Functional Medicine For Moms | First-Time Parents Trying To Navigate Holistic, Healthy Living

Vaccines, Risks & Real Informed Consent with Katie Collins, PA-C — A Conventionally Trained, Holistically Minded PA


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Vaccines are one of the biggest decisions parents face — and for many moms, the information feels overwhelming, confusing, and often incomplete. In today’s episode, Kelly sits down with Board-Certified Physician Assistant Katie Collins, PA-C, to talk about what real informed consent looks like and how parents can navigate these choices with confidence instead of fear.

Together, we break down how vaccines are studied, what’s included (and not included) in clinical trials, and how to approach this topic from a functional, holistic lens that honors both science and intuition.

Katie also walks through one specific vaccine as a real example — sharing what the clinical trial actually measured, what safety outcomes were considered, and how the risk vs. benefit of the disease compares with the risk vs. benefit of the vaccine. This section is eye-opening, empowering, and highlights why parents deserve deeper, clearer information before making long-term decisions.

This episode isn’t about convincing anyone of anything. It’s about equipping moms with clarity, context, and confidence so they can make the decisions that feel right for their family — without shame, pressure, or judgment.

💛 We cover:

  • What “informed consent” really means (and why parents rarely receive it)
  • How vaccines are tested, approved, and monitored
  • Gaps and limitations in clinical trials parents should understand
  • A deep dive into one vaccine’s actual trial design and safety data
  • How to weigh the risks and benefits of a disease versus a vaccine
  • How to research responsibly without spiraling
  • How to communicate with other moms who make different vaccine decisions — without conflict
  • How to find confidence and community in your choices

Katie’s goal — and mine — is for moms to feel informed, calm, and confident… not confused or judged.

Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your doctor and/or pediatrician regarding your health or your child’s health.

👉 Where to find us:

  • Instagram: @functionalmedicineformoms
  • YouTube & Podcast Networks: Functional Medicine for Moms
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: molinemethod.com — book a free consultation or order professional-grade supplements through Fullscript.

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Functional Medicine For Moms | First-Time Parents Trying To Navigate Holistic, Healthy LivingBy Landon Moline & Dr. Kelly Moline, PharmD