Content Warning:Cancer, death, losing a parent, mention of miscarriage, perinatal lossDescription:On today’s episode of the PWO Podcast, Kate Love joins me to share her story of navigating the loss of a parent and becoming a parent herself. Highlights: 1:28 - Kate introduces herself5:24 - Kate shares her story of her mom’s cancer diagnosis as she became pregnant10:42 - Grieving and how Kate carries her mom with her and her mom’s passing16:09 - Death phobia, grief in the Perinatal Period.28:57 - The timeline of grief, “grief isn’t fixable.”36:42 - Legacy and grief rituals42:43 - Being aware of our own mortality and parenting little ones49:16 - Kate’s advice to people grieving and people supporting those who are grieving50:37 - Kate’s favourite memory of her mom, MimiResources mentioned in this episode: You can find Kate on Instagram @katelovestherapy Be Ceremonial App - https://www.beceremonial.com/ Book: Crying at H Mart by Michelle Zauner Book: When Things Fall Apart by Pema ChödrönBook: When Dinosaurs Die by Laurie Krasny BrownBook: Grief is Love: Living with Loss by Marissa Renee LeeAndrea Warnick https://andreawarnick.com/ You can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.caIf you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this or any episode please reach out to me at info@perinatalwellbeing.ca and I can help you find support in your area or online. Check out Postpartum Support International atwww.postpartum.net for more information about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders as well as free online support groups and a provider directory. You can look for an individual therapist onwww.psychologytoday.com . Support the show

On today's episode, I am joined once again by Anneke to discuss the stress that the holidays can bring.  We chat about the pressures of "the perfect celebrations," the weight of capitalism on gift-giving, and the unique mental load parents carry during the season. Highlights: 2:03 - Anneke's experience with celebrating holidays 6:47 - Capitalism and the impact on gift giving as parents11:52 - Traditions and social norms and how isolating they can be28:31 - Mental load of parenting and managing holidaysResources mentioned in this episode: You can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.caIf you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this or any episode, don't hesitate to contact me at info@perinatalwellbeing.ca, and I can help you find support in your area or online. Check out Postpartum Support International at www.postpartum.net for more information about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders as well as free online support groups and a provider directory. You can look for an individual therapist on www.psychologytoday.com . Support the show

Content Warning: suicidal ideation, CAS involvementEpisode description:On today’s episode I am talking with Elaine about the often unspoken challenges of parenting with a disability. From discovering her pregnancy at seven months to confronting societal stereotypes and medical assumptions, Elaine's story is a testament to resilience and the power of unwavering determination.Highlights: 1:44 - How Elaine came into parenting,5:24 - Elaine found out she was 7 months pregnant,10:45 - Doctor’s assumptions about parenting with a disability, seeking out a midwife,24:35 - Elaine’s support system,31:32 - Elaine experienced depression during pregnancy and suicidal ideation, she was isolated and felt more alone,34:50 - Welcoming a second baby, experiencing mental illness postpartum, parenting during the pandemic,41:04 - Elaine had support from CAS with her first child but wasn’t able to access support for her 2nd child, she received support from Safe Families Canada,46:35 - Parenting a child with a disability, restrictions in the school system,57:51 - Advocating for herself as a disabled parent and for a disabled child and burnout,1:04:05 - How does Elaine’s disability impact her parenting,1:09:37 - Coming to terms with that Elaine’s “just a parent”, society not valuing paid work,1:19:26 - What does Elaine think is needed for resources for parents with a disability; finding a community/support groups, more supports for single parents with a disability, connecting to mainstream supports.Resources mentioned in this episode: Healthy Babies Healthy Children - https://www.ontario.ca/page/healthy-babies-healthy-children-program Safe Families Canada - https://safefamiliescanada.com/ Living Diverse Podcast CNIB - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/cnib-podcast-network/id1548337187  You can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.caIf you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this or any episode please reach out to me at info@perinatalwellbeing.ca and I can help you find support in your area or online. Check out Postpartum Support International at www.postpartum.net for more information about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders as well as free online support groups and a provider directory. You can look for an individual therapist on www.psychologytoday.com Support the show

Content Warning: c-section, medical procedures, swearing, rage, mental illnessOn today’s episode I am talking with Amanda Gurman who hosts the podcast Honest as a Mother, about her introduction to motherhood and the impact on her mental health. Amanda shares honestly and openly about her experiences with postpartum anxiety, depression and rage as well as how her recent diagnosis with ADHD impacts her parenting. Amanda also talks about her recovery and how she supports new parents by talking about the realities of parenting and how she is trying to change the narrative around motherhood. Amanda is an author (check out her books in the show notes), a podcast editor, a mom and an amazing person! Highlights: 1:21 - Amanda’s introduction to motherhood; c-section, challenges with nursing,6:56 - Changing the narrative around motherhood, not loving the work of parenting,12:47 - Giving permission to do what works for me,17:30 - Amanda had her daughter in 2016 and experienced irritability, anger, rage,22:36 - Feeling not like yourself, intrusive thoughts, 25:33 - Amanda was diagnosed with postpartum rage,32:13 - Amanda was recently diagnosed with ADHD, 37:22 - We all struggle with parenting, now Amanda puts herself first,39:15 - Relationship dynamics with her husband, husband needed support43:08 - Coming to terms with the experience of postpartum rage/anxiety/depression,44:17 - Grief around that period of time,55:29 - Amanda’s recovery; therapy and ADHD, Amanda started writing, baby’s first birthday,1:01:33 - Amanda’s writing and podcast Honest as a Mother,1:09:51 - You’re not alone, it’s ok to not be ok, don’t be afraid to seek help.Resources mentioned in this episode: You can find Amanda on Instagram @amanda.gurman You can listen to Amanda’s podcast Honest as a Mother on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/honest-as-a-mother/id1516360281 You can get Amanda’s Books Honest as a Mother Book 1 and 2 on Amazon (Book 2 was just released in September!) https://www.amazon.ca/stores/Amanda-Gurman/author/B0BG8WV4CS?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true And check out Momming Hard that Amanda co-authoredhttps://www.amazon.ca/MOMMING-HARD-Normalizing-Beautiful-Motherhood/dp/1777017769/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2OZHKD4ZN1ZTK&keywords=Momming%20Hard&qid=1669733691&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjAwIiwicXNhIjoiMC4wMCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=m%2Caps%2C827&sr=8-1 You can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.caIf you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this or any episode please reach out to me at info@perinatalwellbeing.ca and I can help you find support in your area or online.  You can look for an individual therapist on www.psychologytoday.com . Support the show

On today’s special bonus episode of the Perinatal Wellbeing Podcast, I am thrilled to be joined by a panel of amazing guests, including Anneke Van Den Berg, Gabrielle Griffith, Laine Halpern Zisman, Lisette Weber, and Olivia Scobie. Together for this roundtable discussion, we delve into our pivotal roles in supporting our local communities across Ontario. We explore the everyday hurdles and obstacles individuals in these regions face to access vital perinatal mental health services. This candid conversation promises to shed light on the challenges, triumphs, and indispensable support networks that underpin the journey toward perinatal wellbeing. Please donate to the Climb here https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/healthy-start-healthy-future-inc/p2p/COTDCanada/team/team-ontario-virtual/ Highlights: 0:50 – Introductions 9:33 – What barriers do you see when trying to access perinatal services? 16:01 – Cultural norms and expectations. 20:58 – The importance of educating professionals and caregivers on intrusive thoughts. 32:12 – Accessibility of perinatal services. 36:38 – When personal biases influence the care we provide and the impact on service users. 55:46 – The system for help is broken, and organizations like PWO can better support people. 1:05:51 – Survivors of trauma: Lack of trauma-informed care, how not to retraumatize. 1:18:04 – What is needed for change to occur and make perinatal services more accessible? You can find our guests on Instagram below:Gabrielle Griffith @yourqueerdoulaLisette Weber @togetherwaterloo Laine Halpern Zisman @queerconceptionsOlivia Scobie @perinatalmentalhealthtrainings Anneke van den Berg @anneke.m.vandenberg Please check our directory for supports in Ontario https://www.perinatalwellbeing.ca/ontario-directory. You can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.ca. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this or any episode, please email me so I can help you find support in your area or online. You can look for an individual therapist at www.psychologytoday.com. Check out Postpartum Support International at www.postpartum.net for more information about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, free online support groups, and a provider directory. Support the show

Please donate to the Climb here https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/healthy-start-healthy-future-inc/p2p/COTDCanada/team/team-ontario-virtual/Episode Description:Today’s episode is a special one for PWO’s Climb Out of the Darkness fundraising event. On these 2 bonus episodes we are going to talk about accessing different types of supports in the Perinatal period when we are experiencing symptoms of a mood and anxiety disorder.  On today’s episode I am so excited to have Amber Sperling talking about the benefits of individual therapy and Kelley Hassanpour about the benefits of group work and group therapy.Highlights:Amber Sperling discusses the benefits of Individual therapy:2:13 - Introducing Amber2:32 - Amber shares her story of challenges when having her babies7:06 - Amber moved into working in the Perinatal Mental Health field8:42 - What is individual therapy?19:16 - How can people access individual therapy in Ontario?27:06 – Transition between segments Kelley Hassanpour discusses the benefits of Group Therapy:27:10 - Introducing Kelley27:37 - Kelley’s experience with PPA, accessing private therapy and how to do that30:29 - Finding a therapist that aligns with your values35:17 - Kelley’s shift in her professional life, developing groups for new parents39:46 - What does Kelley see that clients take away from groups43:39 - The benefits of our NICU therapy groupYou can reach all of our guests below: Karin Thoms Instagram @karin_pwo Email: peersupport@perinatalwellbeing.ca https://www.perinatalwellbeing.ca/group-peer-support Dr. Niki Nephin Website https://nikithenaturopath.com Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nikinephinND/ Instagram @nikithenaturopath Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine https://ccnm.edu/ Kelley Hassanpour Website https://www.parentingfromwithin.ca/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ParentingFromWithin Instagram @parenting_from_within_ Amber Sperling Website https://www.ambersperling.ca/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100081392572507 Instagram @amber.sperling.rsw Allison Flynn-Bowman at Life With a Baby Website www.lifewithababy.com Facebook https://www.facebook.com/LifeWithABaby Instagram @lifewithababy You can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.caSupport the show

Please donate to the Climb here https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/healthy-start-healthy-future-inc/p2p/COTDCanada/team/team-ontario-virtual/Description:Today’s episode is a special one for PWO’s Climb Out of the Darkness fundraising event. On these 2 bonus episodes we are going to talk about accessing different types of supports in the Perinatal period when we are experiencing symptoms of a mood and anxiety disorder.  Highlights:Karin Thoms discusses the benefits of Peer Support:2:13 - Introducing Karin2:55 - Karin story with PPD PPA; accessing individual therapy after 1st and 2nd baby,5:13 - Accessing peer support and the magic of group support,11:06 - Karin describes the peer support program that she accessed,14:12 - Karin’s peer support work through PWO,17:59 - What advice would you give to someone who’s hesitant to reach out for help?20:28 – Transition between segments Dr. Niki Nephin discusses the benefits of Naturopathic Support:20:33 -  Introducing Niki21:17 - The challenges that Niki sees when accessing PMH supports in Ontario24:22 - Approaching perinatal mental health support with a naturopathic doctor including:24:46 - Systems approach26:00 - Physical support35:10 - Looking at what was going on before baby and how that shows up postpartum39:50 - How the system is not working for us46:46 - How can people access a Naturopathic Doctor if finances are a barrier50:34 – Transition between segmentsAllison Flynn-Bowman talks about Life With a Baby and grassroots fundraising:50:30 - Introducing Allison Flynn-Bowman – what brought her into this work.57:48 - What is LWAB – Life With a Baby?59:42 - What is coming up for LWAB1:03:18 - What is the Climb Out of the Darkness campaign?1:10:32 - The struggles with fundraising for grassroots organizationsYou can reach all of our guests below:Karin Thoms Instagram @karin_pwoEmail: peersupport@perinatalwellbeing.ca https://www.perinatalwellbeing.ca/group-peer-support Dr. Niki NephinWebsite https://nikithenaturopath.com Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nikinephinND/ Instagram @nikithenaturopath Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine https://ccnm.edu/ Kelley HassanpourWebsite https://www.parentingfromwithin.ca/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ParentingFromWithin Instagram @parenting_from_within_Amber SperlingWebsite https://www.ambersperling.ca/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100081392572507 Instagram @amber.sperling.rswAllison Flynn-Bowman at Life With a BabyWebsite www.lifewithababy.com Facebook https://www.facebook.com/LifeWithABaby Instagram @lifewithababyYou can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.caSupport the show

Gabriella Carafa, MSW, PMH-C is a social worker, psychotherapist and consultant working with people in the perinatal period experiencing mental health issues as well as parents with disabilities. Gabriella welcomed her daughter 2 years ago and then at 3.5 months postpartum lost her sister to an opiate overdose. Gabriella shares her story of love and loss while trying to juggle adjusting to parenthood and grieving the loss of her sister simultaneously. I’m so grateful to Gabriella for sharing her story in a vulnerable and authentic way.   Content Warning: Death, grief, opiate overdose, substance use/misuse, addiction, traumaHighlights: 1:52 - Gabriella introduces herself and how professional and personal lives intersect4:09 - Gabriella shares her story of becoming a parent and about her relationship with her sister10:00 - Feeling guilt about her sister’s journey and passing (might have to edit some out here)13:59 - Gabriella’s postpartum experience and heightened anxiety17:41 - Gabriella’s sister passed away24:14 - Grief in the postpartum period and having to be grateful because there was a baby 38:48 - Having compassion for her sister and herself44:23 - Grief in the perinatal period related to loss and becoming a parent52:15 - How losing her sister impacted her postpartum period1:06:04 - Grief rituals and making meaning post loss1:17:05 - Gabriella shares her favourite memories of her sisterResources mentioned in this episode: You can reach Gabriella by email at gcarafa.rsw@gmail.comYou can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.ca If you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this or any episode please reach out to me at info@perinatalwellbeing.ca and I can help you find support in your area or online. Check out Postpartum Support International at www.postpartum.net for more information about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders as well as free online support groups and a provider directory. You can look for an individual therapist on www.psychologytoday.com . Support the show

Content Warning: Medical procedures, c-section procedures, physical functions, swearing, gendered language, poop talk, swearingTo say that I’m excited for today’s episode would be an understatement. This is my dream episode because I just want to be real about the physical changes that come with pregnancy, birth and post birth. I love real talk and I love humour and Anneke brings both of those into whatever she does. Anneke van den Berg is a mother of 4, who made her home in Canada over 15 years ago. Originally from the Netherlands, adjusting to life in Canada was difficult and lonely, but it has become home. Mental health has been a struggle for her throughout all her pregnancies and postpartum, partly due to isolation and being an immigrant. Using these experiences to relate to others, parents specifically, has given her a sense of purpose and helped her healing process. There is SO much more we want to talk about but here is what came up in today’s episode! Let us know your thoughts and what you would love other expecting parents to know!Highlights:  3:21 - Constipation postpartum and fear of a bowel movement postpartum9:27 - C-section healing; Anneke had a c-section wound 16:20 - Impact of motherhood as martyr on processing our birthing experiences20:20 - Physical changes to our body postpartum; our organs going back into place, contractions during nursing 29:17 - More about the motherhood as martyr impact on us and how this translates to feeling guilt and pressure as a pregnant person38:45 - Intimacy postpartum49:12 - Periods changing after babies53:16 - Pregnancy symptoms getting worse with each pregnancy59:22 - Final thoughts on what we want people to know about pregnancy and postpartumResources mentioned in this episode: You can reach Anneke by email at annekepwo@gmail.com. You can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.caIf you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this or any episode please reach out to me at info@perinatalwellbeing.ca and I can help you find support in your area or online. Check out Postpartum Support International at www.postpartum.net for more information about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders as well as free online support groups and a provider directory. You can look for an individual therapist on www.psychologytoday.com .  Support the show

Content Warning: fat phobia, labour interventions, COVID delivery, birth trauma, post-birth hemorrhage On today’s episode, Chelsey Creed shares her experience of having her first baby as a plus size person and the fat phobia she faced from her midwife. Chelsey’s experience is so relatable in that a lot of gestational parents face fat phobia in their care and this has a big impact on how they feel about and relate to their bodies and their pregnancy journeys. Chelsey also talks about delivery after COVID hit, her experience as a first-time mom delivering a baby including induction, pain relief options, the impact of fat phobia on her care during delivery, and the scary experience of hemorrhaging post-delivery. Chelsey shares her story in an honest and open way and talks about how she approached the delivery of her second child. Thank you to Chelsey for shining a light on fat phobia in perinatal care!Highlights: 1:29 - Wanting and looking for a midwife for obstetric care3:38 - Covid hit at 28 weeks; worrying about hospital policies for delivery, end of pregnancy during Covid8:41 - Delivery started; not being informed about procedures and being told “you don’t know because this is your first baby”15:45 - Midwife stated she couldn’t deliver baby because she didn’t write down her pre-pregnancy BMI, induction started and very intense and unable to move around due to interventions22:25 - Chelsey went into freeze mode and was unable to advocate for herself25:51 - Pain relief; morphine, epidural and how it felt30:17 - Transferred care to OB from Midwife and getting to 10cm32:10 - Pushing with no guidance and not being able to feel contractions34:03 - Baby arrived after 3 hours of pushing, midwife thought baby would be big45:08 - Post delivery; bonding with baby, tired, felt good46:58 - 7 hours postpartum Chelsey started hemorrhaging, feeling very scared and helpless again, midwife said “I knew this would happen, but I was too tired so I went home”50:12 - Midwifery care postpartum; baby lost too much weight had to transfer to pediatrician, decided to end midwifery care, was able to complain to midwife clinic1:02:13 - Impact of this experience on her 2nd birth, Chelsey advocated for a new midwife and what she wanted in her care plan and labour and delivery plan and it was a healing experience1:06:37 - Having a doula made a big difference in her support, thinking about mental preparation for 2nd birth1:11:05 - Birth trauma is not your fault, you deserve quality care, you’re not alone, Chelsey went to therapy to process her experience. Resources mentioned in this episode: You can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.caIf you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this or any episode please reach out to me at info@perinatalwellbeing.ca and I can help you find support in your area or online. Check out Postpartum Support International at www.postpartum.net for more information about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders as well as free online support groups and a provider directory. You can look for an individual therapist on www.psychologytoday.com . Support the show

Content Warning: Birth Trauma, Trauma responses, mention of c-section, medical proceduresJen Gillean and Emma Fernando are the co-facilitators of Birth Trauma Ottawa. After connecting for the first time in 2017 at a birth trauma retreat, it was clear that they shared a similar passion to spread the word, provide resources and support those that had been affected by birth trauma. Hoping to find a way to help others by holding the heartache that comes with the unique experience of living with birth trauma, they created Birth Trauma Ottawa in 2022.  Birth Trauma Ottawa holds space for those struggling to navigate life after and related to birth trauma, loss and/or abortion experiences at any point in their perinatal journey and creates regular connection points for the community related to birth trauma. Here members can share their stories and challenges with peers and be met with compassion and understanding. Today, Jen, Emma and I are going to talk about birth trauma, what it is, what can the aftereffects of birth trauma look like, what help, support in community and treatment can look. If you have experienced birth trauma, you are not alone and there is hope for recovery. Highlights:3:03 - How Jen and Emma met and starting Birth Trauma Ottawa8:04 - The impact of the pandemic on birth people and traumatic experiences11:45 - Risk factors to experiencing trauma15:57 - What is birth trauma?24:43 - Risk factors to experiencing trauma Pt. 226:44 - What is trauma? Nervous system responses38:36 - What can the aftereffects of birth trauma look like (for example, high anxiety, PMADs, trauma responses, fear of another baby, etc.)49:22 - What help, support and treatment can look like post birth trauma59:07 - Support at Birth Trauma Ottawa Resources mentioned in this episode: You can find Jen and Emma and Birth Trauma Ottawa online at https://mailchi.mp/e46083061ba5/birthtraumaottawa and on Instagram @ birthtraumaottawaYou can find Jen on Instagram @InthemomentwithjenYou can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.ca If you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this or any episode please reach out to me at info@perinatalwellbeing.ca and I can help you find support in your area or online. Check out Postpartum Support International at www.postpartum.net for more information about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders as well as free online support groups and a provider directory. You can look for an individual therapist on www.psychologytoday.com . Support the show

On today’s episode Lorraine Lowry talks about how her symptoms of ADHD and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) show up and impact her parenting. Lorraine is 3 years postpartum and was recently diagnosed with ADHD. Lorraine was also diagnosed with BPD after her son was born. Lorraine shares that “it’s been a whirlwind learning who I am while trying to help him figure out who he is, especially when I see similar traits and I get scared for his future”.Highlights:1:36 – What is BPD/ADHD and how does Lorraine define them for herself13:08 - How did BPD/ADHD affect Lorraine’s parenting16:51 – Sensory issues, feeling touched out and overstimulated 23:30 - Sleep vs rest - How lack of sleep impacted symptoms in postpartum period - Making a plan for postpartum coping35:00 - Seeing symptoms in her son, guilt of hereditary symptoms46:46 - What are the advantages of ADHD in parenting1:00:31 – Advice for neurodivergent & neurotypical parents.Resources mentioned in this episode: You can find Lorraine on Instagram @bpdifferentmom and @llowryinspiresYou can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.caIf you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this or any episode please reach out to me at info@perinatalwellbeing.ca and I can help you find support in your area or online. Check out Postpartum Support International at www.postpartum.net for more information about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders as well as free online support groups and a provider directory. You can look for an individual therapist on www.psychologytoday.com . Support the show

Content Warning: C-section delivery, NICU stay, delivery during COVID, guilt, anxiety🎙️Today’s episode is part 2 of Ashley and Adam’s story and their experience of staying in the NICU with one twin. Be sure to listen to last week’s episode where they discussed their journey to parenthood through a fertility journey. Ashley and Adam talk about the difficulty of having one twin in the NICU and one twin being discharged all with a toddler at home. Ashley and Adam continue to share honestly and openly about the impacts on their emotional and mental health throughout this next phase of their parenting journey. Highlights:  0:55 - One twin had to go to NICU, Adam and Ashley having to divide and conquer15:30 - Discharged with one baby, other baby transferred to another hospital30:34 - Bringing baby home37:57 - Impacts on mental health, Ashley’s experience with anxiety49:23 - Adam’s experience with guilt in the postpartum period 1:04:31 - How does this experience continue to impact you in the present day?Resources mentioned in this episode: You can find Ashley and Adam on Instagram @ajherridge @adam.mets You can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.caIf you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this or any episode please reach out to me at info@perinatalwellbeing.ca and I can help you find support in your area or online. Check out Postpartum Support International at www.postpartum.net for more information about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders as well as free online support groups and a provider directory. You can look for an individual therapist on www.psychologytoday.com . Support the show

Content Warning: Fertility challenges, fertility treatments, c-section deliveryOn today’s episode, Ashley and Adam share their journey to becoming parents. It started with fertility challenges that they faced head on despite the many ups and downs they experienced. Ashley and Adam very candidly share about their fertility testing and treatments including IUI attempts and IVF resulting in the birth of their first child as well as twins! Ashley and Adam explore their feelings about all of the challenges and milestones they faced when becoming parents. I so appreciate their vulnerability and authenticity. Stay tuned for next episode which is part 2 of Ashley and Adam’s story.   Highlights: 1:19 - Ashley and Adam’s journey into parenting, fertility challenges8:32 - Adam’s struggles with fertility and the mental health impacts17:43 - IVF journey25:31 - Finding out we’re pregnant 31:50 - Delivery38:02 - Trying for another baby41:23 - Reaction to twins48:22 – Donating the remaining embryos51:56 - Twin Pregnancy and delivery via c-section Resources mentioned in this episode: You can find Ashley and Adam on Instagram @ajherridge @adam.mets You can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.caIf you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this or any episode please reach out to me at info@perinatalwellbeing.ca and I can help you find support in your area or online. Check out Postpartum Support International at www.postpartum.net for more information about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders as well as free online support groups and a provider directory. You can look for an individual therapist on www.psychologytoday.com . Support the show

Content Warning: trauma, NICU stay, c-section, anxiety, challenges with nursing, griefSydney shares her story of having her first baby and experiencing a NICU stay with him. Sydney talks honestly and openly about the challenges she faced when welcoming her baby into the world. Sydney discusses the delivery, the experience of baby going to the NICU, how traumatic that was for her and how that experience impacted her mental and physical health. Sydney also talks about her challenges with nursing and the grief she experienced as a result of how her story unfolded. Highlights:1:16 – Sydney shares what the lead up to the delivery was like 2:11 – C-section delivery6:36 - Worked with bereaved families and families in NICU previously8:34 - Social norms of the NICU10:11 – Discussing NICU experiences and not wanting to hear other trauma stories15:10 – Sydney felt they were traumatized from their NICU stay18:24 – Fear and anxiety around baby’s health 20:23 - Impact of all the stress on Sydney’s recovery; including challenges with nursing and high blood pressure24:56 – Anxiety and losing trust in our parenting following traumatic experiences38:32 - Grief56:30 - Sebastian’s 1st birthdayResources mentioned in this episode: You can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.ca If you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this or any episode please reach out to me at info@perinatalwellbeing.ca and I can help you find support in your area or online.  Check out Postpartum Support International at www.postpartum.net for more information about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders as well as free online support groups and a provider directory. You can look for an individual therapist on www.psychologytoday.com . Support the show

Content warning: Labour and delivery story, cervical checks, induction, post-delivery, placenta delivery and being stitched, medical issues, baby in special care unitOn today’s podcast episode Morgan Fancy, MA, RP she/her, shares her story of welcoming her little one into her family. I love hearing birth stories and people’s experiences of bringing their baby into the world! Morgan shares the ups and downs of birthing and becoming a parent in a real and authentic way. Take a listen and let us know what you think!Highlights:2:27 - Birth Story4:49 - Induction5:55 - Pre-baby work into coming to terms of not being in control9:37 - Birth preferences vs birth plan10:48 - Alternative pain Management – counter pressure, massage techniques11:13 - Disappointing for Partner12:02 - Asked for Epidural and it was too late12:41 - Intensity of induction14:30 - Cervical checks were difficult because of slow movement15:46 - The mental journey of labour delivery20:00 - Delivery and post delivery21:04 - He weighed 5lbs23:25 - Bonding and nursing, the golden hour, feel it was taken away - The pressure to nurse in that first hour26:48 - WHY was baby so small? Lots of pressure from healthcare providers to find out the WHY32:40 - Nursing experience - Baby was in special care unit, medical professionals wanting to monitor baby’s intake37:26 - Partner being on same page, advocating for nursing40:27 - Expectations of parenthood vs parenting from the selfInformation overload and taking away from trusting ourselves49:31 - Postpartum recovery went well. - Checking in with yourself at the 2 week mark52:16 – The importance of 57:50 - Biggest surprises about birthing a baby1:01:21 - Taking care of yourself postpartumResources mentioned in this episode: You can find Morgan at info@fancytherapy.ca https://fancytherapy.ca/ and on Instagram        @fancy.therapy You can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.ca If you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this or any episode please reach out to me at info@perinatalwellbeing.ca and I can help you find support in your area or online. Check out Postpartum Support International at www.postpartum.net for more information about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders as well as free online support groups and a provider directory. You can look for an individual therapist on www.psychologytoday.com .  Support the show

Today’s guest is Katie Lamport, RSSW. Katie is a counsellor in private practice in the Barrie, Ontario area. I first met Katie when I started a new job as an addiction’s counsellor. Katie was fully pregnant as a gestational carrier and went on maternity leave a few days later. Katie shared her story of being a gestational carrier in season 1 so check it out. On today’s episode we talk about the impacts of beauty standards and ideals on us in the perinatal period and how we can challenge the impacts of these ideals on us. You can find Katie on Instagram @katielamportcounselling at  https://www.mainstreamtherapy.com andhttps://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/therapists/katie-lamport-barrie-on/960500?preview=1&return_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmember.psychologytoday.com%2Fca%2Fhome&_ga=2.157527610.1247068831.1649346645-1756219686.1648751043 2:50 - How are body image/weight issues perpetuated in the perinatal period, Katie and Christine’s journey with body image and weight 5:40 – Women being told that we should be tiny, be small and the pressure of chasing the ideal body11:13 - Coming home to your body12:00 – Acknowledging patriarchy and capitalism15:07 – Impact of beauty standards on Katie and Christine’s pregnancies23:53 – If we stop chasing ideals, could we reach body neutrality? Gratitude, being in awe of having babies30:12 - Weight gain as the worst possible outcome34:15 - Pressure to retain a certain image in motherhood39:15 – Intuitive eating, being present with our bodies as they are now42:43 – What being a mom means in terms of body image and sexuality and how we chase these ideals47:54 – What would it look like if we stopped chasing? A framework could look like:Reconnecting to your bodyBe mindfulLearn to trust the self Sit with the discomfort   1:03:47 – Katie’s poemResources mentioned in this episode:  The Body is not an apology by Sonya Renee TaylorDecolonizing Wellness: A QTBIPOC-Centered Guide to Escape the Diet Trap, Heal Your Self-Image, and Achieve Body Liberation by Dalia Kinsey   You can find Katie on Instagram @katielamportcounselling at  https://www.mainstreamtherapy.com andhttps://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/therapists/katie-lamport-barrie-on/960500?preview=1&return_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmember.psychologytoday.com%2Fca%2Fhome&_ga=2.157527610.1247068831.1649346645-1756219686.1648751043You can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.caIf you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this or any episode please reach out to me at info@perinatalwellbeing.ca and I can help you find support in your area or online. Check out Postpartum Support International at www.postpartum.net for more information about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders as well as free online support groups and a provider directory. You can look for an individual therapist on www.psychologytoday.com . Support the show

On today’s episode we have Alesha Thomas from Adaptive Parent Project talking about parenting with a disability. Adaptive Parent Project is a nonprofit dedicated to empowering parents with disabilities. Alesha is currently working on a provider list of healthcare providers that have experience working with people with disabilities in California. Alesha is also gathering provider information for worldwide healthcare providers. Alesha is a parent to 4-year-old Nolan and lives in California with her family. Alesha lives with Cerebral Palsy Spastic Diplegia and works to advocate for more inclusion for disabled parents in terms of healthcare access and in parenting spaces. Alesha shares adaptive techniques on Youtube and Instagram for parents with disabilities. Highlights:2:14 - Alesha’s story and Adaptive Parent Project9:05 - Going into pregnancy/parenthood with a disability21:13 - Supports postpartum24:23 - Challenges parenting with a disability32:45 - Advocating for myself and my son35:41 - What positive qualities do you bring into parenting?39:31 - Challenges with parenting kids as they grow and are more mobile46:48 - Parenting a child with a disability51:50 - Stigma and ableism around parenting with a disability58:10 - What do you want to see change? Universal accessibility and inclusivityResources: You can find Alesha and Adaptive Parent project at https://www.adaptiveparentproject.org and on Instagram @adaptiveparentproject. Check out their Youtube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@AdaptiveParentProject/featured You can purchase the colouring book by Adaptive Parent Project called the ABC’s of Disability on Amazon or their website! https://www.adaptiveparentproject.org/shop or https://www.amazon.ca/Adaptive-Parent-Project-Presents-DISABILITY/dp/B0C2TBB55L/ref=sr_1_2?crid=1VK2P39LN8WNB&keywords=abcs+of+disability&qid=1683477975&sprefix=abcs+of+disability%2Caps%2C79&sr=8-2  Here are the books and Instagram accounts that Alesha recommended:Instagram:@wheelchair_rapunzelDocumentary Film “Dani’s Twins” https://www.danistwinsfilm.comBooks:“We’ve got This: Essays by Disabled Parents” by Eliza Hull“Come over to My House” by Eliza HullIn the United States, Alesha recommends checking out your county’s website or local hotline for supports. You can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.ca. Check out the website for our latest programs including group therapy, individual therapy and peer support. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this or any episode please reach out to me at info@perinatalwellbeing.ca and I can help you find support in your area or online. You can look for an individual therapist on www.psychologytoday.com .  Support the show

I’m so happy to share this week’s episode with you, featuring Drew Soleyn from Dad Central and Connected Dads. We had a great in-depth conversation about the challenges of becoming a parent from a dad’s perspective, including becoming a parent to twins and a 3rd baby after twins. Drew also provided some excellent ideas for seeking support, trying to take care of yourself as a parent and learning critical skills to help us be the best parents we can be! Drew is the Director of Dad Central Ontario, Founder of Connected Dads, and a Career Coach at the Queen's Smith School of Business. As an International Coaching Federation (ICF) and Maxwell Leadership certified Coach, Trainer & Speaker, he helps dads show up at their best for the people who matter most. Highlights:4:30 – Review of studies about PPD in men, significant rates compared to the general population however it’s not talked about enough10:05 - Drew didn’t share with friends and families about his experience of becoming a father14:15 – Drew was in survival mode15:21 – Drew’s experience of becoming a dad, first time dad to twins, fertility challenges 19:39 – Feelings of helplessness, being hard on himself23:07 - Retuning to work after babiesBeing the support person, having having support27:25 – Welcoming a 3rd baby, the joys and challenges with having toddler twins at home38:59 - Realizing I can’t handle it all, the challenges of therapy47:13 - The importance of emotional and psychological safety in the partnership48:08 - Building supports, resources, learning what a healthy relationship looks like, boundaries, communication, emotion management1:04:00 – Resources for adults to learn skills1:10:01 – Drew’s organization Dad Central, Connected Dads1:13:40 – Drew’s advice – seek support, start with one stepResources mentioned in this episode:You can reach Drew by email Drew@connectedads.ca Dad Central https://dadcentral.ca and Dad Central Podcast https://dadcentral.ca/podcast/ Connected Dads https://www.connecteddads.ca Dr. Laura Markham, Aha parenting https://www.ahaparenting.com Dr. Stuart Shanker Self-regulation courses https://self-reg.ca/resource-library/ Dr. Henry Cloud https://www.drcloud.com/books/boundaries  You can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.ca If you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this or any episode please reach out to me at info@perinatalwellbeing.ca and I can help you find support in your area or online. Check out Postpartum Support International at www.postpartum.net for more information about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders as well as free online support groups and a provider directory. You can look for an individual therapist on www.psychologytoday.com. Support the show

Content Warning: We like to swear, if you’re listening with kids or don’t like swearing, please be aware!Episode #25 is the 2nd part of my chat with Naomi about body hair and its impacts on our body image and parenting. My guest today is Naomi from Queer Nest. Naomi uses she and they pronouns, and is Founder and head Doula of Queer Nest, where she coaches and supports Queer and gender-non-conforming folks and entrepreneurs through one of their biggest life transitions— becoming a parent! Through support, advance preparation, self-advocacy, and abundance, she helps you become the parent of your dreams. On today’s episode Naomi and I continue to talk about body hair and how the shame around body hair and body image can impact our parenting. We also talk about how we can start changing and challenging these issues. Highlights:1:15 – Naomi’s body change in the postpartum period6:50 – How we talk to ourselves about our bodies and removing the judgement12:15 – Body hair, parenting, femininity, motherhood15:44 – Recovering people pleaser18:20 – Being connected to the Self and parenting from the Self22:40 – Not fitting the mold of the maternal goddess26:30 – How do we change the patriarchy and capitalism when we continue to live in a patriarchal, capitalist society? Resources: You can find Naomi on Instagram at @naomi_authentically   Company Website: https://queernest.co You can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.ca Support the show