I see some striking differences in L&D vs Mother/Baby. If you like adrenaline rushes, thinking on your feet, multitasking, critical care, ER-type work then L&D might be appealing for you. Mother/Baby has some of that, but is more stable. The big emphasis in Mother/Baby is educating the new moms and their S.O.'s and helping with breastfeeding. Usually there are fewer emergencies in Mother/Baby than L&D. I've been a Mother/Baby nurse for 21 years and love it because I get to help and nurture my moms and assist with breastfeeding. I cross-trained to L&D for 6 weeks, but didn't like the pace. I like more predictability and education and that's why I choose Mother/Baby over L&D. I hope that this might help you in finding what's right for you. I like the idea someone presented to shadow both L&D and Mother/Baby. Great idea!