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 and get 25% off! - https://ritual.com/drnicole 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 and get 25% off! - https://ritual.com/drnicole Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 rare and transformational event. Of course you want a healthy baby. But you also deserve to be listened to, respected, and treated with compassion throughout the process. Your emotional well-being and how you’re treated during labor and delivery are just as vital as your physical health.Let this episode be a reminder: the bare minimum is physical health. You deserve so much more.👩🏾‍⚕️ Ready to stay informed and empowered? Join my email list for updates, resources, and support at drnicolerankins.com/emailOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get 25% off! - https://ritual.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 supports your baby’s growth and development. I also break down common (but thankfully rare) complications like placenta abruption, placenta previa, and placenta accreta, including who’s at risk and why they matter.We also explore some of the more debated practices—placenta encapsulation and lotus birth. Curious about eating your placenta or leaving it attached to your baby? I’ve got you covered with the facts and what to think about before making your decision.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:What the placenta is and how it functionsHow and why placental issues occurWhat makes conditions like placenta accreta so seriousThe real deal on placenta encapsulationWhy some parents choose lotus birth and whether it's beneficialWhether you're preparing for your first birth or brushing up your knowledge, this episode will leave you more informed and empowered about this incredible organ.🎧 Tune in now—and don’t forget to join my email list for more empowering pregnancy content at drnicolerankins.com/emailOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get 25% off! - https://ritual.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 metabolism affect caffeine's impact. I’ll also share what I did during my own pregnancies and how to be mindful about your caffeine intake without stressing too much.Plus, I point you to a helpful resource from the Center for Science in the Public Interest that gives you the caffeine content of your favorite drinks (Starbucks lovers, take note!).Whether you're newly pregnant, trying to conceive, or even breastfeeding, this episode is packed with the practical info you need to enjoy your daily cup (or two) with peace of mind.🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a replay or a new episode!💌 Want more helpful tips delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for my email list at drnicolerankins.com/emailOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get 25% off! - https://ritual.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 your pregnancy journey.In this replay, I’m breaking it all down for you:What exactly is amniotic fluid and why it's so importantWhat it's made of and how it's createdHow we measure it (and why those measurements matter)What happens when there’s too little (oligohydramnios) or too much (polyhydramnios)What causes these conditions and how we manage themI'll also share personal insights from my own pregnancies—yes, I had polyhydramnios myself—and what that experience was like.Whether you're preparing for birth or just want to deepen your understanding, this episode is a must-listen.👉🏽 Be sure to sign up for my email list at drnicolerankins.com/email to stay in the know and get even more empowering pregnancy info delivered right to your inbox.Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get 25% off! - https://ritual.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 for you and your babyEasy strategies to help you get better rest (including why chamomile tea might not be your friend!)And if you ever wake up on your back and panic? Don’t! I explain why it’s not something to stress about and what to do instead.Get the reassurance and tips you need to sleep better during pregnancy.Want more helpful info like this? Be sure to sign up for my email list at drnicolerankins.com/email!Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get 25% off! - https://ritual.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 explain why I actually hate the term “due date” and what I think we should be doing instead. You’ll learn how due dates are determined, why accuracy matters so much, what a suboptimally dated pregnancy means, and what your real options are if you go past your due date.We also talk about the risks of late-term and post-term pregnancies, and why informed, individualized decision-making is the most empowering approach.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why your due date is so much more than just a countdownThe most accurate way to determine your due date (hint: it's all about timing)What happens if your pregnancy goes beyond 40 or even 42 weeksWhy due dates shouldn’t be treated like expiration datesWhat stillbirth risk actually looks like — and how it changes week by weekYour options if you go past your due date and how to make the best choice for you✨ Ready to stay informed and empowered throughout your pregnancy journey? Join my email list at drnicolerankins.com/email for exclusive updates, discounts, and more expert tips delivered straight to your inbox.Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get 25% off! - https://ritual.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 missed the signs the second time around. Yes, even OB/GYNs can be totally surprised by a positive test!Plus, I share a few tips about pregnancy tests and early signs that might surprise you too.If you’ve got your own “I didn’t know I was pregnant” story, I’d love to hear it! DM me on Instagram @drnicolerankins or email me through my website.✨ Don’t miss the chance to join my email list for even more insights, tips, and support: drnicolerankins.com/emailOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get 25% off! - https://ritual.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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, confident, and empowered—no matter what your birth looks like or where it happens.From building a support system and preparing for the unexpected, to taking care of yourself and bonding with your baby before they’re even born, these tips are relevant whether it’s your first baby or your fifth. Trust me, you’ll want to take notes.Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:How to make the most of every prenatal care visitThe importance of attending all your checkups and being prepared for themWhat a strong support system looks like and why it mattersHow to have better communication with your birth partnerSweet ways to bond with your baby during pregnancyWhy self-care is necessary, not selfishTools for managing the stress that comes with this transformational timeIf you want to feel more grounded, informed, and in control during this journey, this episode is a must-listen.🎧 Tune in now and take the first step toward a beautiful experience.👉🏽 Be sure to sign up for my email list for more pregnancy and birth tips at drnicolerankins.com/emailOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get 25% off! - https://ritual.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 preeclampsia and related pregnancy complications like preterm birth and growth restriction.We’ll also talk about when to start taking baby aspirin, how much is recommended, and which risk factors make someone a good candidate. Spoiler alert: you may be eligible even if your pregnancy seems low-risk.If you’re looking for clarity and peace of mind around this common prenatal recommendation, this episode has you covered.👉🏽 Want more evidence-based tips like this delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for my email list at drnicolerankins.com/email.Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get 25% off! - https://ritual.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 the start of 2025, these wishes are just as powerful now as they were then, and they continue to represent what I want for the people I serve and for the world we live in.These wishes speak to safety, respect, support, empowerment, healing, and more. They are for you, your loved ones, and anyone walking the path of parenthood. Let them be affirmations, reminders, or moments of pause throughout your day.Whether you’ve heard this before or it’s your first time, I hope it offers inspiration, healing, and connection.💌 Be sure to join my email list at drnicolerankins.com/email so you never miss updates, insights, and support for your pregnancy and birth journey.Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get 25% off! - https://ritual.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

👋🏾 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 consent before doing anything.In this short but powerful “Dr. Nicole Says” episode, I walk you through what real consent sounds like, how it differs from the all-too-common “I’m just here to check your cervix” script, and why being informed and empowered is non-negotiable for your birth experience.💡 You’ll learn:How “nice” providers can still bypass consentReal-life examples of consent done rightWhy childbirth education is essential to advocating for yourselfYou are the center of your birth. And you have the right to say YES—or NO.📧 Want more empowering, evidence-based info straight to your inbox? Sign up for my email list at drnicolerankins.com/emailOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get 25% off! - https://ritual.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 Ritual and get 25% off! - https://ritual.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 incredibly confusing. So today I’m giving you the info you need on understanding your baby’s movement so you can feel calm, confident, and empowered through every kick, roll, and twist.In this Episode, You’ll Learn About:When you should start feeling your baby moveWhat's normal for fetal movement and what's notHow to tune into your baby's pattern without stressing yourself outWhen counting kicks can be a helpful tool—and when it’s not necessaryWhat the research says about tracking fetal movement and preventing stillbirthWhen to see your doctor or midwife for changes in your baby’s activityFull website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode302Feel calm and confident before birth with the $37 Mindset Bundle! Grab it at drnicolerankins.com/calm.Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get 25% off! - https://ritual.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 journey. There’s so much goodness in this episode—real talk, helpful tips, and lessons that can truly make a difference for your own birth experience.In this Episode, You’ll Learn About:What Melissa experienced during her miscarriageHow therapy helped her process the loss and feel ready to try againHow soon she got pregnant for the second timeWhen she learned she had a fibroid and what it meantHow she educated herself before giving birthWhy she chose midwifery care and how her provider’s approach influenced her birth experienceWhat it felt like to go through prodromal labor for days before true labor beganWhat made labor so much harder than she expectedWhich degree of tearing she had during deliveryWhat surprised her about postpartum healing_________Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode301Feel calm and confident before birth with the $37 Mindset Bundle! Grab it at drnicolerankins.com/calm.Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get 25% off! - https://ritual.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 here to share what everyone should know about this rare but potentially dangerous pregnancy complication. She’s sharing her critical insights about symptoms to watch for, the importance of self-advocacy, and how to get the right care. If you’re pregnant or planning to be, this is must-know information to help you protect your baby and your peace of mind.In this Episode, You’ll Learn About:What the signs and symptoms of cholestasis of pregnancy areWho is most likely to experience cholestasis of pregnancyWhat testing and treatment involveHow long test results can take—and why timing mattersWhether cholestasis of pregnancy can be preventedHow to advocate for yourselfWhich kinds of support can make a difference in your careHow ICP can affect future pregnancies_________Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode300Feel calm and confident before birth with the $37 Mindset Bundle! Grab it at drnicolerankins.com/calm.Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get 25% off! - https://ritual.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 topic back in 2020 but I want to circle back to it because I’d like to come out harder with my thoughts on consent, power, how doctors' habits can shape your birth, and things you can do to protect yourself. So whether this is brand new for you or something you've heard horror stories about, stay with me because I'm giving you the real deal on what to watch out for in labor so nothing is done to you without your consent.In this Episode, You’ll Learn About:What the biggest predictor of whether you will get an episiotomy isWhy it’s important to discuss your doctor’s approach ahead of timeHow rates have changed over timeWhat the two types are and how they differWhen it may actually be necessary — and how rare that isWhat language during labor can signal an episiotomy is about to happenWhat the healing process is like and when to seek pelvic floor support--Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode299Feel calm and confident before birth with the $37 Mindset Bundle — grab it at drnicolerankins.com/calm.Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get 25% off! - https://ritual.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 involving a cord prolapse and an urgent hospital transfer.This is an emotional and important conversation about the realities of rare birth complications, the gaps that can exist between birth centers and hospitals, and why it’s so important to ask questions—no matter where you’re giving birth. And yes, even if you're planning a hospital birth, there are key lessons here around communication, continuity of care, and preparing for the unexpected. Megan’s story is one of strength, resilience, and ultimately, healing—and I’m honored to share it with you.In This Episode, You’ll Learn About:Why Megan chose a hospital for her first baby and a birthing center for her secondWhat a cord prolapse is and why it’s a true obstetric emergencyHow her low-risk birth escalated to a life-threatening situationWhy relationships between birthing centers and hospitals are so importantWhat happens when the nearest hospital isn’t fully equipped for labor and deliveryWhy her cord prolapse required immediate delivery through emergency C-sectionHow Megan is healing from birth trauma and preparing for a future VBAC--Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode298Check out The Birth Preparation CourseRegister for the class How to Make a Birth Plan the Right WayOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get 25% off! - https://ritual.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & 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 and get 25% off! - https://ritual.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy