The Birth Experience with Labor Nurse Mama

Trish Ware, RN
The Birth Experience with Labor Nurse Mama

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. 13H AGO

    Key Baby Development Milestones with Dr. Allison Mell | 187

    Ever wondered about the significance of your baby’s milestones, particularly crawling, or concerned about what to do if they're not meeting them? In today's episode, Trish sits down with Dr. Allison Mell, a pediatric physical therapist and founder of The TOT Spot, for a deep dive into why crawling is crucial for sensory and motor development.  Learn about:  The real reasons behind these baby development milestones, and why they matter.How to spot red flags early.Gain insights into effective early intervention strategies.  Join the Calm Mama Membership:  labornursemama.com/cms Leave a review and include your Instagram username for a chance to win our monthly raffle! Dr. Allison also shares her experience as a mom of four and offers valuable advice on navigating the overwhelming world of child development. Discover the importance of tuning into your parental instincts, advocating for your child, and how timely interventions can lead to success in later stages of life.  Join us as we unpack these vital topics and empower yourself with the knowledge to support your baby’s growth journey! Helpful Timestamps: 00:56 Meet Dr. Allison Mell: Pediatric Physical Therapist and Mom02:43 The Importance of Early Milestones04:30 Common Issues and Red Flags for Baby Development06:10 The Role of Pediatricians and Early Intervention08:36 The Connection Between Crawling and Development10:47 Sensory Development and Body Awareness13:28 Key Milestones and When to Seek Help17:26 Trusting Your Parental Instincts18:44 Advocating for Your Child's Health20:39 Navigating Early Intervention Programs21:50 The Benefits of Online Consultations27:03 How the TOT Spot Membership Works More from Dr. Mell: Visit TotsOnTarget.com  Follow her on Instagram: @totsontarget Join the TOT Spot Membership Tots on Target Free Resources Resources: Calm Labor Confident Birth Pod 🎙 FREE Birth Workshop: 3 Secrets to a Confident Birth! 🎙 Want to feel prepared and in control? Watch my free workshop now! First Trimester Prep Pack Second Trimester Prep Pack Third Trimester Prep Pack Listen to the Pregnancy Unpacked Series! Connect w/ Trish: On Instagram a...

    34 min
  2. Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 29–30: VBAC Birth Story, Baby Growth + Third Trimester Prep | 186

    2D AGO

    Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 29–30: VBAC Birth Story, Baby Growth + Third Trimester Prep | 186

    Hey mamas, welcome back to Pregnancy Unpacked! Today, Trish is unpacking weeks 29 to 30 of pregnancy. Exploring the changes happening to your baby and your body, tackle the mental challenges of the third trimester, and hear an astonishing VBAC birth story from one of our long-time students, Miss Sarah.  Trish discusses everything from your baby's development, including their brain, lungs, and bones, to the common physical symptoms you're experiencing, like back pain, heartburn, and possibly, Braxton Hicks contractions. She also covers valuable tips and tools for dealing with third trimester challenges, highlights the importance of mental preparation, and stresses the power of knowledge, support, and intuition.  Join the Calm Mama Membership:  labornursemama.com/cms Leave a review and include your Instagram username for a chance to win our monthly raffle! Don't miss the emotional and inspiring story of Sarah, who overcame her fears and previous birth trauma to have an empowering VBAC birth.  Trish will recap:  Tips for preparing your birth space.Packing your hospital bag.Building a strong support system.  Remember, you are powerful and capable. Keep prepping and get ready for a beautiful birth experience! Helpful Timestamps: 00:43 Baby Development: Weeks 29-3001:32 Mama's Body Changes and Tips04:00 Mental Prep and Support04:31 Sarah's Inspiring VBAC Story08:49 Preparing Your Birth Space10:36 Final Thoughts and Encouragement More from Pregnancy Unpacked: Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 26-28: Hello Third Trimester | 184Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 24-26: 2nd Trimester Myths, Glucose Test, and Baby Growth | 182Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 22-24: The Juggle Is Real | 180 More from this episode: Braxton Hicks Contractions IG Post Read the blog: The Signs That You are in Real Labor and Not false? Resources: Calm Labor Confident Birth Pod 🎙 FREE Birth Workshop: 3 Secrets to a Confident Birth! 🎙 Want to feel prepared and in control? Watch my free workshop now! First Trimester Prep Pack Second Trimester Prep Pack Third Trimester Prep Pack Listen to the Pregnancy Unpacked Series! Connect w/ Trish: On...

    13 min
  3. JUL 11

    Rewiring Your Birth Thoughts & Fears - You Are in Control | 185

    Today Trish is sharing her framework for rewiring birth thoughts and fears - because you are in control - sharing her framework for rewiring your thoughts for a positive birth experience. Birth is often filled with fear-based narratives, but it doesn’t have to be. Trish is breaking down the science of your thoughts and how it affects your birth. Join the Calm Mama Membership:  labornursemama.com/cms Leave a review and include your Instagram username for a chance to win our monthly raffle! Trish also reflects on how she approached her first birth without the proper mindset, blindly following hospital policies, leading to unnecessary interventions. Her goal is to inspire empowerment by educating expectant mamas on the importance of mindset and self-advocacy during childbirth. It's time to transform our birth culture into one of power and informed choices. Helpful Timestamps: 00:00 The Science of Your Thoughts07:39 Reflecting on Trish’s First Birth Experience07:47 Following Hospital Protocols07:57 The Need for Advocacy in Birth08:13 Empowering Future Births Resources: Calm Labor Confident Birth Pod 🎙 FREE Birth Workshop: 3 Secrets to a Confident Birth! 🎙 Want to feel prepared and in control? Watch my free workshop now! First Trimester Prep Pack Second Trimester Prep Pack Third Trimester Prep Pack Listen to the Pregnancy Unpacked Series! Connect w/ Trish: On Instagram On Facebook On YouTube On Pinterest On TikTok 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 Next Steps with LNM: If you are ready to invest in your pregnancy & postpartum journey, you are in the right place. I would love to take your hand and support you in your virtual labor room! If you are ready to dive into a birth class and have your best and most powerful birth story, then Calm Labor Confident Birth or The VBAC Lab is your next step. If you have a scheduled cesarean, take our a href="https://learn.labornursemama.com/bbc-sales" rel="noopener...

    10 min
  4. Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 27-28: Hello Third Trimester | 184

    JUL 9

    Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 27-28: Hello Third Trimester | 184

    Hey, beautiful mama! Welcome back to Pregnancy Unpacked. Trish is diving into the third trimester - weeks 26-28. Get ready for real talk about what’s happening with your body, your baby, and how to get prepared now. Plus, some powerful affirmations to keep you grounded. Grab your raspberry leaf tea, and let’s unpack it! What’s Inside: Baby Update: Your little one’s the size of a cauliflower head (2-2.5 lbs, 14.5-15 inches), plumping up with brown fat, maturing lungs, and practicing those cute sucking motions.Your Body: From achy joints to heartburn, shortness of breath, Braxton Hicks, and swelling - Trish breaks down what’s normal and tips to ease the discomfort (think prenatal yoga, small meals, and hydration).Third Trimester Prep: Keep it simple - focus on a safe sleep space, diapers, and a few outfits. Start your hospital bag (check out labornursemama.com/third for a free checklist!) and talk birth preferences with your provider.Emotional Rollercoaster: Feeling anxious or grieving your old life? It’s all valid. Try balancing fears with gratitude (ex., “I’m scared of labor, but I’m so excited to meet my baby”).Importance of Birth Prep: Get prepared now mama! We want you walking into your birth calm and confident. Check out the Calm Labor Birth Pod (labornursemama.com/guide) or full birth classes (labornursemama.com/calm) for evidence-based education to rock your birth.Affirmations: You are strong, capable, and not alone. Write these down: “My body is strong. I trust myself. I am a birth queen.” Helpful Timestamps: 00:57 Welcome Back Mama: Diving into Weeks 27 and 2802:48 Third Trimester: What to Expect03:59 Common Symptoms and Remedies08:40 Preparing for Birth: Tips and Resources12:07 Emotional Rollercoaster: Navigating Feelings15:11 Birth Classes and Support17:22 Birth Affirmations  More from Pregnancy Unpacked: Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 24-26: 2nd Trimester Myths, Glucose Test, and Baby Growth | 182Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 22-24: The Juggle Is Real | 180Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 20-22: Halfway There, But Still In It | 178 Resources: Calm Labor Confident Birth Pod Amazon Shop for All Things Pregnancy & Postpartum 🎙 FREE Birth Workshop: 3 Secrets to a Confident Birth! 🎙 Want to feel prepared and in control? Watch my free workshop now! First Trimester Prep Pack Second Trimester Prep Pack Third Trimester Prep Pack Listen to the Pregnancy Unpacked Series! Connect w/...

    20 min
  5. JUL 4

    From Teen Mom to Revolutionizing Lactation Care: Amber Ginn’s Inspiring Story | 183

    Trish sits down with the incredible Amber Ginn, an IBCLC and one of her beloved Catalyst Queen Mastermind clients. Amber shares her raw and powerful story of having her son at 15 and how this experience, and the support of one person, sparked her career in lactation.  Amber’s journey from becoming teen mom to breastfeeding expert is a testament to turning pain into purpose. She shares her pivotal birth experience, her work as a lactation consultant, and the invaluable support she provides to new moms.  Join the Calm Mama Membership:  labornursemama.com/cms Leave a review and include your Instagram username for a chance to win our monthly raffle! They also discuss the importance of understanding your 'why' behind breastfeeding goals, the challenges new moms face, and the revolutionary care Amber offers through her private practice, The Latch Link. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation filled with empowerment, valuable insights, and a reminder that your story is your superpower! More from Amber Ginn:  TheLatchLink.com  Listen to The Latch Lounge Follow her on Instagram: @ambertheibclc Prenatal Workshop Helpful Timestamps:  01:26 Amber's Early Motherhood Journey02:59 Turning Pain into Purpose06:56 Amber's Professional Journey08:39 Virtual Lactation Consulting14:12 Breastfeeding Tips and Advice19:57 Addressing Common Breastfeeding Challenges22:47 The Importance of Pumping and Supply23:28 Effective Pumping Strategies for Working Moms25:47 Handling Bottle Refusal and Seeking Help26:45 Comprehensive Lactation Support and Services32:26 Final Thoughts and Call to Action Resources: 🎙 FREE Birth Workshop: 3 Secrets to a Confident Birth! 🎙 Want to feel prepared and in control? Watch my free workshop now! Calm Labor Confident Birth Pod First Trimester Prep Pack Second Trimester Prep Pack Third Trimester Prep Pack Listen to the Pregnancy Unpacked Series! Connect w/ Trish: On Instagram On Facebook On YouTube On Pinterest a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@labor.nurse.mama" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    34 min
  6. Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 24-26: 2nd Trimester Myths, Glucose Test, and Baby Growth | 182

    JUL 2

    Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 24-26: 2nd Trimester Myths, Glucose Test, and Baby Growth | 182

    Hey Mama! Welcome back to Pregnancy Unpacked for weeks 24-26 of your pregnancy journey. This episode is all about busting 2nd trimester myths, diving into what’s happening with your body and baby, and empowering you with the facts to trust yourself. Let’s unpack the real stuff. What’s Happening with Baby Size Check: Your little one is about the size of an ear of corn - 13-14 inches long and close to 2 pounds!Big Developments: Baby’s building fat stores, fine-tuning hearing and touch, and growing stronger lung tissue. They’re practicing breathing movements, opening and closing their eyes, and even having hiccups (so cute).Brain Boost: Rapid brain development means more kicks, rolls, and jerky jumps. Keep an eye on those movements! Join the Calm Mama Membership:  labornursemama.com/cms Leave a review and include your Instagram username for a chance to win our monthly raffle! What’s Happening with You Shortness of Breath: Try deep breathing exercises or get on hands and knees with your booty in the air to ease it.Carpal Tunnel: Swollen wrists or tingling fingers? Elevate your hands, shake them out, or grab a wrist brace. Talk to your provider if it’s intense.Round Ligament Pain: Sharp pains in your lower belly? Move slowly, support your belly, or try a belly band and prenatal yoga.Leg Cramps: Stay hydrated, stretch calves before bed, and consider magnesium lotion or gummies (check with your provider). Your Appointments  Glucose Screening Test: Screens for gestational diabetes. Options include the glucola drink, Fresh Test, or home blood sugar checks. Mama, it is not your fault if you test positive - it’s hormones, not your diet.  Helpful Timestamps: 00:59 Weeks 24-26: What to Expect01:55 Baby's Development: Weeks 24-2603:18 Common Pregnancy Symptoms and Remedies11:12 Debunking 2nd Trimester Pregnancy Myths13:46 Emotional Well-being During Pregnancy16:43 Important Appointments and Tests26:01 Final Thoughts and Encouragement More from this episode:  Follow the Gestational Diabetes Nurse, Sara Alayev + Join her GDM Mama MembershipTrish’s Amazon Shop for pregnancy pillows and second-trimester must-havesListen to Second Trimester Pregnancy Testing | 165 More from Pregnancy Unpacked: Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 22-24: The Juggle Is Real | 180Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 20-22: Halfway There, But Still In It | 178Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 18-20: Anatomy Scan & The Truth About Bonding | 176 Resources: 🎙 FREE

    30 min
  7. JUN 27

    Traveling While Pregnant - What to Know Before You Go | 181

    Trish gets into all things travel during pregnancy - whether you’re dreaming of a babymoon, heading out for work, or visiting family. Traveling while pregnant is a whole different ballgame, but don’t worry, Trish has got you covered with safety tips, airline and cruise policies, packing must-haves, and hacks to keep nausea and exhaustion at bay. Let’s make your journey as comfy and stress-free as possible! Join the Calm Mama Membership:  labornursemama.com/cms Leave a review and include your Instagram username for a chance to win our monthly raffle! What’s Inside: Is It Safe to Travel? Most pregnancies are good to go up to 36 weeks if uncomplicated, but always check with your doctor.Airline & Cruise Rules: Cruises often cut off at 24-28 weeks (shocking, right?) and may need a doctor’s note. Domestic flights usually allow travel up to 36 weeks, but international ones might stop at 28-32 weeks. Get a “fit to fly” note just in case, and call ahead!Fly or Drive? Flying’s faster with easy bathroom access, but security and tight spaces can be a drag. Driving gives you control and flexibility, but long sits can mean back pain and boredom. Pro tip: Stop every 1-2 hours to stretch, and wear compression socks to keep swelling and clot risks down.Nausea Hacks: If you’re dry-heaving at 30,000 feet (been there!), try acupressure wristbands, ginger chews, or peppermint oil to fight smells. Keep protein snacks like almonds or peanut butter crackers handy—low blood sugar makes nausea worse. And hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!Packing Essentials: Overpacking is self-love, mamas! Bring prenatal records (past 25 weeks), compression socks, a water bottle, snacks, a belly band, supportive shoes, and a lumbar pillow. Comfort Tips: On planes, snag an aisle seat to move every hour and use a foot sling. For cars, recline slightly with a cushion and crack the window for nausea. Keep seatbelts low across hips, not your bump.When NOT to Travel: High-risk conditions like placenta previa or preterm labor risk? Stay put. Bleeding, cramping, or less baby movement? Nope, don’t go. Far from good hospitals? Not worth it. Always talk to your provider if you’re unsure. You don’t have to pause life because you’re pregnant - just plan smart! Pack snacks, stay hydrated, move often, and advocate for your comfort. You’re a superhero growing a human, so give yourself grace if travel feels harder than usual. Whether it’s a babymoon or a road trip to grandma’s, you’ve got this! More from this episode: Third Trimester Prep PackStaying Comfortable Traveling while Pregnant: What To Expect And How To Stay SafeFoot Sling for Air...

    22 min
  8. Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 22-24: The Juggle Is Real | 180

    JUN 25

    Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 22-24: The Juggle Is Real | 180

    Hey Mama! Welcome back to Pregnancy Unpacked with Trish, your pregnancy bestie. We’re diving into weeks 22-24, where your baby’s hitting papaya size and your bump’s stealing the show! Trish breaks down baby’s big developments, your body’s changes, and the emotional weight of this in-between season. You’re carrying a lot, but you’re not alone - let’s unpack it together! Join the Calm Mama Membership:  labornursemama.com/cms Leave a review and include your Instagram username for a chance to win our monthly raffle! What’s Happening with Baby Size: Baby’s about the size of a papaya (~11-12 inches, ~1.5 pounds).Development: Lungs are producing surfactant, key for breathing at birth. Eyelids are opening, eyelashes are forming, and baby’s hearing is sharp—reacting to your voice or loud noises. Movements are getting stronger, with a unique rhythm starting to emerge.Cool Moment: Trish shares a sweet memory of her son Grayson startling during an ultrasound—proof of that magical connection! What’s Happening with You Physical Changes: Your uterus is ~2 cm above your belly button, stretching ligaments and causing round ligament pain, lower back aches, or sciatica. Braxton Hicks might be noticeable (see Episode 105 for details). Shortness of breath, increased discharge (normal unless foul-smelling), and insane hunger are common.Digestive Issues: Bloating, gas, or reflux? Try papaya enzymes, stay hydrated, and eat balanced meals. Check with your provider for gas pain relief.Sleep Struggles: Feeling tired but not sleeping? Grab a pregnancy pillow (linked in Trish’s Amazon shop below).Emotional & Mental Load: Feeling resentful, touched out, or like you’re carrying it all? It’s normal. Have those hard convos with your partner or support system Appointments & What to Expect Monthly provider visits include fundal height checks, Doppler heartbeat monitoring, blood pressure, urine tests, and swelling checks. Discuss cramps, movements, or preterm labor signs.If you have cramping, backaches, or pelvic pressure, your provider may run a fetal fibronectin test or refer you to a maternal-fetal medicine specialist. Always call for fluid leaks, bleeding, or intense pressure - you’re advocating, not annoying! Action Steps for Weeks 22-24: Prep questions for your next provider visit.Track anything weird and call your provider if needed.Observe baby’s movements - get curious, no formal kick counts yet.Start your postpartum support plan (it’s not too early!).Check in with your partner or support person about your emotional and physical needs. You’re growing a human and showing up for life—that’s superhero stuff, mama!  More from this episode: Listen to Episode 105: Here’s How to Understand Real Labor vs False Labor ContractionsTrish’s Amazon Shop for pregnancy pillows and second-trimester must-haves More from Pregnancy Unpacked: Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 20-22: Halfway There, But Still In It | 178a...

    13 min
4.6
out of 5
57 Ratings

About

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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