Hospital Bag Must-Haves + What to Eat (and Avoid!) During Labor
Release Date: 06/18/2025
What It’s Really Like to Be an OBGYN – with Dr. Nicole Rankins
Mommy Labor Nurse
This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast we are re-releasing an interview with the amazing Dr. Nicole Callaway Rankins who you may know from her very popular pregnancy podcast, ! Similar to Mommy Labor Nurse, Dr. Rankins offers amazing, online resources for pregnant women because she too knows what a critical role education plays in a woman's ability to advocate for themselves during birth and reduce any sense of fear or anxiety they may have. On today's show, Dr. Rankins is going to share with us more about what it's like to be an OBGYN, memorable moments from her years of practice,...
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Working Mom Guilt is Real – Let’s Talk About It with Dr. Sarah Allen
Mommy Labor Nurse
Working mom guilt? Yep, it’s very real. Dr. Sarah Allen joins me to unpack where that guilt comes from, how to navigate it, and ways to feel more confident in whatever choices work best for your family.
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How to Prep Your Relationship for Baby – Tips That Actually Help
Mommy Labor Nurse
Having a baby is a huge transition – and it’s totally normal for your relationship to feel the impact. In this episode, we’re talking about ways to stay connected, set expectations, and support each other through the fourth trimester and beyond.
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Let’s Talk About Your Pelvic Floor – with Nikki from The Belle Method
Mommy Labor Nurse
Pelvic floor stuff doesn’t have to be embarrassing or confusing! Nikki from The Belle Method joins me to chat about what your pelvic floor does, signs of dysfunction, and how to protect and rehab it through pregnancy and postpartum.
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Home Birth Myths, Facts, and What It’s Really Like with a Midwife Guest!
Mommy Labor Nurse
Ever wondered what home birth is actually like? I’m joined by a licensed homebirth midwife who breaks it all down – what to expect, who’s a good candidate, and how it compares to hospital birth. It’s a super eye-opening convo!
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From Birth to Day 2: Your Postpartum Play-by-Play
Mommy Labor Nurse
What actually happens after birth? This episode walks you through the first 48 hours with your newborn – from that golden hour and first latch to bleeding, bathroom trips, and baby checks. No fluff, no fear – just real talk 💁♀️
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Birth Trivia Time! Play Along and Test Your Knowledge
Mommy Labor Nurse
Think you know all things birth? Let’s put that to the test! In this fun and lighthearted episode, we’re playing a round of birth trivia – with real questions and answers that might surprise you 🤓 Play along and learn something new!
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Managing Anxiety in Pregnancy, Birth, and Beyond
Mommy Labor Nurse
Pregnancy and new motherhood can bring on a lot of emotions – and for many, anxiety is part of that picture. In this episode, we talk about recognizing anxiety in pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, and what you can do to manage it. We cover practical coping tools, when to reach out for help, and ways to feel more calm and confident during each stage of the journey. Whether you’re currently expecting, newly postpartum, or supporting someone who is, this conversation will give you real-life strategies and reassurance.
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Fueling Your Body After Baby: Postpartum Nutrition & Wellness Tips
Mommy Labor Nurse
The postpartum period is a whirlwind – and it’s easy to put your own needs on the back burner. In this episode, we’re talking about how to nourish your body and support your healing after birth. From nutrient-rich meal ideas to mindset shifts around self-care, you’ll learn simple ways to boost your energy, balance your hormones, and feel your best during those early months. Whether you’re breastfeeding, recovering from a C-section, or just trying to stay afloat, these tips are for you!
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A Candid Birth Story After Secondary Infertility
Mommy Labor Nurse
In this heartfelt birth story episode, my guest opens up about her journey through secondary infertility – the challenges, the emotions, and ultimately, the joy of welcoming her new baby. You’ll hear about the ups and downs of trying to conceive again, how her pregnancy unfolded, and the details of her birth experience. If you’ve walked a similar road or love hearing real, unfiltered birth stories, this one will inspire and remind you that you’re never alone in your journey.
info_outlineThis week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, we’re talking all about what to pack (and not pack!) in your hospital bag for birth – plus we’re covering snacks and eating during labor too 🍿
Let me tell you, for my first birth? Total slacker. I didn’t get serious about packing my bag until wayyy late in the game – and it could’ve backfired big time. For baby #2? Totally prepared!
In this episode, I’m breaking it all down:
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What to pack in four separate bags: labor, recovery, partner, and baby
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What to leave at home (because clutter = chaos)
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My go-to list of snacks for labor and what to know about eating during labor
Trust me, being prepared is a major stress reducer – and I’ve got you covered with the ultimate hospital bag prep episode!
🎁 Grab Your FREE Hospital Bag Checklist!
This free printable checklist was made by a practicing L&D nurse (hey, it’s me 👋) and it’ll help you feel 10,000% more confident walking into the hospital.
➡️ Download the Hospital Bag Checklist now
💻 Want to Feel Really Ready for Birth?
Hospital bag packed? Check. Now let’s prep your mind for labor too. My online birth classes are here to help you feel calm, informed, and in control – no matter how you deliver.
🎉 Click here to explore MLN Birth Classes
🧪 Try This Essential Oil Labor Blend
This soothing blend is a fan favorite for labor:
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2 drops Ylang Ylang
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7 drops Clary Sage
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3 drops Lavender
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3 drops Frankincense
Add to a glass bottle and top off with your favorite carrier oil 💧
💛 Don’t forget to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram for daily tips, education, and relatable mom content – we’re a community of 650k+ strong!