Ep 306: Tracking Labor Progress: Vaginal Exams Decoded

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by medical jargon or unsure what’s really in the medications you’re offered — you’re not alone.In this episode, I sit down with Alexandra Galaska, founder of Just the Inserts, to talk about what true informed consent looks like and how to decode medical product information with confidence. From navigating medication inserts to advocating for yourself in pregnancy and postpartum, this conversation will help you feel grounded — not fearful — in your choices.You’ll Learn:What informed consent really means (and why it’s more than signing a form)How to find and read medication and vaccine insertsThe CLEAR framework for informed decision-makingHow to balance medical recommendations with your personal valuesHow to ask your provider informed, respectful questions during pregnancy and birthResources Mentioned:Just the Inserts – Free Training & ResourcesIs Your Doctor Right For Your Birth? - Dr. Nicole’s Question GuideOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get early access to their Black Friday sale - 40% off! : https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Check out Uncommon Goods and get 15% off! https://uncommongoods.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

You’ve heard it all—“Tylenol causes autism” vs. “Totally safe.” Safe doesn’t mean risk-free, and you deserve the full picture.If you’re pregnant and dealing with headache, fever, or pain, this short episode gives you a clear, guilt-free way to think about acetaminophen (Tylenol). I walk you through what the research actually says, why observational studies can confuse the conversation, and how to make a smart, individualized decision with your clinician.You’ll learn:Why “safe” ≠ “risk-free,” and how OBs should communicate benefits vs. risksWhat big studies say about acetaminophen and neurodevelopment—and what they don’t proveWhy untreated fever and significant pain carry their own real risks in pregnancyA simple decision framework: lowest effective dose, shortest time, with guidanceNon-drug options to consider for pain (PT, yoga, chiropractic)Resources Mentioned:Evaluation of the evidence on acetaminophen use and neurodevelopmental disorders using the Navigation Guide methodology (cautious, judicious use; association ≠ causation)Acetaminophen Use During Pregnancy and Children’s Risk of Autism, ADHD, and Intellectual Disability (no association in sibling-controlled analyses)Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get early access to their Black Friday sale - 40% off! : https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Check out Uncommon Goods and get 15% off! https://uncommongoods.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Vaginal exams are one of the most common — and most misunderstood — parts of labor. They can empower you or leave you feeling powerless. The difference? Knowing what they really mean.In this episode, I’m giving you a sneak peek inside The Birth With Power Pathway, my upcoming childbirth education program. We’ll demystify vaginal exams — what they measure, how often they should be done, and how to make them more comfortable and respectful. By the end, you’ll understand how to stay informed, set boundaries, and keep your power every step of the way.You’ll learn:What dilation, effacement, and fetal station actually measureHow to interpret those numbers (and why they can vary between providers)How often vaginal exams are typically done — and when you can say “no”Tips to make exams more comfortable and less painfulWhat true informed consent looks like during laborResources Mentioned:The Birth With Power Pathway — join the waitlist: drnicolerankins.com/emailFollow me on Instagram: @drnicolerankinsOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get early access to their Black Friday sale - 40% off! : https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Check out Uncommon Goods and get 15% off! https://uncommongoods.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

When Ashley’s hands and feet started to itch, she almost brushed it off as “just another pregnancy symptom.” But that simple sign turned out to be something much more serious — intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP). This condition can significantly increase the risk of stillbirth.In this episode, Ashley shares how she faced ICP not once, but twice — from an unexpected early labor that left no time for pain meds to finding peace and confidence in her second birth. Her story is a raw and empowering reminder to trust your instincts, speak up when something feels off, and lean on your care team.You’ll learn:What ICP is and why early detection mattersHow Ashley’s lightning-fast first birth unfolded (and what she wishes she’d known)How her second birth experience was completely different — and healingPractical signs to watch for if you ever experience unexplained itchingWhy listening to your body can literally save livesResources Mentioned:ICP Care — support and information for families affected by ICPOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get early access to their Black Friday sale - 40% off! : https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Check out Uncommon Goods and get 15% off! https://uncommongoods.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

If you’re planning a hospital birth, you may be wondering whether an epidural is right for you. You’re not alone—and you deserve clear, practical guidance.In this episode, I walk you through five essential truths about epidurals—from how well they work (and when they don’t) to timing, side effects, movement, and what they do not do to your cesarean risk. You’ll leave feeling informed, confident, and ready to make the choice that fits you.You’ll learn:Why epidurals are highly effective—yet not “magic”—and what hot spots and uneven relief mean in real life.How timing works (IV, fluid bolus, anesthesiologist availability) and realistic relief onset.When you can request one (spoiler: anytime—even fully dilated in select cases).Common side effects vs. rare complications—and simple ways we manage them.Why there’s no true “walking epidural,” but how we adjust dosing so you can push effectively.Resources Mentioned:Labor Pain Management Playbook (free): drnicolerankins.com/laborOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get early access to their Black Friday sale - 40% off! : https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Check out Uncommon Goods and get 15% off! https://uncommongoods.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Today, we’re talking all about chiropractic care in the postpartum period—what it is and how it may help you heal after giving birth. Now listen, I know some doctors can be quick to dismiss things like chiropractic care or other so-called “alternative” approaches. But I really believe it's important that we expand our lens and stay open to options outside the traditional box—especially when those options may offer real benefits for postpartum healing and wellness.In this episode, we’re welcoming back award-winning prenatal chiropractor and childbirth educator, Dr. Elliot Berlin. He was a guest on the podcast way back on episode 44 and he’s back to talk about how chiropractic care can support your body during recovery. If you're curious about safe, effective ways to care for your body after baby, this one's for you!In this Episode, You’ll Learn About:How personal fertility struggles shifted Dr. Berlin from medicine to holistic careWhat chiropractors really do (and no it doesn’t always involve cracking)How restoring joint motion supports recoveryWhat the postpartum “golden window” is and how it makes chronic issues easier to resolveWhat physical stress pregnancy places on joints, muscles, and postureWhether chiropractic care is safe after giving birthHow laser therapy can support C-section recovery and pelvic floor healingHow integrating physical therapy and chiropractic care can improve outcomesWhat to look for in a chiropractorWhy postpartum recovery works best with team-based, collaborative care_________Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode303Feel calm and confident before birth with the $37 Mindset Bundle! Grab it at drnicolerankins.com/calm.Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get early access to their Black Friday sale - 40% off! : https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Check out Uncommon Goods and get 15% off! https://uncommongoods.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

If you’ve ever wondered how you’ll let your baby go one day, this one’s for you.In this episode, my husband Falcon takes over the mic and interviews me the very week we dropped our oldest—who started life in the NICU—off at college! It’s a raw, unscripted conversation about the joy, grief, pride, and growth tucked inside every goodbye. I share how NICU memories never really leave, why presence matters more than perfection, and the mindset shift that helped me loosen my grip while keeping our bond strong.You’ll hear:How our NICU beginning still shapes my heart todayThe one mindset that made move-in day gentler (presence > perfection)How I prepared myself (not just my teen) for launchWhy honoring your child’s personality builds lifelong confidenceThe NICU resources I wish I’d had back thenResources Mentioned:Episode 76: Navigating the NICU with neonatologist Dr. Terry Major-Kincade drnicolerankins.com/episode76Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get early access to their Black Friday sale - 40% off! : https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Check out Uncommon Goods and get 15% off! https://uncommongoods.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

What happens when you actually pause—without guilt, without pressure? Clarity shows up. Peace returns. Purpose sharpens.This mini episode is me sharing five lessons from my summer reset—family first, listening for divine guidance, returning to my core values, remembering I am what I teach, and using social media with intention. I’m back with more joy, more clarity, and a big update on the Birth with Power Pathway.You’ll learn:Why time with family is never a regret—and how presence restores you.How stillness opens space to hear what you’ve been asking for.The 3 values that ground Birth with Power: service, authenticity, simplicity.A reminder that you can be calm, confident, and powerful—because I live it, too.A healthier way to use social media (yes, I deleted the apps from my main phone).Resources Mentioned:Join my email list for first access + launch bonus: drnicolerankins.com/email.Follow me on Instagram: @drnicolerankins.Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get early access to their Black Friday sale - 40% off! : https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Check out Uncommon Goods and get 15% off! https://uncommongoods.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This Power Replay episode brings back a candid and heartfelt discussion where I share my personal perspective on the term “pregnant people.” It’s a short but powerful conversation about identity, inclusion, and why language matters in the world of pregnancy and birth.You’ll hear how I navigate using terms like “pregnant woman” and “pregnant person,” and how my experiences as a Black woman and as a parent have shaped my approach. This episode is all about honoring diverse identities while still seeing and affirming yourself.Whether you’ve never thought much about this topic or it’s something that sparks strong feelings for you, I hope you’ll listen with an open heart.I’d love to hear your thoughts! Send me a message through my website at drnicolerankins.com/contact or DM me on Instagram @drnicolerankins.👉🏽 Sign up for my email list to stay connected and get more great pregnancy and birth content: drnicolerankins.com/emailOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get early access to their Black Friday sale - 40% off! : https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Check out Uncommon Goods and get 15% off! https://uncommongoods.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This episode is a power replay and one you don’t want to miss!We’re revisiting one of the most insightful and important topics I've covered: physiologic birth. I was inspired to do this episode by Certified Nurse Midwife Gianna Fay, who raised a critical question - how do we define and support physiologic birth, especially in a hospital setting?As an OB/GYN, I wasn’t taught much about this, and I had to dig in and learn myself. In this episode, I break down what physiologic birth really means, what disrupts it, why it’s beneficial, and how YOU can be supported in having one.You’ll learn:How normal physiologic birth is definedWhich factors can disrupt the process (and how many of them are routine in hospitals)What benefits physiologic birth can offer to both you and your babyWhy hospital protocols often contradict best practicesThe truth about pushing techniques, fetal monitoring, labor positions, and moreHow you can advocate for yourself and demand change in a system slow to evolveWhether you're planning a physiologic birth or not, this episode will leave you informed, empowered, and ready to make the best decisions for your birth experience.👉🏽 Be sure to sign up for my email list for more helpful resources at drnicolerankins.com/email.You deserve a beautiful pregnancy and birth!Our Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get early access to their Black Friday sale - 40% off! : https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Check out Uncommon Goods and get 15% off! https://uncommongoods.com/drnicoleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy