OBGYN + Pediatrician Share Postpartum: What to Expect the 1st 24 Hours After Birth for Mom & Baby

[@cvideo4225]

Ummmm soo Sarah is a total goddess warrior!! I can’t believe she was teaching us about the postpartum room right after giving birth. Talk about dedication. ❤

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

Kurt agrees! Sarah is a total rockstar!

[@cvideo4225]

@@TheDoctorsBjorkman and so are you for being an awesome support person!

[@JesusLightsYourPath]

Wow. Birth kind of seems scary

[@HardCoreNonDuality]

Her man is lucky to have her. She's beautiful, smart, and a warrior! What a score. ❤

[@melissanavarro9296]

I’m pregnant with my first due feb 2024 and you went over so much I didn’t realize happens those first 24 hours. I feel more aware and prepared for what’s to come. Thanks for making this video, so helpful! ☺️

[@angela_owens]

I am too! Good luck mama!

[@RileySaraa]

Also do Feb!

[@realscoobs]

We are also expecting late February. Good luck everyone!

[@yehunlavolontededieu322]

same here

[@YungDeath7220]

How are you and baby doing??❤️

[@Watetenwijvandaag]

Post partum is also tough. The bleeding, fluid retention, crying because of hormones. My body was doing al sorts of things after I gave birth, I was swollen, had an eye infection, my throat was sore from vomiting during labour and screaming. My lips were chapped, I had a bit of a fever due to my breastmilk coming in. Sore nipples and the worst of all I had insomnia for two whole weeks. Every time night fell I couldn’t sleep and I would get extremely sad and depressed because I knew I had a hard time to fall asleep. I wanted to keep our baby safe because birth was so hard. Thank God my husband helped me through those nights and was there for me. I cried almost every night and he had to hug me tightly. Now our baby is 5 weeks old and I’m starting to feel better everyday.

[@Lauranessa1]

Was this your first? I’m 32 weeks today. With my first I’m super nervous I’m learning as Much as I can.

[@labrigful]

​@Lauranessa1 how did it go?

[@lynseyfahs8628]

Thanks for sharing your story ❤

[@Victoria-py7yn]

Y’all are so calming and soothing. I’m pregnant with my first and y’all put me at ease!

[@Ash-ol3ji]

Same!

[@Nayahpooh012]

Same!

[@lovapumpkina8961]

Many of your videos have been helpful, but I think this was the most helpful of all. As I stumbled to the bathroom of my hospital room, legs still weakened by the epidural, and activated another cold pad, I replayed this video in my head, thinking "this is normal, expected, I got this." Thank you for taking the time and effort to make this video when you had so much else on your plate.

[@cassiekat4055]

I LOVE this channel I’m pregnant with my first baby! And was told I would never have children. So it’s a miracle! Birth is the thing I’m excited for, but so scared at the same time! Your calming voice of both of you is making this easy to learn and listen and not be afraid ❤ THANK YOU! 🎉

[@69Chevelle97]

Delayed cord clamping helps prevent jaundice and it’s severity. Waiting atleast two minutes is what is recommended now. If your doctor tries to clamp is sooner then ask them to please wait just another minute or two. Waiting will cause no harm to mother or baby.

[@amandakesterson224]

I am actually thankful to hear all this step by step. I know a woman who was NOT cleaned after birth at all. Her husband had to get wipes and try and help clean her up. Of course because he didn't know what to do or where to be gentle it was a painful process. Getting ready to give birth myself I keep hearing everything that is left out. Knowing what to ask for and what treatment we should be getting is key!

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

Knowledge is power!! Our hope is that the information we provide here helps birthing mamas and patients be knowledgeable and know what to expect so they feel empowered & advocate for themselves and their experience!! Sending you all the smooth labor vibes and hopes for a safe delivery for you soon!! You got this!

[@hannam6347]

You are so helpful! So grateful that you were willing to film for our benefit in your first 24 hours - makes us first time expectant parents feel so much more in the know. We appreciate you!

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

Yay!! That is why we created this channel-we want other parents to feel informed and knowledgeable!! Knowledge is power and we hope it helps you have a better pregnancy and birth experience. Thanks for being here and following along with us!

[@espem88]

My doctor immediately cut the cord and the nurse took baby for a bath within 15 minutes of birth while my husband stepped out. To birth the placenta, the nurse was pushing repeatly on my abdomen with such force, it was excruciating. Not all doctors in the U.S. automatically do the things they discussed in this video, so you MUST be your own advocate - which can be difficult immediately after givinf birth. Pregnant with my second child and we will not be circumcizing. Wishing the US was more up to date on what's best for babies.

[@ladycaticorn2950]

I'm pretty shocked they circumcized their baby and are advocating for others to do it too. It does not seem like there are any real medical benefits to doing it; it's just an unfortunate cultural trapping.

[@PbPomper]

@@ladycaticorn2950 That's trendy in the US. Guess because of the porn industry. People will make excuses that it's more hygenic but that's been thoroughly debunked. Amazing that people are mutilating their baby just for looks. Especially if you're a natal/child healthcare professional.

[@Aky-mala]

In Europe that is not something that is done.... Maybe for some cultural beliefs, but not something that is done at all.... At least as much I know.

[@ashlynmoore9674]

The best way to have a birth with up to date safe practices is to hire a midwife! The medical industry in the US is bought out by big pharma. All you have to do is request the inserts for the vaccines and shots they give at birth to realize they 1. are puppets following what they are told and don't think for themselves, and 2. just want to do as much as possible to get as much money from you (or your insurance) as possible!

[@you-got_mail9020]

@@ladycaticorn2950there’s literally no benefit and the only “benefits” it has can simply be taught to boys without circumcising. People are just so lazy to actually step up and parent their kid that they’d rather mutilate their genitals than actually take the time to teach them basic bodily care. Most men I’ve seen all have a sort of resentment for being circumcised, and most of that resentment is due to nobody caring about how they’d feel about it as a grown adult.

[@lindafelgentreff]

So helpful:) I'm expecting my 2nd baby, currently 28 weeks pregnant so it's great to have all those reminders. Our body is truly a miracle ❤❤

[@chelsey0192]

One pointer - Instead of using creams, you can rub a little breastmilk on the nipple after pumping or feeding, and it helps for them not to dry and crack. That's been working great for me for pumping almost 13 months

[@LHMLHW]

This is literally the only thing I found to heal a cut (bite wound 😬) when my baby was 9 months - its the simplest thing but nothing else helped! Let it air dry if you can too!

[@blciffa]

I’m 5 weeks away from my second and I can’t believe how good you look after just having your second!! ❤❤

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

Thank you! We wish you and your babe a safe birth, and a "smooth" start to being a mother of 2! It's a wild ride.

[@claudineb2621]

I remember they had me walk to the bathroom after being stitched up and try to pee. I couldn't do it and then walking back I almost passed out. Thankfully there were enough people to hold me so I didn't hit the floor. When I got down to my postpartum room, they again had me try again and I couldn't. Finally did a few hours later so I didn't have to have a catheter--yay! I remember my stomach feeling so loose and sloshy, the pressure and swelling on my pelvic floor, and challenge it was to pee and poop. Argh, no one also told me that hormones can cause the challenge of pooing postpartum. So for the first 6-8 weeks postpartum, it hurt! Even with stool softeners and Miralax, it was not easy.... Bless you to all the women who do this!!

[@lotusflower3146]

really, thats a thing? 6-8 weeks? So, a stool softner in the hospital bag? Thank you

[@davelewandowski]

I'm really thankful for these two most videos only talk about mom's journey. As a first time dad it's not easy to find helpful advice for myself. Baby Adrian will be here in 2 months and I still have so much to learn and do.

[@meghankrause2689]

I had so much birth trauma with my son almost 8 months ago, it was nice to watch this and think about all of the things (good and bad) that I don’t remember.

[@devans2254]

The grin that her husband made when she said “the vagina is truly an amazing thing.” 😂😂 you can see the agreement all over his face! Thanks for the advice Docs, us expecting mothers appreciate it.

[@Ravnicanhobbit]

I know that first hour is so important. I know I'm not alone in being one of the many women who wasn't able to get the first hour with baby due to complications. And hearing about it so much makes me almost grieve an experience I so dearly wish I could have had. It's heart wrenching. That's nearly 4 years after my son was born it's still raw.

[@hsirynx]

Don’t research too much about it. I also get sad when I remember that. We missed that precious moment but we have a healthy and very happy child. We have an entire life to make up that golden moment.

[@doloreslee9330]

My first baby was born at 34 weeks I was not prepared at all and had lung issues and was in the NICU for 10 days his neonatologist was not interested in explaining to me what was happening. He accused me of not being sure how far along I was and was very rude to me. God bless the NICU nurses they were so helpful ❤

[@mimi_j]

💔💔💔💔I hate hearing this 😖😖 it breaks my heart

[@myoctobersymphony4446]

"This is the time for circumcision standardly for most people in the U.S": While it may be a common practice in the US, circumcision is not a necessary or beneficial procedure. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend routine circumcision, and many medical professionals around the world do not support it either. "It needs to be done later by a neurologist": There are many reasons why a circumcision may need to be performed later in life, such as medical conditions or personal choice. However, it should only be done when absolutely necessary and with proper anaesthesia. "Local anesthetic and sugar water is able to like help keep the baby calm and comfortable during that procedure": While local anaesthesia can help alleviate pain, the procedure itself is still painful and traumatic for the baby. Infants are not able to provide informed consent, and subjecting them to unnecessary pain and risk is unethical. "After that time the skin actually changes and it just becomes like more difficult to do the procedure more bleeding Associated and other things too and so yeah doing it in that first couple days of life is really helpful": This claim is not entirely accurate. While the skin may be thinner and easier to cut in the first few days of life, it is also more delicate and prone to infection. Waiting until the child is older and can make their own informed decision is a more ethical and safe option. "In those first you know 24 hours after they have their circumcision done their their little their penis is a little sore and raw and you have to keep a lot of Vaseline on it constantly": This statement confirms that the procedure causes pain and discomfort for the baby and that constant care and maintenance are necessary to prevent complications. This reinforces the argument that circumcision is unnecessary and puts the infant at risk. In conclusion, circumcision is a personal choice that should be made by the individual when they are old enough to provide informed consent. Infants should not be subjected to unnecessary pain and risk for a procedure that has no medical benefit. Alternative methods of hygiene can be used to maintain penile health, and routine circumcision should not be considered the norm.

[@nikitabeatrice]

AGREEEEEDDD

[@f.s.2642]

Lmao informed consent … it’s a piece of skin they’re cutting off, they aren’t castrating the kid. Calm down.

[@myoctobersymphony4446]

@@f.s.2642 All published circumcision videos show that those who are circumcised without adequate anaesthetic treatment (anaesthesia or anaesthetic), suffer immense pain. Infants fall regularly into shock as a reaction to the pain, when being circumcised without effective anaesthesia. This shock is often misinterpreted and the parents believe that their baby would have simply slept through. Actually, in some traditional ritual forms of circumcision not only the outer foreskin} is cut up or off, but rather even the (inner) foreskin is torn down. The comparison with pulling off a patch is safe only from the point of view of the person who tear down the patch or the foreskin, but not from the point of view of the child who suffers the pain. It is at least not a single case known in which a mohel fell in shock after circumcision, while it is regularly in only a few days old boys. Therefore, this comparison is more than cynical. The foreskin of an infant firstly is connected with the glans and thus serves to protect it from everything. One can compare the state of the physiological connection between internal foreskin and glans with the way how fingernails are connected to the underlying tissue.

[@RaqVA]

@@f.s.2642I mean…I’m glad I got to keep ALL the skin on all body parts I was born with? 🤷🏻‍♀️ would I remember now 37 years later, probably not but I’m still glad. Those nerve endings never grow back and as a newborn you have no voice in what is done to your body. How awful!

[@TheMessCalledJess]

I got my ears pierced at 2 and babies get tons of shots. There’s nothing “traumatizing” about an event or pain they won’t remember. They are brand new, everything is scary. Also every single man I have ever met is happy they were cut, so why wouldn’t I bestow that gift on my son? Let parents do what the fuck they want with their kids, preaching doesn’t do anything but cause undue stress on parents of newborns.

[@vicky_west13209]

I’m getting induced at 37 weeks on this Friday with my first baby!!! I’m nervous but I’m super excited! I need to find a pediatrician! This is stressful but a beautiful time ❤

[@ltmltm4945]

did you get induced because you were in some sort of danger?

[@jessicamobley3041]

I found your channel 2 years ago when me and my then fiance now husband started trying to conceive thanks to fertility treatments and luck we are now happily almost 5 weeks pregnant I've heard so many stories from my friends from my sister and everybody's teasing me about oh you think it's bad now just wait. Thankfully your videos have been so much help and so far knock on wood this has been a pretty easy pregnancy but it's still very early early early early days I can't wait to share these videos with my husband because we both tend to worry about our little tidbit considering how long we've waited for them thank you so much for doing what you do

[@aaragon0902]

Thank you for sharing your experience and honesty!! I am due in May and this is so helpful in being prepared to bring our baby boy into the world. I see a lot of negative and opinionated comments, I just want to say what you’re doing is amazing to share information with us.

[@alyssaphillips1412]

Congrats on your new baby boy! I also delivered my baby boy last week and introduced him to his toddler sister so I am right there with you mama! Thank you for being honest, and not sugarcoating the realities of this time. So many of these videos glaze over how rough postpartum can be for mama physically. So thank you and congrats

[@elaulii4991]

I’ve not watched this yet but I’ve saved a bunch of your vids to sit down and take notes with my husband. Currently four month. I appreciate you soooo much!! You’ve put so much ease to my journey ♥️

[@SnugglesTheDragon]

Thank you both so much for sharing all of this information and doing it so tastefully and factually without it being weird or cringey (as many are doing on social media nowadays) or making it seem like it should be easy, but also not fear mongering. I'm 29 weeks 1 day with our first and we live at least an hour away from a hospital that can deliver a baby... (our closest one 5m down the road has to Careflight everyone out if they come in for anything complex... they can't even read an ultrasound for a baby!) Knowing what to expect when we finally go into the hospital and get to meet our little girl is really helping me not stress.

[@ekaterinadzyubak197]

Oh my, you really filmed the first day after birth! I remember that breathless feeling 😊 taking a shower right after birth is a challenge, every time i raised my hands above my head i nearly passed out, that sudden organ rearrangement is no joke 😅

[@lilmamacpa3062]

Oh, man! First time viewer here. Wish I had access to this kind of content 19 years ago! I took all the classes and read all the books before my first baby, went to a midwife/physician clinic, etc. and was still totally shocked by the experience after birth. I knew all about labor and how hard that would be, but I never even thought about what I would feel like afterwards, besides the obvious fatigue everyone talks about. I still remember my horror when I took a shower in the hospital and felt the damage “down below” while washing. I was just not expecting it, so it was so scary! I think that (the difficulty of my physical recovery) set me up for some serous baby blues and just overall feeling of inability to cope with being a new mom. Don’t worry, we all faired well in the long run and the next two were a breeze comparatively! But thank you for sharing this content. I think it will help so many new mothers and hopefully prevent them from feeling as overwhelmed and scared as I felt.

[@clairegasamagera3777]

I am 30 weeks pregnant with my third baby. This video is very informative that I saved it and I watch it over and over. Thank you!❤❤❤❤

[@jenniferbooth9348]

I loved my ONGYN and you look like a really cool doctor. I tell everyone to find an OBGYN that you will love bc you will be married to that person while pregnant. Mine still delivered my babies even if she was not Oncall. Social media was not around with my first baby in 2005. Now she’s graduating in May. I love how informative you guys are!!!! Congratulations on the birth of your son!!!

[@brittanygulker2051]

The best part of my recovery other than the baby herself was the blood transfusions to treat my PPH. Game changer. I felt SOOO much better afterwards!

[@robyn3083]

Sarah you literally look amazing for just having a baby. I looked like I got hit by a truck then ran over by a train after my csection. Currently pregnant with babe #2 and hoping I get my vbac!

[@Daymickey]

I didn’t get that golden hour until a few hours later because I had a c section. By the time they put baby on me, I was so exhausted from a 24 hour failed induction that I literally couldn’t keep my eyes open. I was begging for someone to hold my arms up so I wouldn’t drop my baby. She’s 1 month old now and I’m just now starting to really bond with her. I hate that my relationship with her started that way, though I’m glad we’re both safe.

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

We're so glad you're safe too and realize now that we should have addressed how not everyone get's that "golden hour" experience. It can be very challenging physically and emotionally when the birth process doesn’t go as we hope or plan. While the golden hour is a great time for bonding, as you have already realized, it's not the only time to bond with baby. We are so glad that you and baby are bonding now, and want you to know that no craziness at the time of birth can keep you from loving that little babe and from them loving you back.

[@NoitsBecky.]

Can't tell you how much I appreciate yalls channel! I am learning so much, so thank you! I am currently 22 weeks and we are having a boy🥰

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

We are SO glad it is helpful!! And congratulations on your little boy!! The first pregnancy is so exciting and a little terrifying. Our hope is to make it a little less scary by helping people be informed and empowered!! Hope you are feeling great and thanks for being here with us.

[@NoitsBecky.]

@The Doctors Bjorkman aww thank you so much and for responding!

[@ammyreyes1910]

We used coconut oil for the first poops so much natural and healthier less chemicals. Ty Mama and Dad on your baby boy!! May God continue to bless your family.

[@AmandaJ__]

Great idea!

[@fottnyul]

I gave birth in Hungary 3 weeks ago. My labor was very streamlined, the midwife came in once or twice an hour, the doctors showed up at the very end. I had a CTG machine attached throughout and my husband and I had to keep it from falling off. My cervix dilated quickly but later I got a dose of oxytocin because the baby was not coming down. My blood pressure was never measured. Neither was my blood sugar even though I had diet controlled GDM (baby's blood glucose was fine and the diabetes seems gone but I won't be sure until my 6 week OGTT). They did an episiotomy as in the majority of vaginal deliveries in Hungary. Baby's head was 36 cm and I'm a small person. The stitching up part was somewhat painful and I was not offered pain relief. I was never offered an epidural. In the end I'm proud of pulling through and my baby is healthy and beautiful.

[@fritnat]

So in your case it was you who got cut and not the baby, at least you will likely make a full recovery. Congrats and you're right to be proud. Was it first time?

[@Bueller.Bueller.Bueller.]

Thank you for sharing the details and offering knowledge, advice, and guidance to women everywhere! 🙏 💝

[@meltheesthetician]

I am so grateful to you guys for giving us these gems of information. I'm expecting my first pretty soon and your videos help to ease my anxiety. Knowing what to expect every step of the way is such a relief. Thank you, thank you, thank you! 💕

[@icantthinkofaname987]

Watching this in the hopes of becoming a nurse some day. I am so sorry women have to go through all this

[@sillybugMaryam]

These videos are so helpful. I hope you guys are ok as the last video was 9 months ago. You deserve a break so hopefully you're both just doing that and enjoying raising your family and working. Your vids have been extremely informative

[@karenskretting907]

Love that you say bonding with family instead of bonding with mom. We love some inclusive language!

[@katybergeron419]

Sad to see some people who give their opinions kn topics are mad that other people's opinions are not the same as theirs, and get so offensive towards something that someone else chooses to do. Good for you guys for sharing your experience with your boy, and the ways you do things. My daughter had a tongue and lip tie that i got cut(the tongue) in the hospital, and then had to do the tongue and lip again a few weeks later at the dentist, some people thought I was crazy for that. But it helped her with breastfeeding. Stop shaming moms for what they do!!!! The world does too much of this!

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

@Katy Bergeron Appreciate your thoughts and support 💙There certainly is some controversy around circumcision (which we plan to cover-this episode was just getting so long lol) Our daughter also had a tongue and lip tie that we had released too-and it SAVED our breastfeeding relationship, she started gaining weight, etc. Was absolutely the right thing for her and am thankful you got plugged in to find those resources too!! Thanks again for being here with us!

[@fritnat]

Harmful cultural practices which violate human dignity are not matters of opinion but of concern! Do you have the same attitude to "people with opinions differing from" parents making the same choice with their daughter in communities with the gender inclusive form of the practice?

[@champagnesweats]

You guys are fantastic! I could barely make coffee at this point of my newborn stage and you’re making helpful content for expecting parents! I gave birth in July 2022 and felt much more prepared following along with your videos 😊

[@AG-qn5ft]

You guys are the best, I love having you on my first pregnancy journey! Wishing you and your family health and happiness!

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

Thank you so so much! And congratulations to you on your first pregnancy-it is a wild ride! So exciting and slightly terrifying. Glad we can be here with you as you get ready for your first baby! Hope you are feeling great and sending hope and luck for a smooth pregnancy and delivery!!

[@AG-qn5ft]

❤thank you soo much! ❤

[@Islandangel101M]

Lots of good advice generally. However, I’d like to point out a few things: a women in a coma can give birth to a baby. It is a natural physiological process that DOES NOT necessitate intervention. You might want to consider the possibility of Hypnobirthing; breathing techniques; tens machines; water birthing etc. ALL interventions have consequences. For example: epidural and opioid analgesics can increase drowsiness and nausea/vomiting in the mother and can cause the baby to be unresponsive or have breathing problems when born. Having a caesarean increases the chances of placenta issues and complications in subsequent pregnancies and means you are more likely to need another caesarean. It also has effects on the baby’s breathing as the mucus is not squeezed out as it would be vaginally, not to mention the bonding hormones that are released as the baby is born vaginally. Of course, there are emergency (less than 30minutes fast intervention times) reasons why a caesarean is necessary, but for the vast majority of women, they have been told a caesarean is an emergency (then wait an hour +)- this is not a life/death emergency. Forceps increase the risk of bleeding in your baby’s brain due to the trauma. However, the statistics for clotting complications are 1:9500 (UK figures) and are usually caused by risk factors such as low platelets and haemophilia. If your baby does not have these risk factors, consider why you would need to give your baby Vitamin K. In ED we only give vit K to patients who are actively haemorrhaging. There are countries in Europe that do not routinely administer this treatment unless risk factors have been identified. There is also much evidence for the benefits of delayed cord cutting: wait until your baby has absorbed all their blood back and the cord stops pulsating and turns white. At the end of the day, Labour/birth and your baby is a personal transitional experience. You have the CHOICE. You do not need to be pushed around and told “this is what you’re going to have” etc. Learn and use the: B.R.A.I.N. It doesn’t require many “professionals” continuously disturbing you and your baby unless you are having complications.

[@honeybee176]

Wow! Making this video a week after giving birth? Y’all are amazing (especially the recovering mother). I love this video idea.

[@Stereochemistry]

I'm always surprised by the difference in vaccination policy between countries. The hep B vaccination is the only one considered non essential for babies here in Germany. We can opt between the 6-fold and 5-fold vaccine at 2-3 months (TDAP, Polio, h. Influenza are in both vaccines but the 5fold vaccine doesn't have hep B). Edit: also circumcision is a no go here - it got legally allowed for religious reasons in 2013 but other than this unless it is strictly medically necessary it is illegal ( no cosmetic circumcision allowed). And even like this doctor are reluctant to perform it. Ps. I don't mean to start the vaccination and circumcision debate here, just noticing how different the country policies are.

[@TheGwennyGreen]

Yes, and I think it’s a great thing that it’s illegal here without medical indication. People in the US might find this strange, but for us it’s NOT a family decision. It’s the decision of an individual if and when they are old enough to decide.

[@Stereochemistry]

@@TheGwennyGreen i agree,the mentality is so different. I'm from all over Europe by the way. I find Dr Bjorkmans content amazingly helpful and insightful, especially how honest they were about their IVF and infertility journey because it really takes a lot of courage to share that. And at the same time these country to country differences surprise me a lot so so often and I've lived and worked in the US.

[@Michelle-dm3nl]

I’m also in Germany but I’m American. When I gave birth I was so relieved that I wasn’t pressured into circumcision. It has a huge cultural weight to do it in the USA though and I wonder if most parents do it so their son isn’t “different” as their father is also circumcised, and their grandfather etc

[@fritnat]

So disheartening that Germany brought inb this special exemption from the law legalising the torture of neonates - as long as they are male. There is no way to control whether the ritual is for religious or cosmetic reasons, any mother can put her son through this if she can find a cutter willing to do it and there will always be those who are.

[@lazycrazyapes]

@@TheGwennyGreen I totally agree with it being an individual decision. I live in the US, and my husband and I decided not to circumcise our son if we have one. I feel the same way about male circumcision that a lot of Americans feel about female circumcision.

[@JesusChristismysavior]

Just had my baby less than two weeks ago. I want to note for any expectant moms: you can decline the vitamin k n hep b shots, the pku test, n pitocin after birth if you choose - but you’ll want to tell your hospital before n they make you sign a form declining the shots n test. I was hoping to do a home birth initially but my midwives were concerned I would hemorrhage because of lower platelets so I gave birth in the hospital. I declined pitocin after birth unless needed n I ended up being fine n my bleeding went down quickly. It’s up to you to decide what goes in yours n your baby’s bodies! Be both of your advocates. If you can, pls have someone else that will be your advocates as well. I declined the pku test as well but they never provided the form to decline n it was done when I was in the shower - didn’t know until late the same day. Be vigilant n keep an eye on your baby.

[@msCRYS143]

Thank you for this comment

[@chelseamoon6978]

Congrats on the little one! 😊 Thank you so much for making this video! I’m sure you’re both exhausted with the new baby so I really appreciate you taking the time to make this video and share this vital information with us.

[@sharonkhalsa]

Wow! Sarah thank you so much for your raw videos in real time. This was so incredibly helpful and is easing my anxiety as a first time mom. Thank you thank you thank you!!!

[@randihopkins294]

I’m giving birth overseas to my first baby and it’s been pretty terrifying 😅 it’s hard to understand what’s going on with the language barrier but your videos help me so much!

[@Jackiecarlet]

You’re absolutely amazing ❤ I’m not expecting but it will be about time in another year or so and birth is terrifying to me as it is to so many other women. So thank you from the bottom of my heart for this video and all of your other ones. ❤❤❤ helps me feel better when I’m empowered with knowledge. It’s nice not to go in blind :)

[@ashleyhernandez9155]

I’m 24 weeks pregnant with twins and this is my first pregnancy. Thank you so much for this!

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

Congrats mama!! TWINS!! So exciting. Sending you smooth pregnancy vibes and hoping you are feeling great. YOU GOT THIS. Past the halfway point and sooo excited for you to meet your little ones. Babies can be exhausting but really really wonderful too❤️

[@gorditatomamacita]

I’m due in 3 months with my first, thank you so much for sharing, it helps me feel more prepared!

[@caitlinstewart4283]

So glad you mentioned the difficulty of breastfeeding, that was such a shock to me with my first. I like to think that I gave you guys inspiration for your little guy's name 😄 my Bo Henry is 4 months now. Love your honesty and vulnerability! I can't believe you filmed some just after birth - I wanted to just lie down and disappear for a few weeks 😆 Hope y'all are having a great day.

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

Bo Henry is an AWESOME name!! (Tho I suppose we are biased 😉) Agree 100p that breastfeeding is SO HARD. I thought it was just something that came easily and was a “natural” thing, but wow we had to work so hard to get it to work. Once we got there it was awesome, but I absolutely see why people quit. It’s can be painful, difficult, sooo time consuming, and it is really hard to find good support. Hope you and sweet little Bo are finding your groove now that he’s 4 months old. And thank you for being here with us and sharing your journey and experiences. Other mamas and parents benefit so much from hearing it and knowing they aren’t alone in the breastfeeding struggle!!!

[@caitlinstewart4283]

@@TheDoctorsBjorkman Well said! My lactation consultant was truly a saint!! I knew breastfeeding would be some sort of work in progress, because I'd heard others say, "give it at least 2 weeks". I definitely was not expecting to feel like I was breastfeeding a razorblade, lol. It wasn't until 8 weeks that I found breastfeeding to be tolerable and sometimes comfortable. I've never tried the silverettes, but based on my experience I think I would've loved them. No cream ever gave me relief, but hydrogel pads (Medela) were AMAZING on cracked/blistered nipples. I think my stubbornness enabled me to keep trying, because I have a happy, healthy 4 m.o. who is a breastfeeding champ! It truly is beautiful and natural, as well as efficient for travel and financially, doesn't get much better. It has also kept me from getting back my menses; I'll be interested to see how long that continues. Love your channel and truly appreciate your kind reply!

[@nikolsweeney5235]

Ok soooo besides the point, but the Nancy Wheeler resemblance is amazing!

[@donna6339]

I give birth in two months to my first and I’m terrified ! Thank you for this video

[@dollyglowdoll2752]

My baby girl is due January 4th, 2024 ❤ This video was very informative. Thank You 😇💓

[@khloeluong6448]

I love your videos so much! I’m 34 weeks today with our first baby so this is super helpful! Thank you both so very much for doing this! I hope things are going well for you. Sending love from Australia! ❤️

[@QuiteQuietASMR]

I am 32 weeks with my first baby!! Seems like our pregnancies are very close together! 😊 best wishes to you in the labor, delivery, and post partum process!!

[@laurafinann4172]

Thank you for this video!! I feel like the one thing no one talks about during pregnancy is what mom can expect, physically, after giving birth.

[@kimberlysymonds7517]

I’m in Canada and some of these things are a bit different between the US and Canada We don’t do the Hep B shot right after birth It’s only the vitamin K and eye drops for baby Also I have midwife’s and stay under their care for the first 6 weeks. So we don’t go to the family dr till after 6 weeks

[@burdeo2313]

I’m so happy for you guys! Gah, I want to be a mom so badly! These videos relevancy are far advance into my journey as I’m still TTC, but these are still fun to watch.

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

Sending all the baby dust your way on your TTC journey!!!

[@LeahNicoleMusicToday]

Love how you explained this. I'm 16 weeks. Not nervous yet, but I'm getting there.

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

Thank you and good luck!

[@Kra-ri6fd]

There is no need to be nervous. I've had two. I was very scared the first one. The second one...not at all. Now we're trying for my third baby and I am still not scared. But mom's before me told me there's nothing to be scared of and I was still scared with my first lol. I did get the epidural and that really made it a very enjoyable experience. I am sure going natural can be enjoyable too but to each their own. No pressure one way or the other. Anyway, here I am, giving the unwelcome advice I once hated lol. Sorry about that. I just don't want you being scared.

[@LeahNicoleMusicToday]

@@Kra-ri6fd I've got a few medical conditions, amd just saw I have a marginal cord insertion on top of those which makes me even higher risk. But all that being said, if I can do it, I want a natural delivery (aside from the almost guaranteed induction) and that's scary too. All I can do is be informed and make the decisions I feel are right at the time. ❤️

[@briisblazin7355]

Many nurses don’t take the time to explain these things. I’m on my third and the one thing that always kind of bugged me about all this stuff was nurses coming to “take the baby” for these tests in a “this is what we’re going to do” kind of way and not asking the parents for consent to do these things and explaining why they are important. Both my girls had all these done but I would have appreciated not being told what strangers were just going to do with my baby.

[@lorena-saad]

About to have a baby via c-section anytime now.. so happy with the videos, and glad you’ll do a newborn series this time… perfect timing 🤣

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

Sending you all the smooth c-section vibes!! Praying you have an easy recovery and safe delivery. So excited for you to meet your little one so soon!!

[@seagull9631]

Thank you so much for the information ❤🙏🏻 and the time you put 🙏🏻 however I get more scared as I listen 😅🫣🫣 I’m due in January

[@TheMeh2011]

I'm having my first baby in 9 days in Aoteroa New Zealand and this was really helpful, thank you!

[@raemarks1737]

Great job mama !!! I hope you heal quickly ! 💗💗💗💗 thank you for being so open and sharing!

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

Thank you so much. I feel it is so important and much more useful to be honest and transparent so other mamas know what to expect!! Even as an OBGYN I was really surprised by how hard postpartum and pregnancy were, so wanted to do all we could to help others be prepared. ❤️

[@rachellebrooke4614]

Congratulations! You’re so brave to share that yourself on the internet!

[@gemmabrown-tc1jm]

Thank you for your knowledge. However I am so surprised that circumcising is such a common practise in some parts of the world still.

[@danaclemons5298]

Thank y'all for sharing all this information. I love hearing from your point of views at doctors and parents. Congratulations on your 2nd baby ❤️

[@rosab6259]

I'm getting induced next week. This is my third time watching your video. Thank you so much for those tips ❤ You are the BEST!

[@mariab1850]

Would love to hear any special care instructions for those of us who don’t choose circumcision (since that’s not standard in Europe).

[@Brevislux112]

You don't have to do anything with it. Don't retract the foreskin. Wash it like you would wash a finger

[@MsKatastrophenBarbie]

Do NOT pull back the foreskin. I just saw a video by a german midwife about it.

[@Jenny-ls7hf]

There isn’t anything special for a baby. It’s natural and there’s no injury. Dr. told me just do NOT ever try to retract the foreskin, or it can be incredibly painful and harm the baby. It will retract when they’re older. As males get older, you explain to them how to bathe and clean ones penis properly.

[@ellekay1721]

You don’t need to do anything special. Clean what is seen.

[@ott3rr]

I miss those new born snuggles! Thank you for sharing all of this information! I wish I had these resources when I was a FTM. I was not prepared for how hard/uncomfortable PP was.

[@samanthachristianson8725]

Thank you for this video. I will be having my first baby in August and this video was so informative .

[@sunshinej9494]

This was so helpful for FTM! Thank you so much for the tips and detailed breakdown of what to expect.

[@lizellesophievanwyk2877]

Congratulations on the birth of your baby!

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

Thank you so so much!

[@SoPhenominal]

You are so incredible for recording this after giving birth, thank you so so much for this. I just had my first baby 4 weeks ago to the day and your videos helped me so much to feel prepared and calm. She was born vaginally en caul which was so so cool! Also epidurals are magical, I fully get it now haha 😂

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

Oh you are so welcome! And CONGRATS to you mama!! What a beautiful birth story you have--it is very rare for babies to be born en caul or "in the veil". (It actually happens in less than 1 in 80,000 births!!) I have only seen a few in my career and they are always really magical. And as you know now--SO ARE EPIDURALS!! Mine were truly life changing lol. :) Congrats again. Hope you are adjusting to life with a newborn and getting to know yourself as MAMA.

[@fritnat]

@@TheDoctorsBjorkman I think you'll find a difference between "born en caul" and "in the veil", with the first the waters don't break during delivery while in the latter they do but the baby has part of the amniotic sac "veiling" the face. The 1:80,000 figure is for both however the former is far rarer still and almost invariably premature.

[@mamajacquelinebts9776]

After baby contractions where a shock. That's something I'd let new moms know 😊 great video guys. And congratulations on your adorable new baby son 😁

[@caylarose6658]

So happy your baby come into the world happy and healthy 💕 congratulations

[@ChristyZeke]

One thing that I didn’t know about until my 4th kiddo is that there are two types of bilirubin and both typically get tested. Indirect bili being elevated means you need to nurse more, sunlight, and maybe the light blanket. Direct bili being elevated means there’s a liver issue. My youngest was born with biliary atresia and didn’t know it was even a thing!

[@jennifersanchez6166]

Thank you so much for your videos, I feel less anxious after listening to your videos

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

You are so so welcome. THIS is exactly why we created the channel. Pregnancy is so exciting but also scary and unknown. I always find I am less anxious if I know what to expect, so our hope is these videos help you feel informed and empowered!! We are so glad you are here with us and best of luck on your journey!!

[@abbyluciano605]

You’re both awesome. I pray that God blesses your marriage and family. Thanks for all the information!!

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

Thank you so much!

[@ashby3667]

Thank you so much for all the explanation! My scheduled c section is in 2 weeks and I am quite nervous! Congratulations ❤❤❤ baby boy is so so so cute

[@louisehiggins7748]

Sarah you look amazing. Love that you did a video in the postpartum bathroom, brings back wonderful memories. I would be interested to hear more about your decision to circumcise given that this seems to be such a heated topic in the mom communities. We circumcise but I always feel so judged.

[@PbPomper]

Why do you think that is? Maybe because you feel deep down inside that it's wrong to cut into perfectly healthy babies. It's just a fashion/cultural thing created by the porn industry.

[@magiwie8646]

Thank you for all the information 😊 I'm in the UK and I'm also having a boy in a few weeks. I know they do things here a little differently but it's nice to see what to expect. ❤ Congratulations to you both 🎉

[@randlynch9582]

This is going to be a unique comment. I hope if this is your experience say me too haha. I had no vagina stinging afterwards. I had minimal bleeding I was wearing my regular thin pads. I skipped my motrin few times and my vagina didn’t hurt so much. I only used Motrin for two days postpartum. My belly went down to normal size three days after. It never felt like jello, I felt like my former self. Pooping and peeing was just like before. I pooped an hour after delivery. I never felt sore. Am I a unicorn? For clarity, It was a vaginal delivery with an epidural. Second degree tear, this is my first baby. Funny tid bit, I don’t like cold stuff on my body. It drives me nuts, it makes my skin numb and weird. I didn’t like the dermaplast spray, it’s like someone shot me with a bullet. Like I said I just wore my regular period pads and I was happy and my own underwear too. Breastfeeding journey was terrific. I had my scares about supply but that’s just from not eating enough.

[@beyondsection17]

This was an awesome video! I'm due in a few months (with my first) and I'm so thankful you were willing to share this information!

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

Thank you so much, and best of luck to you and your little one!

[@rachellehman8915]

My hospital did not provide any of the items that you talked about like the ice pack pad. And for a lot of the things I had to go out of my way and ask for them specifically like pads, mesh undies, etc. because they weren’t just given. Also I was induced on a Friday and didn’t give birth until 4:19pm, so there weren’t any lactation consultants available during my hospital stay because it was the weekend. During my stay I was having a very difficult time breast feeding and she would not feed. She would latch and then immediately fall asleep. We tried everything to try to keep her awake. I was severely depressed because I couldn’t get her to feed and I kept asking for help and not receiving any. Then by the time we saw the pediatrician on Tuesday I get scolded for my baby losing too much weight and not supplementing with formula. At that point I was so down both me and my husband left that appointment in tears and I went to exclusively pumping because of it all. I was going to have to pump when I went back to work, but this is not the journey I would have chosen.

[@shudanhao8643]

so so so helpful. Can't thank you guys enough.

[@lakieshamarshall5553]

Very informative. Thank you for all of the details and visualization of the process. LOVE IT!

[@rachelduke1580]

Great video. So happy for you both. Thank you for putting the energy into getting this out so quickly. I'm 36 weeks with my first and trying to soak up all the advice that I can so this is helpful as always ☺️

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

@Rachel Duke you are so welcome and YOU GOT THIS!! So close to meeting your little one. Sending you smooth labor vibes and hopes for a safe birth for both of you!!

[@ativ55]

Can you do a video on birth plans and what should be included, who is it given to, to advocates for it, etc

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

This is a great topic idea. We will put it on our short list of episodes to do in the near future.

[@rachelle2227]

Wow filming a video so early postpartum! I couldn’t imagine. As an artist, I barely worked on my art for months. I was working on one piece for like 6 months.

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

Every postpartum journey is a little different, but we always try to be transparent and share to help other parents prepare!! Sounds like you gave yourself the grace and time you needed to get back to your new normal and your work!!

[@rachelle2227]

@@TheDoctorsBjorkman For sure, it's awesome that you feel well enough to still make videos for all of us. I wish you guys well! I hope to be pregnant with number 2 this year :)

[@valep24]

Your dedication is incredible! Thank you for making this video.

[@A-DIY-FAM]

I’m getting ready to have my 5th child. I really don’t want to stay in the hospital after birth. However, I do know that post delivery care is very important. Is there any way the baby and I can set up outpatient care rather than staying in the hospital? I definitely will be discussing this at my next appointment. Just wanted some feedback from other’s experience.

[@fsihfhsifihsfshifhis]

Can you make a video explaining why you do circumcision? My husband and I are from different cultures, and for him it's natural and for me it seems really unintuitive why you'd cut parts off the baby if you don't have to.

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

Yes! We realize that this topic needs a dedicated episode as it is not a routine practice for male infants across the globe. For many, this is a religious decision and/or societal norm. The procedure is safe and completed with local anesthesia. There is additional data that circumcision is associated with decreased rates of urinary tract infections in young boys and in elderly men, as well as lower rates of sexually transmitted infections, penile cancer, and other penile issues. However, these are notably small differences, and not a standard reason for performing the procedure.

[@fsihfhsifihsfshifhis]

@@TheDoctorsBjorkman really appreciate the thoughtful answer!

[@nickj6138]

@@fsihfhsifihsfshifhis Follow your maternal instinct. In other parts of the world, people don't circumcise and they are fine. Show your husband a video of circumcision (of any age). It is quite painful. I disagree with the two doctors here about pain and the medical benefits. Alas, they are probably trained in the U.S.

[@thorarisan]

Here boys who have issues might be circumsized as teens/pre-teens if doctors recomend. But most of them aren't. UTIs and STDs are still rare.

[@jordanparker938]

@@nickj6138 as an American that grew up in the EU, I completely agree. The studies showing links between increased risk of contracting an STD largely seemed circumstantial, and conducted using participants that weren’t conclusively following a control protocol, and it doesn’t really distinguish whether this increased risk was in any way related to their sexual education levels or how effectively they used protective measures like condoms. Also didn’t take into account lifestyle differences, if I remember correctly. At the end of the day, circumcision in America is HIGHLY the result of stigma and social pressure, and if I have a son, I will not be circumcising unless it is either medically necessary, or he decides that’s what he wants when he is older.

[@katrinabuccieri9307]

Wonderful Wonderful video, thanku for the heads up !

[@pamelab6743]

It’s so funny because I’m watching this a second time mom and you were mentioning nurses cleaning you up & taking the epidural out, labor was such a blur I honestly don’t remember much…. Haha! This time around I hope to have a calmer labor experience with hopefully no heart decels 🙏 also, congrats on baby!!!

[@Elizabeth-ov9ny]

Congrats & thank you so much for this information! I'm 38 weeks with my first and, unfortunately, PP care is shocking in this part of Australia. All I've been told is that I'll be sent home between 4 and 24hrs after delivery. Any information helps! Thank you 🙏

[@TheDoctorsBjorkman]

We are always amazed at the differences from country to country. Here in the US, baby needs to be at least 24 hours old for some of the health screenings which sets the minimum time in the hospital to at least 24 hours. We were excited to leave as soon as possible after that though, and were thankful that both mom and baby were well enough to do so!

[@neetpole5217]

Wow not sure where you are in Oz...my midwife told me to stay as long as i felt like and recommended a stay of at least 4 days (Public hospital system). I believe private usually keeps you for 7 days. If they do, stand your ground and they should back down. Wishing you all the best for your impending birth

[@Elizabeth-ov9ny]

Canberra (public system). Our health system isn't looking too great but fingers crossed it all goes well

[@CraftyMoonshine]

@@Elizabeth-ov9ny what, I’m from Canberra and none of my friends were told that. Canberra has one of the best public systems in the country, I’m not sure why you think it’s so terrible. Perhaps ask to see someone else?

[@Elizabeth-ov9ny]

@Samantha Green I wish that were the case. We have the longest wait times in the country. Our labour experience was shocking, there weren't enough beds available on the day & the midwives were shockingly understaffed. Ended up staying the full 24hrs thankfully, due to complications. But we have a healthy baby girl now so all is well