149: Perinatal Women with Chronic Medical Condition

Struggling to conceive, enduring a pregnancy, giving birth, and caring for a new baby are all parts of a challenging process. Inevitably there are hiccups along the way for almost every mom, but living with a chronic illness makes things even more difficult in the process of motherhood. My guest is here to discuss the unique dynamics and challenges a mother might face and some common misconceptions we may not understand. Jenna Daly is a clinical social worker with certifications in Perinatal Mental Health, and she works in private practice in southern Maine. She primarily works in perinatal and parental mental health, as well as perinatal loss and grief. Her interest in perinatal and parental mental health was fostered by her work as an oncology social worker at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, known for its cognitive-existential and motivational approaches. She also promotes articles and other information regarding perinatal mental health and all aspects of parenting. Show Highlights: How a medical condition impacts perinatal mental health for moms who may have already struggled How a mom with chronic illness may already have a medical team in place and have had to advocate for herself For these women, their choices are already limited, and their power is taken away, which can lead to increased stress One concern around advocacy for your medication during pregnancy is whether it’s safe for the fetus Why some women report feeling adrift after the baby’s arrival The mindset differences between promotion and prevention Don’t let yourself be pushed into positivity, but own your decisions Identity shifts in a system that overmedicalizes you The burden of managing an illness AND a pregnancy The likelihood of anxiety and depression is higher for the chronically ill The concern of a genetic condition being transferred to baby Standout strengths: the ability to reframe and find meaning with optimism and hope Diabetes and gestational diabetes as examples How we can better support those with a medical condition Where our personal bias and misconceptions come into play How it’s hard to know what the experience is like When the postpartum is not what you thought it would be Hopeful messages: how the internet has helped people build community and normalize the experience Resources: Jenna Daly LCSW Facebook: Grounded Parent