Birth Story 71: Melanie's Birth Stories: From Medical Challenges to a Home Birth Miracle

Birth Story 71: Melanie's Severe Preeclampsia, Two C-Sections, & Breech Home Birth with NICU Transfer In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast's Birth Story Friday, host Gina (perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula) and Roxanne (labor and delivery nurse and student midwife) welcome Gina's friend Melanie, who shares her three unique birth stories. Melanie discusses her experiences with two C-sections, one under general anesthesia due to HELLP syndrome and another planned, but stressful and disempowering. Melanie goes on to achieve a successful VBAC home birth after two C-sections- with the unexpected twist of a breech birth and a transfer to the NICU. This episode underscores the importance of advocacy, the right support, and informed decision-making in pregnancy and childbirth. 00:00 Introduction to Melanie's Birth Stories01:29 Melanie's First Pregnancy: HELLP Syndrome and C-Section03:58 Melanie's Second Pregnancy: Struggles and Another C-Section07:42 Challenges with Medical Support During Second Pregnancy24:52 Melanie's Third Pregnancy: Aiming for a VBAC37:34 Navigating Prenatal Care Challenges39:11 Support from a Doula40:32 Exploring Home Birth Options43:08 Preparing for a Home Birth46:41 Labor and Delivery at Home56:46 Unexpected Complications01:02:44 Reflecting on the Birth Experience01:08:12 Final Thoughts and AdviceFind Melanie on Instagram @SAHMauthor here: https://www.instagram.com/sahmauthor?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Find her OB, Dr. Nathan Riley, here: https://www.instagram.com/nathanrileyobgyn/?hl=en——————————Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH📧 Download our free birth prep circuit guide with six exercises to prepare your body for birth: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit/Prepare for your birth with MamasteFit:💻 Online Childbirth Education Courses🏋🏻‍♀️ Online Prenatal Fitness Programming🧘‍♀️ Prepare Your Pelvic Floor for Birth CourseExplore our prep for birth courses: https://mamastefit.com/prenatal-support3rd Trimester Specific Prep Courses: https://mamastefit.com/fitness-programs/third-trimester/-------Freebies to Support Your Postpartum:📩 Join our free early postpartum recovery course: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery/—-Recover after birth and return to fitness with MamasteFit: https://mamastefit.com/fitness-programs/postpartum/💻 Postpartum Education Courses🏋🏻‍♀️ Postpartum Fitness Programs——Follow Us on IG at https://instagram.com/mamastefit—— ****Freebies*****Early postpartum recovery course: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ Postpartum sample: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/Prenatal Sample: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/Pelvic Floor https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/Birth Prep for Labor Guide https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/Birth Partner Guide https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/Birth Plan https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Roxanne, a labor and delivery nurse and student midwife, discuss the importance of mental preparation for childbirth and parenthood. They are joined by Tracy, founder of GentleBirth, an app designed to help with mindset and mental preparation for birth. The conversation covers how mindset shapes birth experiences, strategies to build mental resilience, and how to incorporate mindfulness and meditation into daily routines. They also touch on the significance of mindfulness in reducing pregnancy and postpartum stress for both mothers and their babies.00:00 Introduction to Mental Preparation for Birth01:17 Meet Tracy, Founder of GentleBirth02:20 Understanding Mindset in Pregnancy04:20 The Importance of Mental Flexibility08:21 Practical Tips for Incorporating Meditation11:40 The Role of Mindfulness in Labor23:26 Mindfulness Beyond Birth48:29 Final Thoughts and ResourcesCheck out Tracy's NEW Mindfulness for Breastfeeding Class: https://tracydonegan.org/mindful-breastfeedingLearn More About GentleBirth and Hypnobirthing Here: https://www.gentlebirth.com/——————————Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH📧 Download our free birth prep circuit guide with six exercises to prepare your body for birth: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit/Prepare for your birth with MamasteFit:💻 Online Childbirth Education Courses🏋🏻‍♀️ Online Prenatal Fitness Programming🧘‍♀️ Prepare Your Pelvic Floor for Birth CourseExplore our prep for birth courses: https://mamastefit.com/prenatal-support3rd Trimester Specific Prep Courses: https://mamastefit.com/fitness-programs/third-trimester/-------Freebies to Support Your Postpartum:📩 Join our free early postpartum recovery course: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery/—-Recover after birth and return to fitness with MamasteFit: https://mamastefit.com/fitness-programs/postpartum/💻 Postpartum Education Courses🏋🏻‍♀️ Postpartum Fitness Programs——Follow Us on IG at https://instagram.com/mamastefit—— This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ****Freebies*****Early postpartum recovery course: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ Postpartum sample: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/Prenatal Sample: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/Pelvic Floor https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/Birth Prep for Labor Guide https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/Birth Partner Guide https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/Birth Plan https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

In this episode of Moments With MamasteFit, Roxanne and Gina (a labor nurse and a doula) discuss the concept of the labor curve and share diverse experiences on dilation rates during labor. They compare the historical Freedman's Curve to contemporary understandings, emphasizing that dilation can be irregular and is just one part of assessing labor progress. They also highlight other important indicators such as temperament, movement patterns, and specific fetal heart rate changes, providing invaluable insights for both expecting individuals and birth supporters.00:00 Introduction to Moments With MamasteFit00:22 Understanding the Labor Curve00:42 Real-Life Labor Stories01:50 Freedman's Curve vs. Contemporary Labor Curve03:12 Indicators of Labor Progress07:11 Movement Patterns and Labor Progression10:51 Epidurals and Labor Signs16:39 Conclusion and Resources——————————Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH📧 Download our free birth prep circuit guide with six exercises to prepare your body for birth: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit/Prepare for your birth with MamasteFit:💻 Online Childbirth Education Courses🏋🏻‍♀️ Online Prenatal Fitness Programming🧘‍♀️ Prepare Your Pelvic Floor for Birth CourseExplore our prep for birth courses: https://mamastefit.com/prenatal-support3rd Trimester Specific Prep Courses: https://mamastefit.com/fitness-programs/third-trimester/-------Freebies to Support Your Postpartum:📩 Join our free early postpartum recovery course: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery/—-Recover after birth and return to fitness with MamasteFit: https://mamastefit.com/fitness-programs/postpartum/💻 Postpartum Education Courses🏋🏻‍♀️ Postpartum Fitness Programs——Follow Us on IG at https://instagram.com/mamastefit—— ****Freebies*****Early postpartum recovery course: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ Postpartum sample: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/Prenatal Sample: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/Pelvic Floor https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/Birth Prep for Labor Guide https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/Birth Partner Guide https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/Birth Plan https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina (perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula) and Roxanne (labor and delivery nurse and student midwife) discuss the stages of labor from the onset of contractions to the moment of birth. They break down each phase within the first stage of labor, including early labor, early active labor, active labor, and transition, sharing favorite coping techniques for each stage drawn from both personal and professional experiences. Key strategies for managing early labor include balancing rest and movement, hydration, and nutrition. As labor progresses into active labor and transition, effective comfort measures such as hip squeezes, hydrotherapy, and physical support are explored. The episode also covers mental strategies and practical tips to navigate the labor process confidently.00:00 Introduction to MamasteFit Podcast00:01 Overview of Labor Stages00:16 Hosts Introduction01:47 Labor Timeline Breakdown03:17 Early Labor: Rest and Movement07:06 Comfort Measures for Early Labor12:24 Transition to Active Labor20:09 Transition Phase: Coping Strategies28:43 Second Stage of Labor: Pushing30:44 Sponsor Message and Conclusion——————————Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH📧 Download our free birth prep circuit guide with six exercises to prepare your body for birth: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit/Prepare for your birth with MamasteFit:💻 Online Childbirth Education Courses🏋🏻‍♀️ Online Prenatal Fitness Programming🧘‍♀️ Prepare Your Pelvic Floor for Birth CourseExplore our prep for birth courses: https://mamastefit.com/prenatal-support3rd Trimester Specific Prep Courses: https://mamastefit.com/fitness-programs/third-trimester/-------Freebies to Support Your Postpartum:📩 Join our free early postpartum recovery course: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery/—-Recover after birth and return to fitness with MamasteFit: https://mamastefit.com/fitness-programs/postpartum/💻 Postpartum Education Courses🏋🏻‍♀️ Postpartum Fitness Programs——Follow Us on IG at https://instagram.com/mamastefit—— This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ****Freebies*****Early postpartum recovery course: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ Postpartum sample: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/Prenatal Sample: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/Pelvic Floor https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/Birth Prep for Labor Guide https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/Birth Partner Guide https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/Birth Plan https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Gina shares her detailed birth stories for all four of her children, from her initial hospital birth with an epidural to her empowering home births. She recounts how each experience influenced the next and discusses the importance of empowered, respectful care during childbirth. Gina covers the highs and lows of each experience, what each one taught her, and how her personal and professional experiences with birth have shaped her care as a birth worker. 00:00 Introduction to the MamasteFit Podcast01:06 Gina's First Birth Story: Hospital Birth with Epidural02:05 Navigating Pregnancy Fears and Induction Anxiety05:43 Labor and Delivery Challenges09:58 The Birth Experience: From Induction to Delivery24:53 Postpartum Reflections and Confidence Struggles26:39 Preparing for a Redemptive Second Birth27:56 Transition to Home Birth During COVID-1930:51 The Dream Home Birth Experience38:16 The Importance of Controlling Your Birth Space39:07 The Journey to a Serene Birth Experience40:04 Navigating Anxiety and Expectations42:01 The Unexpected Challenges of Labor44:18 The Role of Support and Preparation47:37 The Final Push and Birth50:05 Reflecting on Birth Experiences52:02 Lessons Learned and Future Plans53:00 The Fourth Birth: A New Approach01:01:17 The Fastest Labor Yet01:12:30 Concluding Thoughts and Support Resources——————————Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH📧 Download our free birth prep circuit guide with six exercises to prepare your body for birth: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit/Prepare for your birth with MamasteFit:💻 Online Childbirth Education Courses🏋🏻‍♀️ Online Prenatal Fitness Programming🧘‍♀️ Prepare Your Pelvic Floor for Birth CourseExplore our prep for birth courses: https://mamastefit.com/prenatal-support3rd Trimester Specific Prep Courses: https://mamastefit.com/fitness-programs/third-trimester/-------Freebies to Support Your Postpartum:📩 Join our free early postpartum recovery course: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery/—-Recover after birth and return to fitness with MamasteFit: https://mamastefit.com/fitness-programs/postpartum/💻 Postpartum Education Courses🏋🏻‍♀️ Postpartum Fitness Programs——Follow Us on IG at https://instagram.com/mamastefit****Freebies*****Early postpartum recovery course: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ Postpartum sample: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/Prenatal Sample: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/Pelvic Floor https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/Birth Prep for Labor Guide https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/Birth Partner Guide https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/Birth Plan https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

Gina and Roxanne break down the importance of various movement patterns and labor positions to create space in the pelvis during pregnancy and childbirth. The sisters emphasize that there is no single “best” position, but rather a range of movements that can help facilitate labor progress. They explain how to prepare the body during pregnancy through exercises like hip shifts, pelvic tilts, and spinal mobility. This talk also covers how to address common issues during labor using specific movements and positions, but again, they stress the importance of practicing these movements during pregnancy to be better prepared for labor! 00:00 Introduction to the MamasteFit Podcast01:03 Understanding Laboring Positions02:23 Pelvic Movements During Pregnancy05:18 Prenatal Fitness and Common Postural Tendencies06:42 MamasteFit Birth Prep Circuit07:26 Sponsor Break: Needed Nutrition08:32 Incorporating Movements into Prenatal Workouts13:59 The Importance of Hip Shifts21:28 Applying Movements to Labor27:41 Addressing Common Labor Issues39:35 Conclusion and Resources Links:Hip Shift Video: https://youtu.be/3qZGTPdupXg——————————Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH📧 Download our free birth prep circuit guide with six exercises to prepare your body for birth: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit/Prepare for your birth with MamasteFit:💻 Online Childbirth Education Courses🏋🏻‍♀️ Online Prenatal Fitness Programming🧘‍♀️ Prepare Your Pelvic Floor for Birth CourseExplore our prep for birth courses: https://mamastefit.com/prenatal-support3rd Trimester Specific Prep Courses: https://mamastefit.com/fitness-programs/third-trimester/-------Freebies to Support Your Postpartum:📩 Join our free early postpartum recovery course: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery/—-Recover after birth and return to fitness with MamasteFit: https://mamastefit.com/fitness-programs/postpartum/💻 Postpartum Education Courses🏋🏻‍♀️ Postpartum Fitness Programs——Follow Us on IG at https://instagram.com/mamastefit——This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ****Freebies*****Early postpartum recovery course: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ Postpartum sample: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/Prenatal Sample: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/Pelvic Floor https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/Birth Prep for Labor Guide https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/Birth Partner Guide https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/Birth Plan https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula Gina, alongside pelvic floor physical therapist Hayley Kava, discuss common causes and solutions for painful sex in the postpartum period. They delve into hormonal changes, effective lubrication options, and optimal sexual positions to alleviate discomfort. The importance of good communication with partners and practical tips like pelvic floor muscle relaxation techniques are also highlighted. The episode provides valuable insights and resources to help new mothers navigate intimacy challenges post-birth.00:00 Introduction to Painful Sex01:41 Hormonal Changes Postpartum04:02 Lubrication Solutions10:41 Positioning Tips for Comfort18:45 Partner Communication and Exercises21:46 Conclusion and Final TipsResources for the show notes:Hayley Kava PT: https://www.hayleykavapt.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayleykavapt/Pelvic Balance Series: https://www.hayleykavapt.com/Pelvicbalanceseries Hayley’s Positional Guide for Pain-Free Sex: https://www.hayleykavapt.com/the-sex-position-guide-sales-pageHayley’s Lube Recommendations: V-Magic: https://a.co/d/8mhAANQGood Clean Love: https://a.co/d/8UDUI1zCoconu: https://amzn.to/4hQ7eCbPodcasts & Workouts Related to this Episode:Navigating Intimacy Postpartum with Dr. Robertson: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/v7GdCl118Qb10 Min Pelvic Floor relaxation workout: https://youtu.be/EWGIWJeGbzo

In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Gina and speaks with Jo Robertson, a New Zealand-based sex therapist specializing in women's sexual health and postpartum intimacy. The discussion covers strategies for rebuilding intimacy after childbirth, starting with a strong non-sexual connection. Key topics include the 'orange light' approach to intimacy, dealing with guilt and societal pressure, practical tips such as the Three Minute Game, the importance of lubrication, and using vibrators. Dr. Robertson also shares the significance of self-view and body positivity postpartum. The episode highlights the importance of communication with partners and planning 'date nights' at home. Listeners are offered a discount on Dr. Robertson's postpartum sex course.00:00 Introduction to the MamasteFit Podcast01:28 Meet Jo Robertson: Sex Therapist from New Zealand04:26 Navigating Postpartum Intimacy: Personal Experiences08:40 Understanding Postpartum Sexual Health17:47 Practical Tips for Rebuilding Intimacy22:20 Sponsor Break: Needed Nutrition24:06 Planning Intimacy: Strategies for Busy Parents32:34 Body Image and Confidence Postpartum45:35 Final Thoughts and Recommendations51:26 Conclusion and ResourcesFind Jo Here!Link to course: https://courses.jorobertson.org/postpartum use code MAMASTEFIT for 20% off at checkoutJo’s main website: https://www.jorobertson.org/Recommended Lubricant: Pjur Bodyglide ——————————Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH📧 Download our free birth prep circuit guide with six exercises to prepare your body for birth: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit/Prepare for your birth with MamasteFit:💻 Online Childbirth Education Courses🏋🏻‍♀️ Online Prenatal Fitness Programming🧘‍♀️ Prepare Your Pelvic Floor for Birth CourseExplore our prep for birth courses: https://mamastefit.com/prenatal-support3rd Trimester Specific Prep Courses: https://mamastefit.com/fitness-programs/third-trimester/-------Freebies to Support Your Postpartum:📩 Join our free early postpartum recovery course: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery/—-Recover after birth and return to fitness with MamasteFit: https://mamastefit.com/fitness-programs/postpartum/💻 Postpartum Education Courses🏋🏻‍♀️ Postpartum Fitness Programs——Follow Us on IG at https://instagram.com/mamastefit——This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast's Birth Story Friday, Roxanne, a labor and delivery nurse and student midwife, shares her three unique and empowering birth stories: two unmedicated hospital births and one unmedicated birth center birth. Alongside Gina, a perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula, Roxanne discusses the importance of support during pregnancy and labor, her preparation methods, the impactful experiences of her births, and the essential role of building a supportive birth team. This episode offers insights into navigating the perinatal timeline with confidence, emphasizing the significance of intentional support and preparation for a positive birth and postpartum journey.00:00 Introduction to the MamasteFit Podcast00:22 Meet Roxanne and Gina01:11 Roxanne's Birth Stories Overview02:58 Preparing for an Unmedicated Birth04:27 Challenges and Support During Pregnancy07:14 Hypnobirthing and Spinning Babies Techniques18:30 Labor Begins and Early Contractions25:44 Early Labor and Hospital Visit26:37 Deciding to Go Home28:07 Labor Progresses at Home32:07 Rushing to the Hospital34:00 Arriving at the Hospital38:46 Birth and Immediate Aftermath44:06 Reflecting on the Birth Experience46:21 Second Pregnancy and Complications51:03 Preparing for the Second Birth53:56 Early Signs of Labor55:06 Early Labor and Hip Squeezes55:52 Heading to the Birth Center56:57 Active Labor in the Tub57:30 Pushing and Delivery01:00:29 Post-Birth Reflections01:04:46 Third Pregnancy and Birth Plans01:06:41 Labor and Delivery of the Third Baby01:26:06 Reflections on All Births01:29:11 Final Thoughts and ResourcesLinks:The MamasteFit Birth Prep Circuit: Relieve Tension & Prepare for Birthhttps://youtu.be/6MsiKQQFbC8——————————Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH📧 Download our free birth prep circuit guide with six exercises to prepare your body for birth: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit/Prepare for your birth with MamasteFit:💻 Online Childbirth Education Courses🏋🏻‍♀️ Online Prenatal Fitness Programming🧘‍♀️ Prepare Your Pelvic Floor for Birth CourseExplore our prep for birth courses: https://mamastefit.com/prenatal-support3rd Trimester Specific Prep Courses: https://mamastefit.com/fitness-programs/third-trimester/-------Freebies to Support Your Postpartum:📩 Join our free early postpartum recovery course: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery/—-Recover after birth and return to fitness with MamasteFit: https://mamastefit.com/fitness-programs/postpartum/💻 Postpartum Education Courses🏋🏻‍♀️ Postpartum Fitness Programs——Follow Us on IG at https://instagram.com/mamastefit

In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Gina and Roxanne welcome Dr. Nicole Rankins, a board certified OB/GYN. Dr. Rankins shares her insights on how to have an empowering experience during pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period. From choosing the right provider to understanding the importance of mindset and childbirth education, this episode provides valuable tips for expecting parents. Dr. Rankins also emphasizes the significance of preparing for postpartum recovery and gives advice on how partners can support during labor. The conversation delves into key strategies for managing pain, considering birth preferences, and navigating emergent situations, aiming to help parents feel confident and empowered throughout their pregnancy journey.00:00 Welcome to the MamasteFit Podcast01:07 Meet Dr. Nicole Rankins: Empowering Pregnancy and Birth01:56 Choosing the Right Provider for Your Pregnancy09:33 Advocating for Yourself and Your Birth Plan16:02 The Importance of Childbirth Education19:54 Mindset and Preparation for Labor24:20 Navigating Labor and Birth Options44:21 Understanding Birth Plans and Preferences53:40 Postpartum Preparation and Final ThoughtsDr. Nicole Calloway Rankins is a board-certified, practicing OB/GYN and mom of 2 who empowers moms to feel calm, confident, and empowered for pregnancy and birth. In her over 20 year career she’s helped nearly 2,000 babies into this world and has demystified pregnancy and childbirth for thousands more women through her popular podcast All About Pregnancy & Birth, which has been downloaded over 2.5 million times. She regularly shares holistic, evidence-based pregnancy and birth info with her community of 25K+ on Instagram (@drnicolerankins), and has served thousands of moms-to-be through her online birth plan class, Make A Birth Plan The RIGHT Way, and comprehensive online childbirth education class, The Birth Preparation Course.Find Dr. Rankins Here!Website: https://drnicolerankins.com/Insta: https://www.instagram.com/drnicolerankins/?hl=enPodcast: https://drnicolerankins.com/episode97/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabTgz6_oY-Gz1f9H-xlGFe16xYf6MbFP2zXrzdZXTnOafA2Lt5rZXYImcE_aem_bL0o6BEudOlciE_iuV-Yqw===Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH📧 Download our free birth prep circuit guide with six exercises to prepare your body for birth: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-birth-circuit/Prepare for your birth with MamasteFit:💻 Online Childbirth Education Courses🏋🏻‍♀️ Online Prenatal Fitness Programming🧘‍♀️ Prepare Your Pelvic Floor for Birth CourseExplore our prep for birth courses: https://mamastefit.com/prenatal-support3rd Trimester Specific Prep Courses: https://mamastefit.com/fitness-programs/third-trimester/-------Freebies to Support Your Postpartum:📩 Join our free early postpartum recovery course: https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery/—-Recover after birth and return to fitness with MamasteFit: https://mamastefit.com/fitness-programs/postpartum/💻 Postpartum Education Courses🏋🏻‍♀️ Postpartum Fitness Programs——Follow Us on IG at https://instagram.com/mamastefit------This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey. ⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.⁠ https://neededcreator.pxf.io/c/2841618/1770238/20859