REAL STORIES
After an ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, and baby loss, Jade finally brought her daughter River earthside — but instead of the newborn bubble she had imagined, she was met with relentless distress as her baby struggled with severe colic. Following years of cumulative grief and anxiety, Jade describes a ‘crash’ that overwhelmed her emotionally and physically. It was only when her mother-in-law stepped in that she was able to access the support she needed.
Despite her expertise as a midwife and academic, Helen describes her perinatal mental health experience with one word: ‘blindsided’. She developed post-traumatic stress disorder following a traumatic pregnancy marked by pre-eclampsia, IUGR, and a NICU admission, compounded by baby loss and ongoing IVF uncertainty. She reflects on the profound impact of psychological trauma in the perinatal period, both personally and professionally.
An unplanned pregnancy can bring shock, fear, or conflicting emotions. This article explores the mental health impact of unexpected pregnancy and honours the complexity of how you may be feeling.
Pregnancy and postpartum are times of heightened vulnerability to the onset or recurrence of bipolar disorder. Learn why early recognition, screening, and open dialogue matter for better perinatal mental health care.
Many mothers experiencing perinatal depression or anxiety ask themselves: “Why is this happening to me?” While the desire to understand is human, searching for a cause during a mental health crisis can sometimes deepen distress. This article explores why letting go of that question may open the door to support and recovery.
Have you ever been told to “be kinder to yourself” but not known where to start? For many mothers, self-compassion sounds simple yet feels surprisingly difficult — even selfish or wrong. This article explores the many myths that keep us stuck in self-criticism and guilt, and why gentleness toward ourselves matters.
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