Pregnancy & Parenting Untangled with The Pregnancy Nurse®

Latest Episodes:

Pregnancy Mindset: Expect the Unexpected and Embrace the Journey - 211 Nov 06, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of The Pulling Curls Podcast, host Hilary Erickson dives into the topic of pregnancy mindset. She shares three tips for adopting a positive mindset during pregnancy, including expecting it to be hard, acknowledging that pregnancy is a long journey, and keeping expectations low for oneself and others. Hilary also highlights the importance of cherishing the joyful moments of pregnancy, as well as previews upcoming episodes on parenting and labor mindsets. Stay tuned for more helpful tips and insights on future episodes of the podcast. Don't forget to subscribe, review, and share to support the show's growth.

This episode is sponsored by my pregnancy email series:

Timestamps:

00:02:56 Expect delivery two weeks after due date. Have low expectations for yourself. 00:04:40 Keep expectations low for pregnancy and parenting.

Keypoints:

Introduction to mindset month on the Pulling Curls Podcast
Highlighting the complexity of pregnancy mindset
Tip #1: Expect pregnancy to be hard, managing expectations
Personal experience with pregnancy and how it can vary
Tip #2: Recognizing that pregnancy is a long journey, not just the due date
Discussing the common misconception of being almost done at 36 weeks
Reflecting on personal experience of going past due date
Encouraging mindset of being pleasantly surprised when labor happens close to due date
Tip #3: Keeping expectations low for oneself, partner, and others
Recap of the episode and teaser for upcoming episodes on parenting and labor mindset

Producer: Drew Erickson

Is a Health Share Right for You? Discover If You're a Good Fit. - 210 Oct 30, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of The Pulling Curls Podcast, host Hilary Erickson discusses who health shares are good for. She shares her personal experience with health shares and gives advice on who should not consider a health share as an insurance option. Hilary also explains the limitations and coverage exclusions of health shares, such as preexisting conditions and small expenses. If you're interested in learning more about health shares, make sure to check out the full episode.

Big thanks to our sponsor my healthshare tips (find on my site)

Links for you:

Timestamps:

00:01:40 Stipends, health plan, deductibles, health shares. 00:04:18 Progressive coverage for preexisting conditions in health insurance. 00:07:10 Don't switch to health share if pregnant.

Keypoints:

Health shares are not for everyone - if you have a great plan that you like, stick with it.
Health shares are not insurance - they do not have the same coverage and benefits.
If you have preexisting conditions, a health share may not be the right option for you.
Preexisting conditions may not be covered initially, but may be gradually covered over time.
Health shares do not cover small expenses or routine visits, so if you rely on insurance for these, it may not be a good fit.
Health shares typically have an initial unshared amount (IUA) that you have to pay before they start covering expenses.
If you have multiple expenses over the IUA, the health share may waive it.
Pregnancy is considered a preexisting condition and may not be covered by health shares. Consider Medicaid or alternative insurance options.
If you have a stable, affordable plan with a low deductible, it may be better to stick with it than switch to a health share.
Always do your research and consider your specific healthcare needs before deciding on a health share.

Producer: Drew Erickson

Pregnancy Prevention: 5 Things Moms Should Avoid During Pregnancy with Dr Samantha Radford from Evidence-based Mommy - 209 Oct 23, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of The Pulling Curls Podcast: Pregnancy & Parenting Untangled, host Hilary Erickson interviews Samantha Radford about 5 things to avoid during pregnancy. They discuss the importance of using low VOC paint or having someone else do the painting in the nursery. They also talk about the risks associated with lead paint in older homes and provide tips on how to safely deal with it. This episode offers practical advice for pregnant women to minimize chemical exposures during pregnancy.

Big thanks to our sponsor my Safe Eating during pregnancy guide.

Today's guest is Samantha Radford:

Samantha Radford has a PhD in Chemistry from Emory University (Atlanta, GA). She is an exposure scientist who focuses on maternal-child health. Samantha has years of research into learning about how chemical exposures affect both unborn babies and children, as well as how toxicants and medications are passed through breastmilk.

Samantha also studies the effect of exposure to hormones induced by personal experiences, for example, cortisol in babies who are stressed or oxytocin in mothers bonding to their infants.

Through the years, Samantha has expanded her academic and personal studies to how exposures to different parenting styles affect the mental and physical health of children as they grow to adulthood.

Most importantly, Samantha is a busy mother of four kids 7 and under. She loves to empower other moms through combining science and wellness.

Samantha has been trying to bring back the banana clip since 1998.

Grab her Registry guide here: https://deft-writer-5597.ck.page/e2540098de

Timestamps:

00:00:00 Avoid 5 things during pregnancy; introducing Samantha. 00:06:08 Beware of lead paint; hire a professional. 00:10:11 Baby safety: watch for lead and mercury. 00:12:25 Bioaccumulation: mercury in fish from contaminated plankton. 00:16:41 Deli meat risk: commercialized vs. fresh cut. 00:20:27 Choose organic foods to avoid pesticides while pregnant. 00:22:31 Avoid sanding lead paint; eat smaller fish and organic produce. 00:24:50 Enjoyed episode on avoiding pregnancy risks. Review/share/subscribe.

Keypoints:

Introduction to the topic: "5 Things for Mom to Avoid During Pregnancy"
Introducing guest Samantha Radford and her expertise in chemistry and parenting.
Sponsor mention: My Safe Eating Guide for real advice on pregnancy nutrition.
Discussing the misconception of avoiding hot Cheetos and other specific foods during pregnancy.
Highlighting the importance of avoiding certain paints during pregnancy and opting for low VOC options.
Explaining the risks of lead paint in older homes and the need to avoid sanding or disturbing it.
Mentioning the option of encapsulation to safely cover lead paint if repainting is desired.
Samantha's personal preference of not having a nursery and the alternative of using a bassinet in the parent's room.
Discussion on the importance of creating a safe and healthy environment for both mom and baby during pregnancy.
Recap and closing thoughts on the importance of focusing on what can be controlled during pregnancy.

Producer: Drew Erickson

The Birds and the Bees: Navigating the tricky conversations of parenthood - 208 Oct 16, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of The Pulling Curls Podcast: Pregnancy & Parenting Untangled, host Hilary Erickson is joined by sexual health educator Amy Lang to discuss the birds and the bees conversation with kids. They cover topics such as the importance of comprehensive sex education, using accurate terminology for body parts, starting early with sex education, and how to create open communication within the family. This episode is sponsored by Family Routines, which helps create routines for less stress and easier conversations. So let's dive in and untangle the mysteries of discussing sex with children.

Big thanks to our sponsor Family Routines -- if you're looking to get into a routine (even working in this type of tricky conversation) -- it is the course for you!

Today's guest is Amy Lang:

Amy Lang, MA has been a sexual health educator for over 25 years. With her lively, engaging and down-to-earth style she helps parents become comfortable and confident talking with their kids. Amy's books, online solutions center and podcast, show parents they really can become their kids' go-to birds and bees source.

Amy is still married to her first husband and they are getting the hang of parenting their recently launched man-child. She lives in Seattle WA and you can learn more about her work at BirdsAndBeesAndKids.com and BBKPros.com.

The Birds & Bees Solutions Center https://birdsandbeescourse.com - Everything you need to do a way better job at this than your parents did!

Links for you:

How the boner grows on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X5XSwr47Xb8

Timestamps:

00:02:47 Start sex education at age five. 00:06:29 Safe Touch vs Unsafe Touch, use books for education 00:12:13 Importance of comprehensive sex education in schools. 00:14:20 Understanding consent and communication for better relationships. 00:17:36 Language correction: Virgin --> first time sex 00:23:46 Prepare for the conversation; get books, read them. 00:26:05 Be open, protect your child, trust matters. 00:29:33 Be open, trust your intuition, don't follow others. 00:31:11 Boys must take responsibility for pregnancy too.

Keypoints:

Importance of discussing values and reasons for waiting to have sex.
Emphasizing the significance of being in a loving, committed relationship and being able to openly discuss birth control and STIs with a partner.
The confusion surrounding terminology for female genitalia and the importance of using accurate language, like "vulva," in conversations about inappropriate touching.
Approaching sex education as a process, starting with using correct names for private body parts and gradually discussing reproductive anatomy around age five.
The benefits of comprehensive sexuality education starting at a young age, as seen in the Netherlands, to develop a healthy, natural view of sexuality and prevent misinformation.
The concept of being a little Netherlands, promoting open and accepting attitudes toward sexuality and relationships.
The importance of going against the norm if it benefits your children and family.
Recommendations for creating a safe environment for discussing sex at home, assessing whether your home is a safe space, and using books like "Birds and Bees and Your Kids" to prepare for the conversation.
Encouraging parents to do their own research, read the books beforehand, and address any discomfort to provide accurate and appropriate information to children.
The importance of boys understanding their responsibility in preventing pregnancy and the need for boys to take responsibility and always have condoms available.

Producer: Drew Erickson

Laboring at Home: 5 Simple Activities to Embrace During Early Labor - 207 Oct 09, 2023

Show notes

gs to do while in labor at home. Whether you're preparing for a home birth or simply want to make early labor more comfortable, these tips will help you navigate the experience with ease. From getting some much-needed rest to engaging in fun distractions, Hillary has you covered. So grab a snack, sit back, and let's dive into this episode of The Pulling Curls Podcast!

Big thanks to our sponsor -- my Going Into Labor Made Easy Guide! If you're interested in how your body makes the choice to begin labor, that's the guide for you!

Links for you:

Timestamps:

00:00:40 Episode sponsored by how to go into labor guide, tips on going into labor at home, 5 things to do in early labor: sleep, cook, get distracted, dance. 00:05:42 Fun activities during early labor: add music, stretch, clean, eat and drink water. 00:09:49 Please review, share, subscribe to Pulling Curls podcast.

Keypoints:

Introduction to the episode and sponsorship message for the guide on how to go into labor at home.
Tip #1: Sleep during early labor to relax the pelvis and regain energy. Discuss the benefits and importance of resting.
Tip #2: Rest and change positions regularly. Partner's role in reminding the mother to switch positions. Highlight the benefits of changing positions.
Tip #3: Cooking as a distraction during early labor if the mother enjoys it. Discuss the benefits of cooking and providing meals for after the baby is born.
Tip #4: Getting distracted by activities such as watching TV shows or engaging in hobbies. How these activities can divert attention from the pain of labor.
Tip #5: Dancing as a recommended activity during early labor to keep the body moving. Explain the benefits of dancing.
Music and its role in adding fun and distraction to labor activities.
Cleaning as a productive and helpful activity during early labor, particularly in a hands and knees position. Highlight the importance of cleaning the bathroom, which will be used frequently after giving birth.
Eating small snacks with balanced carbohydrates and proteins throughout labor for sustained energy. Emphasize the importance of avoiding blood sugar spikes and drops.
Staying hydrated with water during labor. Discuss the reasons for staying hydrated, including preventing false labor and aiding medical procedures. Partners can assist by bringing water and snacks.

Producer: Drew Erickson

Navigating Induction: Empowering Choice and Educating Yourself with Dr Elizabeth - 206 Sep 18, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of The Pulling Curls Podcast: Pregnancy & Parenting Untangled, host Hilary Erickson is joined by guest Dr. Elizabeth Schmeid, an OBGYN, to discuss the topic of making the choice to be induced. They emphasize that doctors cannot force someone to be induced against their will and that patients always have the option to decide what to do in their situation. The episode delves into the risks associated with not inducing versus inducing and the importance of informed consent. Listeners are encouraged to ask questions, seek information, and make decisions that align with their body and preferences. Tune in to learn more about navigating the third trimester and making decisions about labor and delivery.

Big thanks to our sponsor my Free Beginning Prenatal Class

Today's guest is Dr. Elizabeth Schmeid

Elizabeth is an obgyn serving the Scottsdale and surrounding area with her partners at Paradise Valley OBGYN. In addition to a passion for women's health she is a mom of 2 awesome kids. She enjoys hiking, reading, and spending time outdoors in her spare time.

Links for you:

Timestamps:

00:00:00 "Inducing labor: discussion with OBGYN Elizabeth Schmidt" 00:03:38 Car consent, scary things in pregnancy, doctor's advice. 00:06:52 Lower expectations, have a flexible plan. Asking for informed consent from doctors. 00:12:00 "Talk with your provider about induction."

Keypoints:

The podcast focuses on addressing concerns about being induced in pregnancy but not wanting to be.
Doctors cannot force someone to be induced or come to their home to do so.
Many doctors give their opinion, and patients often go along with it, so it's important for listeners to hear different perspectives.
The motivation behind the podcast is to provide education and support for listeners in making their own decisions.
The guest on the episode is Elizabeth Schmidt, an OBGYN.
The discussion revolves around making the choice to be induced and the importance of understanding the reasons behind medical recommendations.
The speaker mentions that about 10 to 20% of the time, there is flexibility in making decisions about inductions.
Patients should feel empowered to ask questions, seek information, and engage in informed consent.
The importance of communication with healthcare providers is emphasized, and effective communication strategies are offered in a prenatal class.
The speaker advises against not showing up for a scheduled induction and highlights the importance of being monitored and evaluated by the doctor.

Producer: Drew Erickson

Simplify Your Space: Top Stores for Organizing Supplies - 205 Sep 11, 2023

Show notes

organizing supplies. Hilary discusses five favorite stores. She highlights the affordability of Ross and Walmart, the variety at HomeGoods, the sturdy options at IKEA, and the convenience of Amazon.

Big thanks to our sponsor The 5 Word Organization Challenge

Keypoints:

Discusses five stores for organizing supplies: Ross, Walmart, HomeGoods, IKEA, and Amazon.
Ross offers cheaper options with limited selection.
Walmart has well-priced supplies, better than Target.
HomeGoods has a variety of pretty and affordable organization items.
IKEA offers sturdy and minimalistic bins, but the store can be a hassle.
Amazon provides convenience for specific items and home delivery.
The Container Store is expensive and not easily accessible.
Encouragement to buy supplies with a specific purpose in mind.

Producer: Drew Erickson

The Best Providers for Your Baby's Arrival: A Deep Dive with CNM Julie Pyle -- Episode 204 Sep 04, 2023

Show notes

ered that this was her true passion (as she had suspected since having her own children) and quickly gained a reputation for professionalism, compassion and expertise among colleagues and patients. She then returned to Frontier Nursing University to complete a Master's degree in Nursing with an emphasis in midwifery. In 2020, she graduated and began as a certified nurse-midwife at a small community hospital in central Pennsylvania where she has been since that time. Her focus as a CNM is to provide evidence-based education to all birthing families, give true autonomy and informed consent throughout their time with her and to share love, understanding, empathy and true shared-decision making. When not immersed in the birthing world, she enjoys spending time refinishing furniture, gardening, raising and breeding different types of chickens, hiking and vacationing with her family.

Links for you:

My post on the benefits of using a midwife.

Timestamps:

[00:00:00] Podcast discusses different providers for pregnancy and delivery.

[00:05:28] Licensed midwives provide medical care; some work in birth centers. CPMs are licensed and have credentials. CNMs are similar to CPMs.

[00:08:22] Midwives mostly work in hospitals, not homes.

[00:12:39] Consider midwife for pregnancy provider; clear misconceptions.

Key Points:

Introduction to the podcast episode topic: Different providers that can assist during pregnancy and delivery
Introduction of guest: Julie Pyle, a certified nurse midwife in Pennsylvania
Sponsorship mention: Free hospital bag checklist created by a nurse with 20 years of experience
Discussion on the four main providers that can deliver a baby
Mention of "free birth" option, but the speaker does not recommend it
Emphasis on the importance of having a knowledgeable provider present during birth
Mention of the doctor's role in supporting but not actively participating in delivery
Expressions of fear and uncertainty regarding the training and qualifications of healthcare providers
Reference to the difficulty of finding midwives
Discussion of the spectrum of education and certification among midwives
Explanation of the absence of regulations preventing individuals from calling themselves midwives
Mention of fees charged by lay midwives
Acknowledgment of the value of traditional knowledge but emphasis on the lack of medical training
Reference to historical portrayal of midwives, such as "Ma on a little house on the prairie"
Mention of midwives working in birth centers and home births depending on state regulations
Explanation of the licensing process for midwives in Arizona as certified professional midwives (CPMs)
Importance of inquiring about a midwife's experience and number of deliveries performed
Introduction of certified nurse midwives (CNMs) as having similar credentials to CPMs
Clarification that the majority of CNMs practice in hospitals rather than at home or in barns
Mention of outdated stereotypes about midwives lacking proper training and education
Discussion of limitations of midwives in the hospital setting, such as not performing forceps deliveries or surgical procedures
Acknowledgment of midwives' role as surgical first assistants in c-sections
Emphasis on the collaborative practice between midwives and obstetricians in the hospital
Appreciation for the hospital setting and collaborative experience for patients
Advocacy for considering a midwife as a pregnancy provider
Encouragement to see a midwife at the next appointment or for the next delivery
Expression of love for certified nurse midwives
Call to support the podcast by reviewing, sharing, and subscribing
Importance of using the full title "certified nurse midwife" to clarify their profession
Explanation of the education and qualifications of certified nurse midwives
Counteracting the misconception that all midwives have the same level of training
Introduction of certified professional midwives (CPMs) as having formal training but no medical or nursing degree
Explanation of the board certification process and licensing for CPMs
Mention of potential future requirements for nurse practitioners to have a doctorate
Variation in midwives' ability to administer drugs based on state regulations
Mention of tasks that certified nurse midwives can perform, such as prescribing medications
Importance of having options for delivering in a hospital, including a good midwife and a doctor
Overview of the education and training required for doctors, including residencies and specialization options.

Producer: Drew Erickson

Supporting Speech Development: Strategies for Parents with Lenora Edwards from Better Speech - 203 Aug 28, 2023

Show notes

Mastered," the host delves into the topic of supporting children with speech challenges. They discuss the importance of reaching out to teachers for insights and red flags, the benefits of in-person and virtual sessions, and the role of parents in nurturing their child's voice. The episode also touches on early intervention, school system support, and resources like Better Speech. Listeners are encouraged to check out Lenora Edwards' website for affordable speech therapy options. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes on delivering babies in hospitals and organizing supplies. Remember, speech difficulties are not the parents' fault, and personalized care plans can help children progress at their own pace.

Big thanks to our sponsor Practical Parenting -- it's a free course to help your parenting skills.

Lenora Edwards is a ASHA Board Certified Speech Language Pathologist and Chief Knowledge Officer with Better Speech. Since obtaining her CCC's in 2010, she has worked with individuals of all ages from little ones who are learning to understand and express themselves to adults who want to improve their speaking skills and become a more fluent and effective communicator. Lenora loves to teach and educate others so if you have questions, please don't hesitate to ask. Better Speech is an online speech therapy company that has been providing professional, affordable and convenient speech therapy services for more than a decade. All the Speech Language Pathologists with Better Speech are Board Certified and State Licensed with more than 10 years experience each which allows them to provide outstanding online speech therapy services nationwide and internationally. At BetterSpeech.com , we are experts at helping people communicate in the most efficient and affordable way possible!

Links for you:

Start Now: https://www.betterspeech.com/start-now
Better Speech Resources: https://www.betterspeech.com/blog
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@better.speech
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BetterSpeechVideo

Producer: Drew Erickson

The Journey of Infertility: Struggle, Success, and Spearmint Tea - Episode 202 Aug 21, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of the Erickson Creative podcast, host Hilary Erickson is joined by guests John and Morgan Fulton as they share their journey with infertility, pregnancy, and childbirth. After six years of trying to conceive, the couple's persistence and research led them to find a solution that ultimately resulted in a successful pregnancy. Hilary also highlights the importance of being prepared for childbirth and announces a sponsored online prenatal class for couples that covers everything from pregnancy to infant care. Stay tuned for an inspiring and informative conversation.

Today's guests are Jon and Morgan. After 6 plus years of trying to conceive, countless inseminations and finally a more holistic approach, they have finally welcomed their first child in March of this year. With so many years actively trying, they had plenty of time to prepare as much as possible so that when the time came, they'd be ready. They knew they wanted an online prenatal course and after reading many positive reviews and recommendations, enter Hilary with Pulling Curls. A must for any soon-to-be parents.

Big thanks to our sponsor The Online Prenatal Class for Couples -- if you want to know about your birth, it is the class for you!

[00:00:00] Infertility journey, labor, and cute baby.

[00:03:32] PCOS, weight gain, bad fertility treatment, spearmint tea.

[00:07:14] Appreciate people, infertility struggles, and loving daughter.

[00:10:32] Preparation, prenatal course instilled confidence, comfortable.

[00:12:50] Class for planners focused on natural childbirth.

[00:19:01] Scar tissue in cervix can hinder stretching.

[00:20:55] Parenting: simple things now require planning. Relationship dynamics shift.

[00:24:55] Changing table and slings have mixed opinions.

[00:27:38] Morgan's childbirth experience is indescribable and emotional.

[00:32:07] Infertility discussed, comment on Instagram for discussion.

Links for you: