Birth With Power

Today, licensed child psychologist Dr. Cara Goodwin, PhD, joins the podcast to tackle some common topics from the angle of research and data. We break down important facts about holding your baby, sleep training, pacifiers, and even some science behind baby talk! Dr. Goodwin specializes in child development and founded Parenting Translator with the mission of taking recent scientific research and translating it into information that parents can use in their everyday lives. In this Episode, You’ll Learn About: -Whether you can spoil a baby by holding them too much -How baby-wearing can have myriad benefits in addition to freeing up your hands -What is the science around co-sleeping -Whether sleep training has an affect on developmental outcomes -How baby talk can actually help advance language development -What are some of the many reasons to read with baby -What does research say about baby soothers i.e. pacifiers Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode133 Register for my free birth plan class - How to Make a Birth Plan That Works. Check out The Birth Preparation Course Take a quick, fun labor pain quiz Our Sponsors: * Check out Ritual Prenatals and get 25% off! https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE * Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE * Head to AvocadoMattress.com today to save 10% on all bedding and 50% on clearance bedding! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Today you’re going to learn about fibroids in pregnancy In this episode, you’ll first learn a bit about fibroids outside of pregnancy because it’s important to understand that in order to understand how they impact pregnancy. After that I’ll explain the risk factors and symptoms associated. I will also explain the safest options for symptom management. Find full show notes at drnicolerankins.com/episode103 and check out all the free pregnancy & birth resources I have for you at drnicolerankins.com/resources. Our Sponsors: * Check out Ritual Prenatals and get 25% off! https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE * Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE * Head to AvocadoMattress.com today to save 10% on all bedding and 50% on clearance bedding! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 specialist Dr. Daniella Marchetti to break down why sleep can feel so elusive in motherhood and what you can do about it. We’re talking real strategies, the truth about melatonin and Benadryl, and why “sleep when the baby sleeps” just doesn’t cut it. Tune in—this episode might just change your nights.In this Episode, You’ll Learn About:What really causes insomnia during pregnancy & how it’s different than just having a tough nightHow long it takes most people to seek help for sleep issuesHow common insomnia is in pregnancy and postpartumHow sleep slips through the cracks during pregnancy careWhich sleep disorders are most common during pregnancyWhy quality rest matters so muchWhat CBT-I is (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia) — and why it worksWhen to seek help for insomniaWhat sleep hygiene meansWhether or not sleep trackers are actually useful--Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode297Check out The Birth Preparation CourseRegister for the class How to Make a Birth Plan the Right WayOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual Prenatals and get 25% off! https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE* Head to AvocadoMattress.com today to save 10% on all bedding and 50% on clearance bedding!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 you through the reasons some women choose home birth, what the research says about its safety, and—most importantly—what lessons the hospital system needs to learn from the home birth model.In This Episode, You’ll Learn About:Why some people choose home birthWho attends a safe birth at home and why training mattersHow many U.S. births actually happen at homeWhat the data says about safetyWhy fewer medical interventions happen at homeHow often planned home births transfer to hospitalsWho out-of-hospital birth is for—and who it’s not forHow the U.S. falls short on midwife-hospital teamworkWhy emotional safety is just as important as clinical safety--Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode296Check out The Birth Preparation CourseRegister for the class How to Make a Birth Plan the Right WayOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual Prenatals and get 25% off! https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE* Head to AvocadoMattress.com today to save 10% on all bedding and 50% on clearance bedding!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 deserves to be seen in all its messy, beautiful truth.Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual Prenatals and get 25% off! https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE* Head to AvocadoMattress.com today to save 10% on all bedding and 50% on clearance bedding!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 did her research, worked with a trained provider, and had a backup plan in place. What she found was a level of trust, respect, and personalized care that’s worth talking about. Even if home birth isn’t on your radar, this story offers powerful lessons that anyone preparing for birth can take to heart.In this Episode, You’ll Learn About:Why Lauren chose home birth for her second deliveryHow she weighed the risks and benefits of hospital vs home birthWho made up her support teamHow she prepared for the possibility of a hospital transferWhat changed when Lauren labored in a space that was hersWhich position she gave birth inWhat it was like to rest in her own bed right after birthHow the birth certificate and paperwork were handled--Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode295Check out The Birth Preparation CourseRegister for the class How to Make a Birth Plan the Right WayOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual Prenatals and get 25% off! https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE* Head to AvocadoMattress.com today to save 10% on all bedding and 50% on clearance bedding!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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!Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual Prenatals and get 25% off! https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE* Head to AvocadoMattress.com today to save 10% on all bedding and 50% on clearance bedding!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 because I’ve never talked about it before and honestly, I haven’t really heard that much about it, and I suspect the listeners will feel the same. If you’re nursing past that first year, or thinking about it, this episode is a must listen!In this Episode, You’ll Learn About:What extended breastfeeding actually meansHow Erin’s personal journey led her to supporting othersHow to recognize breastfeeding burnoutWhat the four emotional stages of extended nursing look likeHow to tell when it’s time to wean — for you or your toddlerWhat the real benefits and challenges of toddler nursing areWhy boundaries are essential for extended nursingHow toddler nursing compares to infant nursingWhat it’s like to breastfeed a baby and a toddler at the same time--Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode294Check out The Birth Preparation CourseRegister for the class How to Make a Birth Plan the Right WayOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual Prenatals and get 25% off! https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE* Head to AvocadoMattress.com today to save 10% on all bedding and 50% on clearance bedding!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 up!Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual Prenatals and get 25% off! https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE* Head to AvocadoMattress.com today to save 10% on all bedding and 50% on clearance bedding!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 labor and truly own your birth experience.The B.I.R.T.H. Blueprint is actually part of my brand-new Birth With Power Pathway online childbirth education class, launching this May! This course is designed to help you take charge of your birth with confidence and clarity. While I’m putting the finishing touches on the class, enjoy a sneak peek at one of the most important lessons!In this Episode, You’ll Learn About:B - Begin at Arrival: What to expect when you arrive at the hospitalI - IV Fluids & Monitoring: How it works & how to stay mobileR - Refuel: Eating and drinking in labor - What’s really safe to eat in laborT - Track Progress: How labor progress is assessedH - Hustle or Hold Still?: Movement & positioning during labor--Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode293Check out The Birth Preparation CourseRegister for the class How to Make a Birth Plan the Right WayOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual Prenatals and get 25% off! https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE* Head to AvocadoMattress.com today to save 10% on all bedding and 50% on clearance bedding!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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, confident, and empowered for birth? Get my weekly email, The Birth With Power Brief. You'll get exclusive insights, real talk, and practical tools delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up at drnicolerankins.com/email.Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual Prenatals and get 25% off! https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE* Head to AvocadoMattress.com today to save 10% on all bedding and 50% on clearance bedding!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 to miss this episode!In this Episode, You’ll Learn About:What it felt like to labor unmedicated after two epidural birthsWhy she chose epidurals for her first two babiesHow support from her sisters-in-law helped her decision-makingWhich position gave her the most reliefHow her labor progressed quickly—especially after her water brokeWhat made the moments after birth harder than she expectedWhat her postpartum recovery felt like compared to her previous birthsWhy she’s glad she experienced both medicated and unmedicated birth--Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode292Check out The Birth Preparation CourseRegister for the class How to Make a Birth Plan the Right WayOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual Prenatals and get 25% off! https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE* Head to AvocadoMattress.com today to save 10% on all bedding and 50% on clearance bedding!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 Doula - drnicolerankins.com/episode218Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual Prenatals and get 25% off! https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE* Head to AvocadoMattress.com today to save 10% on all bedding and 50% on clearance bedding!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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, how it can support you physically and emotionally, and the misconceptions that might be holding you back. Tune in to learn why yoga is more than just movement—it's a powerful tool for pregnancy and birth!In this Episode, You’ll Learn About:How prenatal yoga differs from other types of yogaWhich yoga poses and practices should be avoided during pregnancyWhat recent research reveals about prenatal yoga’s benefitsWhich common pregnancy issues it can help withHow breathing techniques can support blood pressure regulation during pregnancyHow yoga can potentially shorten labor and increase the chances of vaginal birthWhat role yoga and breathwork can play in labor preparation and pain managementWhy integrative medicine is gaining traction among high-risk pregnancy doctors--Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode291Check out The Birth Preparation CourseRegister for the class How to Make a Birth Plan the Right WayOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual Prenatals and get 25% off! https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE* Head to AvocadoMattress.com today to save 10% on all bedding and 50% on clearance bedding!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 your mind for the beautiful birth experience you deserve! Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual Prenatals and get 25% off! https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE* Head to AvocadoMattress.com today to save 10% on all bedding and 50% on clearance bedding!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 power and take charge of your birth. So keep listening—you don’t want to miss this.In this Episode, You’ll Learn About:Why All About Pregnancy & Birth is now Birth With PowerWhat this change means for you and how it will impact the podcastHow Birth With Power helps you take charge of your birth experienceWhich aspects of the podcast are staying the same and which are evolvingWhen the Birth With Power Pathway will launch and what to expect from itWho this new framework is designed to help and how it prepares you for birthWhat mindset shifts can help you feel calm, confident, and in control during birth--Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode290Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual Prenatals and get 25% off! https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE* Head to AvocadoMattress.com today to save 10% on all bedding and 50% on clearance bedding!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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.Subscribe today and take charge of your birth!Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual Prenatals and get 25% off! https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE* Head to AvocadoMattress.com today to save 10% on all bedding and 50% on clearance bedding!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 EVER for the course! Grab it here!TakeawaysIt's important to take breaks to recharge.Hear my 10 wishes that reflect my hopes for every pregnant woman.I express my gratitude for the engagement from you.Take ownership of your birthing experience.The Birth Preparation Course is available at it's lowest price ever!Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual Prenatals and get 25% off! https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE* Head to AvocadoMattress.com today to save 10% on all bedding and 50% on clearance bedding!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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’re adapting it to reflect on pregnancy, birth, and maternal health through 10 loving-kindness wishes.These wishes are heartfelt hopes for a better, safer, and more equitable world for parents, babies, and families. As you explore them, I encourage you to approach them with an open heart—whether for yourself, someone you know, or for all mothers and families. Carry these wishes with you as affirmations, reminders, or moments of pause in your day. Let’s start 2025 with kindness and care.In this Episode, You’ll Learn About:Why feeling safe and supported is essential during pregnancy and birthWhat respectful and compassionate care looks likeHow access to resources helps families thrive during pregnancy and parenthoodWhat parents need to feel empowered in their decisionsHow patience and care contribute to physical and emotional healing after birthWhat we can do to eliminate inequities in maternal and infant health outcomesWhich experiences help cultivate joy and connectionHow helping birth workers helps familiesWhy prioritizing mental health during pregnancy and parenthood is essentialHow childbirth education transforms the pregnancy and birth experience--Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode288Check out The Birth Preparation CourseRegister for the class How to Make a Birth Plan the Right WayOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual Prenatals and get 25% off! https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE* Head to AvocadoMattress.com today to save 10% on all bedding and 50% on clearance bedding!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 downloads simply because they’ve been available longer, not because they’re less valuable!We’re closing out the year with over 435,000 downloads in 2024 and the total lifetime downloads are up to 2.6 million! I so appreciate each and every one of you who puts me in your ears and trusts me to help you through your pregnancy and birth experience. In this Episode, You’ll Learn About:How to tell when it’s time to go to the hospitalWhat changes can happen to the body postpartumWhether or not you can have a period while you’re pregnantWhich conditions are screened for in prenatal testsWhat colostrum is and why it’s importantHow to plan for a safer childbirth experienceWhich mental health conditions are common during pregnancyHow feeding patterns influence your baby’s sleepHow a hospital birth can feel joyful and relaxingWhat the difference is between pain and suffering during laborWhat a VBAC is and how to prepare for oneHow much caffeine is safe during pregnancyHow pregnancy can affect intimacy--Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode287Check out The Birth Preparation CourseRegister for the class How to Make a Birth Plan the Right WayOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual Prenatals and get 25% off! https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE* Head to AvocadoMattress.com today to save 10% on all bedding and 50% on clearance bedding!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy