Q&A with a Labor Nurse || Firing a Nurse, Redhead Hemorrhages, Birth Plans & more!

You asked, I answered!
Instagram: NurseZabe

[@amazingjewell]

You should do a collaboration with mamma dr Jones or just a OB i think it would be intresting

[@brittanycameron8890]

Crystal Fischer yes collab with Mama Dr Jones would be AMAZING!!

[@isabellawaller5327]

Oh yeah great idea!!!

[@TailerAnn]

Yes!

[@maitie6258]

Sarah Lavonne would be another great collab

[@briaunaherrera103]

Please collab with mama dr. Jones... yes! Very needed!!

[@abigailwray6478]

PLEASE do a video on what dads/partners should know about birth

[@Nurse_zabe]

I’ve got one for labor support people!!

[@Amanda-ws5pw]

Can I just say I love you even MORE after hearing you say you're not a fan on circumcision!! Thank you for that!

[@lisemartino2445]

There is a LOT of medical evidence AGAINST circumcision. May I suggest that people research academic articles if you are considering this.

[@andreamann6577]

@@lisemartino2445 YES. My son had to be circumcised he had a foreskin that cut off circulation to his penis but my 1st is intact. I laugh when people say they Do it for hygiene reasons.. There is NO "extra" cleaning involved! You need to clean your baby either way. And a lot of people know don't you're NEVER EVER supposed to pull the foreskin back to "clean"! I love your comment

[@Niccy26]

It's genital mutilation

[@mbwilson8592]

What's really sad is that the American association of pediatrics still recommends it. Makes the decision even more difficult and confusing.

[@makmillionz2003]

Omg thank lawd u don't agree with circumcision 💕💕💕

[@emilynicole9278]

you’re seriously one of the only youtubers who is straight up never negative or bringing bad vibes to my screen. so much love for your content!!

[@michellebastiani6470]

My son was my first and I'm SO happy I didn't circumcise my son. But he's 14 now and ppl still will rag on me for not doing it. My husband isn't and he's just fine and obviously I'm fine with it. Another thing my son learned how to be super hygenic at an early age because of it, I love that!

[@snubblebubble4937]

Thank you for advocating against circumcision! Foreskin is so amazing and important and should not be removed for aesthetic reasons. (I absolutely respect cultural and religious reasons, just not the "his should look like mine" or "it's just what you do" reasons)

[@ashleyashleym2969]

cultural reasons are aesthetic reasons btw. Religious reasons are just as ridiculous imo though. I don't think any type of elective procedure should be allowed on a minor regardless of the reason, the only reason a circumcision should ever be performed on a minor is for medical reasons.

[@itscool770]

Yes! My husband is circumcised and our son isn’t. My husband wishes his parents never did that to him. I know other men who are upset about the removal of their foreskin as well. It feels like genital mutilation to me.

[@isabellawaller5327]

I can’t understand the difference in western culture that female genital mutilation is seen as a horrific action but circumcision is no big deal??

[@graceleal3909]

My husband isn't, and when my grandma found out(at my bridal shower thanks to his mom) she took me aside and told me how how disgusting it was to be with an uncircumcised man. I just kind of chuckled and said I was having no problem with it lol.

[@clothyoriginal]

I live in a country where this isn't the norm, I lived in the u.s for a short while & was so shocked (and disgusted) that this is done routinely on tiny newborn babies, it's as shocking to me as it probably would be for you if they started doing it on baby girls, its the same thing. Circumcision does happen here but really only one specific religious group which isn't hugely common here and it's not done at birth. If you're going to circumcise your baby, really think why you are doing it, is it just a social norm for you?

[@TheSMarie42]

♥️♥️♥️ I didn't circumcise my son and have delt with a lot of people in my mom's generation telling me how dirty it is not to. Thank you so much, I watched 1 circumcision and could never do it to my son. I don't bully people that choose to do it but I would just never cut off a part of someone that they're naturally born with that isn't causing them issues at the time. I've been watching your videos for a while but I just now subscribed.

[@odasisss1206]

I wish I could’ve asked a question for this but can you please do a video on delayed cord clamping?

[@foreverbullymom3034]

Odasis Torres yes yes let’s have a video about that

[@irishlass777]

The “crunchier” nurses like you are the reason I had an unmedicated birth. My doula is also like 99% of how I had the empowered birth I had! When I first checked in i had an exhausted and unsupportive nurse who laughed when i said I wanted to go unmedicated but luckily the next nurse on shift got me though it!

[@lisemartino2445]

Yay for you! Doulas statistically improve many aspects of birth, including decreased use of caesarean (25%), increased likelihood of spontaneous vaginal birth (8%), decreased use of medication for pain relief (10%), decreased risk of low 5 minute Apgar score (38%), etc. (Hodnett Etsy al. (2017) “continuous support for women during childbirth”, Cochrane database of systematic reviews CD003766).

[@maitie6258]

Lise Martino I wanted a doula when I was pregnant with my first was told by my midwives that doulas just get in the way and cause conflicts in the labour and delivery room and I really wish I stood my ground on it as my birth went exactly the way I wanted to avoid. I’m in the U.K. and they aren’t as common here, it’s a shame.

[@irishlass777]

Maitie • such a shame!! Doulas are miracle workers at least mine was...she kept me changing positions, did counter pressure and massage, brought me cool wash cloths, gave me little bites of food, helped me begin nursing, advocated for me...on and on...she is an angel!

[@OSB911]

31 weeks and practically on bedrest. I vote for four hour videos! ;-)

[@joannediaz8978]

I'm in the same boat. Trying not to stress and praying to make it to full term.

[@caitlin6324]

Thank you for your opinion on circumcision! Some people don't do the research and just do what their husband prefers or what the US culture used to propagate.

[@melissajae87]

I'm so glad you spoke your 2 cents on circumcision! We've decided not to circumcise our son who I'll be having in the next few weeks (due in 3 weeks), and I feel like people judge when you choose not to put your child through this unnecessary procedure.

[@jestineburggraf]

My first son is circed only because we were uneducated about it not being a necessary medical procedure. My second son is intact. I regret getting my first son done but I didn't know what I didn't know. That's not an excuse, and I feel guilty about it each time I change his butt or bathe him but at this point it is what it is and I can't go back. I just try to advocate to new moms to do the research because they won't tell you unless you specifically ask.

[@celinenoelle2139]

My partner and I decided against it as well. I felt really bad about it when we were trying to decide and I thought, well if I feel this bad about it, we shouldn't. His pediatrician literally said thank you when he was putting away the tools they use to do it. Made me feel so much better.

[@cassidybrewer]

Melissa Reyna I didn’t circ my son (now 19 months old) and we got A TON of judgment from old school people (like our parents and grandparents) but thankfully the tide is turning on that one. People are doing it less and less, so I’m confident that my son will not be judged for it later in life. I think it’s important to allow him to make that decision for himself. Consent is everything.

[@bwhitedpencilbox889]

Thanks for asking about abuse and how to talk to providers about personal needs. The book “When Survivors Give Birth” by Penny Simkin is a great resource and I think all providers and abuse survivors could benefit from it. It goes in depth about communication between patients and providers. I had a really hard time feeling safe with my medical team although no one treated me bad. I wrote a trauma statement explaining my needs and it helped immensely with my midwives.

[@katiepershing9935]

Thanks for sharing! I’m gonna check it out. I had the trauma talk with my doctor at my last appointment and my trauma comes from being seen uh unclothed. So we talked about me staying as covered as possible.

[@mbwilson8592]

I loved your advice on requesting another nurse due to personality conflict. The majority of nurses (in all areas of nursing) truly care ALOT about pleasing people. It's not ok to be abusive to medical staff. Of course this does not pertain to medical staff mistreating patients- always advocate for yourself and loved ones. But as a whole, nurses bust their asses and are not paid to be punching bags.

[@jroostah]

Whether or not one agrees with your stance on circumcision, I feel you presented your opinion in a kind manner. I agree with the other(s) who've said you should collab with Mama Doctor Jones!!

[@AudreeAdam]

I think you are very kind and I'm glad you want to put a line between your personal life, your KZbin life and your professional life. I think it's really important. I love how respectful you are. You give your opinions without shaming or discarding someone else's and that is just great. I understand why people would want you as their labor nurse. I agree with a lot of things you said, especially about birth plans, doula and circumcision! Love your channel :)

[@VS-re1sr]

One time I pulled aside a resident (doctor) to let them know they talk with their hands, which is scary when they are holding an uncapped sharp. This person took it very well, and I think appreciated the head's up without any feeling of being in trouble with their leadership.

[@tayberjk2559]

I have always loved your videos but I am SO happy to hear you are pro-intact! I love you even more for it!! I’m so glad many parents are becoming more aware of the misinformation out there about circumcision and that it is simply not necessary.

[@raelynrayne1710]

Can you do 10 things for plus size moms ?

[@ashleym6881]

Raelyn Rayne yes!

[@sonecasoneca]

Yes please!

[@JenJ2018]

I would love that too

[@sabrinabutler1421]

I would love it!! Please 😁

[@user-tl5tv3ub1t]

She did one!🥳

[@pinds83]

I really appreciate your opinion on circumcision. I'm haveing a girl this time, but if I ever have a boy, my husband and I are definitely on the same page: We hate the idea of circumcision!

[@NWatson12]

Gosh, I'm so afraid to have an uncaring nurse to be honest. I ask a lot of questions and must know everything and it drives my obgyn crazy (which is not a good sign). Thank you very much for all the information you share🤰

[@ayastorm5507]

That moment when you very quickly and subtly explained why most hospitals in the us currently don't allow for water births was actually really helpful. Like, I thought it had to do with sanitization or whatever, but access makes so much more sense.

[@ashleybows5289]

My husband was useless during my labor with my daughter, he freaked out seeing me in that much pain. Im so glad my nurse stepped in and helped guide him . I was considering a dula but around me they’re so expensive.

[@kp8200]

I was assaulted and my pregnancy was rough. I made sure I had a plan cause I wasn't to the point where skin to skin and breastfeeding was something I wanted to do. And to avoid the awkwardness during delivery and for after I knew I should plan ahead. When I was in labor there was another woman who happened to be in labor the same time, I swear looking back at it my labor nurse practically delivered my baby, my doctor came in and litterally told me to "stop pushing cause I have to get my gloves on" I didn't know how to stop and it kind of made me mad cause the amount of pressure how could he expect me to just stop. I don't know if he forgot cause he just delivered another baby before coming into my room but when I pushed my son out he was put right on me and I was overwhelmed with emotions not only cause I just gave birth but I was not wanting that kind of contact yet and it stressed me out that from there on would anything I had in my plan I gave be followed. My nurse was really the only one who seemed to actually read what I had in my plan. And when her shift was up the next nurse and doctor was trying to push breastfeeding so much. I wish people paid more attention to the plans and not be annoyed by it. When she came back the next day I cried tears of joy cause I could tell she genuinely cared about my experience and feelings. And that makes such a huge difference he was my first baby and overall if it wasn't for her I wouldn't of been able to get through it. I made sure to write her and thank her for being such a great nurse. Wish there were more nurses like you and the one I had. Cause you guys do make such a huge difference ❤️

[@acjessie6]

As a labor nurse, the most annoying thing a patient can do: When patients dont realize that their nurse and the care team is literally pouring their care and heart into them and their family. It just sort of hurts to have patients complain or not realize that we are giving our absolute BEST. It hurts when patients come in with the mindset of "what to watch out for". What I mean is, general feelings of distrust of the medical system and staff. Nurses love when patients and families ask questions, seek yo understand, and make their own informed choices, but being challenged and questioned of our knowledge, professionalism, and intentions does hurt!! We are your care team and here to support YOU!!

[@Oddsocks99]

I see where you're coming from, but unfortunately sometimes the care isn't as it should be. Having had poor care during labour, and a lack of informed consent around procedures, I did complain. An enquiry established the hospital staff had been at fault, and that both myself and my baby were put at unnecessary risk as a result. Going into a subsequent birth I absolutely would not trust the people looking after me, because I've learned the hard way that you can't. My birth planning would be focused on protecting myself and my baby from medical staff. It's not how it should be, but unfortunately sometimes it's how it is.

[@erinaa9486]

Sorry, but a lot of what is standard in US hospitals is actually not in people's best interest. For example, being starved--on a liquid diet--saps the laboring mother's strength, yet it's basically an ironclad rule.

[@acjessie6]

So sorry that you had poor care :( that is hard to go into the next birth feeling safe. Yes, nurses are in a tight spot to navigate patient advocacy, patient rights, hospital policies, etc. We are slowly making change and progress. We can make improvements together over time :)

[@jacquelynhavlik5577]

Well when I as a black woman im more likely to DIE having a baby (like 300%) or routinely not believed, Im wary of staff.

[@MummaQuan]

Yes to the longer videos! Dishes, that’s exactly what I do while watching videos like this & I love it when I don’t have to find a new one to click on while I’m doing them 😂 are you stalking me? How do you know these things? 🤣

[@rebeccas7366]

I'm originally from Australia and circumcision is illegal in Australia so when I moved to the US and since I am having my baby here have started going to hospital classes and was surprised to learn it was legal here after some parents were asking questions. I understand that it may be a part of some religious faiths and it's not my business what someone decides to do with their baby boy but I share your sentiments and don't agree with it. I've also heard it can affect sensitivity in a man's sex life, not sure if that's true or not.

[@amberflaugh2067]

Could you do a video on being induced ? The different ways to be induced and how it can affect you differently then going into labor on your own. I’m super nervous about being induced in this next month and would love to know more about the process🙂

[@lindseystraley9596]

Don't be nervous!!! I was absolutely scared to death to be induced. I had panic attacks just thinking about it. Vomiting from fear. It wasn't bad at all. The worst part out of everything was getting my epidural because I could feel it making its way up my back.

[@MeettheMorgans]

I remember after I had my son, I felt so bad for the nurse that had to help me get cleaned up. I told her I was so sorry. She told me to not worry. She's there to help me. 💜On the other hand, during my labor, there was a nurse that forced an exam when I was in a lot of pain and told her no. I was left traumatized for years after. I am due any day with my baby girl, and I'm terrified that she will be there. Because of this video, I know what to do to be sure she won't be there for the birth of my baby. Thank you

[@kenzeeharmon4162]

What she did to you is considered assault and I really hope that you're able to keep her from your delivery room.

[@emilyorr8763]

I agree with your stance on circumcision. My husband is 100% against me on it. He thinks it would be absolutely crazy not to circumcise. Everyone in his family for every generation has been and he thinks it would be absurd not to. I have no idea how to sway him

[@annem1816]

While I havent ever worked in a hospital with human patients, I have worked with animals. And people wanting to gift us stuff as the nurses takeing care of their baby(I.e cat, dog, rabbit etc etc) is pretty much the same thing, and I do have some preferences. 1.Anything goes, really, anything goes. Some stuff is kinda harder then others though. We will love you forever if you feed us. 2.A full cake is yummy as heck, but when it’s crazy busy(when is it not?) it’s really hard to get two seconds to sit down and eat a piece. Later when our shift is over we may try get our hands on a slice that hasn’t been eaten yet, but it’s generally kinda difficult. Also, having the space in our fridge might be a difficult thing , if the cake kinda needs it on a hot day. So, something easily snackable, in like three bites or less. Something you can eat with one hand, with no plate(chances are we don’t have time to wash any atm, this is different every clinic you go to). 3. It helps if it’s not something that sticks to your teeth, or takes forever to eat(caramels, hard candy). We will eat them too, seriously, but when you know you have to go to a new patient in just a few seconds you kinda cant pop a candy in your mouth, no matter how bad you want to. And when you see a bowl of candy after stressing over sick patients for 5hours straight, you want to. 4. Allergies is a serious thing, so you may want to avoid the most common ones like nuts. Though we as staff will probably know if a colleague has that allergy or we ourselves do, and ofc will avoid eating it, it’s hard to control if you eat some or bring to the consultation room/office(Idk how strict this in different countries and hospitals, clinics) it’s not a common thing to know about the other patients and customers present. Ofc if you have a severe allergy of something it will in your file in these cases here though. 5. It does not have to be sweets, chocolate or cake. We will happily munch all sorts of chips,crisps whatever you call it, and fruits. Fruits can be the holy grail on a night shift with stressful heart wrecking cases . Again, beware of allergies though these are slightly more uncommon. I once knew two people who could not be in the same room where an orange had been peeled, they left with their eyes puffed up and red whenever that happened, and orange is a normal thing to eat here in my country during Easter(again, only speaking for this county, I don’t know about any other countries eating tradition during Easter) Adding onto this, if you feed us food like prepared sandwiches or baguettes and stuff, and I don’t mean a full grand lunch but something small we can eat with it like an appertizer, while it’s not common thing people do, we will still eat it and love it. One lady I knew once, she was the sweetest. She was alone, not hurting for money and she only had her dog. She used to ask us all the time if we needed lunches made for us or dinners, and she would just pop by with soup, dinners and sandwiches all the time. I don’t know the different policies on getting home made food though, some places frown upon that.(Because some people are mean and ruin it for others by putting bad stuff in the food) Wow I just realized this is getting kinda big, so I’ll go for the final one and just stop typing. 6. Ask!! We probably have a favorite snack we all want to have around! And PLEASE send a thank you note with it, so we know who you are, and we LOVE pictures!! Okay that’s all I had to say on that xD

[@DamenJEver]

I have always loved your videos, they make me so calm but I would really like to know more about getting the placenta out and the problems that may or may not occur while the procedure of getting the placenta out is happening. I have heard some serious traumatizing stuff but there are also not that many that do talk about it and it would just be great to have you as a nurse talk a little about it, of course if you want to and have the time!

[@andreamann6577]

I'm a veterinary assistant for large animals, equine cattle etc. So I sympathize with getting kicked in the face during deliveries 😂

[@lindseystraley9596]

Girl yes. I'm a mixed practice tech and I vividly remember a huge mutt (110+ lbs) literally kicking me across the room during a blood draw.

[@Kaufdroppp]

I circumcised my son but I love your perspective on every topic! I am open minded to new information but my husband wanted it done and it was not a bad experience for my son thankfully. I don't believe its the same as removing a females clitorus. Thank you for being respectful about it

[@michellebastiani6470]

I now live in Chicago and have had my last two babies here. There is something called a daisy award for nurses. I put in two names to nominate with my 2nd baby and one with my third baby. I LOVED that I was able to let the nurse's who really we're amazing how thankful I was 😇

[@safia6790]

Thank you for being respectful about your views- especially your views on circumcision. Circumcision is an important rite/tradition in many faiths. Love your videos! ❤️

[@alyssabethea2719]

Love your comment on circumcision. I 100% agree as a fellow LDR/PP nurse. Have you considered doing a video on severe tearing or birth trauma? I suffered a 4DT and have been doing advocacy for other 4DT mamas. Feel free to reach out to me!

[@Jessagirlie]

I’m due in March with my fifth baby. And I love your videos. I feel like even after as many babies I’ve had and have gone through this, I’ve learned even more! Listening to you is so calming. And yes ladies most labor nurses are great. I’ve had awesome ones that were so great at their job and cared and had my back through the whole thing and encouraged me and all that great stuff.

[@bronwynsiriushealing8412]

Nurses are angels. The glue in the medical field. I'm due in a few weeks, in a different country. Your information is very useful! Thank you! ❤

[@twinks92]

You are actually the nicest person ever! :D I’m not a mom or expecting , (Although me and my partner want a baby one day) but Your videos are really interesting! At least I’ll be super prepared when I do decide to have a baby! Lol Great video! :)

[@lilyjex5599]

Thank you so much for making these videos! First time mom here. I have found your videos so comforting and helpful. Thank you so much!❤

[@britbear6330]

Thank you so much for talking about disclosing any abuse that has happened - I’ve googled the topic to death and couldn’t find anything but it’s something I constantly worry about. I’m not pregnant but I always worry about when I get to that point people are going to constantly be checking you down there and I feel unable to say no if it’s a male doctor because I worry I’m being difficult ! Because obviously it’s a normal part of being pregnant

[@AllyFlaisch]

I love that you referenced Adam Ruins Everything!! I love that show! I don’t agree with circumcision either.

[@figlia-della-luna]

I’m a 20 year old college student, I am not pregnant nor planning on getting pregnant soon, but I love watching your videos. I’m majoring in forensic science so there’s nothing related to the topics you usually talk about but I always enjoy learning something new. ❤️

[@Athelrose]

I love finding a channel with such new (to me) and incredibly helpful real world info. Also yes to long videos!

[@deborahfont8697]

The thing with circumcision, in the nursery they give your baby a bolus of glucose and use an that goes around the idy bity penis and it has a blade on top that they will pull up skin and swing the blade around and it cuts off the foreskin. The baby will scream so loud and it bleeds. This person is the pediatrician who does it andalot of ti es they will cut off too much which causes problems later. At the hospital I use to work at, the urologist performs this when they are older in the OR. I am going to wait until later.

[@terrastephenson7506]

I laughed out loud when you said you wished humans in general would just stop vomiting! Thank you for your videos, Elizabeth! I'm 34 weeks with my first, and I have learned a ton from you!

[@tararowen1570]

Your videos are amazing! I love that you talk about procedures without making them scary. I found out yesterday they are inducing me 3 weeks early because of a rare and potentially dangerous complication. Researching induction was scarier then learning about the complication. And your videos have helped me a lot with what questions to ask my doctor, as well as relieving the anxiety about the sudden change.

[@xdiamondbabyx]

For one reason or another every one in my family has had several hospital stays, including birth:) On every instance we bring gift baskets (for both day and evening shift). We offer a variety of goodies, snacks and drinks:) 💜And often when there’s that REALLY SPECIAL NURSE they quietly get something special just for them:) While also praising them verbally and in writing, to those that should know just how fortunate they are to have them in their employ:)💜

[@ashleybows5289]

I had donuts and coffee delivered to the hospital after my labor. Now I will bring the treats while im in labor 😂

[@graceleal3909]

I had a doctor that I was seeing for a few months, she wasn't my primary, but my primary was busy, so I was seeing her. She was always just kind of rude, and for me the final straw to switch to a different doctor was she told me it was "impossible for you to be pregnant" one day before I got a positive test. She then had me get a blood test and over the phone told me, "so, you are pregnant but your numbers are super low so get retested in a week." And hung up. She didn't even give me the chance to ask any questions. So when I switched back to my primary, she had my primary call me and ask me why I switched, I basically just said that I just felt it was time to switch back to my primary since I would be coming in so much in the next 9 months. It was still SUPER awkward.... I felt like I was in 8th grade again.

[@jonyrey8078]

I had a horrible experience with my labor nurse. Every time she would check me she would make a face. I had a really bad tear with this delivery, one going towards the back and a small towards the front I was so swollen down there. When she checked me after I delivered she told me I looked different down there. Instead of enjoying my new baby I was so embarrassed the whole time I was at the hospital. I wish I would have known or been brave enough to ask for a different nurse.

[@inalaska1208]

How would you recommend talking to labor staff about birthing in a different then traditional position?? I personally like to be on my feet or knees (crouching) while holding a grab bar. My last midwife was supper cool with birthing in any position. However she retired and my new girl is an OB I am not sure how flexible she would be.

[@andrewhaywood3853]

I don’t understand why women ask for permission. It’s your body, and you have a right to put it into whatever position works best for you and your pain.

[@virgo81chick]

I love pineapple, but since becoming pregnant, I taste dirt- literally like there is soil on the pineapple. It is so gross :( also, I really hate that I never did any preconception stuff bc I was told id never get pregnant (pcos and thyroid issues). Here I am 11 weeks at 38 yrs old finally pregnant.

[@crazymusicchick]

Thyroid effects fertility ? My mum has thyriod issues and i guess it didnt effect hers i have 2 brothers lol

[@Taylorphernelia]

35 weeks now and becoming much less anxious and more excited about my upcoming birth! I am in New Zealand and I am planning for an unmedicated water birth at my local hospital with my midwife. I have been watching your videos since I was 20 weeks and you have definitely helped me be more confident and ready for the birth preference I have chosen. Thank you so much! You're an amazing lady x

[@mphomolapo1562]

Just a little more encouragement: *You can do it!* Labor is not that bad.. it gets progressively heavier, but you'll be surprised how you adjust. *Plus the pressure means your body is working right.* Don't give up, you can do it!! ❤👋❤

[@roseharvey-denyer6717]

Yay super happy that I got here so quickly, I'm currently 29 weeks and love the content you cover! Makes me more at ease and feel like being a first time mum is not the end of the world ❤️ Really appreciate your help and advice during my journey 💚💜💙🧡💛

[@MummaQuan]

Congratulations! I’m on my third pregnancy lol but I promise it’s not as scary as some people make it seem. You got this girl 😊💕

[@roseharvey-denyer6717]

@@MummaQuan Bless you, thank you so much 💖💝

[@23rsnyder]

Thank you for talking about how trauma impacts the delivery experience. I have not experienced physical abuse, but I experienced two prior miscarriages prior to the healthy birth of my son. One of those was very traumatic due to me hemorrhaging and the things they had to do very quickly to stop the bleeding (later discovered I have Von Willenbrand's Disease). As a result, cervical checks were extremely triggering to me, and I had many of them during my three days of labor (preeclampsia, induction, baby was transverse...whole thing sucked. Anyway). I felt ashamed to cry during these and like my staff did not understand. It was a really difficult delivery overall just compounded by the fact that I had already had such terrifying experiences with child loss before. We should definitely talk about this more.

[@vickig7027]

You saying you're against circumcision made me love you so much more. Im so scared to say im against it because it always causes me to be on the other side of a firing squad.

[@thevanmarenfamily]

Could you talk more about the details of getting an episiotomy? It's one of my biggest birth fears. 😬

[@mphomolapo1562]

Yikes.. friend, umm.. if you REALLY REALLY want to see search on youtube for diagraham or actual procedure (if you're feeling brave).. *I'd rather tear or opt for a c-section..* Just being honest 😓

[@erinaa9486]

There's no reason to get one. Doctors do it when they get impatient when the birth of taking too long. There have been actual studies that you can find by googling that show it is always better to just tear. You have the right to outright refuse to be cut from the outset.

[@thevanmarenfamily]

@@erinaa9486 that's really good to know, thank you!!!

[@mckenzyworthington5459]

I had one done while I had my daughter. Her heart beat was declining and my blood pressure was dropping too. I didn't feel it when they cut and my healing didn't take any longer I feel. I didn't have alot of pain. That is my story I am sure there are others who had a worse experience. But mine wasn't bad.

[@thevanmarenfamily]

@@mckenzyworthington5459 Thank you so much for sharing your experience! ❤️ That is very encouraging to hear that you did not have a terrible experience with it. 😊

[@username5753]

Would you consider doing a video for pregnant healthcare workers? Especially with covid going on rn, my employer is restricting my access to suspected/confirmed patients. But more than that I previously didn’t know that I shouldn’t be around people with chickenpox/shingles. What about meningitis or the flu? What kind of restrictions should we place on ourselves in dealing with patients etc

[@ashleybellerose7104]

I've never met anybody that's really judging about the Epidural, but I have had a lot of people judge mental at the fact I'm not getting my son circumcised. Its like shut up I didn't ask for your opinion you do you and I do me

[@vonricter222]

Ashley Bellerose exactly! Plus, I find it to be inappropriate and kind of rude if someone asks me a question about my son’s penis, regardless if you choose to circumcise or leave him intact. It’s Like um why do you want to know about an infant’s penis? Lol

[@Tiffanydw4]

Why don’t we use nitrous oxides or laughing gas in the US?

[@mv6429]

Yes! Would love to know this

[@Nurse_zabe]

Some hospitals are starting to. Our hospital got it earlier this year!

[@sitcomchristian6886]

I used nitrous oxide during my daughter's birth in December 2018-January 2019 (....it was a long labor lol) and I live in the States

[@KasumiReed]

My Hubby and I love watching your videos! They have helped us a lot. Especially him since is his first child. We thank you so much for tips.

[@donitawhite8111]

Regarding the episiotomy, I think it's doctor dependent. My first child was posterior (face up instead of face down) and I had an epidural so it took me 4 hours to push him out (with the help of forceps). I ended up with an episiotomy. My second child was also posterior but no epidural and no pain meds. 100% natural (not by choice, trust me). I again pushed for 4 straight hours to get him out. No episiotomy with him. The doctor that delivered my second child was amazing and kept stretching my perineum to avoid ripping and/or cutting.

[@nurse-em]

I respect her opinion on this video regarding circumsicion. But as a surgical nurse who has seen many, many cases of phimosis requiring surgery on 9 to 11 year olds, as well as elderly men who could not take care of themselves and their penises (due to dementia, lack of mobility etc), I respectfully disagree. So, Pros A decreased risk of urinary tract infections. A reduced risk of some sexually transmitted diseases in men. Protection against penile cancer and a reduced risk of cervical cancer in female sex partners. Prevention of balanitis (inflammation of the glans) and balanoposthitis (inflammation of the glans and foreskin). Prevention of phimosis (the inability to retract the foreskin) and paraphimosis (the inability to return the foreskin to its original location). Cons Pain Risk of bleeding and infection at the site of the circumcision Irritation of the glans Increased risk of meatitis (inflammation of the opening of the penis) Risk of injury to the penis And the risk of death (as with any surgical procedure) And unfortunately we don't have enough research to support recommending or to actually determine the amount of nerve endings on the foreskin or the affected sensitivity when the procedure is done as the research is too old, conflicting and inconclusive. No judgement. You do what you think is best for your child.

[@MissRegionRat]

Emily Rosales It’s linked to an increased risk of SIDS

[@nurse-em]

@@MissRegionRat I have seen that mentioned but I would like to find the original research article since there is blood loss with circumcision but SIDS happens among females as well, who did not lose any blood. I have to do further research.

[@Sam-rn9di]

Another con I remember reading into is that some men are much much less sensitive after circumcision and cannot experience pleasure the same way. However I can see how this would be difficult to measure as most men are circumcised at birth and will never know if it is more pleasurable to be uncut

[@Xnedrashallan]

Both of my brothers ended up with phimosis issues that causes urination issues and infections when they grew older, leading to needing to be circumcised at an older age. Because of the risk of it being genetic, we elected to have our son circumcised after consulting with our doctor. But it was such a hard decision. Because it does seem to be a rare complication, and there was no way of knowing whether or not our son would actually need that surgery. I often think that if we have another son that we won’t circumcise. But then wonder, what if he needs surgery when he is older? That said, I really appreciate how she explains her opinion, and do agree, based on doctors opinions, that for most situations circumcision is unnecessary.

[@Ishyona]

I fired my first labor nurse. We have a shortage of labor nurses in my country. When I found out I was pregnant, there was only one lady who was available. I have a high risk pregnancy, because of family history. When I told her I wanted to give birth in hospital with an epidural, she was trying to talk me into doing a natural home birth. My sister and mum nearly died giving birth, and I just wouldn't feel safe giving birth at home. But she told me she was going to convince me otherwise, and that if she found out I'd been doing any research on my own she was going to tell me off. I went on the waiting list for a different nurse, and as soon as one was available I switched. My new labor nurse is absolutely wonderful.

[@bobbiecook6067]

I love that you are against circumcision. It shouldn’t be a thing specially something that is done for no religious reasons

[@evilclown42]

Totally had my son on hands and knees. It was awesome. My midwife said she was impressed.

[@ViTheWay]

I also think circumcision is unnecessary, I told my partner “If baby is a boy we’re not doing that.” And my partner fully agreed! We agree on everything when it comes to preference, I think my partner is mostly just going with the flow as long as I’m happy. As for people wanting to know where you work, I agree you should keep the two separate for privacy as much as I’d love to have you as a nurse! Love your videos thank you for being informative and so open about labor, I found your videos before getting pregnant and now I’m 7 months with a baby girl.❤️

[@dominiquedanielle6411]

Before I was educated about circumcision I was all for it. if I had a son myself I would not choose to circumcise now

[@karibush6629]

Nurses are the best.

[@kaci406]

About the circumcision... Dont ever let people pull a religious string on it. Yes, it was used in the bible in the old testament to signify that you were of Abraham's decent, confirming your covenant with God. BUT in the Bible when Jesus died on the cross, it was no longer necessary. I know not everyone is a Christian, and not everyone who circumcises their child is a Christian. I'm just saying, that people who use that as an excuse, are simply wrong. I was brainwashed for 20 years to believe that it was sinful to no circumcise you're son, but I have a boyfriend now who isnt, so I Googled it and did a little bit a research on it. It is 100% UNNECESSARY to circumcise/mutilate your child. After doing some research and talking to my boyfriend I have come to the decision that when I have children, if i have a boy, i will not be having him circumcised. There is just not point. Unless something was medically wrong and it needed to be done, I dont want that for my (future) sons.

[@mantharie529]

‘Don’t let people pull a religious string on it’ - Jewish people still exist.

[@Jhb420]

Thanks so much for your videos! I am 30 weeks with my first baby and your videos have helped greatly ease some fears and answer tons of questions.

[@jestlamb1120]

Please do a video on hyperemesis gravidarum.

[@CRDinger]

Please do!!! I'm listening while I'm still vomiting at 28 weeks.

[@amandab6034]

😂future Elizabeth, I always get chores done when I listen.......

[@JenJ2018]

Birth preferences! Totally using this!

[@AudreeAdam]

I read a study about the redheads, I'll try to find it. It was really interesting.

[@shootingstarshell1]

Yes girl!!! Circumcision should be illegal.

[@TenikkaRose76]

Could you do a "10 Things" video on VBAC? I'm due in 30 days, 4th aaand final, yaaaay!!🎉🎉 Btw, I just discovered your channel about 3 weeks ago, and you're awesome!!! Thanks for doing what you do!

[@Nurse_zabe]

I’ve got one!!

[@TenikkaRose76]

@@Nurse_zabe cool beans, will look for it today!! Thanks again!

[@annakatzberg8522]

You know . I really hate doing dishes and cleaning my kitchen..but ever since I found you I have enjoyed it much better hahha I just put your videos on and listen and watch as I do the dishes and clean my kitchen! Thank you for being so knowledgeable and sweet ❤️

[@sabrinagonzales5884]

Thank you for posting this video! I agree with you on circumcision. However I got my son circumcised because his dad was very adamant about having it done. He was very self conscious about himself and didn’t want his son to be insecure. Which I understand for men but honestly if his dad wasn’t there I wouldn’t have circumcised

[@stephanielawler1951]

Same, I'm having another son in April 2020 and I dont want to circumcise him. >_

[@sabrinagonzales5884]

Stephanie Morcillo I don’t see the big deal! Men are more frantic about it than women are! 100% I wouldn’t have sent my son back there to get circumcised if his dad wasn’t there. Unnecessary pain ☹️😪 but I did hear it’s better for sanitary reasons as well. And I’m glad my son won’t have to feel insecure either lol

[@freedominabudget]

This was so helpful! Just added thank you cards to my hospital bag list!

[@amandaknowles2998]

You just got a lot more respect from me for your position on circumcision! I was not expecting your view on it at all, but I was pleasantly surprised. You are correct- it is not medically necessary! I wish more people in the US were better educated about it.

[@Gabriyona]

Yes redheads need extra anesthesia, I always do. With my first birth I didn’t bleed very much. Second one is next week so I’ll see when that happens

[@dogsrsoawesome]

Can someone tell me why people are against circumcision? I've read about having a boy circumcised has health benefits. A couple examples I've read are, prevention of penile cancer which is found in the foreskin or less likely to contract a UTI.

[@sassybdiy7565]

I'm against it because there's nothing wrong with extra skin! If I wouldn't let them circ my daughter I'm not allowing my son to be cut. It's not medically necessary!

[@GAPCR490]

UTI and penile cancer amongst men are rare. In most countries, their medical boards do not recommend this on infant unless it's medically necessary. They believe that the benefits are minimal. Even WHO don't recommend this as a preventive measure for cancer. WHO only stated that this procedure may be beneficial in preventing/reducing AIDS only if YOU LIVE IN AN AREA WITH NO ACCESS TO CLEAN WATER AND CONDOMS. It's not even hard to clean, just teach boys basic hygiene, as you do with girls. Moreover, shouldn't the owner of the body has a final say especially since this is a permanent alteration??

[@lkbd12345]

Had a friend who had to get circumcised at 17 because of almost constant infections. I don’t know anything about the rates of this happening but I wouldn’t wish it on an enemy…

[@laurenlacroix669]

"Thanks for attending my TEDtalk."

[@nighthawknina86]

i'm not an L&D nurse i'm a veterinary assistant. what annoys me most is when owners will tell the vet something completely different from what they tell me. we go in and ask the important questions before the vet and it drives me nuts when they answer so differently

[@melissathorn6423]

I love your videos. I've been watching for awhile. And now I'm 16 weeks pregnant with my first and they have helped alot with questions to ask my doctors.

[@rmctwm]

So glad you are pro intact!!! Wish all nurses and doctors were

[@chelseaf1994]

I have read a lot, and I mean a LOT, about the continued use of the 'husband stitch' - often done without knowledge of let alone consent from the mama. Is there some way to prevent it? Do you just bring it up yourself and tell them hey if you give me an extra stitch I'll rearrange your face, or? Haha okay maybe not so violent, but for real... It's awful, and I'm terrified of that happening. (I'm not pregnant but I am planning for it, and my anxiety is at an all time high.)

[@emilykirby1017]

Can you do a video on shoulder dystocia. It happened with my first delivery, will it happen again with my next baby? What's your experience clinically with this? What could I do to prevent this from happening or lessen the chance?

[@triple98756]

I have not had a child, and don’t plan on one soon. I’m a chef 33years old woman. Your q&a hit the nail on the head. I’m taking notes when I’m 38-40 and can have time to have a child. I love your videos.

[@brandiwynetorres4678]

Please post the twin delivery video... I’m 33 weeks with di-di boys and I honestly don’t know how I’m going to make it to 38 weeks!

[@katiecarlson2329]

I saw an infant have get circumcised in nursing school and decided I wouldn’t want to put my child through that pain. I’m currently 21 weeks pregnant with my first baby, a boy. Now his dad wants him to be circumcised and the main reason he gives is so they will look alike.

[@cassidybrewer]

I had mostly great nurses during my labor and delivery process. I had a notably horrible one, and thankfully she was at the end of her shift right when I was admitted, because she was clearly in a very bad mood.

[@psychopsilocybin00]

It’s so funny because I just had an appointment with my ob and she mentioned that I should be fine because redheads do really well in labor 🤷🏻‍♀️ not sure what she meant by that

[@hellcat66able]

Yeah, I've heard that a lot too. Apparently they're better at labouring and don't have as much pain. How true this is I don't know though 😁

[@libbyrose1996]

Please do the two delivery video next! I love your videos ❤️ currently 9weeks with twins & am a first time mom

[@tiinalalasong2282]

I'm pregnant with our second child. Still on first trimester but already thinking about the birth. Most likely my husband will stay at home with our first child when I'll go to the hospital. I'm fine with being with out a support person. My only worry is how this affects my plan to have minimal pain medication. First time around those meds really slowed down the contractions.

[@heatherhughes5683]

What counts as a "red head"?? My hair is an auburn color that looks red in the sunlight. My baby is probably going to end up being red headed 🤣 I'd never heard about the whole hemorrhaging thing, but just yesterday, I cut my finger on a can and it bled for over 20 minutes! Smallest cut ever but it looked horrific!