Content Warning: Medical procedures, c-section procedures, physical functions, swearing, gendered language, poop talk, swearing
To say that I’m excited for today’s episode would be an understatement. This is my dream episode because I just want to be real about the physical changes that come with pregnancy, birth and post birth. I love real talk and I love humour and Anneke brings both of those into whatever she does. Anneke van den Berg is a mother of 4, who made her home in Canada over 15 years ago. Originally from the Netherlands, adjusting to life in Canada was difficult and lonely, but it has become home. Mental health has been a struggle for her throughout all her pregnancies and postpartum, partly due to isolation and being an immigrant. Using these experiences to relate to others, parents specifically, has given her a sense of purpose and helped her healing process. There is SO much more we want to talk about but here is what came up in today’s episode! Let us know your thoughts and what you would love other expecting parents to know!
Highlights:
3:21 - Constipation postpartum and fear of a bowel movement postpartum
9:27 - C-section healing; Anneke had a c-section wound
16:20 - Impact of motherhood as martyr on processing our birthing experiences
20:20 - Physical changes to our body postpartum; our organs going back into place, contractions during nursing
29:17 - More about the motherhood as martyr impact on us and how this translates to feeling guilt and pressure as a pregnant person
38:45 - Intimacy postpartum
49:12 - Periods changing after babies
53:16 - Pregnancy symptoms getting worse with each pregnancy
59:22 - Final thoughts on what we want people to know about pregnancy and postpartum
Resources mentioned in this episode:
You can reach Anneke by email at annekepwo@gmail.com.
You can find us at www.perinatalwellbeing.ca on Instagram @perinatalwellbeing_ontario or by email info@perinatalwellbeing.ca
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this or any episode please reach out to me at info@perinatalwellbeing.ca and I can help you find support in your area or online.
Check out Postpartum Support International at www.postpartum.net for more information about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders as well as free online support groups and a provider directory.
You can look for an individual therapist on www.psychologytoday.com .