Birth With Power
Birth With Power is the go-to podcast for expecting mothers who want to take charge of their birth experience. Hosted by Dr. Nicole Calloway Rankins, a practicing, board-certified OB/GYN with over 20 years of experience and thousands of births attended, this podcast delivers accurate, expert advice, real birth stories, and honest conversations to get you informed and empowered. Through solo episodes, guest interviews, and inspiring birth stories, you’ll get the tools to navigate pregnancy, labor, and postpartum with calm and confidence. Whether you’re planning your first birth or your fourth, Birth With Power will help you approach the journey feeling strong, prepared, and empowered.
Episodes
[POSTPARTUM POWER REPLAY] Recognizing When You Need Mental Health Support
This is a special rebroadcast of one of my most essential postpartum episodes — a clear, compassionate conversation about perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) and how to recognize when you need support. This episode will help you clearly know what’s “normal,” what’s not, or when to consider treatment.I’m joined by Dr. Stephanie Waggle — psychiatrist, perinatal mental health–certified physi
[POSTPARTUM POWER REPLAY] Thriving After the NICU Journey
This is a special rebroadcast of one of our most-loved postpartum episodes, a powerful and practical conversation for any parent navigating life after the NICU. Whether you’re currently in the thick of it or simply want to feel more prepared, this replay will leave you feeling supported, grounded, and seen.In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jessica Daigle — pediatrician, NICU hospitalist, and fo
[POSTPARTUM POWER REPLAY] Healing After A Traumatic Birth
This is a special rebroadcast of one of our most downloaded postpartum episodes, and for good reason. This conversation is for you if your birth didn’t go the way you hoped.In this replay, I sit down with Kaylee Summers — the Birth Trauma Mama — to unpack what birth trauma actually is, why it’s so common, and how you can begin to heal. Kaylee brings both clinical expertise and lived experience as
Holiday Boundaries, Big Milestones & What I’m Carrying Into 2026
This episode is your invitation for a softer season, a clearer mind, or just a moment to breathe before the year ends. It will feel like a nice warm exhale.In this reflective end-of-year episode, I’m sharing the milestones, challenges, and growth that shaped my 2025 — from sending my NICU graduate to college, to navigating perimenopause, to choosing rest over hustle. I’m also walking you through t
Ep 312: Why This OB-GYN Walked Away From the System with Dr. Nathan Riley
Hospital birth may not be the right path for every OB/GYN.This week, I’m in conversation with Dr. Nathan Riley, an OB-GYN and palliative care physician who left conventional medicine to support home birth and midwifery-led care. We talk about what the system gets wrong, what it does right, and how honoring true autonomy can transform the birth experience.You’ll hear two OBs with very different pat
Ep 311: 11-Pound Baby, 3-Hour Labor: Leah’s Powerful Home Birth Story
Today’s episode is a little different. I’m sharing a home birth story! Home birth can be safe, supported, and deeply empowering when planned well.In this birth story, I’m joined by Leah, a writer, mom of two, and aspiring childbirth educator who planned a home birth after a positive but impersonal hospital birth with her first child. Despite navigating insurance barriers, and anticipating a large
Ep 310: What I'm Thankful For After 20+ Years as an OB-GYN
This Thanksgiving, I’m inviting you into my heart.After more than two decades in obstetrics, raising a family, and building this platform — I’m pausing to name what I’m deeply grateful for. It’s more than a holiday checklist. This is about honoring the anchors that carry me through birth work and life.Whether you’re cooking, commuting, or just catching your breath, I hope this episode reminds you
Ep 309: The Oral Health–Fertility Link No One’s Talking About
What if the key to your fertility isn’t just in your hormones—but in your mouth?In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Dr. Katie Lee, dentist, entrepreneur, and author of Saved by the Mouth, to uncover the powerful connection between oral health and reproductive outcomes. We break down how bacteria in your mouth can influence conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, and even stillbirth—and what
Subchorionic Hematomas: Here’s What You Need to Know
Bleeding early in pregnancy can be terrifying — but in many (even most) cases, it’s not as dangerous as it seems.In this short episode, I’m unpacking what it means when you’re told there’s a subchorionic hematoma. I’ll walk you through what’s actually happening in your body, how it’s diagnosed, what it means for your baby, and — most importantly — why it’s usually not your fault.You’ll learn:What
Ep 308: From IVF to Fast Labor: What Dr. Allison Learned on Both Sides of Birth
What happens when a perinatal psychologist — who supports women through fertility and birth trauma — becomes the patient herself?In this honest and heartfelt episode, I chat with Dr. Allison Altman, a Bay Area psychologist who specializes in women’s mental health and trauma, about her deeply personal journey through infertility, IVF, and an unexpectedly fast hospital birth. Allison opens up about
Ep 307: Informed Consent Isn’t a Form — It’s a Conversation
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by medical jargon or unsure what’s really in the medications you’re offered — you’re not alone.In this episode, I sit down with Alexandra Galaska, founder of Just the Inserts, to talk about what true informed consent looks like and how to decode medical product information with confidence. From navigating medication inserts to advocating for yourself in pregnancy an
Is Acetaminophen a.k.a. Tylenol “Safe”?
You’ve heard it all—“Tylenol causes autism” vs. “Totally safe.” Safe doesn’t mean risk-free, and you deserve the full picture.If you’re pregnant and dealing with headache, fever, or pain, this short episode gives you a clear, guilt-free way to think about acetaminophen (Tylenol). I walk you through what the research actually says, why observational studies can confuse the conversation, and how to
Ep 306: Tracking Labor Progress: Vaginal Exams Decoded
Vaginal exams are one of the most common — and most misunderstood — parts of labor. They can empower you or leave you feeling powerless. The difference? Knowing what they really mean.In this episode, I’m giving you a sneak peek inside The Birth With Power Pathway, my upcoming childbirth education program. We’ll demystify vaginal exams — what they measure, how often they should be done, and how to
Ep 305: Trust Your Body — Ashley’s Story of Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy
When Ashley’s hands and feet started to itch, she almost brushed it off as “just another pregnancy symptom.” But that simple sign turned out to be something much more serious — intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP). This condition can significantly increase the risk of stillbirth.In this episode, Ashley shares how she faced ICP not once, but twice — from an unexpected early labor that left n
5 Things to Know Before You Get An Epidural
If you’re planning a hospital birth, you may be wondering whether an epidural is right for you. You’re not alone—and you deserve clear, practical guidance.In this episode, I walk you through five essential truths about epidurals—from how well they work (and when they don’t) to timing, side effects, movement, and what they do not do to your cesarean risk. You’ll leave feeling informed, confident, a
Ep 304: How Chiropractic Care May Ease Your Postpartum Journey
Today, we’re talking all about chiropractic care in the postpartum period—what it is and how it may help you heal after giving birth. Now listen, I know some doctors can be quick to dismiss things like chiropractic care or other so-called “alternative” approaches. But I really believe it's important that we expand our lens and stay open to options outside the traditional box—especially when th
Ep 303: Letting Go: My NICU Baby Heads to College
If you’ve ever wondered how you’ll let your baby go one day, this one’s for you.In this episode, my husband Falcon takes over the mic and interviews me the very week we dropped our oldest—who started life in the NICU—off at college! It’s a raw, unscripted conversation about the joy, grief, pride, and growth tucked inside every goodbye. I share how NICU memories never really leave, why presence mat
Back With Clarity: Values, Peace, and What’s Coming
What happens when you actually pause—without guilt, without pressure? Clarity shows up. Peace returns. Purpose sharpens.This mini episode is me sharing five lessons from my summer reset—family first, listening for divine guidance, returning to my core values, remembering I am what I teach, and using social media with intention. I’m back with more joy, more clarity, and a big update on the Birth wi
[POWER REPLAY] The Term "Pregnant People" – My Honest Thoughts
This Power Replay episode brings back a candid and heartfelt discussion where I share my personal perspective on the term “pregnant people.” It’s a short but powerful conversation about identity, inclusion, and why language matters in the world of pregnancy and birth.You’ll hear how I navigate using terms like “pregnant woman” and “pregnant person,” and how my experiences as a Black woman and as a
[POWER REPLAY] Physiologic Birth: Benefits, Challenges & Why It Matters
This episode is a power replay and one you don’t want to miss!We’re revisiting one of the most insightful and important topics I've covered: physiologic birth. I was inspired to do this episode by Certified Nurse Midwife Gianna Fay, who raised a critical question - how do we define and support physiologic birth, especially in a hospital setting?As an OB/GYN, I wasn’t taught much about this, an
[POWER REPLAY] A Healthy Baby Isn’t the Only Thing That Matters
This week’s episode is a Power Replay of one of the most important messages you need to hear..We often hear the phrase, “just be happy to have a healthy baby.” But that mindset overlooks something deeply important - your birth experience matters too. In this short but powerful episode, I share why it's not only okay to have birth wishes beyond physical health, it's necessary.Birth is a rar
[POWER REPLAY] The Power Of The Placenta: Your Baby’s Lifeline
This week’s episode is a Power Replay and we’re diving into one of the most fascinating parts of pregnancy that often doesn’t get enough attention - the placenta! Yep, it’s an organ, and it's your baby’s lifeline throughout pregnancy. This episode is packed with essential info every expecting parent should know.You'll learn all about what the placenta does, where it forms, and how it suppo
[POWER REPLAY] How Much Coffee Can You Really Have While Pregnant?
This episode is a power replay and it's one worth tuning into if you've ever wondered: Is it okay to drink coffee while I'm pregnant?Join me as we dive into what the research says (and doesn't say) about caffeine during pregnancy. We'll talk about why the data is mixed, what a “safe” amount of caffeine looks like, and how things like brewing method and even your body’s metaboli
[POWER REPLAY] What Amniotic Fluid Levels Means for Your Baby and Your Pregnancy
This week's episode is a Power Replay that’s packed with essential info every expecting parent should hear.Amniotic fluid might not be something you think about every day, but let me tell you, it plays a huge role in your baby’s health. Whether it’s too little or too much, the amount of amniotic fluid matters. And understanding it can help you feel more confident and informed as you navigate y
[POWER REPLAY] Is It Really That Bad To Sleep On Your Back While Pregnant?
This episode is a Power Replay you’ll definitely want to hear! If you’re pregnant and wondering whether it’s really a big deal to sleep on your back — or why your sleep feels so off in general — this short episode has the answers.Tune in as I dive into:How your sleep changes across each trimesterWhy back sleeping is discouraged (and what the real risks are)What “supine hypotensive syndrome” means
[POWER REPLAY] Understanding Your Due Date and What Happens If You Pass It
This week’s episode is a power replay of a listener favorite all about... your due date! Yep, that little date carries a whole lot of weight. From test scheduling to birth decisions, your due date impacts nearly everything during pregnancy, which is why it’s so important to get it right.But here’s the truth: only about 4% of babies are actually born on their due date. In this updated episode, I ex
[POWER REPLAY] Pregnant...and Clueless. Even as an OB/GYN!
It’s Power Replay time! In this quick and fun storytime episode, I’m sharing how I found out I was pregnant with both of my sweet girls and let’s just say, all of my OB/GYN training went right out the window both times!You’ll hear the unexpected twists and honest moments from my own journey to motherhood, including how I nearly scheduled surgery before realizing I was pregnant and how I completely
[POWER REPLAY] 11 Essential Tips For A Calm, Confident, Empowered Pregnancy & Birth
This episode is a Power Replay that’s packed with gems to guide you through your pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journey with confidence and grace.With nearly 15 years of experience as an OBGYN and thousands of births under my belt, I know firsthand that while birth is unpredictable, you can absolutely be prepared. In this replay, I’m sharing 11 powerful, must-know tips that will help you be calm
[POWER REPLAY] Should You Take Baby Aspirin During Pregnancy?
This power replay episode is a must-listen if you’re wondering whether baby aspirin should be part of your pregnancy care plan.In this short and information-packed replay, I break down everything you need to know about baby aspirin—what it is, why it’s prescribed, and most importantly, who should be taking it. You’ll learn how this simple, low-cost medication can significantly reduce the risk of p
[POWER REPLAY] Recommitting To Heartfelt Hopes For Your Pregnancy & Birth
This week’s episode is a Power Replay that felt especially timely to revisit at the midpoint of the year. It’s a great moment to pause, reflect, and recommit to the values and visions that matter most for pregnancy, birth, and maternal health.In this heartfelt episode, I share 10 loving-kindness wishes inspired by Metta meditation—a practice rooted in compassion and goodwill. Originally shared at
[POWER REPLAY] Consent During Birth Is A MUST
👋🏾 This episode is a Power Replay of one of the most important messages I’ve ever shared — nothing should happen to you during your birth without your consent. Period.Whether it's a vaginal exam, breaking your water, starting Pitocin, or performing an episiotomy, your provider must have a clear, informed discussion with you about the benefits, risks, and alternatives, and receive your explicit
Rest. Refocus. Realign.
In this short and personal episode, I share a personal update, what’s coming next, and an invitation to reflect on where you might need rest too.Our Sponsors:* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://avocadogreenmattress.com/DRNICOLEAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Ep 302: Feeling Your Baby Move - What’s Normal, What’s Not, and When to Call
Today we’re talking about something that is beautiful, powerful, and yes—potentially life-saving: feeling your baby move. In addition to the emotional connection, it’s also an important way to stay in tune with their wellbeing. But there’s a lot of inaccurate advice and fear out there. You’ll hear so many opinions about kick counts, what’s normal, and when you should call your doctor. It can feel
Ep 301: Melissa’s Birth Story - From Miscarriage to Motherhood
After experiencing a miscarriage, Melissa decided to heal, both emotionally and physically, before trying again. In this episode, she shares how therapy and doing her homework helped her process the loss and feel ready to try again.From the exhaustion of prodromal labor to the raw intensity of pushing and a third-degree tear, Melissa shares a beautifully honest and empowering account of her journe
Ep 300: The Silent Danger Behind Pregnancy Itching with Donna Benavides, Founder of ICP Care
Intense pregnancy itching might be a sign of a serious condition called cholestasis of pregnancy—a liver disorder that affects pregnancy and can increase the risk of stillbirth. In honor of ICP Awareness Month this June, I’m joined by Donna Benavides, founder of the nonprofit ICP Care, to talk about her personal journey after tragically losing her first son due to cholestasis of pregnancy.Donna is
Ep 299: How to Protect Your Power and Avoid an Unnecessary Episiotomy
Episiotomy is not routine anymore, but it hasn't gone away. If it's done without your consent or because your doctor's in a hurry, that’s a problem. So let's talk about it! Because when you understand what an episiotomy really is, when it's actually needed, and how to protect yourself from one that isn't needed, that's when you step into your power.I first covered this
Ep 298: From Birth Center to OR: Navigating An Umbilical Cord Prolapse Emergency
In the last birth story episode, episode 295, I shared a story of a home birth that went beautifully. Today, we’re exploring the other side of that experience—because while out-of-hospital births can be wonderful, they can also come with real risks. My guest, Megan, joins me to share her second birth story, which started at a standalone birth center and turned into a life-threatening emergency inv
Ep 297: Can’t Sleep During Pregnancy or Postpartum? Here’s What Actually Helps with Behavioral Sleep Medicine Specialist Dr. Daniella Marchetti
Struggling to sleep during pregnancy or postpartum? You are definitely not alone. And it’s not just about being tired - it’s a chronic condition that deserves attention. Up to 80% of women experience insomnia by the third trimester, and many continue to struggle even two years postpartum. So if you’re having trouble, seek help.In this episode, I’m joined by clinical psychologist and sleep speciali
Ep 296: What Hospital Birth Can Learn from Home Birth
I never intended to talk much about home birth—mainly because I’ve never attended one myself. But here we are. Why? Because if we’re serious about making hospital birth safer, more respectful, and more empowering, we have to take a close look at what home birth gets right.This episode is not about debating home versus hospital birth. It’s about asking a better question: what actually works? I walk
The 10 Best and Worst Parts of Being a Mom
With Mother’s Day around the corner, I want to share something really personal—what it’s actually like to be a mom (or mommy as my girls call me :)). In this episode, I’m getting real about the 10 best and worst things about motherhood. Whether you're already a mom or you're pregnant and wondering what lies ahead, this one’s for you. It’s honest, raw, and from the heart—because motherhood
Ep 295: Creating Emotional Safety in Birth: A Home Birth Story with Lessons for All
This episode is a first for the podcast: I’m sharing a home birth story. While I primarily focus on hospital births, I wanted to learn more and see what we might take away from this experience to make hospital births better.Lauren joins me to share her beautiful, deeply thoughtful journey into birthing from home after having her first baby in a hospital. This wasn’t a choice she made lightly - she
How a Simple Blood Test Can Protect Future Pregnancies
Did you know your blood type can impact not just your current pregnancy, but future ones too? In this Thursday short episode, I’m breaking down what it means to be RH negative, how RhoGAM works, and why this small shot can prevent serious complications. Every woman and birthing person deserves to understand how something so simple can make such a big difference!Free Resources to Help You Birth Wit
Ep 294: What Extended Breastfeeding Really Looks Like - A Real Talk Guide with Erin Harris
What if you're not ready to stop breastfeeding but you're burned out from the constant demands? Or maybe you’re thinking of breastfeeding beyond the baby stage? In this episode I'm talking with Erin Harris, a certified lactation educator and the creator of Nursing Mamas, about the very real and rarely discussed world of extended breastfeeding.I am so excited to talk about this topic be
Fast Labor, Long Pushing—Why Patience Matters in Birth - Story Time!
Just because labor moves fast doesn’t mean pushing will! In this powerful storytime episode, I take you into the delivery room with me for a birth that had a fast start, a long push, and a beautiful ending. You’ll learn why patience, positioning, and the right support team are everything—plus what to expect when birth doesn’t follow the script.Only for subscribers, so make sure you're signed u
Ep 293: Own Your Hospital Birth Experience with the B.I.R.T.H. Blueprint
What if I told you that understanding your birth environment is one of the most powerful ways to take charge of your birth? When you know what to expect at every stage—from check-in to how labor progress is assessed—you can make informed choices and feel more confident. That’s exactly what we’re talking about today with The B.I.R.T.H. Blueprint, a simple way to understand the lay of the land in la
The Truth About Pitocin: What It Is, How It Works, and When It’s Used
Heard scary stories about Pitocin? You’re not alone—and you deserve real information, not fear. In this quick and powerful episode, I’m sharing 10 fast facts about Pitocin: what it is, how it works, and what you actually need to know before it’s offered during labor. Walk away feeling informed, prepared, and empowered to make the best choices for your birth.Want more tips to help you feel calm, co
Ep 292: Two Epidurals, Then Unmedicated: What Danica Learned (and Didn’t Expect)
Epidural or unmedicated: how do you know what’s right for you? Danica has done both and in this episode she takes us through her journey of having two epidural births followed by an unmedicated one—her biggest baby yet! She shares what worked, what didn’t, and how she felt in those first moments postpartum. It’s going to surprise you. If you’re weighing your pain management options, you won’t want
A Supported Birth is a Safe Birth: Creating Your Circle of Support
The right support can make all the difference in your birth experience. 💕 From your doctor to your partner to your labor nurse, your Circle of Support should empower and uplift you every step of the way.In this episode, I break down exactly who should be on your birth team and how to ensure they align with YOUR birth wishes. Because a supported birth is a safe birth! LINKS MENTIONEDHow To Choose A
Ep 291: Breath, Movement & Birth: Why Every Pregnancy Can Benefit from Yoga with Dr. Shilpa Babbar
Did you know that practicing prenatal yoga can actually shorten your labor by up to three hours? Or that simple breathing techniques might help manage your blood pressure during pregnancy? In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Shilpa Babbar, a double board-certified maternal-fetal medicine specialist, researcher, and yoga instructor. We dive deep into the science-backed benefits of prenatal yoga,
The MAMA Mindset: A Powerful Approach for a Confident Birth
What if the key to a calm, confident birth was all in your mindset? In this episode, I introduce the MAMA Mindset, part of my new Birth with Power Pathway framework. You’ll learn how Meditation, Affirmations, Movement, and an Attitude of gratitude can transform the way you approach birth—helping you feel calm, confident, and empowered. Tune in to discover simple yet powerful strategies to train yo
Ep 290: Birth With Power! - A New Name, A Bigger Mission
This is it—the start of a new era! All About Pregnancy & Birth is now Birth With Power! Birth isn’t just something that happens to you; you can take charge and step into your power. In this episode, I’m sharing why I made this change, what it means for YOU, and what’s coming next, including the Birth With Power Pathway, my brand-new framework that will get you ALL the way ready to trust your p
Welcome To Birth With Power!
Birth With Power is the go-to podcast for expecting mothers who want to take charge of their birth experience.Hosted by Dr. Nicole Calloway Rankins, a practicing, board-certified OB/GYN with over 20 years of experience and thousands of births attended, this podcast delivers accurate, expert advice, real birth stories, and honest conversations to get you informed and empowered.Through solo episodes
Ep #289: New Year, New Vision: Reflection, Rest, and a Special Gift
In this episode, I'm sharing important updates about the podcast and a special opportunity for expectant mamas! I'm also reflecting on my wishes for pregnancy and birth and the importance of empowerment and support for women. Plus I announce a limited-time sale for The Birth Preparation Course to help you feel confident and prepared for your childbirth experience. It's the lowest price
Ep 288: 10 Wishes for Pregnancy, Birth, and Maternal Health Inspired by Metta Meditation
Get empowering pregnancy and birth tips delivered to your inbox each week! Join my email list here!It’s 2025! In this first episode of the year, I’m sharing 10 wishes for pregnancy, birth, and maternal health inspired by metta meditation, a practice rooted in cultivating goodwill and compassion. I learned about this beautiful practice from Aditi Shah, a Peloton meditation instructor, and today we’
Ep 287: Top Episodes of 2024!
Get more great info to help you have an empowered pregnancy and birth by joining my email list here!It’s that time of year again: I’m recapping the most downloaded episodes of 2024. Think of this as a kind of greatest hits or playlist - a perfect place for you to start if you’re new to the podcast. If you don’t see your favorite episode on this list, remember that earlier episodes have more downlo
Ep 286: Preparing for the Marathon Of Pregnancy with Amy Keifer from Expecting and Empowered
Stay in the know by joining my email list!I know you want to exercise during pregnancy, but what are you supposed to do and how do you do it safely? Amy Keifer from Expecting and Empowered is here to answer that question and more!After starting her personal training career working with pregnant clients, she realized there were a ton of misconceptions still floating around about exercising during p
Ep 285: Gina’s Birth Story - When a Physician Has A Birth Related Injury
What happens when you’re a physician and you experience a childbirth-related injury? Are you treated any differently? Today’s guest experienced exactly that and you’re going to hear her unique perspective. Gina is an ophthalmology resident who had a birth complication that left her paralyzed in one leg. She has regained her mobility but this very rare injury still has lasting effects.Despite being
Ep 284: Keeping an Open Mind with Infant Craniosacral Therapist Meaghan Beames
When exploring ‘alternative’ therapies, it’s crucial to understand the training and qualifications of practitioners. Although licensure and certification aren’t guarantees, they certainly help give you some assurance that the person is trained and capable. This week’s guest, Meaghan Beames, is a Registered Massage Therapist and Craniosacral Therapist who teaches perinatal professionals how to inco
Ep 283: Alexa’s Birth Story - A Routine Checkup With a Surprise Ending
I’ve said it many times: the only predictable thing about birth is that it’s unpredictable. But you can absolutely navigate that unpredictability by being prepared - which is exactly what Alexa did. After what she calls a “smooth pregnancy,” things took some surprising twists and turns which ended in a cesarean birth.At 35 weeks, her husband noticed she was unusually swollen and urged her to visit
Ep 282: Gestational Diabetes - Understanding and Managing It For A Healthy Pregnancy
Did you know that almost one in ten pregnancies in the United States is affected by gestational diabetes? While that might sound scary, the good news is that with the right information and care, people with gestational diabetes will most likely have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.When it’s time to be screened, don’t focus on “passing” the test. If you have gestational diabetes, you want to
Low Intervention Hospital Birth - Story Time!
I have a FANTASTIC Black Friday Sale coming! Join my email list at drnicolerankins.com/email so you'll be the first to get notified!You've heard of low intervention birth but what does it mean? In this episode I share how a low intervention birth under my care unfolded. Here's a peak -8 AM - cervical check and 4 cmIntermittent monitoring, saline lock, moving, eating and drinking8 PM -
Ep 281: Protecting Pregnancy Rights at Work with Women’s Rights Attorney Jack Tuckner and Attorney & Doula Catherine Crider
Did you know the U.S. is one of just four countries in the world - and the only developed nation - without guaranteed paid maternity leave? While we’ve made great strides in workplace fairness, the fight for equity is far from over. In a country where pregnancy can still jeopardize someone’s career, these protections are more crucial than ever. That’s why advocates like today’s guests are so impor
Listener Q&A - Maybe my cervix doesn’t dilate all the way??
In this shorty episode I answer this listener question from Kate. And if you want me to answer a question for you DM me on Instagram @drnicolerankins or shoot me a message on my website contact form!"I was checked at 5 cm, started feeling pressure after a few hours, and then a really strong urge to push after another few hours. I was unmedicated, so I could really feel those sensations, but wa
Ep 280: Rachel’s Birth Story - Weaning Off Anxiety and Depression Meds
Rachel always wanted to be a mother, but before she could begin that journey, she felt it was important to get off of depression and anxiety medication. After spending three months weaning off her meds, she very quickly got pregnant. Her pregnancy, although a source of great excitement, also brought unexpected difficulties, including two falls - and then her water broke during her baby shower!A br
My Evolving Thoughts On Hospital Birth - Has It Gotten Worse??
In this short episode I address this really thoughtful comment from a listener -"I've noticed that Dr. Rankins' position statements have gotten stronger on the negatives of a hospital birth over time (in the year+ that I've been listening). For instance her opening introduction now frames hospitals as a system that "too often takes away power from women over what happens in the
Ep 279: Nausea and Vomiting In Pregnancy - What To Do To Help
Dealing with nausea and vomiting during pregnancy is no fun. You’ve probably heard of “morning sickness” but that’s a misnomer - queasiness can happen at any time of day (and during any stage of pregnancy too). The good news is, for most people, it’s nothing to worry about. Even though it’s uncomfortable (and sometimes downright miserable), it’s generally not harmful to you or your baby.In this ep
Ep 278: Jenna’s Birth Story - Expecting More Than Just “A Healthy Baby”
How did a birth described as “a series of traumatic events” end up being the best experience of Jenna’s life? Despite all of the unexpected challenges, getting through the 65 hour labor and birth helped her find peace and confidence in her intuition. Jenna’s story reminds us that it’s okay to feel both grateful to a medical team and to feel upset about how certain aspects of care were handled. It’
Ep 277: Repurposing the Pain of Infant Loss with Founder & CEO of Chasing the Rainbows, Bernice Quesenberry
In honor of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month this October, in this episode we have secondary infertility and baby loss survivor Bernice Quesenberry (and quick note I inadvertently mispronounced her last name in the episode, my apologies!). She has repurposed her pain into something positive by starting a national nonprofit called Chasing the Rainbows, which offers FREE, trauma-informed su
Ep 276: 50th Birthday Reflections & Special Tribute
I just turned 50 - yes, 50! I know people - and women especially - can feel some kind of way about sharing their age. But I have no problem with sharing my age because every day is truly a gift. To mark this milestone, I wanted to take a few moments to reflect, express my gratitude, share some thoughts on what helped me get here, and what’s next.This episode is also a bit different, as I want to t
Ep 275: What EVERYONE Who’s Pregnant Needs To Know About The NICU with Mary Farrelly, RN
This episode may be about the NICU but it’s for any and every person who’s having a baby. The reason I say that is because it’s actually way more common than you think that a baby needs to receive intensive care. Nearly 40% of babies who go to the NICU are full-term.As a mom of two NICU babies, let me tell you: it’s the NICU nurses who are at your side. NICU nurses are angels and today’s guest is
Ep 274: Martha’s Birth Story - Low Intervention Hopes, High Intervention Reality, and Joy Despite It All
Martha hoped and prepared for a low intervention birth and ended up getting just about every intervention! She tried everything to get labor to start on its own but she ultimately was induced at 41 weeks. After 40 hours of labor with no pain medication other than nitrous oxide, she opted for an epidural. Soon after she was advised to get a non-emergency C-section because unfortunately things had p
Ep 273: Bringing Miscarriage Out Of The Shadows
This episode was inspired by a message from long-time listener Sierra. She has experienced multiple miscarriages and, though she appreciated the episodes I have done discussing pregnancy loss, there are some issues specific to recurrent miscarriage that I haven’t gotten into yet. Sierra says “You've had some women who gave birth stories that had elements of miscarriage or infertility, but most
Eating and Drinking In Labor - It’s fine!
Medical recommendations surrounding eating and drinking in labor are evolving, but not quite where they should be.In this episode learn the rationale for restricting eating and drinking in labor, why it's outdated, what our current guidelines are, and my evidence based recommendations for eating and drinking in labor.Join my next FREE LIVE birth plan class! - drnicolerankins.com/birthplanFree
Ep 272: Nicole’s Birth Story - An Empowering VBAC Followed By a Five-Week NICU Stay
Nicole (yes, another Nicole!) is here to share her empowering story of a successful VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) followed by a challenging postpartum. Because she was intentional about her care team, she set herself up for success in the ways that she was able to control.However, nobody could control the liver issues her daughter would experience after birth. It took four hospital transfers
Listener Q&A - how many contractions are too many and what is terbutaline??
In this short episode I'm answering this listener question from Cat!"Hi Dr. Nicole! Long time listener & love your podcast!!. Question for you - a friend of mine recently gave birth to a beautiful baby girl but unfortunately her birth didn't go as planned. She got to the hospital at 7.5cm, got an epidural, and then they told her she was "having too many contractions, 5 in 10 mi
Ep 271: The Pain of a C-Section Without Anesthesia with Author Rachel Somerstein
In this episode I’m chatting with Rachel Somerstein about her traumatic experience having a C-section without adequate anesthesia. Already a professional journalist, this experience led Rachel to write her first book, Invisible Labor: The Untold Story of the Cesarean Section. In Invisible Labor Rachel weaves her personal narrative and investigative journalism with medical, social, and cultural his
Listener Q&A - Cytomegalovirus (CMV) and pregnancy
Lauren DMed me on Instagram and asked me to talk about CMV and pregnancy so here it is!In this short episode you'll learnWhat is CMVHow it’s transmittedHow it can impact pregnancyHow it’s diagnosedHow it can be prevented or treatedIf you have a question you want me to answer in an upcoming episode, shoot me a DM on Instagram @drnicolerankins!Free Resources to Help You Birth With PowerGet the s
Ep 270: Ginny’s Birth Story - A Joyous Labor Induction
Ginny had an elective labor induction that went so smoothly she calls it a “dream.” But that doesn’t mean that everything about her pregnancy experience was easy. Multiple people in her personal life experienced birth-related complications while Ginny was pregnant including stillbirth. This caused Ginny a lot of anxiety. Also, she struggled with depression - both during pregnancy and postpartum.Le
What you need to know about epidurals for pain relief in labor
Epidurals provide excellent pain relief during labor but there are risks and side effects. Learn how epidurals work and things you need to know before you get one.And no need to take notes, you can grab my comprehensive guide to managing pain in labor here!Free Resources to Help You Birth With PowerGet the support, clarity, and confidence you deserve. Download any of my free tools designed to help
Ep 269: Vaccines & Pregnancy: Which ones, how they work, and why they’re important
In today's episode, you’re going to learn about vaccines and pregnancy. Vaccines -also called immunizations- are important in order to help prevent moms and babies from getting certain potentially serious infections. I know there’s a lot of concern about vaccines. But let me assure you, although vaccines are not risk free, they are very safe.There are 2 vaccines that are recommended to be up t
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