The Moms Are Alright

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

Make sure you never miss an episode by following us on your favorite podcast streaming platform.

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 have feedback or requests, please 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 motherhood mental health 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 therapy clinic, Palmetto Psychology Clinic, here.

Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy, a replacement for therapy, or medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdi...

Summary

In this heartfelt episode of 'The Moms Are All Right,' hosts Dr. Caroline Dickens ("Liney" to her mom) and Dr. Hila Sachs ("Lali" to her mom) celebrate Mother's Day with their own mothers, Laura and Sarit. The conversation explores the journey of motherhood across generations, reflecting on personal experiences, the evolution of support systems, and the differences in societal expectations. Laura and Sarit share their insights on becoming grandmothers, the challenges of modern parenting, and the importance of self-care. The episode concludes with valuable advice for new mothers, emphasizing the significance of enjoying every moment and the expanding nature of love in families.

Chapters

00:00- Celebrating Motherhood: A Special Episode

02:47- Reflections on Becoming a Mother

08:47- Generational Differences in Motherhood

12:02- Navigating Modern Motherhood

17:59- The Evolution of Support Systems

23:58- Lessons Learned from Each Other

27:55- Final Thoughts and Advice for Mothers

Make sure you never miss an episode by following us on your favorite podcast streaming platform.

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 have feedback or requests, please 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 motherhood mental health 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 therapy clinic, Palmetto Psychology Clinic, here.

Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy, a replacement for therapy, or medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdi...

Summary
In this conversation, Hila and Caroline explore the multifaceted journey of motherhood, touching on the importance of community and the impact of societal norms like the 12-week rule. They discuss the significance of sharing experiences and the need for open dialogue about emotional well-being. The conversation emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and support in navigating the ups and downs of motherhood.

Takeaways

• Well-meaning platitudes can often invalidate feelings.
• The 12-week rule is a cultural norm that can create isolation.
• Finding your comfort zone in sharing pregnancy news is essential.
• Creating community through shared experiences can foster healing.
• Open dialogue about motherhood can change societal perceptions.
• It's okay to seek support and not go through challenges alone.

Chapters

00:00- Navigating the Early Stages of Motherhood

05:56- The Impact of Well-Meaning Platitudes

08:58- The 12-Week Rule: A Cultural Norm

12:00- Sharing Pregnancy News: Finding Your Comfort Zone

18:00- Creating Community Through Shared Experiences

20:59- The Importance of Open Dialogue

24:12- Embracing Vulnerability in Motherhood

Make sure you never miss an episode by following us on your favorite podcast streaming platform.

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 have feedback or requests, please 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 motherhood mental health 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 therapy clinic, Palmetto Psychology Clinic, here.

Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy, a replacement for therapy, or medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdi...

Summary

In this conversation, Dr. Jessica Zucker shares her personal experiences and how they have shaped her professional work, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and normalizing difficult conversations about women's health issues. The episode focuses on miscarriage and the cultural stigma surrounding it. The discussion highlights the need for open dialogue to combat feelings of shame and isolation, and the role of storytelling in fostering connection and understanding among women. Dr. Zucker's upcoming book, 'Normalize It,' aims to further explore these themes and empower women to share their stories.

Takeaways

• Cultural silence around miscarriage leads to feelings of shame.
• Sharing personal stories can help others feel less alone.
• Acknowledgment of pain is the first step to healing.
• Normalizing difficult conversations is essential for women's health.
• Empowering future generations of women starts with open dialogue.

Chapters
00:00- Introduction to Dr. Jessica Zucker and Her Work

06:44- The Impact of Personal Experience on Professional Practice

12:39- Cultural Silence and Stigma Surrounding Pregnancy Loss

18:41- The Role of Social Media in Normalizing Conversations

26:50- The Journey of Writing: From Personal Struggles to Public Sharing

30:20- Normalizing Conversations: A Framework for Healing

33:23- The Importance of Acknowledgment, Sharing, and Normalizing

36:40- Cultural Shifts: Changing the Narrative for Future Generations

40:26- Rituals of Acceptance: Celebrating Womanhood

43:59- You Are Not Alone: The Importance of Sharing Stories

Where to Find Dr. Zucker

- Instagram

- Website

- Buy "Normalize It" here

Make sure you never miss an episode by following us on your favorite podcast streaming platform.

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 have feedback or requests, please 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 motherhood mental health 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 therapy clinic, Palmetto Psychology Clinic, here.

Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy, a replacement for therapy, or medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdi...

Summary
In this episode, Dr. Shara Brofman discusses the complexities of pregnancy and reproductive loss, exploring its impact on identity, mental health, and relationships. The conversation delves into the unique challenges faced by individuals navigating grief and loss, anxiety, and expectations surrounding family planning. The conversation emphasizes the importance of acknowledging loss, coping strategies, and the need for support in the healing process. The episode highlights the coexistence of hope and fear, the nuances of mother-child bonding after loss, and the significance of finding ways to honor and remember those lost.

Takeaways

• "Reproductive loss" encompasses various experiences, including infertility and IVF failures, pregnancy losses, miscarriages etc.
• Reproductive loss can significantly impact a person's identity and self-view.
• Coping with uncertainty is a crucial part of the grieving process.
• Hypervigilance and reassurance-seeking behaviors are common in subsequent pregnancies.
• Acknowledging loss is essential for healing and moving forward.
• Grief is a personal journey that takes time and cannot be rushed.

Chapters

03:38- Understanding Pregnancy Loss and Its Impact

06:43- The Psychological Effects of Reproductive Loss

11:58- Navigating Expectations and Reality in Family Planning

14:43- Coping with Anxiety and Fear in Pregnancy

20:46- The Complexity of Grief and Parenting After Loss

30:10- Understanding Hypervigilance and Information Overload

35:15- The Challenge of Finding Connection in Grief

40:14- The Complexity of Untold Stories in Reproductive Loss

44:08- Empowerment Through Choice in Uncertainty

44:45- Top Takeaways for Navigating Pregnancy Loss

Where to Find Dr. Brofman
Website
Instagram

Make sure you never miss an episode by following us on your favorite podcast streaming platform.

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 have feedback or requests, please 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 motherhood mental health 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 therapy clinic, Palmetto Psychology Clinic, here.

Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy, a replacement for therapy, or medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdi...

Summary

In this conversation, Hila and Caroline reflect on last week’s episode with Dr. Phindile Chowa. They discuss the challenges of motherhood, particularly focusing on the medical system's tendency to invalidate mothers' concerns. They emphasize the importance of holistic care in postpartum health, the interconnectedness of mental and physical health, and the need for accessible support services for postpartum moms. The conversation highlights the role of providers in creating a supportive environment for mothers and the various options available for mental health and wellness beyond traditional therapy.

Takeaways

• Moms often feel pressured to prioritize their baby's needs over their own.
• Selflessness in motherhood can lead to neglecting personal health.
• Holistic care is essential for addressing postpartum issues.
• Mental health issues are the most common postpartum complications.
• There is a stigma around seeking help in motherhood that needs to be addressed.
• Planning and research can help mothers find the support they need.

Chapters

01:51 - The Challenges of Motherhood and Medical Care

05:05 - Self-Validation and Mental Health

07:58 - Holistic Approaches to Maternal Health

11:48 - The Importance of Accessible Support

14:53 - Reflections and Future Aspirations

Make sure you never miss an episode by following us on your favorite podcast streaming platform.

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 have feedback or requests, please 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 motherhood mental health 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 therapy clinic, Palmetto Psychology Clinic, here.

Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy, a replacement for therapy, or medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdi...

Summary
In this conversation, Hila and Caroline discuss the importance of postpartum medicine with Dr. Phindile Chowa. They explore Dr. Chowa's journey into medicine, the gaps in traditional postpartum care, and the systemic issues that contribute to inadequate support for new mothers. The discussion emphasizes the need for better information, emotional support, and community-based solutions to improve maternal health outcomes. Dr. Chowa discusses the need for comprehensive postpartum care, highlighting common challenges faced by new moms, including mental health issues, breastfeeding difficulties, and the need for a supportive community. Dr. Chowa advocates for a shift from reactive to proactive care, encouraging mothers to plan ahead for their postpartum care. The discussion also touches on the need to integrate postpartum care into the healthcare system and the importance of building a network of support for mothers.

Takeaways

• Traditional postpartum care often lacks adequate support and education for new mothers.
• Moms experience profound changes in the first six weeks postpartum that are often overlooked.
• Healthcare providers need to ask the right questions to uncover postpartum issues.
• The healthcare system is reactive rather than proactive in addressing postpartum needs.
• Systemic changes are necessary to prioritize maternal health over profits. 
• Personalized care is essential as every mother's experience is unique.
• Dads also need support and education during the postpartum period.
• Fourth trimester care is crucial and should be prioritized in healthcare.

Chapters
02:50 -Dr. Chowa's Journey into Medicine

05:47 -The Gaps in Traditional Postpartum Care

08:57 - The Importance of Information and Support

11:59 -Addressing the Emotional and Physical Needs of Moms

14:58 -Systemic Issues in Postpartum Care

20:56 -Innovative Postpartum Care Models

24:10 - Navigating Healthcare for New Moms

27:49 -The Importance of Proactive Care

34:31 - The Need for Comprehensive Postpartum Care

39:20 - Planning for Postpartum Support

Where to Find Dr. Chowa
Instagram
Website
Book

Make sure you never miss an episode by following us on your favorite podcast streaming platform.

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 have feedback or requests, please 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 motherhood mental health 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 therapy clinic, Palmetto Psychology Clinic, here.

Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy, a replacement for therapy, or medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdi...

Summary

In this conversation, Hila and Caroline explore the concept of matrescence, specifically the psychological and emotional changes that occur during motherhood. They discuss the importance of awareness and acceptance in navigating these changes, the ambivalence that often accompanies motherhood, and the relentless nature of parenting. The conversation emphasizes the need for understanding and support during this transformative period, highlighting the beauty and challenges of motherhood.

Takeaways

• Matrescence is a significant developmental period for mothers.
• Awareness of matrescence can provide validation and normalization of experiences.
• Acceptance does not mean liking the situation, but rather embracing it.
• The ambivalence of motherhood is a common experience.
• The storytelling aspect of motherhood shapes expectations and experiences.
• Acceptance allows for flexibility in navigating motherhood.

Chapters

03:22- Understanding Matrescence: A Journey of Transformation

05:55- Acceptance and the Reality of Motherhood

07:49- The Seasons of Motherhood: Embracing Change

10:36- The Psychological Impact of Matrescence

13:36- Ambivalence in Motherhood: Love and Grief Coexisting

16:38- The Relentless Nature of Motherhood

Make sure you never miss an episode by following us on your favorite podcast streaming platform.

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 have feedback or requests, please 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 motherhood mental health 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 therapy clinic, Palmetto Psychology Clinic, here.

Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy, a replacement for therapy, or medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdi...

Summary

In this episode, Hila and Caroline explore with Sam Hall the concept of Matrescence, the transition to motherhood. Sam shares her personal journey and insights into the challenges and transformations that come with becoming a mother. The conversation delves into the cyclical nature of matrescence, the various factors influencing each woman's experience, and the importance of acceptance in navigating this journey. Sam emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique aspects of each season of matrescence, providing valuable tips for those on this path.

Takeaways

• Matrescence is the ongoing transition into motherhood.
• Motherhood changes every aspect of a woman's life.
• Acceptance is crucial in the journey of motherhood.
• Each woman's experience of matrescence is unique.
• The Seasons of Matrescence help frame the motherhood journey.
• It's important to understand societal expectations around motherhood.
• Understanding matrescence can help normalize the challenges of motherhood.

Chapters

00:00- Introduction to Matrescence and Its Importance

05:43- Understanding Matrescence: The Transition to Motherhood

14:16- The Unique Experience of Matrescence

20:35- The Seasons of Matrescence: Navigating the Journey

24:16- The Journey of Motherhood: Embracing Challenges

28:51- Understanding the Cycles of Motherhood

33:25- Acceptance and Identity in Motherhood

41:11- Empowerment Through Self-Acceptance

Where to find Sam Hall

• Instagram
• Website

Make sure you never miss an episode by following us on your favorite podcast streaming platform.

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 have feedback or requests, please 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 motherhood mental health 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 therapy clinic, Palmetto Psychology Clinic, here.

Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy, a replacement for therapy, or medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdi...

Summary

In this conversation, Caroline and Hila discuss the complexities of transitioning to parenthood and its impact on relationships. They explore themes such as accountability, the mental load, the importance of reinforcement in relationships, and the acceptance of imperfection in parenting. The discussion also touches on the effects of surprise pregnancies and the influence of social media. 

Takeaways

• The transition to parenthood impacts ALL relationships.
• Reinforcing positive behaviors can change relationship dynamics.
• Small changes can lead to significant improvements in relationships.

Chapters
00:00- Navigating the Transition to Parenthood

02:56- The Importance of Accountability in Relationships

04:18- Reinforcing Positive Behaviors

06:14- Managing the Maternal Mental Load

07:01- The Impact of Relationship Dynamics on Parenting

07:58- The Role of Intentionality in Parenting

10:59- Expectations vs. Reality in Parenthood

Make sure you never miss an episode by following us on your favorite podcast streaming platform.

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 have feedback or requests, please 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 motherhood mental health 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 therapy clinic, Palmetto Psychology Clinic, here.

Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy, a replacement for therapy, or medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdi...