An estimated 26% of Americans ages 18 and older -- about 1 in 4 adults -- suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder in a given year. Depression and anxiety are the most common mental health problems during pregnancy, with around 12% of women experiencing depression and 13% experiencing anxiety at some point; many women will experience both. Depression and anxiety also affect 15‑20% of women in the first year after childbirth.

This episode covers several examples of mental health issues I’ve dealt with during my career as a midwife.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Available 24 hours. Languages: English, Spanish. 800-273-8255

Links

My daughter's YouTube channel: http://youtube.com/caseyurbanfarm

My Books: https://wishpickleshop.com/product-category/books/  Use code FreeForMe to receive free shipping at checkout.

The Johnny Depp vs Amber Heard trial riveted us, as it probably did you. For some people, though, it triggered memories of their own domestic abuse. My guest, Christina, shares her own story of abuse, and her reactions to the trial, which might surprise you.

Warning: abuse, anger, sorrow, and cursey words

Links

My daughter's YouTube channel: http://youtube.com/caseyurbanfarm

My Books: https://wishpickleshop.com/product-category/books/  Use code FreeForMe to receive free shipping at checkout.

I don't have a horse in the midwifery race anymore so I can dish on the dirt. There's a saying amongst us that goes, "Midwives eat their own."  Listen to some of the stories I share about mean things midwives have done to other midwives. If you're a midwife, I also offer some advice on how to mostly avoid getting caught up in the drama. 

Links

My daughter's YouTube channel: http://youtube.com/caseyurbanfarm

My Books: https://wishpickleshop.com/product-category/books/  Use code FreeForMe to receive free shipping at checkout. 

Join me as I rant about the Supreme Court's recent leak about overturning Roe v. Wade. I don't have any answers but I raise a few questions. 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roe_v._Wade#:~:text=Roe%20v.%20Wade%2C%20410%20U.S.,abortion%20without%20excessive%20government%20restriction

https://designmom.com/twitter-thread-abortion/

 The midwife offers some positive affirmations to remind you that your body is pretty remarkable and shares how to make poo spray. Next she gives a deeper commentary on the birth story from the last episode, and  then tells a home birth story. 

Midwife Lindy Casey discusses how pregnant women feel when they get unsolicited advice from strangers, and worse - when they are touched. She also shares some tips about how to boost your child's immune system to protect them when they return to school this fall.  And last, she shares a birth story.