In this episode, we’re sitting down with Dr. Jennifer Lincoln, OB-GYN and OB hospitalist, to talk about birth in the only way we know how... with a whole lot of honesty and oversharing. So many people go into labor thinking they know what to expect… and then everything feels confusing, fast, or completely different than what they had planned. We talk about what’s actually normal, how decisions get made in the moment, and how to stay informed without feeling overwhelmed by it all.

We Cover:

What “normal labor” actually looks like (and why it’s more flexible than you think). Breaking down the stages of labor, timelines, and variations so you understand what’s typical, what’s not, and why there’s a wide range of normal when it comes to childbirth.
How to advocate for yourself during labor and delivery in a medical system that can feel overwhelming. What informed consent really means, how to ask questions, and how to feel more in control of your birth experience even in high-pressure or emergency situations.
The biggest myths about birth and pregnancy on social media (and what’s actually evidence-based). Separating fear-based narratives and misinformation from real medical guidance so you can make decisions rooted in facts, not that random TikTok you saw while doom scrolling.
Your options during labor: inductions, C-sections, epidurals, and everything in between. A clear, judgment-free breakdown of common interventions, what they involve, and how to decide what’s right for you and your body.
What happens when things don’t go according to plan (and how to navigate unexpected outcomes). Understanding complications, emergency scenarios, and how to mentally and emotionally prepare for the unpredictable nature of birth.
How to approach decision-making when labor isn’t progressing as expected. Exploring how providers assess labor in real time, what “not progressing” actually means, and how to stay informed instead of rushed or pressured.
Why so many people still feel unprepared for birth (even after doing all the research). How overwhelming information, lack of clear guidance, and mixed messaging can still leave you feeling unsure going into labor.

Connect with Dr. Lincoln by buying "The Birth Book" and following her in Instagram.

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260. What No One Tells You About Labor and Delivery (From an OB-GYN)