What happens when the reality of parenthood doesn’t match the expectations, dreams and hopes? It can sometimes leave someone feeling regretful of their new situation and questions their choices. And often, with this regret, one feels shame, embarrassment and alone.
In this episode of Yoga|Birth|Babies, I speak with Marissa Zwetow, who is licensed therapist who specializes in prenatal and postpartum counseling. She talks about the 12 Taboo Postpartum Truths: What you may need to know, but probably haven’t been told. Marissa blows the lid off of hidden thoughts and feelings so many new parents feel but are embarrassed to admit. This episode is a must for any new or expectant parent or support person!
In this episode:
- Learn a bit about Marissa and her journey to this work.
- Defining postpartum regret.
- How postpartum regret differs from some of the other more commonly talked about issues that fall under the umbrella of PMAD (perinatal mood and anxiety disorder)?
- The role shame plays in postpartum regret.
- Could postpartum regret also be situational depression?
- How to cope when it seems other parents are seemingly enjoying parenthood and finding ease in this transition.
- Setting realistic expectations for the first hour or even few days after birth.
- The 12 taboo postpartum truths and solutions.
- For those who don’t immediately bond with their baby what some ways to foster this new relationship are?
- Missing the “pre baby” life.
- The struggles a type A personality might have with the hectic, unorganized life of a new baby.
- How do you stop the constant comparison one tends to make with other parents?
- Finding Marissa’s work!
Additional Resources:
- Marissa website: http://www.postpartumhappiness.com
About Marissa:
Marissa Zwetow is a licensed therapist who specializes in prenatal and postpartum counseling. Marissa offers video postpartum coaching to anyone in the world. Marissa became passionate about helping mothers prepare and adjust to a new baby after experiencing postpartum depression and what she calls postpartum regret. She understands what it takes to be on a healing journey to find acceptance, meaning, and happiness in the role of motherhood.
