Pregnancy & Parenting Untangled with The Pregnancy Nurse®

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Moving Mom and Dad: Tips for a Smooth Transition - 251 Jan 20, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Pulling Curls Podcast, Hilary Erickson dives into the emotional and logistical challenges of moving her parents into retirement living. From choosing the right facility to downsizing a 6,000 square foot home, Hilary shares practical tips and personal insights to help make this transition smoother. Discover the different care options available, the financial implications, and the importance of planning ahead. Get a firsthand look at the realities of estate sales and the benefits of hiring professional movers. If you're approaching this stage with your parents, this episode is a must-listen.

Big thanks to our sponsor Family Routines moving your parents can take havoc on your family and having solid routines can make your life still happen. Couldn't recommend them any more!

Links for you:

My post on moving to assisted living.

Timestamps:

00:00 Downsize, consider assisted living, wait lists fill.

04:59 Medicare assists short-term home health expenses.

08:40 Reasonable storage for family memories and history.

09:45 Downsize immediately; avoid unnecessary storage or sales.

13:17 Estate sale: necessary for selling the house.

16:53 Find experienced real estate agent for parents.

20:44 Fast decisions helped moving process efficiently.

22:44 Upcoming topics: women's strength training, birth trauma.

Keypoints:

Hilary discusses her experience moving her parents into retirement living and the challenges associated with it.
The importance of planning ahead and considering different living options such as assisted living, nursing homes, and independent living.
Routines can help maintain normalcy during the transition.
Financial considerations for different living options, including costs for nursing homes, rehab, and assisted living.
The process of selecting a suitable retirement facility and the benefits of getting on a waitlist early.
Downsizing possessions and the emotional impact of sorting through a lifetime of belongings.
The role of professional movers and considerations for hiring experienced movers.
The estate sale process, its challenges, and financial implications for clearing out a large home.
Selling the family home and the benefits of engaging a real estate agent experienced with senior moves.
Reflecting on the timeline and process highlights the importance of starting early and maintaining less clutter for an easier transition later in life.

Producer: Drew Erickson

Keywords:

moving parents to retirement living, assisted living, retirement living options, downsizing home, moving into assisted living, independent living, nursing home costs, Utah nursing home, rehab care, skilled nursing facility, CNA services, independent living costs, Medicare coverage for seniors, estate sale process, choosing an estate sale company, selling family home, storage facilities for downsizing, hiring movers, downsizing furniture, realtor for senior home sale, financial planning for senior care, managing parent's move, Swedish death cleaning, simplifying life for seniors, retirement community, emotional aspects of moving seniors, family involvement in senior move, senior meal plans, home health services for seniors, balancing finances for senior care

Things That Might Make Labor Tough - 250 Jan 13, 2025

Show notes

In Episode 250 of The Pulling Curls Podcast: Pregnancy & Parenting Untangled, Hilary Erickson delves into five reasons your birth might be particularly challenging. From not meshing with your doctor to having solid expectations, she unpacks potential obstacles and offers valuable advice on how to navigate them. Sponsored by the Online Prenatal Class for Couples, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to better prepare for a smoother birth experience.

Big thanks to our sponsor The Online Prenatal Class for Couples -- you'll find these tips and more to have your best pregnancy, birth & postpartum life!

Links for you:

My post 5 reasons your birth might be hard: https://pregnurse.com/birth-hard/

Timestamps:

00:00 Switch providers if unsatisfied; consider larger offices.

04:50 Keep flexible expectations during birth for ease.

07:09 Join online prenatal class to enhance preparation.

Keypoints:

Discussion on why having a good relationship with your doctor is crucial for a smoother birth experience.
Advice on switching providers if there's a mismatch, even past 30 weeks of pregnancy.
Explanation of previous uterine or cervical surgeries and how they can impact delivery.
Importance of knowing about cervical surgeries like LEAP and their potential effects on labor.
Encouragement to start speaking up for oneself during prenatal appointments for better communication during birth.
Warning against having rigid expectations for birth as it can lead to disappointment and stress.
Emphasis on positivity and flexibility during labor to make the process easier.
Significance of being well-prepared for birth and not relying solely on providers for preparation.
Personal anecdote about the lack of preparation for hospital experiences and the creation of a comprehensive birth class.
Promotion of the online prenatal class for couples to help expectant parents prepare for various stages of pregnancy and postpartum.

Producer: Drew Erickson

Keywords:

birth complications, hard birth, pregnancy nurse, prenatal class, switching doctors, doctor-patient relationship, meshing with doctor, uterine surgery, cervical surgery, cervical scarring, LEAP procedure, pap smear, dilate cervix, C-section, speaking up, birth plans, birth expectations, birth trauma, labor pain, epidural, induced labor, birth preparation, birth class, online prenatal class, third trimester testing, laboring at home, postpartum care, breastfeeding difficulties, pregnancy resources, strength training during pregnancy.

Understanding Healthshares: Bills, Payments, and Peace of Mind - 249 Nov 25, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of The Pulling Curls Podcast, Hilary Erickson delves into the complexities of navigating healthcare without traditional insurance. Sharing her personal experience with an appendicitis, Hilary discusses the use of health shares, detailing the ins and outs of how her family manages medical expenses as self-employed individuals. Learn about the advantages, challenges, and practical tips for those considering a health share alternative.

If you'd like to check out Zion HealthShare please do use my link: https://www.pullingcurls.com/go/zion-healthshare/

Links for you:

My other healthshare info:

Timestamps:

00:00 Zion reimburses quickly; other health shares delay.

06:13 Unexpected healthcare costs due to insurance complexities.

06:59 Bills cleared monthly; sometimes paid using credit.

12:47 Waited 30 days for medical bill, frustrated.

13:24 Frustrated over hospital billing and collection threats.

Keypoints:

Hilary Erickson shares her personal experience with non-traditional healthcare, specifically a health share organization, rather than traditional health insurance.
The high costs of traditional health insurance for self-employed individuals prompted Hilary to explore alternative options, leading her to Zion HealthShare.
Health share organizations allow for greater flexibility in choosing hospitals, doctors, and labs without restrictive networks.
Hilary explains that with health share organizations, patients are often considered self-pay and need to be proactive in managing and submitting medical bills for reimbursement.
Unlike insurance companies, health shares may take time to process and reimburse bills, sometimes taking up to six months, but Zion HealthShare was notably faster.
Hilary highlights the concept of a per-incident deductible with Zion HealthShare, explaining that for each new medical incident, her family is responsible for the first $1,000.
The episode details the various medical bills Hilary received following her appendicitis surgery, including bills from the hospital, anesthesiologist, radiologist, and other specialists.
A key frustration was the medical billing process, where hospitals initially billed exorbitant amounts before drastically reducing them for self-pay patients.
Hilary emphasizes the importance of having some form of healthcare coverage to manage unexpected medical expenses and stresses the necessity of understanding and navigating the billing process.
The podcast episode aims to demystify health share organizations and provide valuable insights into alternative healthcare options for families, particularly those who are self-employed.

Producer: Drew Erickson

Keywords:

health insurance, pulling curls podcast, Hilary Erickson, Christian health share, traditional health insurance, ZION health share, appendicitis, Liberty health share, Samaritan health share, self-pay patients, health share benefits, insurance policies, emergency medical bills, per incident deductible, health share reimbursement, DPC, con

Pregnant and Active: Exercise Tips That Make a Difference - 248 Nov 18, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of The Pulling Curls Podcast, Hilary Erickson chats with fitness expert Kaleigh Cohen about the benefits of exercise during pregnancy. They delve into personal stories, tips for staying active, and specific exercises to make labor and recovery easier. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or just trying to stay healthy during your pregnancy, this episode offers valuable insights and motivation. Tune in to learn more about integrating exercise into your pregnancy routine!

Big thanks to our sponsor The Online Prenatal Class for Couples -- if you're looking to get prepared for birth, look no further. It is truly the best option for you.

Today's guest is Kaleigh Cohen. Kaleigh has two YouTube channels, Kaleigh Cohen Cycling & Kaleigh Cohen Strength. She creates indoor cycle & strength programs that will transform you into an unstoppable force.

Links for you:

Timestamps:

00:00 Pulling Curls podcast featuring Kaleigh Cohen Strength. 04:43 Exercise improved pregnancy and postpartum recovery significantly. 08:43 Ensure clearance, do what feels good, avoid discomfort. 12:46 Start small, verify sources, and stay consistent. 16:12 Squats open pelvis, relieve hip and back. 19:17 Exercise during pregnancy boosts happiness, stay tuned.

Keypoints:

Hilary Erickson discusses the benefits and importance of exercise during pregnancy.
Guest Kaleigh Cohen, a fitness YouTube personality, shares her personal experiences with exercising throughout her three pregnancies.
Kaleigh is currently 37 weeks pregnant and still actively filming workout content.
Key benefits of pregnancy exercise include lessening the severity of gestational diabetes and potentially reducing birth trauma.
Hilary recalls how fitness advice during pregnancy has evolved over the years, highlighting increased encouragement for physical activity.
Kaleigh emphasizes starting small, such as with five-minute walks, for those with low energy or limited time.
Discussion about the importance of consulting healthcare providers and physical therapists to tailor exercise routines safely during pregnancy.
Exercises like squats and hip thrusts are highlighted for their benefits in preparing the body for labor and easing typical pregnancy discomforts.
Kaleigh shares tips on motivating oneself to exercise, including focusing on the end results and the positive feelings post-workout.
Hilary and Kaleigh both advocate for practical and flexible approaches to staying active, ensuring expectant mothers listen to their bodies and adjust workouts as needed.

Producer: Drew Erickson

PUT TRANSCRIPT HERE:

Keywords:

Pregnancy exercise, prenatal workouts, gestational diabetes prevention, exercise benefits during pregnancy, pregancy fitness, pregnancy health, morning sickness, prenatal physical therapy, prenatal yoga, gestational diabetes, prenatal weight gain, postpartum recovery, labor and delivery fitness, prenatal strength training, prenatal exercise tips, pelvic floor exercises, prenatal workout routine, pregnancy energy levels, prenatal cardiovascular health, prenatal squat exercises, prenatal hydration, birth trauma prevention, prenatal flexibility, prenatal hip flexor exercises, prenatal core exercises, prenatal glute bridges, prenatal push-ups, pregnancy workout motivation, short prenatal workouts, prenatal online classes.

Appendicitis Tales: Inside the Mind of a Nurse Turned Patient - 247 Nov 11, 2024

Show notes

Welcome back to The Pulling Curls Podcast! In today's episode, Hilary Erickson shares her personal experience with appendicitis. From the initial symptoms to her time in the hospital and the recovery process, Hilary provides a detailed and eye-opening account of what it's like to deal with a ruptured appendix. Tune in for valuable insights, emotional moments, and practical tips on navigating an unexpected medical crisis while balancing motherhood and daily life.

Big thanks to our sponsor Family Routines -- they can really save you when the stuff hits the fan. If routines have only one fan it's me -- especially after this.

Links for you:

My Semaglutide episode.

Timestamps:

00:00 Mom's thoughts overwhelm before surgery; responsibilities linger.

05:07 High cost delayed treatment despite severe pain.

07:35 Delayed surgery led to complications, still satisfied.

11:03 Mom's hospital worries: life insurance and minutiae.

15:18 Gnawing stomach pain caused anxiety and fear.

16:09 Grateful for doctor; small change improved everything.

19:36 Upcoming episodes: pregnancy exercise, health insurance.

Keypoints:

Hilary Erickson shares her recent experience with appendicitis, highlighting the details of her symptoms and diagnosis.

She describes the importance of routines, which helped her family manage during her absence.

Despite the signs, she initially attributed her stomach pain to other causes, including semaglutide and muscle pain.

Hilary discusses the tests for appendicitis, explaining the concept of rebound tenderness and how her symptoms differed.

She eventually went to the ER, detailing the financial concerns and pain that prompted her to seek medical help.

Her appendix had burst, leading to septic shock and a more complicated recovery process.

She emphasizes the challenges of hospital life, including the struggle to get rest and the limited food options.

Hilary voices the emotional weight of being a mom facing surgery, worrying about household tasks and family needs.

Post-surgery, she talks about her recovery process, the trauma of the event, and the importance of communicating with healthcare providers.

Upcoming episodes will cover topics like pregnancy exercise with Kaylee Cohen and her unconventional approach to health insurance.

Producer: Drew Erickson

Keywords:

Hilary Erickson, Pulling Curls podcast, appendicitis, episode 247, nurse, pregnancy nurse, family routines, semaglutide, abdominal pain, lower right quadrant, DigestZen, doTERRA, rebound tenderness, ER visit, septic shock, CT scan, morphine, Fentanyl, Dilaudid, IV antibiotics, laparoscopic surgery, general anesthesia, post-operative recovery, hospital stay, clear liquids diet, hospital at home, protonics, infection control, surgeon, home healthcare, patient experience.

Essential Tips for Plus Size Moms During Pregnancy and Birth with Dr. Tori O'Daniel - 246 Nov 04, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of The Pulling Curls Podcast: Pregnancy & Parenting Untangled, Hilary Erickson sits down with Dr. Tori O'Daniel, an experienced OB GYN, to discuss critical considerations for plus size pregnancies and births. Sponsored by Laborie Medical, the episode delves into the challenges and solutions related to monitoring, C-sections, and postpartum care for moms living in larger bodies. Tune in to learn about innovative products like traxi® and ABBy™ that enhance safety and comfort during and after childbirth.

Big thanks to our sponsor Laborie Medical their ABBy™ Postoperative Panniculus Retractor:

Preserves the patient's dignity during the 4th trimester
Allows easier skin-to-skin contact
Does not interfere with breast feeding
Can be adjusted and/or reapplied
Can be worn while showering
Gentle to the skin and hypoallergenic

Today's guest is Dr. Tori O'Daniel. She is a Board-Certified OB/GYN whom has been practicing for 14 years. For the past 11 years she has been an OB/GYN Hospitalist in OKC, Oklahoma. Dr. O'Daniel is the Medical Director for the OB Hospitalist and women's services. She also is the Medical Director for Women's Health Services at Mercy Hospital. She instructs educational classes and facilitates the OB Emergency Simulations for the nurses and physicians within her department. As an Adjunct Faculty at Oklahoma State University, she is the Director of the Medical Student Clinical rotations at her institution.

She has been actively involved in the Society of OB/GYN Hospitalists (SOGH) for the past several years. She co-chaired the Simulation committee in 2020 & 2021 and Co-Chaired the ACM 2022 & 2023. She currently serves on the Board of Directors.

Dr. O'Daniel is passionate about education and advocating for women's safety in health care. Thus, she actively teaches across the country about vacuum assisted deliveries, treating post partum hemorrhage and other OBGYN Emergencies.

Links for you:

My full post on plus-size pregnancy.

My episode on aspirin in pregnancy.

Timestamps:

00:00 Discussing reactions to "obese" in medical documentation.

03:53 Avoid judging health solely by BMI.

08:03 Importance of acknowledging weight in medical care.

10:08 Monitoring adjustments are common in labor delivery.

13:12 Post-C-section care advocacy and practical advice.

16:23 ABBYY is a reusable, hypoallergenic medical binder.

21:03 Allow air, reduce moisture for optimal healing.

22:42 Communication is crucial for effective postpartum care.

Keypoints:

Hilary Erickson and Dr. Tori O'Daniel discuss the unique considerations of plus size pregnancy and birth.
They introduce traxi®, a product by Laborie Medical, designed to aid in plus size c-sections.
Plus size pregnancies come with higher risks for diabetes, hypertension, and preeclampsia.
Importance of understanding and dealing with "redundant tissue" (or panis) during pregnancy and c-sections is emphasized.
Dr. O'Daniel explains the benefits of the Abbey, a device designed to promote healing by allowing air to reach the incision site.
Discussion on the psychological impact of terminology and how to approach weight-related documentation sensitively.
Emphasis on the importance of continuous weight monitoring throughout pregnancy to detect any significant changes.
Challenges in fetal monitoring for plus size patients and potential solutions, including internal monitoring.
Encouragement for plus size moms to ask questions and advocate for their needs with healthcare providers.
Hilary and Dr. O'Daniel highlight the advancements in medical technologies that improve the care and dignity of plus size mothers during and after pregnancy.

Producer: Drew Erickson

Keywords:

plus size pregnancy, pregnancy considerations, birth considerations, Pulling Curls podcast, plus size birth, maternal health, OB-GYN, women's healthcare, pregnancy nurse, labor and delivery, newborn health, maternity devices, neonatal devices, obstetrics, Laborie Medical, traxi device, ABBy postpartum product, C-section recovery, maternal safety, birth plan, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, prenatal care, postpartum care, labor induction, surgical incision, redundant tissue, body mass index (BMI), breastfeed challenges, pregnancy and exercise.

The Power of Local Elections: Make Your Vote Count - 245 Oct 28, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of The Pulling Curls Podcast: Pregnancy & Parenting Untangled, Hilary Erickson chats with Margaret Wright, vice president of a local school board, about the significance of minor elections. They delve into the challenges and rewards of serving on the school board, the intricacies of local elections, and the importance of researching and voting for these often overlooked positions that have a major impact on daily life. Tune in to discover how you can become a more educated voter and make informed decisions in your community.

Today's guest is Margaret Wright who is one of my best friends and also vice president of our local school board

Timestamps:

00:00 Personal challenges of public speaking and campaign logistics. 06:34 Attend local forums to learn about candidates. 07:54 Local micro newspapers crucial for community information. 12:25 "Local elections matter; research and vote!"

Keypoints:

Hilary Erickson introduces the episode's focus on the importance of voting in smaller elections, especially school boards.
Margaret Wright, Vice President of the local school board and Hilary's friend, is the guest speaker.
Margaret explains her initial motivations for running for the school board, including wanting to serve the community and having free time.
Discussing the challenges of running for school board, Margaret cites public speaking and understanding election laws as the most difficult aspects.
Margaret shares her experience of campaigning during COVID-19, noting the increased complexity and reliance on virtual communication.
Tips for researching smaller elections include checking local Facebook groups, attending candidate forums, and reading micro newspapers.
Hilary and Margaret discuss the surprisingly partisan nature of school board elections despite their theoretical nonpartisanship.
The significant impact of school board decisions on daily life, such as hiring superintendents and setting school calendars, is highlighted.
Encouraging listener participation in voting, the speakers stress the importance of being informed about all election candidates, no matter how small.
The episode concludes with Host Hilary Erickson thanking Margaret for her service and previewing upcoming podcast topics, including plus-size pregnancies.

Producer: Drew Erickson

Keywords:

voting, tiny elections, local elections, school board, running for school board, school board election process, community service, parent involvement, PTO, election laws, campaign finances, public office, COVID-19 impact, candidate forums, local forums, city council, researching candidates, nonpartisan elections, local political groups, partisan politics, local micro newspapers, city council elections, state elections, Washington politics, impact of local elections, school calendar changes, superintendent hiring, school district leadership, school board responsibilities, importance of voting.

Birth Plans: Wish Lists, Preferences, and Realities - 244 Oct 21, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Pulling Curls Podcast, Hilary Erickson chats with Dr. Nicole Rankins about birth plans. Dr. Rankins, an OB GYN with over 20 years of experience and host of the All About Pregnancy and Birth podcast, shares invaluable tips on creating effective birth preferences and understanding hospital cultures. Whether you're crafting your birth plan or navigating the intricacies of labor and delivery, this episode is packed with expert insights to help you achieve the birth experience you envision.

Big thanks to our sponsor The Online Prenatal Class for Couples -- if you're looking to get prepared for ALL of birth, it's the class for you!

Today's guest is Dr. Nicole Rankins.

Giving birth in a U.S. hospital can be scary, but it doesn't have to be—especially with Dr. Nicole Calloway Rankins in your corner.

Dr. Nicole is a Duke University-trained, board-certified, practicing OB/GYN and mom of two who empowers first-time moms to have the beautiful birth experience they deserve. Over her 20 year career, she's helped more than 1,000 babies into this world, and is a proud HBCU grad (Spelman College & North Carolina A&T State University).

Her popular podcast, All About Pregnancy & Birth, is a top 50 parenting podcast with over 2 million downloads. Here is her website: https://drnicolerankins.com/ Grab her birth plan here: https://drnicolerankins.com/birth-plan/ Find her on Instagram @drnicolerankins

Links for you:

Timestamps:

00:00 Increasingly common in OB GYN for safety, efficiency. 06:00 Ask doctors about birth perspectives and doula views. 06:45 Ask questions about birth approach and doulas. 10:52 Ensure your birth plan aligns with hospital practices. 13:19 Birth plans help streamline initial medical assessments.

Keypoints:

Introduction of the episode focused on birth plans with guest Dr. Nicole Rankins, an experienced OB GYN and host of the All About Pregnancy and Birth podcast.
Dr. Nicole Rankins highlights her role as an OB hospitalist in Richmond, Virginia, and the benefits of hospitalists in labor and delivery settings.
Discussion on the term "birth plan" and why it should be referred to as birth "preferences" due to the unpredictable nature of childbirth.
Importance of ensuring that birth preferences align with the practices and capabilities of the selected hospital and healthcare provider.
Common issues with birth plans, such as requests that may not be feasible due to hospital policies or lack of staff training.
Advice on how to approach creating and communicating birth preferences, including engaging with providers during prenatal visits and hospital tours.
Emphasis on the significance of labor nurses and how they can impact the birth experience positively by advocating for the patient's preferences.
Tips on how to discuss birth preferences with kindness and mutual respect to foster a cooperative environment between patients and healthcare providers.
Information on Dr. Nicole Rankins' live birth plan class, which includes interactive Q&A sessions to address participants' queries.
Mention of additional resources, such as the Online Prenatal Class for Couples offered by Hilary Erickson, to prepare for birth in a simple and effective manner.

Producer: Drew Erickson

Keywords:

birth plans, OB GYN, prenatal class, pregnancy advice, labor and delivery, hospital birth, natural birth, water birth, birth preferences, labor support, birth experience, fetal monitoring, intermittent monitoring, c-section rate, vaginal birth, doulas, hospital policy, patient preferences, pregnancy tips, newborn care, online classes for couples, birth preparation, hospital tour, healthcare advocacy, labor nurse, episiotomy, birth plan class, breastfeedi

When Routines Become Ruts: Finding Freedom in Flexibility - 243 Sep 23, 2024

Show notes

In episode 243 of The Pulling Curls Podcast, Hilary Erickson dives into the pros and cons of sticking to routines, especially when life throws unexpected challenges your way. She reflects on her own experiences, such as postpartum cleaning and creating flexible family schedules, and explores how sometimes stepping back from strict routines can help maintain balance and sanity. Join for an insightful discussion on when to hold on to routines and when to let them go.

Big thanks to our sponsor Family Routines while routines can definitely be a rut, they can also keep our house on a schedule that allows us more freedom!

Timestamps:

00:00 Non-routine days help maintain sanity amidst chaos. 04:30 Evaluate routines: beneficial or unnecessarily stressful today?

Keypoints:

Introduction to the episode topic: being too tied to routines and its implications.
Hilary's personal background as a nurse, mom, and the creator behind Pulling Curls and The Pregnancy Nurse.
Mention of Family Routines as the episode's sponsor and its relevance to the topic.
Anecdote about Hilary's habit of sticking to routines, including cleaning routines postpartum.
Discussion on how being too tied to routines can become problematic during unexpected situations like illness or having a sick child.
Example of Hilary incorporating "non-routine" days into her structured weeks to balance routine and spontaneity.
Reflection on how rigid routines impacted Hilary's enjoyment of early motherhood and thoughts on potential future as a grandparent.
The concept of occasionally allowing children to break from routines as a form of a treat, and emphasizing the importance of returning to routines thereafter.
The importance of evaluating whether a routine is helpful or harmful, and being flexible enough to adjust.
Tease for upcoming episodes focusing on birth plans with Dr. Nicole Rankins and a discussion on local voting with a school board member.

Producer: Drew Erickson

Keywords:

Pulling Curls, podcast, episode 243, routines, overcomplicating, Hilary Erickson, serial overcomplicator, nurse, mom of three, pregnancy, parenting, Family Routines, cleaning schedule, postpartum, bathroom cleaning, moderation, routine balance, sick kid, summer plan, screen time, learning activities, non-routine day, kitchen day, baby schedule, grandparenting, Saturday morning clean, family involvement, routine flexibility, household management, birth plans, voting, school board.

What to Do the Day Before Your Induction: Expert Tips - 242 Sep 16, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of The Pulling Curls Podcast, Hilary Erickson, RN, dives into essential tips for preparing the day before your induction. From packing your hospital bag effectively to getting much-needed rest and staying active, Hilary shares her expert advice to ensure a smooth induction experience. Plus, learn what to discuss with your provider and how to make postpartum preparations. Don't miss these invaluable insights for expectant parents facing induction.

Big thanks to our sponsor The Online Prenatal Class for Couples -- if you're planning on an induction a birth class is EXTRA important. This class has a full chapter just on inductions to help you get prepared.

Links for you:

Grab my hospital packing list: https://pregnurse.com/free-resources/#packing

Grab my postpartum checklist: https://pregnurse.com/free-resources/#Postpartum

Grab my induction checklist: https://pregnurse.com/free-resources/#induction

Timestamps:

00:00 Hospital bag essentials: hair tie, charger, ChapStick. 04:57 Prepare for postpartum, not just childbirth. 06:19 Clarify induction duration with provider to prepare.

Keypoints:

The importance of packing your hospital bag carefully, including entertainment options like movies, cards, and apps to fill waiting time during induction.
Key items for your hospital bag include a hair tie, an external charger, and lip balm to combat a dry hospital environment.
The necessity of getting adequate sleep before induction; consider asking your provider for a light sleep aid if anxiety is a concern.
Keep physically active the day before induction through activities like walking and doing squats to help position the baby.
Eat a satisfying meal before induction; prioritize something enjoyable but light to avoid discomfort.
Prepare for postpartum by gathering necessary supplies and creating a postpartum plan, including visitor policies and support arrangements.
An induction can take varying lengths of time; communicate with your provider to get an idea of what to expect based on your specific circumstances.
Maintaining a positive mindset about induction can make the experience more manageable and less stressful.
Inductions have the potential to be a positive and controlled birthing experience with successful outcomes for both mother and baby.
Engage with the podcast's community on social media to share and gain insights about preparing for induction.

Producer: Drew Erickson

PUT TRANSCRIPT HERE:

Keywords:

induction, hospital bag, prenatal class, pregnancy advice, birth preparation, labor, sleep tips, meal suggestions, postpartum, hospital packing list, external charger, hair tie, ChapStick, relaxation during induction, hospital tour, Kindle Fire, birthing ball,

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