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There is an overall lack of information and education about pelvic health in the pregnancy, birth, and postpartum world. A new mother’s ability to care for her newborn has everything to do with her mental, physical, and emotional health, but modern medicine and our society have lost touch with this message. Our systems are designed to nurture the infant, neglecting to empower mothers with dignity, truth, and preparedness. Let’s change that! Join us to learn more! Dr. Laura Williams is a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) and Board-certified Women’s Health Clinical Specialist. She practices and lives in Colorado with her husband, three-year-old daughter, and a second child on the way. She founded Hearth Healing, a 100% virtual postpartum healing service as a pelvic health consultant. Although not a substitute for in-person healthcare, postpartum healing consultation should be viewed as a vital way to bridge the gap in maternal care. People deserve information about how to improve symptoms that impact their quality of life after childbirth without having to wait months or feel limited by a lack of childcare or transportation.  At Hearth Healing, Laura provides individualized answers to postpartum healing questions, early healing strategies, self-management advice, and guidance on appropriate resources, products, and providers. Our discussion focuses on the lack of information about healing after childbirth and the options during pregnancy for pelvic health. Laura explains symptoms to look out for and when to seek additional help–because pelvic health impacts mental health. Show Highlights: What “pelvic health” is and what Dr. Laura does in her work How Dr. Laura helps people prepare for the postpartum and know about available resources How pelvic health impacts bowel and bladder functions, which are often overlooked Why pelvic floor PT is necessary after certain surgeries Why pelvic health problems are a loss of function—and a physical therapist like Dr. Laura can help people maintain function and optimize their quality of life Why we need to prioritize wellness to be good parents–and to set examples for our kids Why healthcare providers need to do a better job asking the right questions and screening patients for pelvic floor health When someone should/could see a pelvic PT How Dr. Laura helps patients virtually through her practice, Hearth Healing  Resources: Connect with Dr. Laura: Website and Instagram Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Maternal mental health has a profound impact on individuals, couples, families, children, and our society as a whole. It’s important that every parent, regardless of race, color, or ethnicity, has access to resources and support when they need it most, and that just isn’t the case in our country. Today’s conversation focuses on maternal mental health in the Black community, and our perspective comes from a dedicated, mission-driven mental health provider who wants to make a difference in the lives of Black mothers. There is so much for us to learn and understand about this topic, so join us now for the conversation.  Keisha Reaves is the owner and clinical director of Push Thru Therapy. As a Georgia native, she has witnessed the stigma of mental health and has made it her mission to normalize therapy. With more than 16 years in the mental health profession, she is now a Certified Perinatal Mental Health provider serving birthing parents who are trying to conceive, have fertility issues, experience infant loss, are transitioning into parenthood, and those with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. She has volunteered with Northside Hospital’s Infant Loss/ Bereavement Group and served for three years on the Postpartum Support International Georgia Chapter Board as the Training Coordinator, as well as currently volunteering as an educator to providers treating birthing parents in their practices. She is a facilitator for the Mocha Moms Group at the Atlanta Birth Center, and she facilitates a Black Moms group through Push Thru Therapy. In today’s episode, Keisha shares her personal story, along with giving us perspective on the factors that make Black maternal mental health and reproductive education so vitally important. She is intensely passionate about maternal mental health and strives to spread information, education, resources, and support to women of color.  Show Highlights: How Keisha’s journey brought her to the important work she does today How Keisha’s first pregnancy played out with many signs of postpartum depression and anxiety—and she didn’t realize it at the time How she experienced sleep deprivation, brain fog, feelings of isolation, and had no friends and family close by to help How Keisha felt shame and stigma around seeking therapy as a mental health clinician–and why she determined to help others through her work What Keisha sees as gaps in adequate support for Black women—and why so many people of color are afraid to ask for the help they need How Black mothers in the South experience societal and generational pressure to a greater degree because of the history of slavery Why antepartum anxiety is a big challenge for many mothers How Keisha’s second pregnancy was a different experience because she was proactive and had support in place How unique worries and concerns (and anxiety) show up for Black mothers in today’s world–and why Keisha focuses on helping Black mothers to “be present in the joy of motherhood” How a therapist who “looks like me” can be more helpful with sympathy and empathy What Keisha would like to see in our progress with maternal mental health What steps Keisha is taking now in her work to reach more people with education and information, both for mental health providers and mothers Resources: Connect with Keisha: Website, Push Thru Therapy Website, Instagram, Push Thru Mom Instagram Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today is a very special episode because I not only have the pleasure of hosting this podcast, but I am also the guest. Yes, that's right! Today, in honor of Maternal Mental Health Month, I'm opening up my heart and sharing my postpartum story with you once again; I last told my story way back in Episode 1 in June 2016. I want all of you who know me as Dr. Kat professionally to understand why I am so deeply passionate about the cause of maternal mental health. Join us now! Karen Kleiman is a well-known international maternal mental-health expert with over 35 years of experience. As an advocate and author of several groundbreaking books on postpartum depression and anxiety, her work has been featured on the internet and within the mental health community for decades. In 1988, Karen founded The Postpartum Stress Center, a treatment and training facility for prenatal and postpartum depression and anxiety. Katayune Kaeni, Psy.D. PMH-C, “Dr. Kat,” is a perinatal mental health-certified psychologist, author of The Pregnancy Workbook: Manage Anxiety and Worry with CBT and Mindfulness Techniques, and host of the Mom & Mind Podcast, covering personal stories and expert interviews related to perinatal mental health. She is also the board chair of Postpartum Support International, an organization whose mission is to promote awareness, prevention, and treatment of mental health issues related to childbearing in every country worldwide. Dr. Kat began specializing in perinatal mental health after her own experience with postpartum depression, anxiety, and OCD over 12 years ago. Dr. Kat continues to work virtually with clients across California.  Show Highlights: How Dr. Kat’s first pregnancy, even though planned and easy, resulted in a long, difficult labor that jump-started postpartum depression, anxiety, and OCD Why new moms struggle to know what’s normal, not normal, too much, or not enough How feeling inadequate and incompetent as a new mom was part of Dr. Kat’s anxiety and her battle with perfectionism How she felt alone and disconnected even from her husband, and NO ONE knew what was happening on the inside How scary intrusive thoughts put her in emotional turmoil Why shame and stigma are greater for mental health professionals–and will silence them at times How Dr. Kat carried on her therapy work with clients as the depression grew, making her feel trapped, exhausted, embarrassed, and confused How finally taking the PHQ-9 depression screening test for herself finally opened her eyes to the truth of what she was going through How she shut down even with her therapist and turned to a naturopathic physician, acupuncture, and other healing alternatives Why therapists MUST address the suffering client in front of them with curiosity and questions Why Dr. Kat is so deeply driven to help other moms break through and find the help and support to know that THEY WILL BE OK Resources: Connect with Karen: Website, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Book: Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts and LinkedIn Check out Karen Kleiman’s other books: Website and Amazon Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We continue in the month of May, Mental Health Awareness Month! We always need more awareness and advocacy for mental health in general, but for far too long, maternal mental health has been underrecognized and underdiagnosed. So many people have suffered without good resources and the proper support in place. Today’s guest has vast experience with perinatal mental health, and it allows her to see the long view of how far we’ve come and how far we still need to go. Join us to learn more! Karen Kleiman is a well-known international maternal mental health expert with over 35 years of experience in the field. She is a strong advocate and the author of several groundbreaking books on postpartum depression and anxiety. Her work has been featured online and in the mental health community for decades. In 1998, Karen founded The Postpartum Stress Center, and in 2022, she founded The Karen Kleiman Training Center, which is dedicated to the advancement of clinical expertise and therapeutic strategies for the treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. All of her advanced trainings are heavily influenced by The Art of Holding Perinatal in Distress™ model of intervention, created by Karen. In this conversation, we take a close look at intrusive thoughts and identify those that are normal and those that need an increased level of intervention. Karen’s latest book is Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts: A Healing Guide to the Secret Fears of New Mothers. Her other books include The Postpartum Partner, What About Us?, This Isn’t What I Expected, The Art of Holding in Therapy, and Dropping the Baby and Other Scary Thoughts.   Show Highlights: Why Karen writes books as a unique avenue to empower moms How the pandemic doubled and tripled exponentially the anxiety and fears for new moms How the “scary thought” range can vary from mild to very awful–and they don’t always come with thoughts of hurting your baby or yourself Why postpartum depression doesn’t always feel like symptoms–but like the mom is broken How to know if scary thoughts are “too scary” by measuring a mom’s distress: How much is it interfering with her ability to get through the day? How much is it interfering with who she is and how she functions? How women are built to function well with very high levels of distress Why Karen hopes her book can help moms ask for help when they need it What the statistics show around intrusive thoughts about harm to a mother’s baby How every new mom experiences some obsessions and compulsions around their baby’s safety Why the core of Karen’s work has become holding space for the authentic suffering of moms when they think they are “fine” Why relationship problems have to be addressed along with postpartum depression and anxiety Why connection to a partner is the #1 most important way to help a suffering mom Resources: Connect with Karen: Website, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Book: Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts, and LinkedIn Check out Karen Kleiman’s other books: Website and Amazon Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sabemos que 1 de cada 7 mujeres (1 de cada 10 padres) experimenta síntomas de depresión y ansiedad durante su etapa posparto. Los Trastornos del Estado de Ánimo Perinatal (PMD) durante el embarazo y dentro del primer año después del parto, pueden manifestarse en las personas de todas las edades, niveles de ingresos, raza y cultura.   En este episodio, me acompañan Karla Cardoza, LMFT, PMH-C, y Marianela Rodriguez, Ph.D., PMH-C para hablar mas sobre este importante tema e informar a las mamas de habla Hispana.    Comparten sobre el desarrollo de los programas de Postpartum Support International para la salud mental de la mama. Nos informan sobre el trastorno del estado de animo y ansiedad en la etapa perinatal, y los recursos disponibles en español.    También comparten lo importante que es que más profesionales en el campo medico obtengan la certificación para entender sobre la salud mental materna.   ¡Acompáñanos! Y comparte este podcast con todas las mamas que hablen español. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The conversation around parenting in non-traditional families needs to be expanded and better understood in today’s world. More and more families are being created with dynamics that make them non-traditional in some way, and support on the path to parenthood for EVERYONE is crucial. Join us to explore this topic in today’s episode!  Marie Sloane is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Perinatal Mental Health Specialist based in Arizona. She focuses her practice on helping new parents of all backgrounds, specifically LGBTQ+ families and those with non-traditional family dynamics, like co-parenting, single parents by choice, queer parents, polyamorous families, and others. As a single parent for four years and a survivor of postpartum depression, Marie brings compassion and lived experience to parents adjusting to a variety of new dynamics and transitions. In our conversation, Marie explains why support for any parenting journey is vital, especially for those on a non-traditional path.  Show Highlights: How Marie came to the important work she does today after experiencing postpartum depression after the birth of her son How Marie didn’t know how to take care of herself, advocate for herself, or set healthy boundaries as a struggling new mom Why Marie felt alienated and isolated as she left her unhealthy relationship without good support in place How counseling helped her reframe her trauma and rebuild her self-esteem–and why she wanted to become a counselor  How Marie has learned to navigate the world of co-parenting with her son’s father Why Marie found the niche (during the pandemic) of working with LGBTQ+ parents and non-traditional families Why many non-traditional parents are reaching out for a non-judgmental and affirming space Why Marie encourages her clients to find a combination of online support and local community support (Explore locally to find other family groups like yours!) How “deconstructing” happens for those who grew up with a very specific worldview around faith, family, morality, etc.  What Marie sees that is lacking in perinatal mental health and support for LGBTQ+ families How we can best educate ourselves to support non-traditional families around us Resources: Connect with Marie: Website and Facebook Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens to a person’s nervous system during times of stress, specifically in the transition to parenthood? The impacts of this stress on an individual’s nervous system are also felt in the entire family system. My guest has spent 25 years specializing in physical and neurological recovery in children with challenges and working with the entire family to recover “the family nervous system™”. I hope you are intrigued and want to know more! Join us now! BG Mancini is a licensed acupuncture physician and practices as a primary care provider via telemedicine. Her focus is on functional medicine and nervous system resilience in children and families to identify the root causes of physical, emotional, and neurological challenges. She uses different tools in her work with families, and she specifically discusses one tool called SSP in today’s conversation. Her desire is to bring joy into parenting and help people feel good in their brains and bodies, thus connecting more deeply to themselves and their children.  Show Highlights: How BG came to the healing work she does today with families Why the gut microbiome is integral to mental, emotional, neurological, and hormonal health The importance of the vagus nerve in the body’s responses to stress and trauma–and in the gut-brain connection How the SSP (Safe and Sound Protocol) helps to scaffold the nervous system to identify threats and safety How the SSP can be customized for children and adults with all manner of issues and challenges Why getting an assessment about your digestion and the brain-gut connection is the best first step in stress management How the app makes SSP available to everyone (with supervision) How BG conducts her work through Zoom with people of all ages Resources: Connect with BG: Website (FREE 30-minute course for parents), Instagram, and Facebook Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Books Mentioned by BG:  Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers by Robert M. Sapolsky  The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel Van Der Kolk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s episode is a replay of one of my most popular episodes that I’m sure you will enjoy. Please tune in and share with your friends. We, as women, have absorbed much history into ourselves over time regarding our bodies and our health. We wonder why we feel unheard and dismissed, and the more we learn, the more enraged we should become about how modern Western medicine has treated women with medical and mental health conditions. Join today’s conversation for deep insight and a message of hope.  Dr. Elinor Cleghorn is a feminist cultural historian, and her critical writing has been published in several academic journals. After receiving her Ph.D. in 2012, she spent three years as a post-doctoral researcher at the Ruskin School, University of Oxford, where she worked on an interdisciplinary medical humanities project. She is the author of Unwell Women: Misdiagnosis and Myth in a Man-Made World, a book that I recommend highly to all our listeners.  Show Highlights: What brought Elinor to write the book after a lupus diagnosis that followed a very complicated pregnancy with her son How Elinor began her research with urgency into her lupus diagnosis and the history of medicine, expanding into other commonly misdiagnosed diseases in women Why Elinor began at the beginning, learning about ancient Greece and the formation of medical practice How women’s bodies were viewed largely as reproductive vessels to produce and mother male heirs Why men in ancient patriarchal societies began to assert social control over women and their bodies How the Western medical model has been affected by social thinking, myths, and fantasies about women’s roles How the word hysteria has been applied to a misunderstanding of women and was originally derived from a word for the uterus How medical leverage was used in horrible ways against black enslaved women in 19th century America, leading to gynecological violence and reproductive abuse Why Elinor wanted her book to expand to cover women’s experiences all over the world and not just be her personal story What Elinor has discovered about women’s mental health across history How dominant ideas have shaped societal views about the ideal motherhood and “how mothers SHOULD feel” Elinor’s hopes for readers of the book: “Remember that your body is your own, no matter how medical caregivers might make you feel.” Resources: Unwell Women: Misdiagnosis and Myth in a Man-Made World by Elinor Cleghorn Connect with Elinor:  Twitter and Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The message of today’s conversation is that postpartum depression and anxiety don’t always have simple, easy fixes. Medications, therapy, and other supports don’t help some as quickly as others. In these cases, suffering mothers need to know that they are not alone and that others are going through the same challenges that come with lingering depression. Today’s guest shares her story to bring awareness to this issue. Join us to learn more. As a social worker and mom of a three-year-old son, Lynn Wilhite suffers from postpartum depression. She has been struggling since pregnancy, with medications being unable to help her effectively thus far. She has created the Instagram page, My Journey with PPD, as a way of trying to reach other moms and partners with similar experiences. Lynn hopes to bring awareness to the fact that PMADs don’t always have an easy fix and loved ones need to support a mother for the duration of her journey. Show Highlights: How Lynn’s PPD story began as she planned, with her psychiatrist, adjustments to her antidepressant and sleeping medications to prepare for her first pregnancy How not sleeping for an extended period of time brought on her depressive episode How her son’s birth went well, except for the NICU interventions brought on by her medications—and her first dose of “mom guilt” occurred Where Lynn is today–three years postpartum and over 40 medications later How her son had sensory processing disorders and needed several therapies, perpetuating her mom guilt  How Lynn tried multiple medications, trying to find something that worked How suicidal ideations and problems in bonding with her son brought additional challenges How Lynn experiences grief, even today, over her guilt and all the things that haven’t gone well in her motherhood journey  Why Lynn was hospitalized at two years postpartum after trying every medication available in different combinations How a move to a different state left her with a gap in therapy and support How a new medication is starting to lift the depression fog for Lynn and give her cautious optimism What Lynn’s current therapy work is doing to help What Lynn wants people to know and hear from her story Resources: Connect with Lynn: Instagram Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My guest today shares her personal story of severe postpartum anxiety and depression while appearing in a high-functioning state to those around her. It is important for us to hear real-life accounts from those who look like “everything is fine.” Join us for a closer look from this unique perspective. Caitlin Shadek is a mom of three boys, ages 3, 6, and 8. She is a lawyer who has practiced as a commercial litigator for the past 14 years, but she recently left her job to attend Rutgers University School of Social Work to obtain her master’s degree in social work. Her desire is to work with women with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders and help bridge the gap in their care between the OB/GYN and the pediatrician. Caitlin felt that lapse in care firsthand when she suffered from severe postpartum depression and anxiety after her first two pregnancies and entered a hospital treatment program when her third son was a toddler. Her own experiences have been the impetus behind her career change and desire to help treat and advocate for better women’s mental health care. She is currently an intern at a practice specializing in infertility and prenatal/postnatal counseling.  Show Highlights: How Caitlin’s story begins about nine years ago with her first pregnancy and the immediate feelings of dread and panic she felt at the moment of birth Why she was afraid to go home from the hospital with her new baby How wearing a catheter for six weeks added to the anxiety she felt about caring for her baby  How dark thoughts plagued her–but she never shared them with anyone and pretended that everything was fine How she began therapy and medication when her son was about nine months old, but the dark thoughts and depression continued Why she wanted a second child–despite the serious issues in her life (including self-harming behaviors) How she felt guilt about continuing her medication while pregnant and experienced postpartum depression AGAIN How Caitlin went back to work and put on her “high-functioning postpartum depression face” How her struggles continued into her pregnancy with her third son, and things felt a little different after his birth How the pandemic threw their family into survival mode with everyone at home together Why Caitlin worked very hard to put on a good face until everything culminated in December 2021–and she knew she was NOT OK How Caitlin’s therapist sent her to the ER during an intense COVID resurgence because of her depression and suicidal thoughts Why Caitlin agreed to go to the psychiatric floor for treatment–and then tried to change her mind How she was released to go home and enrolled in an outpatient DBT program that changed her life How Caitlin decided what her next phase of work would be–to become a social worker and provide other mothers with the help she had needed Why maternal mental health falls between the OB/GYN and pediatrician and is often overlooked What Caitlin would say to someone in a similar situation Resources: Connect with Caitlin: Instagram Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hearing that your child has a medical diagnosis throws a new kind of stress and strain into the parenting arena. Whether the diagnosis is transient or severe, increased parental anxiety is a common issue that presents many twists and turns. Today’s guest shares a pediatrician’s perspective on supporting parents’ mental health through this process. Join us to learn more! Dr. Kelly Fradin is a pediatrician and the author of Advanced Parenting: Helping Kids Through Diagnoses, Differences, and Mental Health Challenges. She is a mother of two and a child advocate based in New York City.  Currently the Director of Pediatrics at the Atria Institute, she was inspired to become a doctor because of her experience of surviving childhood cancer. She is a graduate of Harvard College and Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons, and she has dedicated her career to caring for children with complex medical conditions, using her skills in academic clinics, private practice, inpatient units, and schools. In addition to sharing information from her new book, Dr. Fradin shares realistic and powerful parenting advice and children’s health information on her Instagram account: @adviceigivemyfriends.  Show Highlights: How Dr. Kelly’s childhood cancer journey opened her eyes to the mental health needs of parents Why we should normalize and talk about the challenges that come with new parenthood–and anticipate that trying times will come Why it is important to have an honest relationship with your doctor and your child’s doctor How feeding challenges come up for a new baby as a very common issue and diagnosis How a child’s diagnosis can lead to excessive worry, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts How a more serious diagnosis and a larger medical care team lead to a more complex responsibility and anxiety Why parents should NOT try to “do it all” themselves but should accept help and delegate responsibilities to others How a NICU experience can impact parents’ mental health (While in the NICU, don’t be afraid to ask for what you need!) What the reality is in coping with a diagnosis and the stigma that follows in the “what’s next?” phase Why it helps fight feelings of isolation to be open with your circle of family and friends Why it’s OK to give yourself permission to feel anger in addition to frustration and sadness How a couple may experience their child’s diagnosis in very different ways  What Dr. Fradin’s book shares about information and coping strategies for parents Resources: Connect with Dr. Kelly Fradin: Website, Instagram, and Book Visit www.postpartum.net for resources! I’d love to hear from you! Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Perinatal mental health is important for every new mom, but there are extra challenges for moms who are immigrants living in a country and culture that are unfamiliar. Such is the story of today’s guest. Join us to hear how she overcame many difficulties to turn her trauma into her renewed purpose to help others! Eszter Kalman is a mom of two who struggled with postpartum depression and anxiety. She experienced the loneliness of motherhood after moving to the US from her native Hungary. She shares with us what it was like to discover her new life as a new mother and immigrant and how she learned to cope with the cultural differences that met her at every turn. Eszter also faced the difficulty of transitioning into motherhood after losing her own mother in Hungary and living in the US with none of her family nearby. It was her postpartum journey that led her to make meaning of her own experience by going back to school to become a therapist and help other moms. She has worked as a Helpline volunteer for Postpartum Support International and the Postpartum Health Alliance of San Diego for many years. From her beginnings in Hungary to time spent living in Spain and Italy, Eszter has resided in San Diego for the past 12 years and proudly calls it her home. She loves the sunny weather, exploring parks and beaches, and going for long walks with her dog. Show Highlights: How Eszter experienced culture shock when she first moved to California as an immigrant from Hungary and quickly married her husband and found herself pregnant just a few months later How Eszter, as a new mom, had to adjust to her husband’s family, which was very different from what she was used to as far as honoring privacy How her pregnancy was easy with no mention of the possibility of postpartum depression and anxiety How postpartum depression and anxiety kicked in almost immediately when she and her newborn son went home, and she felt alone and unsupported How Eszter missed her mother in the first days of motherhood because she has passed away a couple of years earlier How Eszter realized that she wasn’t enjoying motherhood and was jealous of other moms who were How Eszter learned not to express her true feelings because she was invalidated by everyone around her How one nurse made an impact as the one person who understood Eszter and tried to help her How Eszter finally got connected to a therapist and found the help she needed, but was hesitant to reveal that she was getting therapy because of the cultural stigma  Why it became healing for Eszter to be able to openly talk about her experience and share it with others without shame and guilt Why Eszter loves the work she does today in private practice to help other moms with perinatal mental health How Eszter is creating resources, like a course and podcast, especially for other Hungarians Why turning your trauma into your purpose makes meaning out of your experience Eszter’s hopeful message for new moms: “The sooner you learn to ask for help when you need it doesn’t mean that you are weak; it means that you want to remain strong.” Resources: Connect with Eszter Kalman and Golden Tears Therapy: Website, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Visit www.postpartum.net for resources! I’d love to hear from you! Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We know that family building can happen in many different ways. Today’s show highlights one of the most harshly judged routes to having a child. Let’s take an insightful look at the beautiful process of surrogacy, also known as gestational surrogacy. This family-building option can be something that brings out the best in us as humans! Join us for the conversation! Today’s personal story comes from Lizzie Smith, a 40-year-old school administrator who is the mother of 17-month-old James. She and her husband went through almost a decade of infertility before their miracle baby boy was born. Lizzie explains surrogacy to us, along with why people might need a gestational carrier. She also shares common misconceptions about surrogacy and why there is such judgment around this topic, which prompts many rude and hurtful comments from others.  Show Highlights: A look at Lizzie’s journey: trying to get pregnant, having tests done, seeing a reproductive endocrinologist, and going through the long process of four failed IVF transfers Why they considered surrogacy after the fourth failed IVF attempt–and felt hopeful for the first time in years How the long process of surrogacy began in 2018 with an agency and Lizzie and her husband, the intended parents (IPs) Why it’s a long and difficult process to choose a surrogate, a person with whom you are choosing a unique relationship How going through the surrogacy process during COVID added another layer of difficulty How the surrogacy process began for Lizzie with multiple tests and medical clearance for their chosen surrogate–with many opportunities for roadblocks along the way How their embryo transfer took place in late 2020 after all the contracts and legal documents were signed How the pregnancy progressed with Lizzie and her surrogate texting and communicating almost daily How Lizzie and her husband were able to be present at the birth because COVID had calmed down  How Lizzie’s relationship with her surrogate continues today How the surrogacy process brought unique challenges for Lizzie How years of frustrating infertility brought many negative feelings to Lizzie about her “broken body” How Lizzie dealt with the comments and opinions from others about her surrogacy choice–and felt pressure to “prove” herself as a person worthy of parenthood Common misconceptions about surrogacy and the reasons people choose this option Why support is important to intended parents going through surrogacy What Lizzie wants people to know and understand about surrogacy Resources: Visit www.postpartum.net for resources! I’d love to hear from you! Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Postpartum psychosis is a topic we have highlighted on the podcast before, but the need for more information about this devastating condition always increases when it is mentioned in a tragic news story. There are so many questions and concerns when this condition turns up in the national spotlight because many people don’t understand what a mother might be going through as a result of postpartum psychosis. Regardless of the details around a specific situation, it is clear that factual information and education are needed more than ever around perinatal mental health. Join us for a closer look with today’s guest. **Trigger warning: I want to give a heads up that our discussion does include the topic of infanticide, so please determine for yourself if you are able to listen to this episode if this is a sensitive subject for you.  Michele Davidson is a fellow board member with me at Postpartum Support International; she has multiple degrees and has been a certified nurse-midwife for almost 30 years, delivering more than 1000 babies in her career. After her personal battle with postpartum psychosis, she became a PMHNP with a specialization and certification in perinatal mental health to help other families who are suffering from this disorder. Dr. Davidson served as an associate professor of nursing at George Mason University and helped develop the certificate in forensic nursing. She was also the coordinator of the Ph.D. program, during which time her research focused on perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. She co-developed the Davidson Conceptual Model of Prodromal Postpartum Psychosis Symptomatology, which has been used in reproductive psychiatry practice. She is the author of over 35 textbooks and 50 peer-reviewed articles, including the Nurse’s Guide to Women’s Mental Health, which was awarded the American Journal of Nursing Book Award, and Old’s Maternal Newborn Nursing, which is published in 12 languages. On the current PSI Board of Directors, she serves as the Infanticide Coordinator and was the previous PPP Coordinator for 12 years. She resides with her husband in coastal Virginia and has four children and is the owner and founder of Chesapeake Bay Psychiatry, which specializes in perinatal mental health and serves families in VA, MD, and CT.  Show Highlights: A basic explanation of postpartum psychosis (PPP), which is just one of the conditions under the umbrella of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (along with depression, anxiety, and OCD) What the main risk factors are for PPP Why PPP is different from postpartum depression and has a very different presentation What the most common symptoms are of PPP, most of which are auditory or visual What it might look/sound like if a loved one is battling PPP What the statistics show about people with PPP relating to suicide and infanticide How and when psychosis might occur, both during pregnancy or the postpartum The connection between PPP symptoms and continual lack of sleep What it might feel like to experience the beginning stages of PPP How PPP symptoms can wax and wane–and how this characteristic plays out in the legal system and the stigma of PPP How PPP played out in Michele’s life as evidence that it CAN happen to anyone, even without the common risk factors Why early intervention, perinatal specialists, and other support resources are vitally important Why it is important to not stop taking medications for mood and anxiety disorders Highlights of helpful resources for perinatal mental health Postpartum Psychosis Awareness Day is May 5! Wear purple to show your support! Resources: Connect with Dr. Davidson: Website Visit www.postpartum.net for resources! I’d love to hear from you! Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Understanding culture is extremely important, especially in the field of perinatal mental health. The cultural context has everything to do with how someone experiences the world and manages their mental health. Join us in this episode to learn more! Kalena Kaopuuokalani Lanuza is a Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian) and a doctorally prepared, fully-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and certified lactation counselor. She currently resides in the unceded territory of the Ventureño Chumash, which is commonly known as Ventura, California. We discuss the connection between colonialism and settler colonialism, cultural and intergenerational trauma, and mood and anxiety disorders in Native Hawaiians and Pasifika. Kalena also shares her current work and how the reconnection to culture and land can be important for Native Hawaiian and Pasifika people who were removed from their ancestral lands.  Show Highlights How Kalena became interested in perinatal mental health How Kalena’s personal experience with perinatal anxiety with the birth of her son in 2014 How Kalena opened her practice last June with the intention of being available for other Native Hawaiians  Why Kalena named her practice with the symbolic name “Mana” How Kalena found “the truest space” for her to fulfill her calling and work to help other mothers Why changes are needed in health care to establish and maintain cultural competence How Native Hawaiians are inextricably connected to their land How the ramifications of colonialism and settler colonialism influence mental health challenges Why Kalena has to be mindful of ALL the different facets that come into play when working with indigenous people How “lumping” together different populations/cultures has been detrimental–and the data needs to be segregated and recalculated Why we need more and more cultural competency and cultural humility in today’s world Kalena’s message to other providers about sitting with each person and giving them space How specific aspects of perinatal mental health can be best supported through a cultural lens How the identity of a Native Hawaiian solely wrapped up in “vacation mode” is hurtful and inauthentic Resources Connect with Kalena Lanuza: Website and Instagram Visit www.postpartum.net for resources! I’d love to hear from you! Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s important topic is near and dear to my heart. We are discussing what it’s like to be a highly sensitive parent, and if you’ve listened for very long, you know that I am a highly sensitive parent. We can’t shy away from this topic, because it affects many parents, and it puts a different spin on the challenges that are part of the journey to parenthood. Join me to learn more! Amy Lajiness, LCSW, PMH-C, is a psychotherapist and parenting coach with nearly a decade of experience in working in the field of mental health and wellness. She is passionate about teaching highly sensitive, empathic, and overwhelmed moms how to harness their strengths and manage challenges to thrive in parenthood. Amy provides therapy for women and parents in California and offers resources, courses, and video coaching for highly sensitive parents around the world. Amy helps us understand what it’s like to be a highly sensitive parent, along with the ways sensory overload and multiple competing expectations cause parents more stress. Amy shares practical ways to reduce sensory overload and overstimulation and ways to create realistic expectations for yourself as a parent. Being a highly sensitive parent comes with many gifts, and these gifts can be leveraged in positive ways to support yourself and your children.  Show Highlights: How Amy realized in her 20s that she experiences the world in different ways–and that was magnified as she became a parent How Amy’s mission became to support parents who don’t fit into a set “box” of postpartum depression or anxiety but find parenting difficult because of their sensitivity The basics of what it means to be an HSP (highly sensitive person) parent: feeling guilt, having a hard time keeping up with parenthood demands, feeling rage/irritability/desire to escape, and losing touch with who they are outside of parenthood How the acronym DOES can be used for the scientific explanation of being an HSP: Depth of processing, Overstimulated easily, Empathy, and Sensitivity to subtle stimuli Why it is important to realize that the signs of an HSP in parenthood can be gifts in certain ways Why highly sensitive parents have to give themselves permission to take a break and take care of themselves–before they hit the WALL How highly sensitive parents deal with stress, overload, and multiple expectations Why highly sensitive parents need to look with introspection and understanding at what they CAN and CAN’T do Practical tips for HSP parents for reducing sensory overload (beyond therapy), like taking micro-breaks, finding balance, setting timers, establishing boundaries, etc.  Why we need to dismantle the myth that “good parents” want to be with their kids 24/7 and never need breaks Why the main gifts of HSPs are attunement, empathy, and mindfulness, along with experiencing beautiful things with our children and connecting with them physically and emotionally   Resources: Connect with Amy: Website, Instagram, Facebook Visit Amy’s website, find what you’re looking for, and apply coupon code “MOMANDMIND” for 20% off any purchase through all of 2023! Books mentioned in this episode: The Highly Sensitive Child, The Highly Sensitive Person, and The Highly Sensitive Parent (all by Dr. Elaine Aron) Visit www.postpartum.net for resources! I’d love to hear from you! Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s show is about the effects of sexual abuse on pregnant, birthing, and postpartum people. This topic may be difficult for some, even though we are not discussing specific details of sexual abuse events; please determine for yourself whether you are ready to listen to this episode or not. You can find all of our episodes available for you whenever you are ready at www.momandmind.com. If you are ready, join us to learn more in today’s episode! Deborah Flam is a reproductive therapist in New Jersey. She is also a volunteer support group facilitator and a NJ Support Coordinator for Postpartum Support International. She is on the board of PSI-NJ as the Community Outreach and Engagement Board Member. Her training is in perinatal mental health, infertility, birth trauma, perinatal/infant loss, and compassionate/bereavement care. Deborah also has specialized training on the impact of sexual abuse on childbearing individuals. She has volunteered for the Ocean County Sexual Response Team as a Confidential Sexual Assault Advocate and provided training for nursing and social work students on issues related to sexual abuse. In sharing her personal story, Deborah explains how her trauma history impacted her pregnancy and postpartum experience. She also shares how clinicians can help prepare sexual abuse survivors for their baby’s birth and how medical professionals can provide trauma-informed care.  Show Highlights: Deborah’s story of anxiety that began with her positive pregnancy test and escalated to depression–even though she was already seeing a therapist How she was in complete denial about her pregnancy, feeling like the baby was a parasite in her body How her labor began at 35 weeks in an unexpected way–and she didn’t feel anything and was eventually sent home How her 37-week appointment found her in labor again—and her son was born a few hours later How Deborah’s postpartum anxiety, depression, OCD, avoidance, and intrusive thoughts plagued her after giving birth How she learned that the pregnancy and postpartum experience can feel terrible What the statistics say about the likelihood of women experiencing physical and/or sexual violence in their lifetime Why many sexual abuse survivors feel shame, fear, and fragility related to pregnancy and their medical care How the gender of the baby can trigger fears and strong emotions among survivors, along with the common medical practices related to pregnancy and birth How some survivors are triggered by fear and shame around bodily functions and bodily fluids during labor and delivery How even the sights, sounds, and smells of the hospital can be triggering for survivors Why nursing personnel should be attentive to the passive patient who seems calm and perfect, the patient who is completely dissociated from the experience, and the “difficult” patient Deborah’s tips for how medical providers and therapists can show up better for sexual abuse survivors in very simple “workarounds” How Deborah’s PMADs experience has led to beautiful healing Resources Connect with Deborah Website Resources mentioned in this episode and recommended by Deborah: RAINN Black Mamas Matter Alliance Time’s Up FORGE Anti-Violence Project The Network La Red Survivor Moms' Companion When Survivors Give Birth book by Penny Simkin It's OK That You're Not OK book by Megan Devine Visit www.postpartum.net for resources! I’d love to hear from you! Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many people experience some kind of mental health condition through pregnancy and postpartum. The reproductive journey brings many challenges, and today’s guest gives us a glimpse into her story of recurrent loss, pregnancy, postpartum, and how she came to self-advocacy and empowerment through her challenges. Join us to hear Megan’s story! Megan Monds fills many roles in life, none more important to her than mother to her two small children, ages 5 and 3. She is a highly-sensitive person who works as a mental health therapist for children, adults, and families. Her passion is working with children and adults with complex trauma histories, and she has her own lived experience with anxiety, depression, and trauma. By sharing her story, she hopes to empower and validate others who are facing a challenging journey to parenthood.  Show Highlights: How Megan’s story includes three miscarriages before giving birth to her first child How Megan coped with her first miscarriage by using avoidance–and carried on with her very busy life How two more miscarriages occurred during the next two years, and they didn’t seem as emotionally jarring as the first one even though childhood trauma reappeared How her first full-term pregnancy was hard, making it difficult to connect to her baby How her induction and all the medical interventions did not follow her birth plan at all–again, feeling like it was all happening TO her and beyond her control How Megan saw a therapist and did the work on herself after her daughter was born How she felt more whole, healthy, and understanding during her next pregnancy with her son–much different than her pregnancy with her daughter How her son’s birth played out in a much more peaceful way than the raw and intense birth of her daughter How Megan’s sensitivity and anxiety contributed to her trauma response and impacted every aspect of her emotional experience How Megan realized with her second birth that she could have more control over her environment and her mental state What Megan wants others to know about mental health and getting support Why it is empowering to realize that your experience is more important than what any expert or provider might say, especially when “there isn’t research to support your experience” Why it’s OK if your needs and preferences don’t make sense to others Why it’s important to come at your challenges from a place of curiosity instead of rigid expectations Resources: Connect with Megan: Instagram Visit www.postpartum.net for resources! I’d love to hear from you! Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Those trained in perinatal mental health can still struggle with perinatal mental health conditions. Having professional knowledge of the issues doesn’t make someone immune from any mental health problems. I’m grateful that today’s guest is sharing her story to show that those in the helping professions can experience the same struggles that any other person does. Join us to hear Kelsie’s story! Kelsie Hammons is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Perinatal Mental Health Therapist in Arkansas. She became a mother in early 2020, which meant that her entire postpartum experience took place during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although she was trained and knew about the supportive tools to mitigate postpartum stressors, she struggled with the additional unpredictable layers of stress in healing from her traumatic birth experience while the pandemic was raging. She attempted to find her own rhythm during the isolation as she felt that she was mothering against the current. Kelsie’s experience lit a fire within her to work to support women during these transition times and help them feel more connected and regulated. Show Highlights Kelsie’s professional career launched about the same time as her pregnancy with her baby, born in February 2020 Her birth didn’t go as planned and required an emergency C-section–and then her postpartum coincided with the pandemic shutdown A struggle to find her new identity as a mother while feeling isolated and unsupported What supports Kelsie had in place before her birth Gaslighting herself and her feelings of anxiety until she reached out for help when her daughter was several months old Kelsie coped with what she knows now was a trauma response Healing has to come at its own pace–and how Kelsie learned this through therapy work Why it was monumental for Kelsie to process her birth experience How Kelsie is able to offer regulation tools to women with understanding because she knows what worked best for her Problems occur when external pressures interrupt internal values for new moms Kelsie’s work has transitioned to Heart Led Mental Health Resources Connect with Kelsie Website (coming soon!) and Instagram Thrive Counseling and Wellness   Visit www.postpartum.net for resources. I’d love to hear from you! Click HERE for information on the grief course.   Visit my website for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s focus is on thinking ahead in your perinatal mental health journey. Most of us learn about our problems as they are happening, and we have to learn how to cope along the way. When someone who has “been there” is open and honest about their experience, we can plan ahead and be better prepared. Join me to hear the journey story of today’s guest. Kayce Hodos has spent the better part of her 20+ year career in mental health focused on loss and life transitions. After having her son in 2012, her coping skills were put to the test as she struggled through the darkness of postpartum depression and anxiety. With the help of her therapist and supportive husband, Kayce was able to climb out of her pit of despair. When she was healthy again, she had a newfound passion for supporting women through their adjustment into motherhood. Today, she works to empower new mothers with real life strategies for thriving while caring for a tiny human.  Show Highlights: An overview of Kayce’s journey into motherhood from 2012 until now How she struggled with breastfeeding, sleep deprivation, and the overall transition into motherhood–even though she had a great support system How crawling out of the pit of depression inspired Kayce to help other mothers Why prevention of mental health problems is missing in preparing new parents for the birth of their child How we can help people learn about perinatal mental health–and prepare them for the possible difficulties How preparation and prevention of mental health problems can happen during three phases: pregnancy, problem-solving, and parenting Why it’s important to build in practices and local resources to support your mental health Why there is a BIG need for providers to be honest with women about perinatal mood and anxiety disorders so they aren’t so scary to encounter Resources Connect with Kayce Website and Instagram Visit www.postpartum.net for resources! I’d love to hear from you! Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices