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: @thelatchlinkwithamber

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

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 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! 🎙

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 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:

1. Prep questions for your next provider visit.
2. Track anything weird and call your provider if needed.
3. Observe baby’s movements - get curious, no formal kick counts yet.
4. Start your postpartum support plan (it’s not too early!).
5. 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 Contractions
• Trish’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 | 178
• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 18-20: Anatomy Scan & The Truth About Bonding | 176
• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 16-18: Baby Bumps, Tests, & Trusting Yourself | 174

Helpful Timestamps:

• 00:59 Unpacking Weeks 22 to 24
• 01:50 Baby's Development: Weeks 22 to 24
• 03:56 Your Body's Changes and How to Cope
• 08:26 Emotional and Mental Well-being
• 10:56 Action Steps and Final Thoughts

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 is joined by Megan Heaton from The VBAC Link to discuss the common misconceptions, roadblocks and interventions that women face when attempting a VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean). They discuss ridiculous claims made by providers, heard straight from their own communities of mothers, such as the ‘impossibility’ of going into labor naturally, the supposed ‘necessity’ of epidurals, or your pelvis being ‘too small’. 

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 and Meagan emphasize the importance of patient education, partner support, and trusting the natural birthing process. They also discuss the coercive tactics some medical professionals use and provide empowering advice for navigating these challenges. 

This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering or supporting someone through a VBAC journey.

Helpful Timestamps:

• 01:10 Welcoming Meagan from the VBAC Link
• 01:50 Ridiculous Roadblocks for VBAC
• 03:02 The Importance of Positioning During Labor
• 08:03 Epidurals and VBAC: Myths and Realities
• 10:38 The Impact of Fear and Safety on Labor
• 16:04 The Role of Partners in Supporting VBAC
• 18:59 Debunking Myths About Induction
• 21:01 The Reality of VBAC Risks and C-Section Complications
• 23:00 Confronting Medical Authority and Patient Rights
• 25:08 Navigating Hospital Policies and Patient Autonomy
• 26:07 Real-Life VBAC Stories and Hospital Challenges
• 28:31 The Importance of Patient Education and Advocacy
• 31:35 Debunking Myths About Induction and Labor
• 34:04 Conclusion and Resources for VBAC Moms

More from this episode:

National Advocates for Pregnant Women

More from Meagan Heaton:

Listen to The VBAC Link Podcast

TheVBACLink.com 

Follow The VBAC Link on Instagram, YouTube, and FaceBook

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 to Pregnancy Unpacked with Trish, Labor Nurse Mama. In this episode, we’re diving into weeks 20-22 of pregnancy - the halfway mark! We’re unpacking what’s happening with your baby, your body, and those emotional shifts no one warns you about. From belly pops to Braxton Hicks, Trish is here to guide you through it all with real talk and big support. You’re not alone, and you’ve got this!

What’s Happening with Baby

• Size: Your little one is about the size of a banana (~10.5 inches, ~1 pound).
• Development: Taste buds are forming, baby’s tasting your meals through amniotic fluid, and hair, eyebrows, and lashes are sprouting. Their heartbeat is strong, and brain connections are helping control those tiny limbs.
• Cool Fact: Baby’s skin is coated in vernix caseosa, a protective creamy layer you’ll see at birth. Plus, they’re starting a sleep-wake cycle (which might not match yours!).

What’s Happening with You

• Physical Changes: Expect a sudden belly pop, round ligament pains, or painless Braxton Hicks contractions (check out Episode 105 for more on these vs. real labor). Constipation, back pain, or varicose veins might pop up too.
• Emotional Rollercoaster: Feeling off, disconnected, or guilty for not “glowing”? That’s normal. Pregnancy is a huge identity shift. Trish shares tips to process these feelings and lean on your support system.
• Stay Hydrated: Hydrate like crazy, mama! Water helps with constipation and keeps you out of triage. 

Join the Calm Mama Membership:  labornursemama.com/cms

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

Emotional & Relationship Real Talk

• It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, touched out, or out of sync with your partner. Communicate openly - weekly check-ins can build resilience.
• Single mamas, you deserve support too! Lean on friends, doulas, therapists, or join the Calm Mama Society for community.
• Try EFT tapping to ease anxiety and fear - Trish swears by it.

Anatomy Scan & Next Steps

• You’ve likely had (or will soon have) your anatomy scan. Celebrate clear results, don’t stress if baby needs a recheck, and ask questions if referred to a maternal-fetal medicine specialist.

5-Step Action Plan:

1. Write down anatomy scan questions.
2. Check in with your partner or support system about your emotions.
3. Start a list for your next appointment (pregnancy brain is real!).
4. Notice baby’s movements and enjoy them.
5. Protect your energy - write down what drains vs. restores you.

More from this episode:

• Here’s How to Understand Real Labor vs False Labor Contractions | 105
• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 18-20: Anatomy Scan & The Truth About Bonding | 176
• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 16-18: Baby Bumps, Tests, & Trusting Yourself | 174
• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 14-16: Building Your Birth Team & Trusting Your Gut | 172
• Kim Perry Fit for Pregnancy-Safe Workouts
• Join BetterHelp for therapy support
• Join the Calm Mama Society for Community

Helpful Timestamps:

• 00:58 Halfway Through Pregnancy: Weeks 20-22
• 01:41 Baby's Development Milestones
• 02:59 Your Body's Changes and Symptoms
• 05:00 Emotional Well-being and Support
• 08:33 Relationship Dynamics During Pregnancy
• 10:14 Anatomy Scan and Next Steps
• 12:10 Resources and Encouragement

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 the unfiltered, totally normal chaos of the third trimester of pregnancy. She’s breaking down the weird symptoms, emotional rollercoasters, and practical prep tips to help you feel empowered as you approach the finish line of pregnancy.

From lightning crotch to unexpected leaks, Trish normalizes the wild changes your body might be throwing at you. She’s got you covered with actionable advice, heartfelt encouragement, and a reminder to trust your gut as you prepare for birth.

What’s Inside This Episode:

• Lightning Crotch and Swollen Everything: Learn about those sharp zings in your pelvis, swollen hands, feet, and even vulva—why they happen, what’s normal, and when to call your provider.
• Leaky Boobies and More: Trish explains colostrum leakage (or lack thereof), carpal tunnel, night sweats, and increased vaginal discharge, reassuring you that your body’s just doing its thing to build a human.
• Braxton Hicks vs. Real Labor: Get clear on how to tell them apart - irregular and front-focused for Braxton Hicks, consistent and intensifying from back to belly for the real deal. Pro tip: If you’re still wondering if it's labor, it’s not time to worry yet!
• Nesting: Discover why you’re suddenly scrubbing baseboards at 2 AM and how this primal urge is your brain creating safety for your baby.
• Sex, Sleep, and Relationships: Navigate libido shifts, insomnia, and changing dynamics with your partner. Trish shares tips like using a pregnancy pillow, avoiding late-night caffeine, and communicating openly to stay connected.
• When to Call Your Provider: Critical signs to watch for, including decreased fetal movement, bright red bleeding, leaking fluid, severe headaches, or sudden swelling, and why trusting your instincts is never overreacting.

This episode is your go-to guide for rocking the third trimester with confidence. Share it with a pregnant friend, leave a review to support Trish’s mission to empower mamas, and binge more episodes to prep for your birth like the queen you are!

Mentioned in this episode:

Grab the Third Trimester Prep Pack

Listen to Ep 154: OMG – Did My Water Just Break? Now What?

Listen to Ep 48: Six Signs that Labor is Not Far Off

Read 6 Signs of Labor According to a Labor Nurse

Helpful Timestamps:

• 00:55 Navigating the Third Trimester
• 02:00 Weird but Normal Symptoms
• 05:20 Braxton Hicks vs. Real Labor
• 07:41 Nesting Instincts
• 09:02 Sex, Sleep, and Relationship Shifts
• 12:18 When to Call Your Provider
• 14:52 Empowerment and Advocacy
• 15:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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 with your birth bestie, Trish. If you’re in weeks 18 to 20 of your pregnancy, this one’s for you! We’re diving into the magic (and realness) of this stage, the big anatomy scan, and the emotional rollercoaster of bonding. Trish is here with her no-sugarcoating, cheerleader vibe to unpack what’s happening with your body, your baby, and your heart.

Your little bean is growing fast, flipping and fluttering, and you’re probably feeling that bump pop! From the 20-week anatomy scan details to navigating those “am I supposed to feel bonded yet?” moments, Trish breaks it all down. 

Whether you’re buzzing with excitement or wrestling with anxiety, your feelings are valid, and you’re not alone. Let’s unpack this stage together!

What’s Inside This Episode:

• Baby’s Big Glow-Up: Your baby’s now the size of a sweet potato or mango (6–6.5 inches, 9–11 ounces!), with taste buds, working ears, and somersaults galore. Plus, their heartbeat’s loud enough for a stethoscope!
• 20-Week Anatomy Scan Lowdown: Trish dives into what this long, detailed ultrasound checks: brain, heart, spine, limbs, placenta, and more. Learn what to expect, how to prep, and why unclear images aren’t an instant red flag.
• Finding Out Baby’s Sex (Maybe): This scan might reveal if you’re having a boy or girl, but as Trish’s story with baby #6 shows, it’s not always a sure thing!
• Bonding with Your Baby: Feeling super connected or a bit detached? Both are normal. Trish shares tips like daily affirmations, journaling, and visualizing those first snuggles to nurture your bond - no pressure, just love.
• Action Steps for You: Schedule your anatomy scan, prep questions for your provider, jot down your feelings, and ask about placenta placement or cervical length if you’ve had complications.
• Mindset Matters: Trish reminds you to trust your gut, ask questions, and embrace this transition. You’re growing a human and a new version of yourself!

“You’re half way there mama and I’m so freaking proud of you!” - Trish

More from this episode:

Listen to episode 150: Navigating Your 20-Week Anatomy Scan with Confidence | 150

The Latest from Pregnancy Unpacked:

Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 16-18: Baby Bumps, Tests, & Trusting Yourself | 174

Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 14-16: Building Your Birth Team & Trusting Your Gut | 172

Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 12-14: Hello Second Trimester, Now What? | 170

Helpful Timestamps:

• 00:00 Welcome to Pregnancy Unpacked
• 00:59 Weeks 18-20 of Your Pregnancy
• 01:31 Baby's Development at 18-20 Weeks
• 04:15 The Anatomy Scan Explained
• 09:33 Mindset and Bonding Tips
• 10:58 Action Steps and Final Thoughts

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!

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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 welcomes her sweet birth student, LeeAnn, a first-time mom and a student of the 'Calm Labor Confident Birth' course. LeeAnn shares her breathtaking birth story, which started with a surprise in triage and ended with the unmedicated birth she always dreamed of. 

She walked us through her mindset shifts during pregnancy, the tools from the course, as well as the labor bat signal, that kept her calm and at ease, especially during those last weeks of pregnancy, and what it was like to have a fast, unmedicated first birth. She also gets into her postpartum experiences and offers real, valuable advice to other first-time 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!

“ I felt comfortable and I think there's so much out there nowadays about like, “Here's what you should do, Here's what you should not do” - and it's also contradictory. Your courses were very much like, “Here are your options, “ and you were very open about, if you want to go natural, if you want to do medicated -  you gave all the options. And I felt like that made me feel empowered to speak for what I wanted. “

-LeeAnn

Tune in to hear how LeeAnn took control of her birth journey and emerged empowered, confident, and in control as a first-time mama.

More from LeeAnn:

Follow her on IG: @leeannypants

• 01:25 LeeAnn's Pregnancy Journey
• 02:11 Finding Support and Empowerment
• 03:26 Navigating Pregnancy Fears and Guilt
• 04:56 The Calm Labor Confident Birth Course
• 09:10 The Labor Bat Signal Experience
• 12:08 LeeAnn's Labor and Delivery
• 14:07 Unexpected Early Labor Signs
• 14:23 Intensifying Contractions and Hospital Arrival
• 15:24 Hospital Triage and Cervix Check
• 16:15 Rapid Progression to Delivery
• 18:54 Empowering Birth Experience
• 20:14 Postpartum Challenges and Support
• 22:01 Advice for New Mothers

Resources:

First Trimester Secret Podcast

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

Want to feel prepared and in control? Watch my free workshop now!

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! 

Trish is taking you through the transformative journey of pregnancy weeks 16-18. Your baby is growing, now about the size of an avocado or a dill pickle, with developing lashes, eyebrows, and fingernails. 

Trish discusses common tests such as the quad screen, and what to expect during your ultrasound scans. She shares some stories about gender surprises and emphasizes the importance of asking questions and trusting your intuition. 

For those still grappling with morning sickness, Trish offers supportive tools and lifestyle tips to ease the discomfort. This episode is packed with straight talk, some science, and lots of support to help you navigate your pregnancy journey with confidence. Remember, you are amazing mama, and you've got this! 

Tune in every Wednesday for more pregnancy unpacked. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and drop questions in the comments!

Helpful Timestamps

• 01:00 Weeks 16-18: Baby Development
• 02:32 Understanding Prenatal Testing
• 04:10 Ultrasound Scans and Gender Reveals
• 05:47 Dealing with Concerning News
• 09:34 Morning Sickness and Nausea Relief
• 11:00 Advocacy and Intuition

More from this episode:

Listen to Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 14-16: Building Your Birth Team & Trusting Your Gut

Listen to Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 12-14: Hello Second Trimester, Now What?

Grab the Second Trimester Prep Pack

Resources:

First Trimester Secret Podcast

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

Want to feel prepared and in control? Watch my free workshop now!

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.