Birth With Power

• Ep 307: Informed Consent Isn’t a Form — It’s a Conversation

  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

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• Is Acetaminophen a.k.a. Tylenol “Safe”?

  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

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• Ep 306: Tracking Labor Progress: Vaginal Exams Decoded

  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

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• Ep 305: Trust Your Body — Ashley’s Story of Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy

  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

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• 5 Things to Know Before You Get An Epidural

  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

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