In this raw and honest episode, the hosts share why pregnancy “sucks” for many women — from debilitating nausea and pain to emotional overwhelm and feeling disconnected from their bodies. A must-listen for anyone who has struggled through pregnancy or felt guilty for not loving the experience.

In this episode of the Hormone Heroines Podcast, the hosts share their “unpopular opinion”: being pregnant sucks. Though they deeply love babies and fully support pregnancy, their personal experiences have been overwhelmingly challenging.

They begin with the first trimester, which they describe as pure survival — marked by Hyperemesis Gravidarum, relentless nausea and vomiting, painful constipation from medications like Zofran, malnourishment, exhaustion, and severe mood changes. Heightened senses and food aversions made eating nearly impossible, and the constant discomfort led to feelings of depression, anxiety, and emotional withdrawal. They also discuss the fear and trauma surrounding miscarriage, which amplified the emotional distress.

In the second trimester, while the nausea eased, it was replaced by new forms of pain: pubic symphysis dysfunction, round ligament pain, sciatica, SI joint pain, and the sensation of abdominal muscles tearing. Ongoing anemia made breathing difficult, and early body changes triggered body dysmorphia. Bladder pressure, incontinence, and painful fetal kicks added to the daily discomfort.

As they approach the third trimester, the hosts anticipate worsening pain and physical limitations. They describe struggling to sleep, swollen vulvas and varicose veins due to venous congestion, hemorrhoids, and the full-body effects of the hormone relaxin — from loose joints and hip pain to even changes in their feet.

They conclude with honesty and compassion: pregnancy is a major trauma to the body, and it’s okay not to enjoy it. They want women to know they are not alone, that not bonding immediately is normal, and that postpartum depression deserves attention and care. Their message is clear: you can hate pregnancy and still be an incredible mother.

Dr. Heidi and Dr. Serena are women’s health clinicians, educators, and co-hosts of the Hormone Heroines Podcast. Known for their blend of clinical insight and unfiltered honesty, they aim to normalize the full spectrum of women’s health experiences — from fertility and hormones to pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond.

Both hosts have personally navigated difficult pregnancies, miscarriages, and the emotional complexities that come with motherhood. Their mission is to create a space where women feel informed, supported, and never alone in their health journeys. Through candid conversations and evidence-based education, they empower women to understand their bodies, challenge stigma, and reclaim the narratives around womanhood.

Hormone Heroines

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Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.blossominglongevity.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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