Welcome back to Pregnancy Unpacked! In this week's episode, we celebrate crossing 32 weeks - a major milestone. Dive deep into what's happening in Week 33 as Trish unpacks your little one's brain development, increasing weight and length, and the importance of surfactant for lung maturation.

 Learn how to support your partner with practical and emotional tasks, recognize signs of preeclampsia, and set essential boundaries with family and friends as the countdown begins. Plus, get a sneak peek into the action items for this week, preparing your nursery, and finalizing your birth plan. Tune in to feel supported, informed, and ready for the incredible journey ahead!

What’s inside this episode:

• What’s happening with baby at 33 weeks - key development milestones.
• The physical and emotional changes happening with you.
• Your action items for week 33 of pregnancy.
• Partner support tips.
• Doctor’s appointments & what to expect.
• How to set boundaries.
• Reg flags to watch for.

Helpful Timestamps:

• 00:58 33 Weeks Pregnant: Key Milestones
• 02:26 Baby's Size and Development
• 04:00 Essential Steps for Week 33
• 09:14 What's Happening with Your Body
• 13:19 Partner's Role and Support
• 15:23 Doctor's Appointments and What to Expect
• 18:28 Setting Boundaries and Final Preparations
• 20:50 Action Items for the Week
• 21:56 Red Flags and When to Call the Doctor
• 22:34 Connect and Share Your Journey
• 23:01 Conclusion and Next Week's Preview

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Read the Blog: The Golden Hour After Birth
• Read the Blog: Delayed Baths For Newborns: The Benefits According To Studies
• Read the Blog: Here's What You Need to Know About GBS (Group B Strep) and Pregnancy
• Amazon Shop for All Things Pregnancy & Postpartum

More from Pregnancy Unpacked:

• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 31–32: Baby Growth, Body Changes + What to Prepare Next | 188
• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 29–30: VBAC Birth Story, Baby Growth + Third Trimester Prep | 186
• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 26-28: Hello Third Trimester | 184

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

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 Belly Birth Masterclass and own that experience.

If you are a newly pregnant mama or just had the babe, you want to join our private pregnancy and postpartum membership, Calm Mama Society.

Remember, my advice is not medical advice. Always discuss what you learn with your team. See my Disclaimer here! Also, We make a small commission from some of the links (you don’t pay any more for using our links); however some of the recommendations, we do not earn anything; we love ’em and want you to know about them.

Trish dives into the topic of membrane sweeps. She breaks down everything you need to know about this optional procedure to help you make informed decisions for your birth.

Trish explains what a membrane sweep is  (also known as a stretch and sweep), how it works, tips to make it more comfortable, and why it might be considered to encourage labor naturally. She emphasizes that membrane sweeps are entirely your choice - your body, your birth, your decision. Trish shares when a membrane sweep is most effective (hint: wait until at least 40 weeks!), the importance of slight cervical dilation for the procedure, and why dilation alone isn’t the whole story when it comes to labor readiness. She also encourages combining a membrane sweep with various natural labor preparation techniques.

Join the Calm Mama Membership:  labornursemama.com/cms

Leave a review and include your Instagram username for a chance to win our monthly raffle!

More from this episode:

Join Calm Labor Confident Birth or The VBAC Lab

Grab the Induction Workshop: available for those preparing for an induced birth.

Read the Blog: Read this Easy to Understand Guide Before Your Membrane Sweep: Everything You need To Know

Helpful  Timestamps:

• 00:54 Understanding Membrane Sweeps
• 01:26 How Membrane Sweeps Work
• 02:39 When to Consider a Membrane Sweep
• 03:43 Preparing for a Membrane Sweep
• 04:28 Making Membrane Sweeps More Comfortable
• 06:44 Post-Sweep Expectations and Tips
• 08:37 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
• 09:15 Join the Community and Stay Connected

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

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 Belly Birth Masterclass and own that experience.

If you are a newly pregnant mama or just had the babe, you want to join our private pregnancy and postpartum membership, Calm Mama Society.

Remember, my advice is not medical advice. Always discuss what you learn with your team. See my Disclaimer here! Also, We make a small commission from some of the links (you don’t pay any more for using our links); however some of the recommendations, we do not earn anything; we love ’em and want you to know about them.

Hey mama! Welcome back to Pregnancy Unpacked with Trish, your go-to labor nurse and birth bestie. In this episode, we’re diving into weeks 31 and 32 - when things start feeling super real! We’ll cover your baby’s incredible growth, the changes you’re noticing in your body, and how to prep for the final stretch. From managing shortness of breath and wild dreams to monitoring fetal movement and planning for birth, Trish delivers practical tips and empowering vibes to keep you confident. You’re magical, powerful, and totally got this!

Join the Calm Mama Membership:  labornursemama.com/cms

Leave a review and include your Instagram username for a chance to win our monthly raffle!

• Size & Growth: Your baby is about the size of a coconut - 16-17 inches long and 3.5-4 pounds.
• Development: Major brain and nervous system growth, eyes opening and tracking light, and bones hardening (with a soft skull for birth). Baby’s practicing breathing and swallowing amniotic fluid, which they recycle to maintain fluid levels.
• Brown Fat: They’re building brown fat for temperature regulation - key for skin-to-skin after birth. Check Trish’s blog post on skin-to-skin for more! 
• Fetal Movement: You’re likely noticing a pattern. Keep track, as movement is a key sign of baby’s oxygen levels. Grab Trish’s Free Third Trimester Prep Pack for a fetal movement count sheet.

• Shortness of Breath: Your growing uterus is crowding your lungs. Try yoga, stretching, swimming, or hands-and-knees positions to ease it.
• Swelling: Gradual swelling in ankles, feet, or hands is normal, but sudden swelling means you should call your provider.
• Aches & Pains: Expect more back and hip discomfort, plus Braxton Hicks contractions.
• Vivid Dreams & Insomnia: Hormones and discomfort can spark bizarre dreams and sleepless nights. Trish loves the Momcozy Pregnancy Pillow for comfort.
• Clumsiness: Your shifting center of gravity may make you wobbly - be cautious!
• Emotional Swings: From excitement to overwhelm, it’s all normal. Give yourself grace - you’re building a human!

• Provider Checkups: You’re likely seeing your provider every two weeks for fundal height, heartbeat checks, and symptom discussions.
• Ask These Questions:
• How will baby’s growth be monitored?
• What are the hospital’s labor and delivery policies?
• Who will attend my birth?
• Pro Tip: Jot down questions in your phone to remember them at appointments. If your provider seems rushed, politely ask for time to talk.

• Hospital Bag: Start thinking about what to pack.
• Birth Preferences: Review them with your partner. Education is key for a solid plan.
• Take a Birth Class: Girl, if you haven’t yet, take one! Trish offers:
• Full Birth Course ($297): In-depth with robust support.
• Calm Labor Birth Pod ($97): Quick, audio-based with a guide.
• Labor Bat Signal: Add-on for 12 weeks of virtual DM support with Trish and a doula.
• Hydration & Movement: Prioritize drinking water and gentle movement.
• Postpartum Planning: List key contacts, check insurance for mental health support, and plan who’ll help after birth.
• Rest Without Guilt: Practice chilling out - you deserve it!

Helpful Timestamps:

• 00:00 Welcome to Pregnancy Unpacked
• 00:49 Baby's Development: Weeks 31-32
• 02:54 Mom's Symptoms and Self-Care Tips
• 05:17 Doctor Visits and What to Expect
• 08:23 Preparing for Birth: Action Steps
• 10:30 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
• 11:10 Closing Remarks and Subscriber Call-to-Action

More from this episode:

Read the Blog: The Golden Hour After Birth

Momcozy Pregnancy Pillow

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

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 Belly Birth Masterclass and own that experience.

If you are a newly pregnant mama or just had the babe, you want to join our private pregnancy and postpartum membership, Calm Mama Society.

Remember, my advice is not medical advice. Always discuss what you learn with your team. See my Disclaimer here! Also, We make a small commission from some of the links (you don’t pay any more for using our links); however some of the recommendations, we do not earn anything; we love ’em and want you to know about them.

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 Mom
• 02:43 The Importance of Early Milestones
• 04:30 Common Issues and Red Flags for Baby Development
• 06:10 The Role of Pediatricians and Early Intervention
• 08:36 The Connection Between Crawling and Development
• 10:47 Sensory Development and Body Awareness
• 13:28 Key Milestones and When to Seek Help
• 17:26 Trusting Your Parental Instincts
• 18:44 Advocating for Your Child's Health
• 20:39 Navigating Early Intervention Programs
• 21:50 The Benefits of Online Consultations
• 27:03 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

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

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 Belly Birth Masterclass and own that experience.

If you are a newly pregnant mama or just had the babe, you want to join our private pregnancy and postpartum membership, Calm Mama Society.

Remember, my advice is not medical advice. Always discuss what you learn with your team. See my Disclaimer here! Also, We make a small commission from some of the links (you don’t pay any more for using our links); however some of the recommendations, we do not earn anything; we love ’em and want you to know about them.

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 29-30
• 01:32 Mama's Body Changes and Tips
• 04:00 Mental Prep and Support
• 04:31 Sarah's Inspiring VBAC Story
• 08:49 Preparing Your Birth Space
• 10:36 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

More from Pregnancy Unpacked:

• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 26-28: Hello Third Trimester | 184
• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 24-26: 2nd Trimester Myths, Glucose Test, and Baby Growth | 182
• Pregnancy 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 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

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 Belly Birth Masterclass and own that experience.

If you are a newly pregnant mama or just had the babe, you want to join our private pregnancy and postpartum membership, Calm Mama Society.

Remember, my advice is not medical advice. Always discuss what you learn with your team. See my Disclaimer here! Also, We make a small commission from some of the links (you don’t pay any more for using our links); however some of the recommendations, we do not earn anything; we love ’em and want you to know about them.

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 Thoughts
• 07:39 Reflecting on Trish’s First Birth Experience
• 07:47 Following Hospital Protocols
• 07:57 The Need for Advocacy in Birth
• 08:13 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

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 Belly Birth Masterclass and own that experience.

If you are a newly pregnant mama or just had the babe, you want to join our private pregnancy and postpartum membership, Calm Mama Society.

Remember, my advice is not medical advice. Always discuss what you learn with your team. See my Disclaimer here! Also, We make a small commission from some of the links (you don’t pay any more for using our links); however some of the recommendations, we do not earn anything; we love ’em and want you to know about them.

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 28
• 02:48 Third Trimester: What to Expect
• 03:59 Common Symptoms and Remedies
• 08:40 Preparing for Birth: Tips and Resources
• 12:07 Emotional Rollercoaster: Navigating Feelings
• 15:11 Birth Classes and Support
• 17:22 Birth Affirmations 

More from Pregnancy Unpacked:

• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 24-26: 2nd Trimester Myths, Glucose Test, and Baby Growth | 182
• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 22-24: The Juggle Is Real | 180
• Pregnancy 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/ 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

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 Belly Birth Masterclass and own that experience.

If you are a newly pregnant mama or just had the babe, you want to join our private pregnancy and postpartum membership, Calm Mama Society.

Remember, my advice is not medical advice. Always discuss what you learn with your team. See my Disclaimer here! Also, We make a small commission from some of the links (you don’t pay any more for using our links); however some of the recommendations, we do not earn anything; we love ’em and want you to know about them.

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 Journey
• 02:59 Turning Pain into Purpose
• 06:56 Amber's Professional Journey
• 08:39 Virtual Lactation Consulting
• 14:12 Breastfeeding Tips and Advice
• 19:57 Addressing Common Breastfeeding Challenges
• 22:47 The Importance of Pumping and Supply
• 23:28 Effective Pumping Strategies for Working Moms
• 25:47 Handling Bottle Refusal and Seeking Help
• 26:45 Comprehensive Lactation Support and Services
• 32:26 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

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

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 Belly Birth Masterclass and own that experience.

If you are a newly pregnant mama or just had the babe, you want to join our private pregnancy and postpartum membership, Calm Mama Society.

Remember, my advice is not medical advice. Always discuss what you learn with your team. See my Disclaimer here! Also, We make a small commission from some of the links (you don’t pay any more for using our links); however some of the recommendations, we do not earn anything; we love ’em and want you to know about them.

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 Expect
• 01:55 Baby's Development: Weeks 24-26
• 03:18 Common Pregnancy Symptoms and Remedies
• 11:12 Debunking 2nd Trimester Pregnancy Myths
• 13:46 Emotional Well-being During Pregnancy
• 16:43 Important Appointments and Tests
• 26:01 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

More from this episode: 

• Follow the Gestational Diabetes Nurse, Sara Alayev + Join her GDM Mama Membership
• Trish’s Amazon Shop for pregnancy pillows and second-trimester must-haves
• Listen to Second Trimester Pregnancy Testing | 165

More from Pregnancy Unpacked:

• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 22-24: The Juggle Is Real | 180
• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 20-22: Halfway There, But Still In It | 178
• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 18-20: Anatomy Scan & The Truth About Bonding | 176

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

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

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 Belly Birth Masterclass and own that experience.

If you are a newly pregnant mama or just had the babe, you want to join our private pregnancy and postpartum membership, Calm Mama Society.

Remember, my advice is not medical advice. Always discuss what you learn with your team. See my Disclaimer here! Also, We make a small commission from some of the links (you don’t pay any more for using our links); however some of the recommendations, we do not earn anything; we love ’em and want you to know about them.

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

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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 Pack
• Staying Comfortable Traveling while Pregnant: What To Expect And How To Stay Safe
• Foot Sling for Air Travel
• Vitamin B6 and Unisom for nausea: Take 50mg morning and evening (always confirm with your doc).
• Amazon Shopping list

Helpful Timestamps:

• 01:22 Is It Safe to Travel While Pregnant?
• 02:51 Airline and Cruise Rules for Pregnant Travelers
• 04:02 Flying vs. Driving: Pros and Cons
• 05:38 Tips for Comfortable Travel
• 07:22 Managing Nausea and Exhaustion
• 12:29 Essential Packing Tips for Pregnant Travelers
• 18:10 When Not to Travel During Pregnancy
• 19:51 Final Thoughts and Resources

Resources:

🎙 FREE Birth Workshop: 3 Secrets to a Confident Birth! 🎙

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Calm Labor Confident Birth Pod

First Trimester Prep Pack

Second Trimester Prep Pack

Third Trimester Prep Pack

Listen to the Pregnancy Unpacked Series!

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Produced and Edited by Vaden Podcast Services

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Remember, my advice is not medical advice. Always discuss what you learn with your team. See my Disclaimer here! Also, We make a small commission from some of the links (you don’t pay any more for using our links); however some of the recommendations, we do not earn anything; we love ’em and want you to know about them.