back from the borderline baby: pregnancy & motherhood alchemy

This is it—the ninth and final installment of the Labor Map series, a comprehensive guide designed to empower and prepare you for the stages of labor. In this episode, we’re covering the monumental moments that follow full dilation, leading to the birth of your baby, and beyond. Whether you’re preparing for a hospital birth, birthing center, or home delivery, this episode provides practical insights and grounding reassurance to guide you through the last leg of this transformative journey.Here’s what we’ll cover:•The Pushing Phase: What full dilation feels like, effective pushing techniques (with or without an epidural), and the key role of positioning.•Crowning: Navigating the intensity of this stage with mindfulness and trust in your body, plus strategies for minimizing tearing.•After the Baby is Born: From delayed cord clamping to delivering the placenta, we’ll discuss how to approach these moments with confidence.•Immediate Post-Birth Care: The golden hour of bonding, that first trip to the bathroom, and preparing for your stay in the postpartum unit.•Heading Home: Reflect on the transition to the postpartum phase, with practical tips to ease into recovery and resources to help you along the way.This episode brings the Labor Map series full circle, offering you clarity, empowerment, and encouragement as you prepare for one of the most transformative experiences of your life. Whether you’ve followed the series from the start or are diving in for the first time, this final chapter is a powerful resource for understanding what to expect and how to advocate for yourself every step of the way.CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is part eight of our multi-episode Labor Map series, and today, we’re talking logistics. You’ve already learned how to recognize when labor is starting and how to tune into your emotional and physical signposts. Now, it’s time to figure out how to get to the hospital and what to expect when you walk through those doors. In this episode, we’re getting practical:• When it’s time to head to the hospital (and how to prepare for the drive).• What to do if labor progresses faster than expected—and your baby decides to make an entrance in the car.• Why calling ahead can make your check-in process smoother (including how to request specific support, like a nurse who’s unmedicated-birth friendly).• The ultimate hack: pre-registering at the hospital. It’s a game-changer you didn’t know you needed. Plus, we’ll walk you through exactly what happens when you arrive—how the staff will assess you, what it means if you’re sent home, and how your support partner can step in to handle logistics so you can focus on your labor.CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. This episode is packed with everything you need to feel prepared and empowered when it’s time to head to the hospital. And if you’re planning a home or birthing center birth? Don’t skip this one—it’s just as important to know what to expect in case of a transfer. Get ready to take control of this part of the process and walk into your hospital experience with confidence. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When it comes to how labor starts, Hollywood has done a hell of a job setting us all up for confusion. We’re taught to expect a dramatic gush of water, frantic dashes to the hospital, and chaos unfolding in real-time. But for most of us, labor doesn’t look—or feel—anything like that. This is part seven of our multi-episode Labor Map series, where we’re breaking down the twists, turns, and unpredictable paths of labor. In this episode, we’re pulling apart the myths and zooming in on reality. Labor can begin in ways so subtle you might miss them—a slow trickle of amniotic fluid, the release of a mucus plug you weren’t even looking for, or maybe just a relentless, unshakable ache in your back. Sometimes it starts quietly, other times it comes in roaring—but one thing’s for sure: there’s no single, right way for this to unfold. We’ll dig into how different scenarios play out, what they might mean, and how to trust your body through the uncertainty. Because at the end of the day, labor doesn’t follow a script, and it doesn’t owe us a dramatic “movie moment.” It just starts—messy, unpredictable, and uniquely yours.CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to part six of the Labor Map series—a deep dive into the unique patterns of labor progression and the often misunderstood role of cervical checks. Labor isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey. Some mothers experience quick, intense progress (what we call the “speedster” pattern), while others settle into a slower, more measured rhythm (the “putterer” pattern). Neither is better or worse—they’re simply different paths to the same destination: meeting your baby. In this episode, we unpack how recognizing these labor patterns can alleviate fear and uncertainty, giving you tools to navigate your birth experience with confidence. We’ll also demystify cervical checks, examining their risks, inaccuracies, and when they might actually be helpful. If you’ve ever worried about not being “dilated enough” or felt deflated by a discouraging cervical exam, this episode will provide clarity and perspective. Key takeaways include:• Understanding the speedster and putterer labor patterns—and how to adapt to either.• Why emotional signposts are often a more reliable guide than dilation numbers.• The real risks and limitations of routine cervical exams, plus how to advocate for yourself if you choose to decline one.• Tips for partners to support the mother through varying labor patterns and help navigate decisions confidently. This episode is a reminder that labor is as much about intuition and emotional progress as it is about physical milestones. By weaving together the emotional map of labor, the patterns of progress, and an empowered approach to cervical checks, you’ll have a comprehensive framework to guide your birth journey. Whether you’re preparing for a hospital birth, birthing center, or home birth, this episode is an invaluable tool to approach labor with clarity, adaptability, and self-assurance.CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Part 5 of the Labor Map series, a multi-episode guide designed to help you navigate the unpredictable journey of labor with confidence and clarity. In this episode, we explore the emotional map of labor—a groundbreaking way to understand and recognize the emotional signposts that guide you through the phases of childbirth. Unlike the traditional focus on physical milestones like water breaking or the mucus plug, this episode introduces you to the emotional landscape of labor. We’ll unpack three distinct emotional signposts:    •          Excitement – The thrill and anticipation as labor begins.    •          Seriousness – The shift into focused determination as contractions intensify.    •          Self-Doubt – The moment when you question everything, signaling you’re on the verge of meeting your baby. This episode is for every expectant mother and support partner—whether you’re planning a hospital birth, birthing center delivery, or home birth. These emotional signposts are universal tools that allow you to tune into the inward experience of labor. By integrating this knowledge, you’ll feel empowered to navigate each phase with confidence and recognize when it’s time to make pivotal decisions, like heading to the hospital or calling your midwife. We also address common uncertainties, like:    •          What if I don’t experience “textbook” signs like a bloody show or water breaking?    •          How can my partner use these emotional cues to support me better? Drawing on insights from the Bradley Method and my personal experience, I’ll share how recognizing these emotional phases helped me trust my intuition and make critical decisions during labor—despite not having traditional physical cues. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a deeper understanding of the emotional rhythm of labor and how it can be just as important as tracking contractions or watching for physical milestones. Share this episode with your support partner and use it as a foundation for creating a labor experience that feels grounded, intuitive, and uniquely yours.Click here to check out the resource from this episode "Natural Childbirth the Bradley Way: Revised Edition" by Susan McCutcheon. CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to part four of the Labor Map series, a comprehensive guide to labor preparation designed with real-life experience and research in mind. This episode tackles a vital but often overlooked aspect of birth: the six fundamental needs of the laboring mother. These are not luxuries or optional extras—they’re rooted in biology and essential for creating the conditions that allow labor to progress smoothly and naturally. We’ll dive into the role of darkness, quiet, physical comfort, relaxation, controlled breathing, and rest-like stillness. This episode is an invitation to reflect on your needs, set boundaries, and prioritize what truly supports you during this transformative process. For many women, identifying and asserting their needs can feel unfamiliar or even uncomfortable. We’ll explore why that is and how societal scripts and people-pleasing tendencies can get in the way of creating a supportive labor environment. From limiting unnecessary visitors to creating a calm, private space, this episode will empower you to advocate for yourself and focus on what matters most: your well-being and your baby’s arrival. Support partners, this episode is for you, too. Learn how to anticipate and meet these needs proactively, so you can create an environment that fosters peace and progress. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to set the stage for labor that feels safe, supported, and in tune with your instincts. And don’t miss the next episode, where we’ll explore the emotional map of labor—a guide to navigating the psychological and emotional phases of birth. Prepare to set boundaries, tune into your instincts, and transform the birth experience into one that truly serves you.CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Part 3 of our Labor Map Series takes on one of the most essential tools in your labor prep: timing contractions. But here’s the truth—this process is often oversimplified and misunderstood. Timing contractions isn’t just about downloading an app and pressing a button; it’s about knowing when and how to track them, avoiding unnecessary stress, and tuning into what your body is telling you. In this episode, I’ll walk you through:• When to begin tracking contractions (hint: early labor isn’t the time).• Why accurate timing can help you gauge progress without spinning yourself into anxiety.• Practical tips to avoid common pitfalls, like over-focusing on contraction patterns instead of staying present.• How to make your partner an active participant in timing so you can focus on riding the waves of labor.• The intuitive cues that matter just as much—if not more—than a timer. I’ll also share my personal experience of letting contraction apps take me out of the moment in early labor, and how I wish I’d handled it differently. This episode is designed to help you and your support partner avoid the overwhelm and approach labor timing with confidence and clarity. Prepare to feel informed, empowered, and ready to time contractions with intention, not stress.CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Part 2 of the Labor Map Series, your comprehensive guide to preparing for and navigating childbirth. This episode builds on the relaxation and mindset techniques discussed in Part 1, so if you haven’t listened to that yet, I highly recommend starting there.In this episode, we focus on a guided visualization designed specifically to support you during contractions. Whether you’re experiencing the early stirrings of labor or the intense waves of transition, this tool is here to ground and empower you. The visualization draws from the techniques we explored in Episode 1, including the Bag of Muscles and Floating Technique, weaving them together with soothing imagery to help you stay calm, present, and in control.Here’s how it’s structured:• Introduction (Start of Episode): A brief overview of how to use this visualization during labor and a reminder to integrate these techniques with your partner or support person before the big day.• Visualization Start (Timestamp ~ 5:40): A meditation bell cues the beginning of the guided visualization. This section takes you through a contraction cycle, helping you visualize your body’s incredible work and stay relaxed.• 10-Minute Sound Healing Fade-Out: Following the guided portion, soothing tones play to help you reset between contractions. Simply relax and breathe. When your next contraction begins, rewind to the timestamp and start again.This episode was created with real-world experience in mind. As a mother who gave birth just three months ago, I designed this for exactly what I wished I’d had during my labor. This is audio is meant to be a companion to support you through every contraction, crafted by someone who’s been exactly where you are.Whether you’re preparing for childbirth or in the throes of labor right now, this guided visualization is here to remind you: you are strong, you are capable, and your body knows exactly what to do. CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the first episode of The Labor Map series—a comprehensive guide to navigating the mental and physical challenges of labor with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re gearing up for a hospital birth, a home delivery, or somewhere in between, this series is here to prepare you and your support partner for the dynamic and unpredictable process ahead. In this episode, we focus on relaxation, mindset, and visualization techniques—essential tools for staying grounded and connected to the process of labor. Understanding what’s happening inside your body and how to work with those sensations is transformative, helping you embrace the rhythm of labor rather than resist it. Here’s what you’ll gain from this episode:    •          Practical ways to cultivate relaxation as a foundation for comfort and efficiency during labor.    •          Insights into how a confident mindset—rooted in trust and preparation—can guide you through the unexpected.    •          The role of visualization in reducing fear, maintaining focus, and understanding the intricate work your body is doing.    •          A powerful introduction to the “Bag of Muscles” technique—a visualization designed to help you engage with and support your body’s natural process. This episode is a must-listen for expecting mothers and their partners, offering tools that empower you to take an active role in your birthing journey. By building this foundation, you’ll be better equipped to face whatever path your labor takes.CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Parenting advice tends to focus on the surface: what to buy, what to avoid, and how to get it “right.” But what if the most important work of motherhood has nothing to do with the baby gear or the milestones? What if the real transformation is happening inside of you, shaping not just the way you parent but who you are becoming? This episode peels back the layers of motherhood to explore the inner alchemy required to raise a child—and yourself. We’ll dive into concepts that rarely make it into mainstream conversations, like Julia Kristeva’s theory of abjection, which unpacks the discomfort of blurred boundaries between you and your baby, and James Hollis’ idea of the daimon—the unique essence every child carries from birth. These ideas will challenge you to see your child not as an extension of you, but as their own person with a path you’re here to nurture, not dictate. We’ll also talk about the dangers of enmeshment, the all-consuming mother archetype, and the shadow work that helps you avoid unconsciously projecting your fears and unmet needs onto your child. It’s a raw, reflective conversation about how the way we navigate this transformation has the power to either perpetuate generational cycles or break them.CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. Whether you’re preparing for motherhood, holding your newborn, or parenting a young child, this episode asks you to step back from the noise, trust your intuition, and lean into the messy, profound work of becoming. Because the most important thing you can give your child is a parent who’s unafraid to grow alongside them.CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pregnancy can feel like you’re drifting on an island—isolated, unsure, and constantly wondering if you’re doing it “right.” That’s where Reddit bump groups come in. They promise a space to connect with other moms-to-be, all due the same month as you. Sounds ideal, right? Not so fast. What I found is that these spaces can be a double-edged sword. In this episode, I’m sharing the raw truth about my time in a Reddit bump group—the good, the bad, and the chaos in between. From real-time advice that helped me feel seen to the endless trauma dumping that left me spiraling, I’ll unpack why I finally hit the “leave group” button and never looked back. We’ll talk about why these groups are so appealing, the emotional landmines they hide (comparison traps, unsolicited advice, toxic personalities), and how they can leave you feeling disconnected from your own intuition. If you’re considering joining a bump group—or if you’re in one and wondering why it’s messing with your head—I’ll help you weigh the pros and cons. This episode's goal isn't to fear-monger or tell you what to do. It’s about finding what works for you. Whether that means staying, leaving, or setting boundaries, my hope is that what we cover here will help you navigate the noise and focus on what really matters: your pregnancy, your baby, and your peace of mind.CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Labor is unpredictable. You can prepare all you want, but at the end of the day, labor is completely unpredictable. In this raw and deeply personal episode, I’m sharing my birth story—a journey filled with surprises, lessons, and the unexpected.I went into labor with a plan for a totally unmedicated birth. Things didn’t go as planned, but instead of feeling defeated, I came away empowered, informed, and grateful. What I wasn’t prepared for was the curveball after delivery: my baby’s jaundice and the whirlwind of emotions that came with navigating a stressful postpartum experience.This episode dives into the messy, real details of giving birth in a hospital setting and facing the unexpected. It’s not curated or glossed over—it’s the raw truth of a mom learning to adjust, adapt, and find strength in the unplanned. Whether you’re expecting, trying to conceive, or reflecting on your own birth experience, this story is an invitation to feel seen and reassured. There’s no such thing as a perfect birth plan, but there’s power in staying informed, trusting yourself, and embracing the journey—whatever it brings.So grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let’s talk about the reality of labor, delivery, and the beautiful chaos of those first days postpartum. Because these are the stories that connect us all.CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Navigating the creation of a baby registry can feel like a nightmare. The pressure to “get it right” is real. Society, mommy bloggers, and aggressive marketing tell you your baby’s happiness depends on having ALL THE THINGS. In this episode, I’m diving into the baby registry madness with a perspective you won’t find in influencer reels or one-size-fits-all checklists. We’ll start by unpacking the emotional weight of preparing for a baby, the consumerist frenzy that fuels the registry industry, and the cultural realities of what babies actually need to thrive (hint: it’s not a $500 stroller). You’ll learn how to prioritize based on your unique lifestyle and values—whether you’re a homebody hermit like me or an extroverted urbanite. After combing through my own baby registry and the avalanche of last-minute purchases I made after my daughter was born, I’ve categorized everything into what truly worked, what I could’ve skipped, and what’s a toss-up depending on your baby’s preferences. No sponsorships, no affiliate links—just raw, real advice from a mom who recently went through all of this (my baby was two months old at the time of recording). I wanted to preserve this advice in a podcast episode while it’s still fresh in my mind, in the hopes of saving other women time and stress. So, if you’re like I was—drowning in registry research and second-guessing every single item—this episode will help you cut through the noise, embrace imperfection, and trust your gut. Remember, your baby doesn’t care about brand names—they care about feeling loved, safe, and cared for. Let’s focus on what truly matters and leave the rest behind. And let’s be real: at the end of the day, babies are basically like cats—they’ll probably love the box your fancy baby gym came in more than the gym itself. And that’s okay.CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When it comes to hospital bag advice, the internet is a minefield. One list tells you to pack half your house, another says you’ll regret not bringing a portable fan, and everyone seems to have a different idea of what “essential” means. The result? Overwhelm, second-guessing, and the creeping feeling that you’ll forget something crucial. Let’s cut through the chaos. In this episode, I’m sharing what I wish I’d known before packing my hospital bag, drawing from my own experience as a new mom. Forget the pressure to get it perfect or match some influencer’s curated aesthetic—this is about practicality, comfort, and sanity.Here’s what we’ll cover:What you actually need (and why most influencer-curated lists go overboard).Surprising items that turned out to be lifesavers—things I wish I’d known to pack.Essentials for your partner to make sure they’re prepared to support you.The truth about what hospitals already provide (spoiler: probably more than you think).How to pack without falling into the trap of perfectionism or feeling like you’re failing before you even start.This episode is for the moms who don’t need another one-size-fits-all checklist. It’s for the moms who want to feel empowered, prepared, and grounded—not buried in a pile of things they’ll never use. If you’re tired of the same recycled advice and want a thoughtful, realistic approach, you’re in the right place.Let’s get you packed and ready—not just for the hospital, but for the start of a transformative journey.CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feeding your baby can feel like navigating a maze of expectations, myths, and conflicting advice. Whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or exploring the world of combo feeding, there’s a pressure cooker of opinions waiting to tell you what you’re doing wrong. The truth? Fed is best.In this episode, I’m breaking down everything I wish I knew about feeding my baby—raw, real, and without judgment. From the societal pressure to exclusively breastfeed to the emotional rollercoaster of wondering if your baby is getting enough, we’ll dive into the practical tips, emotional truths, and personal lessons that I wish someone had told me before starting this journey. This episode is not professional advice—it’s real talk from a new mom who’s been there. Let’s ditch the guilt, embrace our intuition, and celebrate the perfectly imperfect path of feeding our babies.Here’s what you can expect: • Breast Milk vs. Formula Digestion: What’s the difference, and why does it matter for your baby’s feeding schedule?• Diaper Output and Red Flags: How to stop obsessing over tracking and start trusting your baby’s cues.• Breastfeeding Basics: Tips for establishing a good latch, using nipple shields (yes, they can be lifesavers!), and the reality of milk supply anxiety.• The Pumping Dilemma: Why pumping isn’t always easy, when it might be time to stop, and how to make it work if you choose to continue.• Combo Feeding 101: Embracing a “best of both worlds” approach to feeding and letting go of the guilt.• Common Myths and Realities: From nipple confusion to cluster feeding, we’ll tackle the fears and misinformation head-on.• Mental Health and Feeding Stress: Navigating the physical and emotional toll of feeding decisions, and why self-compassion is your greatest ally.• Body Autonomy: Understanding how your body changes through the feeding journey and celebrating your wins—big or small.• The Map is Not the Territory: Learning to tune out the noise, trust your intuition, and embrace a feeding journey that works for you and your baby.Whether you’re pregnant and planning for your feeding journey or in the trenches of postpartum, this episode is here to validate your experience, offer practical guidance, and remind you that you are not alone. Feeding your baby is just one part of the beautiful chaos that is early motherhood—and you’re doing an amazing job.CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Motherhood reshapes the Self in profound and unexpected ways. In the second part of this series, we delve into the psychological and existential depths of postpartum—a journey marked by identity loss, raw emotion, and the transformative power of self-compassion. This episode focuses on understanding the complexity of motherhood, beyond the clichés and idealized narratives.We begin by exploring postpartum as an initiation—a passage into a new identity that demands the shedding of an old one. Drawing on depth psychology, we’ll reflect on how the fourth trimester brings us face-to-face with parts of ourselves we’ve never met, often accompanied by a sense of mourning for the autonomy and life left behind.From there, we tackle the raw, often unspoken aspects of postpartum: simmering anger, intrusive thoughts, and surges of anxiety rooted in unmet needs, lack of sleep, and societal pressures. Inspired by thinkers like Audre Lorde and Jung, we’ll discuss how emotions like rage can be seen as vital signals rather than personal failures—responses to crossed boundaries, heightened instincts, and unmet expectations.We’ll also confront the grief of birth experiences that didn’t go as planned, the shifting dynamics with partners, family, and friends, and the struggle with body image in a culture obsessed with “bouncing back.” Each of these experiences adds to the tapestry of postpartum—challenging, overwhelming, yet offering opportunities to redefine care, strength, and identity.Finally, we’ll explore how self-compassion can serve as a grounding force in this turbulent period, helping to navigate the intensity without striving for perfection or external validation. This episode invites you to release preconceived notions of motherhood “success” and instead embrace the process as it unfolds—messy, challenging, and deeply human.CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Postpartum is a transformative rite of passage. In this episode, we’re reimagining the postpartum journey—moving beyond clinical definitions and diagnostic labels to uncover its deeper, sacred, and primal essence. Far from the standard conversations about “baby blues” or “postpartum depression,” we’ll explore the soul of this experience, asking: What if the challenges and emotions that arise during this time are part of something profound and initiatory?This episode invites you to step away from clinical checklists and quick-fix solutions to understand the postpartum journey through the lens of history, philosophy, and spirituality. It’s not about pathologizing this period but about revisiting the sacred wisdom that once guided women through it. By tracing the evolution of how postpartum psychological suffering has been viewed—from the intuitive practices of midwives and “wise women” to the sterile, medicalized lens of modern obstetrics—we’ll examine how sacred traditions were lost and replaced with models that often disempower women.We’ll explore the generational patterns, medical practices, and societal shifts that have shaped the modern postpartum experience. Rather than demonizing modern medicine, this episode focuses on the ways lack of agency, rushed interventions, and limited access to informed consent contribute to feelings of trauma, isolation, and confusion. Through this lens, we can begin to see postpartum anxiety, depression, and even feelings of disconnect as part of a larger story, deeply entwined with cultural and systemic forces.By uncovering the psychological and spiritual roots of this experience, we hope to replace shame with understanding and inspire a reclaiming of postpartum as a time of profound transformation. Together, we’ll reflect on how these feelings are not failures or weaknesses but deeply human responses to the pressures and practices surrounding childbirth today.CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How long does postpartum really last—and why is so much of this journey left out of common advice? In this three-hour deep dive, I’m unpacking the full experience of postpartum, from the first vulnerable hours after birth to the unpredictable weeks and months that follow.Starting with the immediate aftermath, we’ll break down physical realities like standing for the first time, navigating postpartum bleeding and lochia, and understanding why your belly feels like “jelly.” I’ll also dive into the under-discussed challenge of those first trips to the bathroom—because, let’s be real, the first pee and poop can be almost as intense as childbirth itself. We’ll address often-untouched topics like perineal tearing and the controversial “Gucci coochie” myth, alongside practical tips like making “padsicles” to soothe yourself after bringing a full-grown human into the world. You’ll gain clarity on what’s normal, what isn’t, and when to trust your instincts.You'll learn why newborns cry, the importance of skin-to-skin contact, and how sudden shifts in their sensory awareness impact their behavior. I’ll guide you in understanding your baby’s perspective, helping you feel more connected and less overwhelmed by their constantly changing needs. We’ll also dig into body changes in the weeks and months postpartum, from night sweats and fluctuating hormones to the frustrating onset of postpartum hair loss. I’ll share practical advice on what to wear during this time—comfort-focused clothing that helps you feel supported. Plus, we’ll explore how to decide if and when you want visitors after birth, including tips on recognizing who will bring your energy up or drain it, and how to set boundaries that protect your space.For the social and emotional side, I’ll cover strategies for handling unsolicited advice—from well-meaning relatives to the often-overwhelming flood of social media content. You’ll hear guidance on navigating conflicting medical opinions and advocating for yourself in a healthcare system that doesn’t always acknowledge the full postpartum journey.TIME STAMPS: • Intro: 02:10 – 05:47 [Defining "postpartum" and the "4th trimester" as a time of intense adjustment.]• Immediately After Birth: The First 24-48 Hours: 05:54 – 01:07:57 [Standing up, first bathroom trips, managing bleeding, tears, stitches, and postpartum swelling.]• Weeks to Months Following Birth: The Ongoing Journey: 01:08:04 – 02:05:06 [Body odor, night sweats, hair loss, clothing tips, setting visitor boundaries.]Understanding Your Baby's Experience: The Newborn Perspective: 02:05:12 – 02:31:08 [Newborn adjustments, why babies cry, sleep, and the benefits of skin-to-skin.]• Advocacy and Navigating Advice: 02:31:15 – 02:55:09 [Handling unsolicited advice, conflicting medical opinions, and social media.]• Conclusion: Navigating the New Normal: 02:55:16 – end [Embracing postpartum unpredictability and looking ahead to a mental health episode.]CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The third trimester of pregnancy (weeks 28 to birth) is a time of physical intensity, emotional reflection, and preparation for one of life’s most profound transitions. This episode dives into the realities of late pregnancy, covering everything from common symptoms like headaches and fatigue to the quieter, emotional shifts that often go unnoticed. Together, we’ll explore ways to manage pregnancy insomnia, navigate conversations about induction, and recognize the subtle signs that labor may be approaching. You’ll also find advice on preparing for birth with a mindset that embraces both flexibility and self-trust, all while staying present in the strange and transformative space of these final weeks.What you’ll learn:• How to manage common third-trimester challenges like fatigue and sleep struggles• Practical tips for preparing for labor and understanding induction options• Insights into the mental and emotional preparation for birthThese final days are a bridge between pregnancy and motherhood—a space where preparation meets surrender. Join me as we explore how to move through this phase with intention, resilience, and clarity.CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The second trimester (weeks 13-27) is often thought of as a “honeymoon phase,” a time when nausea fades, energy returns, and excitement builds as the pregnancy becomes more physically and emotionally tangible. Yet, this period also brings unexpected challenges that go beyond the common symptom checklist.In this episode, we dive into the complex, layered experience of the second trimester, offering both practical advice and deeper reflections to guide you through it.We’ll start by exploring the physical changes and symptoms typical of this stage, such as ligament pain, heartburn, and increased body awareness as your baby grows. Drawing on experts like Sara Wickham, we discuss why traditional weight-tracking methods may lead to unnecessary stress and how embracing a more individualized approach to these changes can help maintain your mental well-being.On the emotional front, many parents report feeling a deeper connection with their baby after experiencing those first flutters of movement, yet not everyone feels this bond right away—and that’s okay. We touch on the often-overlooked experience of gender disappointment, offering supportive insights on managing unexpected emotions as you start to envision life with a child of a specific gender. We look to depth psychology to help make sense of these nuanced feelings, emphasizing that every emotional experience during pregnancy is valid and deserves compassion.For practical preparation, we talk about setting up a flexible birth philosophy over a rigid birth plan, highlighting how this mindset can relieve anxiety as you move toward the later stages of pregnancy. Plus, we cover the essentials: maternity clothing recommendations, creating a baby registry, and navigating the 20-week anatomy scan. Here, we consider expert critiques on the reliability of prenatal scans, providing guidance on balancing medical information with personal intuition.Tune in for:Honest talk on second trimester symptoms, from physical discomforts to body changesExploring bonding with your baby and navigating gender disappointmentTips on maternity wear, baby registry essentials, and building a flexible birth philosophyManaging the 20-week anatomy scan and understanding its role in your pregnancy journeyThe second trimester is a dynamic time of growth and reflection. Join us as we unravel its unique challenges and joys, helping you navigate this stage with confidence and self-compassion.Click here to check out the 3-part birth class I mention in this episode (free on YouTube) by Maternity Care Midwives. [Full link: https://www.youtube.com/@maternitycaremidwives927]CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com. Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.