Labor 101 (Part 2): Pushing, Placenta & Postpartum

In this follow-up to the previous Labor 101 episode, we’re walking through what happens after you’re fully dilated. From the first urge to push to the golden hour of skin-to-skin, this is your full guide to stage two and three of labor — plus how to navigate the big moment calmly and confidently, whether you're birthing at home, a hospital, or a birth center.If you haven’t listened to Episode 5 yet, I recommend starting there! In This Episode The 3 types of pushing: physiological, directed, and the fetal ejection reflex What the “ring of fire” really feels like — and how to work with it, not against it‍♀️ Why waiting to push (aka laboring down) can reduce tearing and exhaustion‍♀️ Standing? Side-lying? In the tub? Best pushing positions with and without an epidural⏳ How long pushing actually takes — and what factors influence it What to expect with stage three: delivering the placenta, fundal massage & delayed cord clamping Why the golden hour matters — for baby, for bonding, and for milk supply Skin-to-skin with dads, C-sections, and how to keep the room calm after birth️ Key TakeawaysThere’s no prize for fast pushing. Slower, gentler pushing can protect your body.Your position makes a difference — especially for reducing tearing and helping baby descend.The golden hour is about more than cuddles — it supports baby's vitals and your recovery.Every birth is different. What matters is tuning into what your body is telling you in the moment. Resources + Mentions Download the free ebook: 5 Steps to a Fear-Free Birth Interested in going deeper? Check out The Empowered Birth Method, the complete childbirth education course.❓Got a question we didn’t cover? Submit it anonymously here for our next Q&A episode! Connect + Subscribe Sign up for email notifications so you never miss an episode Follow on Instagram for behind-the-scenes and birth tips Follow on TikTok for bite-sized birth wisdom️ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen Loved this episode? Share it with a friend or leave a quick review — it helps more families find Let’s Talk Birth and feel empowered for what’s ahead.