Summary

In this conversation, Caroline and Hila discuss their last episode with Dr. Rachel around the complexities of body image, particularly in the context of pregnancy and postpartum experiences. They explore the application of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a coping mechanism, emphasizing its effectiveness in managing body image issues. The discussion highlights the importance of self-acceptance, body neutrality, and practical strategies for navigating the emotional challenges associated with body changes. The conversation also touches on the significance of surrounding oneself with positive influences and the need for actionable steps to improve mental well-being.

Chapters

00:00- Introduction to Body Image and Coping Skills

03:16- The Impact of CBT on Body Image

06:03- Exploring Body Image Challenges

08:28- Protecting Mental Health During Pregnancy

14:15- The Role of Body Expectations in Pregnancy

17:01- Body Neutrality vs. Body Positivity

18:54- Embracing the Complexity of Body Image

21:00- Slam Poetry Time!

Glennon Doyle's Poem on Body Acceptance

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If you're interested in working with us, we'd love to connect! If you're located in New York or Florida, learn more about Hila's practice here. If you're based in California, check out Caroline's website here.

Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy nor a replacement for therapy, nor is it medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdiction.

Summary:

In this episode, Dr. Hila Sachs and Dr. Caroline Dickens chat with Dr. Rachel Goldman, a clinical psychologist, to discuss the complexities of body image during pregnancy, postpartum, and motherhood. They explore the definition of body image, its impact on mental health, and the role of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in addressing body image challenges. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, managing external expectations, and building a mental health toolbox to navigate the emotional landscape of motherhood.

Takeaways:

• Body image encompasses thoughts, feelings, and behaviors about our physical appearance.
• It's normal to experience fluctuating body image perceptions throughout different life stages.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help individuals reframe unhelpful thoughts about their bodies.
• Body neutrality focuses on what our bodies can do rather than how they look.
• Self-compassion is crucial for managing body image distress during motherhood.
• Anticipating challenges and creating a plan can empower individuals during their fertility journey.
• Communication with partners about body image concerns is essential for support.
• Setting boundaries with external expectations can protect mental health.
• Taking actionable steps can help individuals regain a sense of control over their body image.

Chapters

00:00- Introduction to Body Image and Motherhood

03:29- Defining Body Image

08:06- The Interconnection of Body Image and Mental Health

10:58- Complexities of Body Changes During Pregnancy

12:33- Navigating External Comments on Body Image

19:22- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Techniques for Body Image

22:16- Navigating Body Image During Pregnancy

28:14- Anticipating Challenges and Building Resilience

33:56- Managing External Expectations and Support

39:47- Empowerment Through Self-Compassion and Control

Where to find Dr. Rachel

• Website
• Instagram
• Upcoming book: "When life happens"

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Want to get connected?

Follow us on Instagram, @themomsarealrightpodcast. If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review and DM us to let us know! We can't wait to hear you from you!

Find more information about the podcast on our website.

For more practical, realistic, and no-BS tips & encouragement, follow @dr.hilasachs and @drcarolinedickens on Instagram.

If you're interested in working with us, we'd love to connect! If you're located in New York or Florida, learn more about Hila's practice here. If you're based in California, check out Caroline's website here.

Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy nor a replacement for therapy, nor is it medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdiction.

Summary

In this conversation, Caroline and Hila reflect on their experiences and insights regarding breastfeeding, mental health, and the emotional complexities of motherhood. They discuss the pressures surrounding feeding choices, the importance of having advocates in maternal health, and the challenges of perfectionism in parenting. The episode also delves into the emotional toll it can take on breastfeeding mothers. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the need for compassion, understanding, and the recognition that every mother's journey is unique.

Chapters

00:00- Reconnecting After the Holidays

05:45- Perfectionism in Motherhood

17:43- Navigating Emotional Challenges in Breastfeeding

25:18- Guilt and Decision-Making in Feeding Choices

If you need the episode, find it here

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Want to get connected?

Follow us on Instagram, @themomsarealrightpodcast. If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review and DM us to let us know! We can't wait to hear you from you!

Find more information about the podcast on our website.

For more practical, realistic, and no-BS tips & encouragement, follow @dr.hilasachs and @drcarolinedickens on Instagram.

If you're interested in working with us, we'd love to connect! If you're located in New York or Florida, learn more about Hila's practice here. If you're based in California, check out Caroline's website here.

Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy nor a replacement for therapy, nor is it medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdiction.

Summary

In this episode, Dr. Caroline Dickens and Dr. Hila Sachs welcome Amy Famini, a pediatric nurse practitioner, to discuss the complexities of breastfeeding and its impact on mental health. They explore the challenges new mothers face, debunk common myths surrounding breastfeeding, and emphasize the importance of self-care and mental well-being during the breastfeeding journey. Amy shares her insights on how to support mothers in making feeding decisions that work for them and offers practical tips for expecting and new moms.

Takeaways

• It's important to normalize the struggles of breastfeeding and reassure mothers that they are not alone.
• There is no one-size-fits-all approach to breastfeeding; each journey is unique.
• Support from healthcare providers is crucial in helping mothers navigate their feeding choices.
• Expectations around breastfeeding can lead to unnecessary stress and guilt.
• Moms should feel empowered to change their feeding plans as needed.

Chapters
00:00- Introduction to Breastfeeding and Mental Health

04:26- Amy Famini's Journey in Pediatric Care

08:24- Challenges New Moms Face in Breastfeeding

13:00- Debunking Myths About Breastfeeding

17:47- The Importance of Support and Flexibility in Feeding Choices

25:06- Navigating Feeding Choices: Breastfeeding and Formula

32:21- Hospital Practices and Individualized Care

37:34- Overcoming the Sunk Cost Fallacy

Where to find Amy

- Instagram

- Website

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Want to get connected?

Follow us on Instagram, @themomsarealrightpodcast. If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review and DM us to let us know! We can't wait to hear you from you!

Find more information about the podcast on our website.

For more practical, realistic, and no-BS tips & encouragement, follow @dr.hilasachs and @drcarolinedickens on Instagram.

If you're interested in working with us, we'd love to connect! If you're located in New York or Florida, learn more about Hila's practice here. If you're based in California, check out Caroline's website here.

Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy nor a replacement for therapy, nor is it medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdiction.

Summary

In this episode, Hila  and Caroline interview doula HeHe Stewart, who shares her views on the importance of doulas in the childbirth process. HeHe discusses the various roles doulas play, including emotional and physical support, and the significance of informed decision-making for expectant parents. The conversation also touches on the impact of people-pleasing on birth experiences and the gaps in standard childbirth education. HeHe emphasizes the need for flexibility in birth plans and the importance of understanding all options available to parents during labor and delivery.

Takeaways

• Doulas provide emotional, physical, and educational support during pregnancy and childbirth.
• People-pleasing can hinder a mother's ability to advocate for herself during labor.
• Understanding all options in childbirth education is crucial for informed decision-making.
• Doulas help bridge the gap between parents and healthcare providers.
• Every choice in childbirth comes with associated risks that need to be understood.
• Practicing communication with healthcare providers prenatally can empower mothers during labor.
• Trusting oneself and one's intuition is vital in the childbirth experience.

Chapters
00:00- Introduction to Doulas and Their Importance

05:39- The Role of a Doula in Birth Preparation

10:44- Understanding Different Types of Doulas

15:36- Navigating Birth Plans and Flexibility

21:24- The Impact of People-Pleasing on Birth Experiences

25:55- Empowering Moms to Speak Up

29:13- Rethinking Childbirth Education

34:57- Understanding Unwanted C-Sections

45:07- Embracing Your Power in Birth Decisions

Where to find HeHe

Instagram
The Birth Lounge app and podcast
Learn more

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Want to get connected?

Follow us on Instagram, @themomsarealrightpodcast. If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review and DM us to let us know! We can't wait to hear you from you!

Find more information about the podcast on our website.

For more practical, realistic, and no-BS tips & encouragement, follow @dr.hilasachs and @drcarolinedickens on Instagram.

If you're interested in working with us, we'd love to connect! If you're located in New York or Florida, learn more about Hila's practice here. If you're based in California, check out Caroline's website here.

Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy nor a replacement for therapy, nor is it medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdiction.

Summary

In this conversation, Hila and Caroline debrief last episode's discussion with Dr. Nikki's all about the postpartum brain and the biological and psychological changes new mothers face during postpartum. They explore the emotional and mental challenges new mothers face, the importance of self-care, and the need for support systems. The discussion emphasizes the significance of planning for mental health and building connections with other mothers to navigate this transformative period in life.

Takeaways

• New moms experience significant vulnerability during postpartum.
• Societal myths can complicate the postpartum experience.
• The postpartum brain can be a powerful tool for growth.
• Planning for self-care is crucial for mental health postpartum.
• Building connections with other moms can alleviate feelings of loneliness.
• Using tools like opposite action can help manage emotional discomfort.
• Finding community resources can ease the transition into motherhood.
• The postpartum experience is unique for every individual.

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Postpartum Challenges

05:02 - Understanding the Postpartum Brain

10:13 - Navigating Relationships and Support Systems

14:58 - Practical Strategies for Postpartum Self-Care

18:01 - Building Connections and Community

 Listen to Dr. Nikki's interview here.

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Follow us on Instagram, @themomsarealrightpodcast. If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review and DM us to let us know! We can't wait to hear you from you!

Find more information about the podcast on our website.

For more practical, realistic, and no-BS tips & encouragement, follow @dr.hilasachs and @drcarolinedickens on Instagram.

If you're interested in working with us, we'd love to connect! If you're located in New York or Florida, learn more about Hila's practice here. If you're based in California, check out Caroline's website here.

Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy nor a replacement for therapy, nor is it medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdiction.

In this conversation, Dr. Nikki Pensak discusses the power of the postpartum brain and explores the biological and psychological changes that accompany new motherhood. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the neuroplastic changes that occur in the brain, the need for better resources for mothers, and the significance of self-care and mental health in ensuring a positive new motherhood experience. The discussion also touches on the societal pressures and expectations placed on mothers, the impact of returning to work, the importance of understanding brain changes, the prevalence of mom guilt and shame, and the critical role of therapy in supporting new mothers. Dr. Pensak emphasizes the need for proactive mental health care to address the unique challenges faced by parents, advocating for early intervention and support systems to enhance maternal mental health.

Takeaways

• Moms often feel unsupported during the postpartum period.
• There is a significant maternal mental health crisis in the U.S.
• Neuroplasticity allows mothers to adapt and learn new skills.
• The biological changes in motherhood are profound and complex. The brain biologically prioritizes the care of the baby.
• Understanding brain changes can help validate the postpartum experience.
• Therapy can be beneficial even if one is not in crisis. Proactive mental health care is essential for new parents.
• Setting up mental health care before childbirth can ease postpartum challenges.

Chapters

02:53 -Understanding the Postpartum Brain

05:47 - The Impact of Maternal Mental Health

08:50 - Neuroplasticity and Motherhood

12:04 - The Transition Back to Work

14:56 - Self-Care and Maternal Well-Being

18:10 - The Biological Changes in Motherhood

27:49 - The Biological Imperative of Motherhood

29:58 - Understanding Brain Changes During Postpartum

33:00 - Navigating Mom Guilt and Shame

38:54 - The Importance of Therapy for New Mothers

43:58 - Proactive Mental Health Care for New Parents

Where to Find Nikki

Book

Website

Instagram

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Follow us on Instagram, @themomsarealrightpodcast. If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review and DM us to let us know! We can't wait to hear you from you!

Find more information about the podcast on our website.

For more practical, realistic, and no-BS tips & encouragement, follow @dr.hilasachs and @drcarolinedickens on Instagram.

If you're interested in working with us, we'd love to connect! If you're located in New York or Florida, learn more about Hila's practice here. If you're based in California, check out Caroline's website here.

Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy nor a replacement for therapy, nor is it medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdiction.

Summary:

In this episode, Dr. Caroline Dickens and Dr. Hila Sachs discuss with Batya Novick and Jewel Spencer the intricate relationship between IVF, intimacy, and sex. They discuss how the IVF process can impact couples' emotional and physical connections, the importance of distinguishing between intimacy and sex, and practical strategies to enhance intimacy during this challenging time. The conversation highlights the significance of communication, emotional validation, and the narratives couples create around their experiences. This conversation explores the complexities of intimacy and sexuality during the IVF process, pregnancy, and beyond. They discuss the importance of maintaining connection and intimacy, even when sexual activity may be limited or altered due to life transitions. The ladies emphasize the need for open communication, acceptance of changes, and the removal of judgment in relationships. Practical advice is provided for couples to reestablish intimacy and navigate the challenges that arise during fertility treatments and pregnancy.

Takeaways

• IVF can disrupt intimacy and sexual connection.
• Intimacy and sex are distinct but interconnected.
• Communication is key to navigating IVF challenges.
• Touch can be a starting point for intimacy.
• Creating a safe space for vulnerability is essential. Intimacy is important during IVF, even when sex is limited or non-existent.
• Life transitions can disrupt sexual desire and intimacy.
• Couples should create their own definitions of intimacy and 'normalcy'.
• Humor and playfulness can enhance intimacy.
• Curiosity and patience are essential in navigating intimacy.

Chapters
02:57- Understanding the Impact of IVF on Relationships
06:14- Distinguishing Between Intimacy and Sex
08:51- Navigating Intimacy During IVF
12:03- Communication Challenges in IVF Relationships
18:02- Practical Strategies for Enhancing Intimacy
21:01- Addressing Barriers to Intimacy and Sex
26:34- Navigating Intimacy During IVF
30:02- The Impact of Life Transitions on Sexuality
35:55- Breaking the Taboo: Conversations About Sex
42:49- Practical Steps to Reestablish Intimacy

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Find more information about the podcast on our website.

For more practical, realistic, and no-BS tips & encouragement, follow @dr.hilasachs and @drcarolinedickens on Instagram.

If you're interested in working with us, we'd love to connect! If you're located in New York or Florida, learn more about Hila's practice here. If you're based in California, check out Caroline's website here.

Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy nor a replacement for therapy, nor is it medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdiction.

Summary

In this conversation, Hila and Caroline explore the multifaceted emotional landscape surrounding fertility challenges, particularly focusing on IVF. They discuss the trauma and grief often associated with infertility, the impact of shame and comparison, and the loss of trust in one's body. The conversation also touches on male factor fertility issues, the importance of community support, and the empowerment that comes from making informed decisions. They emphasize the need to maintain one's identity beyond fertility struggles and acknowledge the financial burdens that can accompany IVF treatments. Overall, the discussion highlights the complexity of navigating relationships and emotions during this challenging journey.

Takeaways

• IVF can bring about significant trauma and grief.
• Shame due to comparison is common during fertility struggles.
• Loss of trust in one's body can affect self-identity.
• Community support is crucial for those facing infertility.
• It's important to set boundaries in relationships during this time.
• Feelings of ambivalence are valid.
• Empowerment comes from making informed choices about fertility.
• Maintaining identity beyond fertility struggles is essential.

Chapters

00:00- Introduction to Fertility Challenges

02:59- Understanding Trauma in Fertility

05:59- The Impact of Shame and Comparison

09:04- Loss of Trust in the Body

11:56- Male Factor Fertility Challenges

15:05- Navigating Relationships During Fertility Struggles

17:54- The Importance of Community and Support

20:58- Empowerment in Decision-Making

23:52- Maintaining Identity Beyond Fertility

27:01- Financial Considerations in IVF

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Follow us on Instagram, @themomsarealrightpodcast. If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review and DM us to let us know! We can't wait to hear you from you!

Find more information about the podcast on our website.

For more practical, realistic, and no-BS tips & encouragement, follow @dr.hilasachs and @drcarolinedickens on Instagram.

If you're interested in working with us, we'd love to connect! If you're located in New York or Florida, learn more about Hila's practice here. If you're based in California, check out Caroline's website here.

Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy nor a replacement for therapy, nor is it medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdiction.

Summary

In this episode, Dr. Hila and Dr. Caroline welcome Batya Novick, a licensed clinical social worker specializing in reproductive mental health. They discuss the emotional challenges associated with IVF, the importance of mental health support, and the nuances of secondary infertility. Batya shares her personal journey into this field and emphasizes the need for specialized care in reproductive mental health. The conversation also covers coping strategies for managing anxiety and grief during the IVF process, and the significance of community support.

Takeaways

• Understanding the IVF process is crucial for patients.
• Anxiety and uncertainty are common during IVF.
• Grief is a significant aspect of fertility struggles.
• Secondary infertility can feel isolating and traumatic.
• Coping strategies are essential for managing stress during IVF.
• Community support can alleviate feelings of loneliness.

Chapters

04:41- Batya's Journey into Reproductive Mental Health

10:39- Understanding the IVF Process 

18:44- Emotional Challenges in Fertility Treatments

24:39- Navigating Grief in Primary vs. Secondary Infertility

27:36- The Importance of Community in IVF

29:10- Preparing for the Unpredictability of IVF

31:32- Coping Mechanisms for Managing Anxiety

33:52- Finding Control Amidst Uncertainty

36:59- Balancing Personal Identity During Fertility Struggles

39:59- Navigating Grief and Acceptance in IVF

43:35- Building Support Networks for IVF Journeys

Where to find Batya

• Website
• Instagram

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If you found this episode helpful, please rate our podcast and leave a review. Your feedback means the world to us!

Want to get connected?

Follow us on Instagram, @themomsarealrightpodcast. If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review and DM us to let us know! We can't wait to hear you from you!

Find more information about the podcast on our website.

For more practical, realistic, and no-BS tips & encouragement, follow @dr.hilasachs and @drcarolinedickens on Instagram.

If you're interested in working with us, we'd love to connect! If you're located in New York or Florida, learn more about Hila's practice here. If you're based in California, check out Caroline's website here.

Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy nor a replacement for therapy, nor is it medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdiction.