Content warning: Some or all parts of this reading may be triggering.
How were you connected with POEM Rise?
Referred by an in-home nurse
Tell us about your pregnancy and postpartum journey. How did your experiences impact your mental health?
At the beginning of my pregnancy, things were going well except for feeling very tired. When I went in to have my baby, I ended up having a c-section. It went smoothly and I didn’t have any complications. Recovery was rough, and it was hard to juggle taking care of my baby while recovering from the c-section, but it was mostly okay. I didn’t actually experience postpartum depression until my daughter was about 8 months old. I was so focused on the baby; I had no time for me. I had moments where I didn’t feel like myself, and I didn’t want to be around anyone. I was worried about my relationship with my child’s father, and I was worried about the possibility of becoming a single mother. It lasted until my daughter was about 18 months old.
Were there any forms of support you found beneficial to you in your journey?
I truly had to find myself again. Everyone always told me I would be a great mom, but I was losing myself in the process of motherhood. I found myself again by figuring out the things that made me happy beforehand. I love going outside, doing wine-tastings, and even going to cabarets. I started going out and doing those things again. I also have a social club, and that was a huge support to lean on while going through recovery. It was helpful to focus on myself and have time away from the baby.
Are there any words of wisdom or encouragement that you’d like to offer other birthing persons?
A lot of moms feel guilty to spend time away from their babies, but it is helpful because you can get time to focus on yourself. I have strong family support, and I feel comfortable to leave my daughter with loved and trusted family.
To any moms and birthing people, allow yourself the time and space to get back to “you.” If you don’t, you will not be healthy for yourself or your child. Your baby is always going to make you happy, but you have to go back to things that used to make you happy.
