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.

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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!

• B - Begin at Arrival: What to expect when you arrive at the hospital
• I - IV Fluids & Monitoring: How it works & how to stay mobile
• R - Refuel: Eating and drinking in labor - What’s really safe to eat in labor
• T - Track Progress: How labor progress is assessed
• H - Hustle or Hold Still?: Movement & positioning during labor

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Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode293

Check out The Birth Preparation Course

Register for the class How to Make a Birth Plan the Right Way

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.