Trigger Warning: In this episode we talk about the postpartum period, perinatal mood disorder and suicide, which can be distressing. Please take care while listening - and see a list of important resources below.

Join Shalyn and Karen in a conversation with Kelly Gascoigne, Outreach Midwife with Grand River Health Centre, as we talk about the post-partum period, and when it’s not what we thought it would be. We will talk about the first six to eight weeks after childbirth, a period often underestimated but teeming with unexpected hurdles, from sleep deprivation to lifestyle upheavals. Kelly underscores the importance of balancing the focus on labour with realistic expectations of early parenting, stressing the need for communal support and open, honest discussions about the journey ahead.

Episode Highlights:

(00:01) Navigating Postpartum Period and Expectations

(14:06) Identifying Postpartum Depression and Seeking Help

(20:43) Mental Health Support Resources and Partners

(32:45) Parenthood Challenges and Self-Care

(42:27) Balancing Parenting Expectations and Support

(48:20) Embracing Support and Speaking Out

This podcast is brought to you by the City of Brantford Children's Services and Early Learning and Child and Family Services of Grand Erie (CFSGE).

This podcast is hosted by Karen Bulmer. Karen has worked with children and families for over 20 years at Child and Family Services of Grand Erie. She is currently the Service Manager for the Child Development Unit with CFSGE. Karen works with her team to provide a wide variety of programming and support for families through EarlyON Child and Family Centre programming. Karen is an avid podcast listener, enjoyer of music, craft enthusiast and lover of books!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Learn more about the 9-8-8 Suicide Hotline.

Download the Brantford Brant Norfolk Ontario Health Team (BBNOHT) App, which offers immediate crisis support and mental health resources.

See more on the "Healthy Babies, Healthy Children" Program.

Here’s more information on Prenatal classes offered by the Brant County Health Unit, and more on the Prenatal and Postpartum drop in groups Emily mentioned.

Read more about newborns on the Health Unit’s website.

Connect on social media:

Follow The Messiness of Parenting Pod on Instagram

Follow CFSGE on Facebook or Instagram

Follow the Grand River Health Centre on Facebook

This podcast is for general information...