Vaginal exams are one of the most common procedures during pregnancy and labor, but are they always necessary? In this episode, Deb sits down with certified nurse midwife Kara French to unpack when and why vaginal exams may be offered, what information they actually provide, and how parents can make informed decisions about their care.

Together, they explore the role of vaginal exams both before and during labor, including why some providers routinely suggest them at the end of pregnancy and when they may truly impact medical decision-making. Kara also shares her philosophy around consent, labor progression, and helping families understand that cervical dilation is only one small piece of the birth picture.

This thoughtful conversation offers expectant parents practical information, empowering questions to ask their care providers, and reassurance that they always have options when it comes to their bodies and birth experiences.

Get the most out of each episode by checking out the show notes with links, resources and other related podcasts at: prenatalyogacenter.com
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