Molly Dickens, PhD’s Post

Postpartum health complications, ranging from physical effects to psychological challenges, are more common than most people believe. The "hidden epidemic" of postnatal conditions is affecting more than 1 in 3 women globally each year. Yet, these issues are mostly under-recognized and probably under-diagnosed. A comprehensive study published in "The Lancet Global Health" reveals these alarming trends and underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing these issues, which are often left untreated and unattended. Women are currently provided with a single checkup at 6 or 12 weeks postpartum. However, most postnatal conditions occur beyond that period. This historical limitation of postnatal care services necessitates a reconsideration of care models, with a focus on comprehensive, long-term support for postpartum women.🤱 The need for multidisciplinary, respectful, and high-quality maternity services, combined with postpartum screenings, is imperative to ensure women not only survive childbirth but thrive afterwards! Lastly, let's remember that every woman deserves to be heard and respected in her healthcare journey. If you're suffering from postpartum health issues, reach out for help, keep advocating for your health. Join us from Momsanity App in raising awareness about the importance of comprehensive postpartum health support. 💪🌷 #PostpartumHealth #MaternalHealthcare #HealthForAll #JoinTheConversation

Motherhood Mondayz ... 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐚’𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐥 & 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐩𝐨𝐩𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 & 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐡𝐮𝐠𝐞 𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐔𝐍 𝐌𝐂𝐇 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐠𝐨𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐤 Unfortunately, they are offtrack now !!  Do you know that 85 percent of complications during pregnancy, childbirth & post-childbirth are preventable. Not just that, even the challenges in conception, men & women fertility are preventable. 𝑰𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒕, 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒘𝒉𝒚 𝒔𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒚 𝒉𝒊𝒈𝒉 𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒌 𝒄𝒂𝒔𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈? According to a new report released by United Nations agencies, an estimated 13.4 million babies were born preterm in 2020, with nearly 1 million dying from preterm complications. Babies born prematurely are at an increased risk of health problems, including respiratory issues, feeding difficulties, and developmental delays  𝐈𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐲𝐥𝐞, 𝐡𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐭𝐬 & 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 ? Do you know, When you are pregnant, every part of your body is engaged in the phenomenal task of making a new life, By the time your little one is only 3 months old in the womb, everything is already formed. The heart is beating, the organs are shaped, fingers, toes. Fingernails and toenails are started developing. Now, this is just about physical health of the child what about mental health, emotional, social and spiritual health ?  Yes, the brain too is growing !!! The maximum brain development occurs during third trimester and we can lay strong foundation for this entire development inside the womb itself !!  Majority of you who are planning pregnancy or want to step into parenthood know that, In order to have healthy outcome during childbirth, maintaining consistent health routine is important.  But, when we intent to achieve that, we fall short of these 3 crucial aspects  1. 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 & 𝐠𝐮𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝𝐦𝐚𝐩  2. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 & 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐠𝐮𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮 3. 𝐋𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐨𝐟 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐝 𝐝𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 This gap in maternal & childhealth Ecosystem led to the birth of Maternal Health Coach Community  To reduce pregnancy complications, maternal mortality, preterm birth, infant mortality, neonatal complications, we need robust MCH ecosystem. I invite health professionals who come up with innovative ideas and have passion to help mothers in motherhood and parenting journey to join our MHCC community. DM to know more  𝐋𝐞𝐭 𝐮𝐬 𝐭𝐨𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐛𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐟𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 !! #drsmitabisen #Maternalhealth #Maternalhealthcoach #Maternalhealthcoachcommunity

Pregnancy can be an exciting and joyful time, but it can also be a source of significant stress and anxiety. Expectant mothers may worry about their baby's health, their own physical and emotional changes, and the impending responsibilities of parenthood. Anxiety during pregnancy is common, affecting up to 20% of pregnant women. Some common signs of anxiety during pregnancy include persistent worry or fear about the baby's health or safety, difficulty sleeping or insomnia due to racing thoughts, rapid heartbeat, palpitations, or tremors, nausea, stomachaches, or digestive issues, headaches, muscle tension, or physical pain, mood swings, irritability, or restlessness, difficulty concentrating or making decisions, feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or helpless, and avoiding social interactions or activities due to anxiety. Specific pregnancy-related anxiety triggers may include fear of childbirth or labor pain, concerns about fetal development or potential birth defects, body changes and weight gain, financial stress or parenting responsibilities, and previous traumatic pregnancy or birth experiences. Why Anxiety During Pregnancy Matters Untreated anxiety can lead to serious consequences, including preterm labor or low birth weight, increased risk of depression during pregnancy or postpartum, difficulty bonding with the baby, impaired cognitive and emotional development in the child, and reduced prenatal care adherence. Coping Mechanisms and Support Fortunately, there are ways to manage anxiety during pregnancy. 🍀Prenatal yoga, meditation, or relaxation techniques can help calm the mind and body. 🍀Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or counseling can provide valuable support. Joining support groups for pregnant women can connect you with others who share similar experiences. Open communication with healthcare providers is essential, and partner or family support can make a significant difference. 🍀Self-care activities like reading, walking, or hobbies can also help alleviate anxiety. When to Seek Professional Help If you experience overwhelming anxiety or panic attacks, suicidal thoughts or feelings, difficulty managing daily tasks, severe physical symptoms, or persistent feelings of hopelessness, consult your healthcare provider or a mental health professional for guidance and support. Remember, anxiety during pregnancy is treatable, and seeking help is the first step towards a healthier, happier pregnancy. https://lnkd.in/efFFs3CM #AnxietyDuringPregnancy #PregnancyMentalHealth #PrenatalCare #SelfCare #MentalHealthMatters #PregnancySupport

We celebrate moms across the country on Mother's Day, but did you know May is also when we spotlight #MaternalMentalHealthAwareness? dedicated to "raising awareness about the emotional well-being of parents before, during, and after pregnancy." This observance highlights the importance of mental heal care for parents but the emphasis really falls on moms. Why? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, many women experience the "baby blues" after giving birth while others develop postpartum depression, which is more intense, long lasting, and can interfere with daily activities. It’s important to note that no two moms experience postpartum symptoms the same, but maternal mental health conditions are more common than you think. Check out these statistics: 🤰🏽 Most pregnancy-related suicide deaths occur in the postpartum period, with 62% of pregnancy-related suicides occurring between 43-365 days postpartum, followed by 24% during pregnancy and 14% within 42 days postpartum. 🤰🏽 Maternal mental health disorders such as suicide and opioid overdose are responsible for nearly 1 in 4 maternal deaths in the US. 🤰🏽 Mental health conditions such as suicide or opioid overdose are to blame for nearly 23% of maternal deaths in America, according to reports from three dozen Maternal Morbidity and Mortality Review Committees. 🤰🏽 The CDC also notes that healthcare providers aren’t asking enough women about depression (about 1 in 5 women were not asked about symptoms of depression during a prenatal visit, and 1 in 8 were not asked during a postpartum visit). "Last week was not easy for me," tennis legend, Serena Williams said in an Instagram post. "Not only was I accepting some tough personal stuff, but I just was in a funk. Mostly, I felt like I was not a good mom. I read several articles that said postpartum emotions can last up to 3 years if not dealt with. I like communication best. Talking things through with my mom, my sisters, my friends let me know that my feelings are totally normal.” If an athletic legend like Williams struggles with motherhood, and all the emotions that come with it, the average woman should also know we are not alone in our mental health struggles. Check out some of the quotes from other celebrity moms. What is missing from this critical conversation? #womenshealth #healthcare #maternalhealth #mentalhealth

This story is fascinating... Postpartum recovery is a critical aspect of maternal health that often receives less attention than the delivery process itself. Understanding its importance is essential for the well-being of both mothers and their newborns. The postpartum period lasts six to eight weeks after childbirth. During this time, a woman's body heals from the trauma of delivery. This includes recovery from hormonal changes, uterine contractions, and potential surgical wounds from cesarean sections. The body undergoes a reversal of pregnancy-related changes, which can take months to stabilize fully. Adequate rest is crucial during this time. Just as athletes need recovery after intense exertion, new mothers need time to recuperate from the physical demands of childbirth. Postpartum recovery also encompasses mental health. Many women experience emotional challenges during this period, such as "baby blues" or more severe postpartum depression (PPD). Fatigue from disrupted sleep and caregiving responsibilities can significantly increase the risk of PPD. Support systems that allow mothers to rest and receive help with infant care can mitigate these risks, promoting better mental health outcomes. The importance of community support cannot be overstated; it fosters connections that help alleviate feelings of isolation during this transition. Nutrition plays a vital role in postpartum recovery. New mothers have unique dietary requirements to support healing and breastfeeding. Consuming balanced meals rich in essential nutrients helps restore energy levels and promotes overall health. In many cultures, traditional postpartum practices include providing nourishing foods that aid recovery, highlighting the need for adequate nutrition during this time. The implications of postpartum recovery extend beyond immediate needs. Studies show that a mother's health directly affects her child's long-term well-being. Effective postpartum care can lead to improved outcomes for both mothers and infants, establishing a foundation for lifelong health. Thus, prioritizing postpartum recovery is not just beneficial for mothers but is also crucial for the health of future generations. In summary, postpartum recovery is as significant as the delivery itself. It encompasses physical healing, mental health support, nutritional needs, and long-term health implications for both mother and child. Acknowledging and addressing these aspects can lead to healthier outcomes and a more supportive environment for new families. Prepare for your postpartum period meticulously with Fellas.id #Fellas.id #HolisticPospartumCare

The one thing I have learned in the 21 years since I had my first baby is that “it wasn’t just me” that was struggling with the transition into motherhood. If you are pregnant, join us for Prep for Postpartum and Beyond! We have pulled together all the necessary information to set you up for success in postpartum! To make sure you prioritize your healing and your wellness. To ensure you lean on your people for practical and emotional support. To find your village for social connection. To learn how to successfully breastfeed and how to pick the right bottle for your baby. While there are many things that are out of our control during birth There are simple steps you can take to smooth this transition that often set the trajectory for the rest of your mothering journey. A Postpartum Support Plan is your oxygen mask. Set aside 3 hours for yourself - it will make all the difference. Truly. Join us June 19th at Nurture Family Feeding Clinic in Lethbridge, AB from 5-8 p.m. Link to register is in bio. If you’d like to join online or be sent any of the resources dm me. This workshop is for you if: 🤰🏻You are pregnant and want your postpartum to go as smooth as possible 🧑🍼You are newly postpartum, realize that you haven’t set up enough support, and want all the tips to feel well through this time of major transition 🧑🧒🧒This is your 2nd or 3rd or 4th pregnancy and you want this postpartum to go much better than your last 🧠You are at risk for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders due to previous personal or family history of mental health challenges, thyroid issues, gestational diabetes 🥹You are currently struggling with prenatal depression or anxiety 🤱🏽You would like to know more about how to successfully breastfeed your baby 🍼You would like to know how to choose what bottles/nipples to purchase 🎧You have sensitivities to noise, light touch, or visual clutter You are beautifully neurodivergent Would like to make some mom friends with whom you can journey into motherhood What will be covered: The 5 universal needs of motherhood Learning from other culture’s practices in postpartum The identity shift Brain changes during pregnancy and postpartum Breastfeeding tips Keeping your romantic relationship healthy in postpartum Leave with a Postpartum Support Plan that will set you up for success in postpartum and well into your motherhood journey!! Please bring your partner or support person along with you! The cost may be reimbursed through your benefit plan if you have coverage for Occupational Therapy. Please share with anyone you know who may be interested? Experienced moms, what did you struggle with the most in postpartum? Please share so we can normalize this part of bringing baby home so that new moms experiencing difficulties don’t feel so alone. Always cheering for you, Cindy Perinatal mental health therapist & Infant Feeding Specialist

Introducing Healing After Birth: A New Resource for Expectant and New Moms As maternal health advocates and co-founders of Fourth Phase, empowering mothers is the Why we return to for each decision. As former editors at women's magazines, this is a space we've always been passionate about. Our journey with Fourth Phase has made us realize that as editors, we fell short in one critical area: honestly preparing expectant and new moms for the challenges of the Fourth Trimester experience. In 2021, we launched a petition to get the words Fourth Trimester into the dictionary to make a distinction between the Postpartum--which includes a wide range of emotional and hormonal imbalances--and the Fourth Trimester, which is the entire experience after birth. We're proud to have played a role in getting Webster's Dictionary to recognize the term (we're still seeking this recognition from Oxford and Dictionary.com). Now, we're taking our mission to normalize Fourth-Trimester care to the next level with www.HealingAfterBirth.com, our new podcast and blog dedicated to normalizing Fourth Trimester Care. Our vision? We want new moms to thrive, not just survive, during this critical period. What you can expect from our new content hub: -Maternal Health News: Get the latest updates on maternal health policy, product safety, and medical research. -Ancient Healing Modalities: We respect both, and want moms to rediscover ancient wisdom that supports postpartum well-being from a cultural perspective. -Real Stories: Real moms share how they navigated the ups and downs of birth and life after birth. -Postpartum Recipes: Nourish your body with healthy, easy-to-make recipes designed specifically for new moms. -Postpartum Pro Directory: Connect with culturally sensitive experts for mental health therapy, lactation consulting, pelvic floor therapy, postpartum nutrition, and find BIPOC-friendly birthing centers. Join us in our mission to normalize Fourth Trimester Care and support new moms in their journey toward healing and thriving. Follow us for updates, resources, and community support! #HealingAfterBirth #FourthTrimesterCare #NewMomSupport #PostpartumResources

I'm super excited to announce the launch of Healing After Birth Podcast (season one) and blog from my company Fourth Phase Afterbirth Care Box. As a maternal health advocate and co-founder of Fourth Phase, empowering mothers is the Why my co-founder and I return to for each decision. As former editors at women's magazines, this is a space we've always been passionate about. Our journey with Fourth Phase has made us realize that as editors, we fell short in one critical area: honestly preparing expectant and new moms for the challenges of the Fourth Trimester experience. In 2021, we launched a petition to get the words Fourth Trimester into the dictionary to make a distinction between the Postpartum--which includes a wide range of emotional and hormonal imbalances--and the Fourth Trimester, which is the entire experience after birth. We're proud to have played a role in getting Webster's Dictionary to recognize the term (we're still seeking this recognition from Oxford and Dictionary.com). Now, we're taking our mission to normalize Fourth-Trimester care to the next level with www.HealingAfterBirth.com, our new podcast and blog dedicated to normalizing Fourth Trimester Care. Our vision? We want new moms to thrive, not just survive, during this critical period. What you can expect from our new content hub: -Maternal Health News: Get the latest updates on maternal health policy, product safety, and medical research. -Ancient Healing Modalities: We respect both, and want moms to rediscover ancient wisdom that supports postpartum well-being from a cultural perspective. -Real Stories: Real moms share how they navigated the ups and downs of birth and life after birth. -Postpartum Recipes: Nourish your body with healthy, easy-to-make recipes designed specifically for new moms. -Postpartum Pro Directory: Connect with culturally sensitive experts for mental health therapy, lactation consulting, pelvic floor therapy, postpartum nutrition, and find BIPOC-friendly birthing centers. Join us in our mission to normalize Fourth Trimester Care and support new moms in their journey toward healing and thriving. Follow us for updates, resources, and community support! hashtag #HealingAfterBirth #FourthTrimesterCare #NewMomSupport #PostpartumResources

🌸 What is Maternal OCD? 🌸 October is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Awareness Month. Maternal or Perinatal OCD is a maternal mental health condition impacting up to 5% of people during pregnancy and postpartum. Yet, symptoms like intrusive thoughts often get misunderstood by patients and providers alike. 🤔 🔸 Intrusive Thoughts It's common for up to 70-100% of women and their partners to experience unsettling thoughts around childbirth and the postpartum period. While these thoughts can be alarming—often involving fears of infant harm—they are typically recognized as inappropriate by the mother and don't indicate a higher risk of actual harm. 🔸 OCD in Pregnancy and Postpartum Pregnancy and postpartum OCD have a prevalence rate of 7.8% prenatally and 16.9% postpartum. Symptoms can include persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) that create a need for relief through certain actions (compulsions). Half of women with OCD may experience intrusive thoughts about infant harm, but it's key to remember that such thoughts are not part of a psychotic process. Learn more about maternal OCD and how we can support maternal mental health here: https://buff.ly/4fjP4aD 🌱 #MaternalMentalHealth #MaternalHealth