👋🏾 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 your first month - https://ritual.com/DRNICOLEAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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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 Ritual and get 25% off your first month - https://ritual.com/DRNICOLEAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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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 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 your first month - https://ritual.com/DRNICOLEAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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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 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 your first month - https://ritual.com/DRNICOLEAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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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 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 your first month - https://ritual.com/DRNICOLEAdvertising 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!
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