In this candid mini episode, Dr. Sterling and co-host Claire share their personal stories of being shockingly unprepared for postpartum. After a listener reached out through their new broadcast channel asking how an OB-GYN could be unprepared, Dr. Sterling breaks down the reality of postpartum preparation in 2024 versus her first experience in 2017.

Quick Listen Highlights [25 mins]

00:00 - Introduction and listener question 03:45 - Dr. Sterling's 2017 postpartum experience 08:30 - The Pinterest-perfect nursery trap 12:15 - What actually matters postpartum 16:40 - Physical vs emotional preparation 20:30 - Critical life skills for new parents

Real Talk Takeaways

• Why physical prep isn't enough
• The mental load no one talks about
• How social media has changed postpartum expectations
• Why nursery decoration shouldn't be your priority
• Essential emotional preparation strategies

What Actually Matters

"Challenging doesn't have to mean terrible. There are ways to prepare ourselves with life skills, but they're not things you can learn at 32 weeks from a blog." - Dr. Sterling

Sterling Parents Tips

• Start emotional preparation early in pregnancy
• Focus on your bedroom setup over nursery decoration
• Build critical life skills before baby arrives
• Create a healing, calming space where you'll actually spend time
• Invest in support systems over aesthetic items

Connect With Us

• Join our Broadcast Channel: @drsterlingobgyn on Instagram
• Sterling Parents Membership
• Submit your questions: [email protected]