@sterlingparents.com! Follow us at @askdrsterling on Instagram & TikTok, and explore the only membership designed to support you through pregnancy and postpartum—join Sterling Parents Membership today. Host: Dr. Noa Sterling, Board Certified ObGyn & Founder of Sterling Parents Membership

    32 min
  4. 6 NOV

    Fear Mongering or Facts? The Fine Line Between Helpful and Harmful Health Advice

    In this eye-opening episode of Ask Dr. Sterling, Dr. Noa Sterling addresses a critical and often misunderstood topic: the fine line between fearmongering and providing necessary, evidence-based health information. Sparked by listener reactions to her honest discussion about diet soda and pregnancy risks, Dr. Sterling dives deep into the challenges of sharing medical truths without creating undue fear. Key Moments Covered: The Diet Soda Controversy: Dr. Sterling responds to criticism she received for her honest take on diet soda during pregnancy, breaking down the nuance and why she felt the need to apologize.When Does Sharing Facts Cross the Line? Learn how healthcare professionals walk the tightrope between being transparent about risks and preventing unnecessary anxiety.Why Context Matters: How does the same medical fact affect different people? Dr. Sterling emphasizes the importance of context and why individual circumstances make a difference.The Role of Social Media in Spreading Health Anxiety: Dr. Sterling discusses the impact of viral medical advice, clickbait health warnings, and why we need to be cautious about where we get our information. This episode provides clarity on how to process health information thoughtfully, empowering you to make decisions based on facts, not fear. Dr. Sterling also shares her approach to giving honest, evidence-based medical advice in a way that prioritizes your well-being. Resources Mentioned: Sterling Parents Membership: Find expert guidance and a supportive community to help you navigate pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting stress-free. The Ask Dr. Sterling Podcast We tackle the questions you're too nervous to ask your OB and debunk the myths that leave you stressed. Want Dr. Sterling to address your burning questions? Email us at podcast@sterlingparents.com! Be sure to follow us on Instagram & TikTok @askdrsterling for more engaging content and practical advice. Don't miss out on the only membership designed to ease the worries of pregnancy and postpartum—join Sterling Parents Membership today! Host: Dr. Noa Sterling, Board-Certified ObGyn & Founder of Sterling Parents Membership

    34 min
  5. 30 OCT

    Dr. Sterling Busts the Internet’s Biggest Myths

    In this lively episode of the Ask Dr. Sterling podcast, Dr. Sterling and co-host Claire dive into the wild world of myths, misconceptions, and unsolicited advice about pregnancy, fertility, and breastfeeding. From your MIL’s outdated opinions to internet misinformation, Dr. Sterling uses her expertise to bust myths and set the record straight on everything from sex positions to caffeine consumption.  Stay tuned until the end for this week's Paging Dr. Sterling: Playful Comebacks for Unsolicited Advice. Learn clever responses to well-meaning but inaccurate advice—perfect for when someone insists, “You must be having a boy, look at how you’re carrying!” Dr. Sterling gives you lighthearted comebacks and shows you how to handle awkward interactions with humor and grace. Whether you're trying to conceive, pregnant, or navigating postpartum life, this episode tackles the absurd and sometimes hilarious myths that surround reproductive health—and replaces them with science-based facts. Resources from the episode: Sterling Parents The Birth Control Guide _________________________________ The Ask Dr. Sterling Podcast We're here to answer the questions you might feel too embarrassed to ask your OB! Have a burning question or a myth you want busted? DM us on Instagram @askdrsterlingpodcast. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who could use a laugh (or some myth-busting!). Host: Dr. Noa Sterling, Board-Certified ObGyn & Founder of Sterling Parents Membership

    27 min
  6. 23 OCT

    The Surgeon General’s Wake-Up Call: Managing Pregnancy and Parenting Stress in Today’s World

    In this episode of Ask Dr. Sterling, Dr. Sterling digs into the Surgeon General’s recent announcement declaring parental stress a public health crisis. As a board-certified OB-GYN, she shares her expert take on what this means for parents and parents-to-be, why stress impacts pregnancy and postpartum outcomes, and—most importantly—what we can do about it. Whether you're expecting, a new parent, or deep in the trenches of parenting, this episode offers a fresh perspective on managing stress in an increasingly overwhelming world. Key Moments Covered: The Surgeon General Speaks Out: Dr. Sterling explains why this declaration matters and how it validates the struggles parents face daily.Pregnancy-Specific Stress: Learn how stress uniquely affects pregnancy outcomes and fetal development—and why this isn't just about managing feelings, but protecting your health.Inevitable vs. Avoidable Stress: Dr. Sterling offers practical advice on how to identify and manage the stress you can’t avoid, while cutting out what you can.The Cost of Modern Parenting: Why raising kids has become more expensive, and how unrealistic parenting expectations are leaving parents overwhelmed.How Stress Affects Child Development: Dr. Sterling explains the interconnected nature of family well-being and how postpartum mental health impacts children’s emotional development. This episode blends real talk with practical advice on how to manage stress during the reproductive journey—without adding more pressure. Dr. Sterling also shares her personal story of navigating stress as an OB-GYN mom and why she believes we need more than just awareness to truly support parents. Resources Mentioned: Sterling Parents Membership: Get expert-led support through pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting. (Including the Calm Body + Calm Mind Workshop series)Surgeon General’s Report on Parental Stress: Learn more about the recent announcement and public health recommendations. ____________________________________ The Ask Dr. Sterling podcast answers your most pressing questions—the ones you might be too nervous to ask your OB. Have a question for Dr. Sterling? Send it to podcast@sterlingparents.com! Follow us at @askdrsterling on Instagram & TikTok, and explore the only membership designed to reduce the worries and anxieties of pregnancy and postpartum—Sterling Parents Membership. Host: Dr. Noa Sterling, Board Certified ObGyn & Founder of Sterling Parents Membership

    31 min
  7. 16 OCT

    Unpacking The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives with an ObGyn

    In this lively episode of the Ask Dr. Sterling Podcast, Dr. Noa Sterling and co-host Claire dive into the surprising and captivating world of reality TV, discussing the hit show Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. While the drama entertained us, it also raised real-life questions about reproductive health, stress during pregnancy, vaginal rejuvenation, and more. Dr. Sterling gives her expert take on some of the wildest moments from the show, drawing connections to the very real medical and emotional challenges many women face. Key Moments Covered: Vaginal Rejuvenation Surgery: What exactly is labiaplasty? Dr. Sterling breaks down the facts behind this procedure, why it's more common than you think, and the difference between functional and cosmetic surgery.Stress and Pregnancy: Taylor's emotional pregnancy journey on the show raised important questions about the impact of stress on both mother and baby. Dr. Sterling explains how chronic and acute stress can affect pregnancy outcomes and shares advice for managing stress during this vulnerable time.Medical Training and Gender Dynamics: The discussion gets personal when Dr. Sterling imagines the future of Jen’s husband, who was shown being unsupportive of his wife, as he enters medical school to become a doctor. What happens when misogyny meets medicine?Unusual Pregnancy Announcements: Whitney's shocking pregnancy reveal—by hiding a pregnancy test in a cake!—leads Dr. Sterling to weigh in on what’s funny, what’s gross, and why you may want to keep your pregnancy test out of your family’s desserts. Whether you're a reality TV fan or just tuning in for expert insight on reproductive health, this episode blends pop culture with important medical knowledge. Tune in for an entertaining and educational conversation about everything from vaginal health to the impact of stress on pregnancy. __________________________ The Ask Dr. Sterling podcast is here to answer your burning questions—the ones you’re too nervous to ask your OB. Have a question for Dr. Sterling? Send it to podcast@sterlingparents.com! Follow us at @askdrsterlingpodcast on Instagram & TikTok, and check out the only membership designed to reduce the worries and anxieties of pregnancy and postpartum—Sterling Parents Membership. Host: Dr. Noa Sterling, Board Certified ObGyn & Founder of Sterling Parents Membership

    33 min
  8. 9 OCT

    When Breastfeeding Doesn’t Go as Planned: An Honest Conversation with an IBCLC

    Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the pressures of breastfeeding? In this episode of the Ask Dr. Sterling Podcast, Dr. Sterling and Sabrina, an IBCLC and nurse, get real about the emotional and physical toll of feeding your baby. Both women, despite their wealth of medical knowledge and expertise, open up about their personal struggles with feeding their babies. It’s an honest conversation full of compassion, vulnerability, and real-life advice that every parent should hear. Sabrina (@motherlylove_lactation) talks about how her professional training as a nurse and lactation consultant didn’t prepare her for her own breastfeeding struggles, while Dr. Sterling opens up about her battles with recurrent mastitis and how supplementing with formula helped restore her mental and physical health. Together, they explore why breastfeeding is harder now than ever before and offer practical advice for anyone who feels like they’re failing to meet the expectations of being a “perfect” parent. Whether you’re exclusively breastfeeding, supplementing with formula, or somewhere in between, this episode is a compassionate guide to making feeding decisions that work for you and your baby—without the guilt. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why the “all or nothing” mindset around breastfeeding can be harmful.The role of formula in extending the breastfeeding journey.How to recognize when your mental health may need to take priority over exclusive breastfeeding.Why giving yourself grace during this challenging time is critical for your well-being. Resources Mentioned: Explore our Comprehensive Breastfeeding Course at Sterling Parents, covering everything from weaning to supplementing with formula.Looking for personalized support? Join the Sterling Parents Membership for access to expert Q&As, mental health resources, and a community that’s here to support you through your parenting journey.Follow Sabrina on Instagram @motherlylove_lactation __________________________ The Ask Dr. Sterling podcast is here to answer your burning questions—the ones you’re too nervous to ask your OB. Have a question for Dr. Sterling? Send it to podcast@sterlingparents.com! Follow us at @askdrsterlingpodcast on Instagram & TikTok, and check out the only membership designed to reduce the worries and anxieties of pregnancy and postpartum—Sterling Parents Membership. Host: Dr. Noa Sterling, Board Certified ObGyn & Founder of Sterling Parents Membership

    44 min

About

The Ask Dr. Sterling Podcast tackles the biggest issues facing women in their reproductive years with candor, providing insightful perspectives and wisdom (with a side of laughs). Have a question for Dr. Sterling to answer on the podcast? Send it to podcast@sterlingparents.com! Dr. Sterling is the founder of Sterling Parents, the only membership designed to relieve the anxieties and worries of pregnancy and postpartum, providing 24/7 access to answers you can trust and guidance from an ObGyn and mom-of-3 who has been there. 

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