The Labor Room

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🎙️ Episode Title: 16 Game-Changing Pregnancy and Labor Tips You Need to Know

Are you ready to transform your pregnancy and labor experience with practical, proven advice? As a seasoned labor and delivery nurse, I’ve gathered 16 of the most game-changing tips to help you navigate this incredible journey with confidence and ease.

In this episode, I’m sharing insider knowledge that can make all the difference in how you prepare for labor, advocate for yourself, and stay in control throughout the process. From those last days of pregnancy to the final push, these tips will empower you to approach labor and delivery with calm, control, and clarity.

Whether you're a first-time mom or looking to have a better birth experience this time around, these tips are for YOU.

🎁 Free Resource:
Don’t forget to grab your FREE Hospital Bag Checklist to take the guesswork out of packing for the big day. Download it here: Hospital Bag Checklist.

🌟 Take Your Preparation to the Next Level with My Signature Courses!

1. Empowered Birth Academy: Everything you need to feel confident and prepared for a calm, empowering labor and birth. Learn more and enroll here: Empowered Birth Academy. *get $50 off with the code THELABORROOM*
2. Postpartum: Life After Labor: Navigate the postpartum season with ease, confidence, and support. This course covers recovery, mental health, and adjusting to life with a newborn. Enroll here: Postpartum: Life After Labor.
3. Milkies Like You Mean It: Breastfeeding & Pumping Course: Master breastfeeding and pumping with expert advice and step-by-step guidance. Start your breastfeeding journey with confidence. Sign up here: Milkies Like You Mean It.
4. Momming Like You Mean It: Mastering the Newborn Stage: Your ultimate guide to thriving in the newborn stage with practical tips and expert insights. Join now: Momming Like You Mean It.

💬 Let’s Connect!

• Visit my website: https://alifeinlabor.com
• Follow me on Instagram: @alifeinlabor
• Join my Facebook community: The Labor Room

🌟 If you loved this episode, please leave a review and share it with a mom-to-be who could use these tips.

Support the show

*From time to time, the host or guests may discuss topics related to health, fitness, nutrition, or medicine. This information is not advice and should not be treated as medical advice. All content is for informational purposes only*

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In this empowering episode of The Labor Room, I sit down with Dr. Naomi Whittaker, an OBGYN and mom of five (soon to be six), to discuss her inspiring journey of reclaiming her birth experiences after a traumatic first delivery. Dr. Whittaker shares how her first birth, a primary cesarean due to a misdiagnosis of Cephalopelvic Disproportion (CPD), shaped her determination to achieve four successful VBACs.

We dive into her transformative birth stories, exploring the emotional and physical aspects of healing from trauma and navigating VBACs. Dr. Whittaker also opens up about how her personal experiences influenced her decision to become an OBGYN and how she’s now making a difference for moms navigating their own pregnancy journeys.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• Dr. Whittaker’s traumatic first birth story and what she learned from her misdiagnosis of CPD.
• How she successfully achieved four VBACs, even after a challenging start.
• The connection between her personal birth experiences and her professional career as an OBGYN.
• Practical, actionable advice for moms on advocating for themselves and their ideal birth experience.

Whether you're preparing for a VBAC, healing from a past birth trauma, or just looking for inspiration to feel empowered as a birthing mom, this episode is packed with heartfelt insights and expert advice.

Resources Mentioned:
The Birth Plan Accelerator Course
The FREE BIrth Plan Blueprint
The Reel that connected Heather & Naomi
 The Reel Heather mentioned about a resident who pushed her over the edge
The Reel Naomi mentioned about C-Section preferences
The Reel Naomi mentioned about sewing up a chicken breast

Connect with Heather:

• Visit my website: https://alifeinlabor.com
• Follow me on Instagram: @alifeinlabor

Connect With Naomi: 

• IG: @napro_fertility_surgeon
• Dr. Naomi Whittaker's Website 

The Birth Plan Accelerator is your ultimate step-by-step guide to creating a birth plan that works for you. This course empowers you to confidently communicate your preferences, navigate unexpected situations, and ensure your birth experience feels supported and informed. Whether you're planning a hospital delivery, home birth, or anything in between, you'll gain the tools to make your voice heard, reduce fear, and feel prepared for the birth you’ve envisioned. Take charge of your birth journey with clarity and confidence—because every mom deserves to feel in control on the big day.

Subscribe and leave a review to let us know how this episode inspired or helped you! Together, we’re elevating births and empowering moms every step of the way.

Support the show

*From time to time, the host or guests may discuss topics related to health, fitness, nutrition, or medicine. This information is not advice and should not be treated as medical advice. All content is for informational purposes only*

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode!

In today’s episode of The Labor Room Podcast, I’m sitting down with Amy Kiefer, co-founder of Expecting and Empowered, to talk all about strength training during pregnancy. Amy is an expert in prenatal fitness, and through her work at Expecting and Empowered, she’s empowering moms to maintain their strength and health during pregnancy and beyond.

In this episode, we cover:

• The importance of strength training during pregnancy
• How proper exercise can support an easier labor and delivery
• Tips for safely incorporating strength training into your prenatal routine
• How to listen to your body and adjust your workouts as your pregnancy progresses
• Busting myths about pregnancy fitness and finding what works for you

Why strength training matters during pregnancy
Amy shares valuable insights into how strength training can benefit pregnant women, from improving endurance during labor to enhancing postpartum recovery. Whether you're new to exercise or an experienced fitness enthusiast, there’s something in this episode for you!

Mentioned in the episode:
Amy has generously offered my listeners a 15% discount on the Expecting and Empowered app! Just use the code alifeinlabor at checkout on https://app.expectingandempowered.com/subscriptions/.

Connect with Heather:

• Website: alifeinlabor.com
• Instagram: @alifeinlabor

Connect with Amy:

• Website: expectingandempowered.com
• Instagram: @expectingandempowered

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Expecting and Empowered App: expectingandempowered.com
• The Empowered Birth Academy: alifeinlabor.com/eba 
  • use the code THELABORROOM to get $50 off

Follow and Subscribe:
Don’t miss out on future episodes of The Labor Room Podcast! Be sure to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode. You can follow me on Instagram at @alifeinlabor and check out more resources on my website, alifeinlabor.com.

Support the show

*From time to time, the host or guests may discuss topics related to health, fitness, nutrition, or medicine. This information is not advice and should not be treated as medical advice. All content is for informational purposes only*

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode!

Let's chat about labor positions that can lead to an easier, smoother, healthier birth process for you and your baby. Plus, can hospital policy dictate in what position you give birth?

Connect with Heather
@alifeinlabor
A Life In Labor website

Resources mentioned in this episode
Enjoy Your Birth Ebook
The Empowered Birth Academy - use code THELABORROOM
Birth Plan Template

Support the show

*From time to time, the host or guests may discuss topics related to health, fitness, nutrition, or medicine. This information is not advice and should not be treated as medical advice. All content is for informational purposes only*

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode!

In this empowering episode of The Labor Room, we’re diving deep into how to turn your birth plan into your birth reality. Whether you're a first-time mom or navigating another pregnancy, creating a birth plan that aligns with your values and desires is key to feeling prepared and empowered. But how do you make sure your birth plan actually works for you when the day comes?

In this episode, I share practical tips and strategies on how to take your birth plan from paper to practice. Learn how to communicate effectively with your birth team, navigate the unexpected, and advocate for the birth experience you envision. From handling medical interventions to staying flexible in the moment, this episode covers everything you need to ensure your birth plan supports your ideal birth while still giving you the freedom to adapt if necessary.

Key Takeaways:

• Why a birth plan is important and how it empowers you for labor.
• The most important elements to include in your birth plan.
• How to prepare for the possibility of medical interventions and unexpected circumstances.
• Strategies for discussing your birth plan with your healthcare provider and birth team.
• How to advocate for yourself in the delivery room while maintaining flexibility.

Who is this episode for?

• Expecting moms creating a birth plan for the first time.
• Moms who want to refine or adjust their birth plans based on previous experiences.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• The Birth Plan Accelerator: a 12-module course that will guide you, step-by-step, to create a birth plan that works for you and won't get "thrown out the window." 
• The Customizable Birth Plan: a birth plan template that is created for you. To help you write a birth plan that is unique to you so that you can toss out all of those other "copy-paste" birth plans or ones with checkboxes that don't do anything for your birth. 
• The Birth Plan Blueprint: A FREE guide that will help you get started along your birth planning 

Connect with Heather:

• Follow Heather on Instagram @alifeinlabor for daily tips and insights into pregnancy, birth, and motherhood.
• Join the A Life In Labor community on Facebook here.

Resources and Links:

• Download Heather’s Free Birth Plan Template here.
• The Better Birth Workshop: A step-by-step workshop designed to help expecting mothers prepare for their best birth.
• A Life In Labor Blog: Articles on labor, delivery, and postpartum tips.
• Listen to previous episodes of The Labor Room podcast here.

Support the show

*From time to time, the host or guests may discuss topics related to health, fitness, nutrition, or medicine. This information is not advice and should not be treated as medical advice. All content is for informational purposes only*

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode!

Welcome to this episode of The Labor Room Podcast, where I'm diving deep into a topic that doesn't get talked about enough – the immediate care of newborns right after birth. You may think you're prepared, with all the advice you've gathered about sleepless nights and endless diaper changes, but there's so much more that new parents need to know.

In this episode, I'll walk you through the top ten most surprising and often weird things you'll encounter in those first moments and hours after your baby is born. As a labor and delivery nurse, I see the same concerns popping up from new parents over and over again, and trust me, they are all perfectly normal! We'll cover everything from your baby’s unexpected appearance to their breathing patterns, and help ease your mind as you step into the world of parenthood.

Whether you’re a first-time parent or even a seasoned one, this episode will help prepare you for the things that no one tells you about your newborn at birth. So grab a cup of coffee, take a deep breath, and let's dive into all the things that make those first few hours with your baby a little less stressful.

Tech difficulties! Coming soon: Check out our new SHOP! 🎉 I'm so excited to announce the opening of our brand new shop where you can shop all of our resources that will guide you through TTC, pregnancy, birth, and the baby stage!

Resources:

• Sign up for The Better Birth Workshop to learn more about what to expect during labor and immediately after birth
• Grab your Baby-Care Guide to feel prepared for what to expect once your baby is born. 
• Sign up for the FREE Week-By-Week Pregnancy E-Course
• Follow me on IG for more on all things motherhood!
• Join my community of expecting moms for ongoing support and advice: The Labor Room.

Connect with Me:

• Website: alifeinlabor.com
• Instagram: @alifeinlabor
• TikTok: @mylifeandlabor

Subscribe & Review:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review! I'd love to hear your feedback and how this episode helped you feel more prepared for the newborn stage.

Support the show

*From time to time, the host or guests may discuss topics related to health, fitness, nutrition, or medicine. This information is not advice and should not be treated as medical advice. All content is for informational purposes only*

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode!

In this enlightening episode of The Labor Room podcast, Heather Knezic sits down with Alexandra DeVito, a renowned functional nutritionist specializing in fertility and preconception health. Alexandra is the author of 9 Months Is Not Enough: The Ultimate Pre-pregnancy Checklist to Create a Baby-Ready Body and Build Generational Health and the founder and CEO of Poplin, the first pre-pregnancy wellness company.

Join us as we delve into the crucial topic of pre-pregnancy wellness and how it can significantly impact not only your pregnancy but also your postpartum period and overall generational health.

Topics Discussed:

1. What is Pre-Pregnancy Wellness?
2. Measuring Pre-Pregnancy Wellness
3. Optimizing Pre-Pregnancy Wellness
4. Impact on Pregnancy
5. Postpartum Benefits

Making Baby Steps: A Comprehensive TTC Guide

Get 50% off The Empowered Birth Academy with code THELABORROOM

Connect with Alexandra:

• Website
• 9 Months Is Not Enough: The Ultimate Pre-pregnancy Checklist to Create a Baby-Ready Body and Build Generational Health 

Connect with Heather:

• Website
• Instagram
• The Labor Room Facebook Group

Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to The Labor Room podcast and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us bring more insightful and inspiring content to new and expecting mothers.

Join the Conversation: Share your thoughts on this episode and connect with other listeners in our online community. 

Tune in next week for another episode filled with valuable insights and expert advice on all things motherhood. Until then, take care and prioritize your wellness journey!

Support the show

*From time to time, the host or guests may discuss topics related to health, fitness, nutrition, or medicine. This information is not advice and should not be treated as medical advice. All content is for informational purposes only*

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode!

In this episode of The Labor Room podcast, I dive into a practical and stress-free approach to building a breast milk freezer stash. Whether you’re planning to return to work, want to have some extra milk on hand, or are simply looking to build a stash for peace of mind, this episode is packed with tips and strategies to make the process smooth and manageable. Join host Heather Knezic as she breaks down the steps to create a freezer stash without feeling overwhelmed.

Listener Questions and Answers:

Heather answers listener-submitted questions about pumping, freezer stashes, and managing milk supply.

Resources Mentioned:

• Medela Double Electric Pump
• Spectra S2 Double Electric Pump
• Wireless Breast Pumps
• Haakaa Pump
• Breastmilk Bags
• Hand Pump
• Pumping Bra
• Medela Car Adapter 

Milkies Like You Mean It Breastfeeding & Pumping Course

40 Breastfeeding Secrets

Connect with Me:

• A Life In Labor website / blog
• Follow Heather Knezic on Instagram for more tips and support.
• Join our community of moms at The Labor Room Facebook Group.

Subscribe & Leave a Review:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us reach more moms and provide valuable content. I will draw one winner to get access to any of my courses for free. 

Join the Conversation:

Share your pumping experiences and tips with us! Tag us on social media with #TheLaborRoomPodcast and #PumpingGuide.

Closing Notes:

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Labor Room podcast. Remember, building a freezer stash doesn't have to be overwhelming. With a little planning and the right tips, you can create a stash that works for you and your baby. Until next time, take care and happy pumping!

Support the show

*From time to time, the host or guests may discuss topics related to health, fitness, nutrition, or medicine. This information is not advice and should not be treated as medical advice. All content is for informational purposes only*

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode!

In this episode of The Labor Room Podcast, Heather Knezic interviews Jacque Ordner, a Motif Medical Advisor, IBCLC, and BSN, about the unique challenges and solutions for breastfeeding after a C-section. Jacque shares valuable insights on overcoming common obstacles, effective breastfeeding positions, and the importance of support systems for C-section mothers. Whether you're a new mom or a birth professional, this episode is packed with practical advice and encouragement for a successful breastfeeding journey post-C-section.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Common breastfeeding challenges faced by C-section mothers
• Steps to facilitate breastfeeding immediately after a C-section
• Recommended breastfeeding positions to reduce discomfort
• Impact of C-section on milk supply and how to maintain it
• Importance of support systems and available resources

Connect with Heather: 

• A Life In Labor
• @alifeinlabor

Connect with Jacque Ordner:

• https://motifmedical.com
• Instagram @motifmedical

Thank You for Listening!

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Stay tuned for more insightful conversations on pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding, and motherhood.

Support the show

*From time to time, the host or guests may discuss topics related to health, fitness, nutrition, or medicine. This information is not advice and should not be treated as medical advice. All content is for informational purposes only*

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode!

Host: Heather Knezic
Guest: Chanelle Nsangou Nioya, DNP, CNM, FNP-C

Episode Summary: In this episode, Heather Knezic sits down with Chanelle Nsangou Nioya, a doctorate-prepared, board-certified nurse midwife and nurse practitioner, to discuss an often overlooked but crucial aspect of postpartum recovery: sexual health. Chanelle shares her extensive knowledge and practical advice on navigating sexual health after childbirth, addressing common concerns and providing tips for new mothers and their partners.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Understanding Postpartum Changes
   • Physical and hormonal changes that occur after childbirth.
   • How these changes can impact sexual health and libido.
2. Common Concerns and Misconceptions
   • Addressing fears and anxieties about resuming sexual activity.
   • Debunking myths surrounding postpartum sexual health.
3. Healing and Recovery
   • The importance of allowing time for healing and recovery.
   • Signs to watch for and when to seek medical advice.
4. Communication with Partners
   • Tips for discussing sexual health openly with partners.
5. Practical Advice and Tips
   • Recommendations for easing back into sexual activity.

Key Takeaways:

• Postpartum sexual health is an important aspect of recovery that deserves attention and care.
• Open communication with partners and healthcare providers is essential.
• Healing and recovery times vary; it's important to listen to your body and seek help if needed.

Resources Mentioned:

• Postpartum Recovery Kit Checklist
• Postpartum Mini Course

Connect with Chanelle Nsangou Nioya:

• Website: www.allo-integrative-health.com
• TikTok: @allointegrativehealth
• Instagram: @DoctorMidwifeChanelle 

Connect With Heather Knezic:

• Website: www.alifeinlabor.com
• TikTok: @alifeinlabor
• Instagram: @alifeinlabor

Closing Remarks:

Thank you for tuning in to this important episode of The Labor Room Podcast. Remember, taking care of your sexual health is a vital part of your overall well-being as a new mother. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support and keep the conversation going. Until next time, take care and be kind to yourself!

Support the show

*From time to time, the host or guests may discuss topics related to health, fitness, nutrition, or medicine. This information is not advice and should not be treated as medical advice. All content is for informational purposes only*