Triggering Pregnancy Announcements/PP Doula FAQ/Let It Goooooo
This week's round-up of must-reads.
When you become a mom—or even before you see a positive pregnancy test—you suddenly understand the intensity of ‘triggers.’ From pregnancy announcements that sting when you’re trying to conceive (or trying to figure out if you want to become a parent) to gaining the courage to ask for help and hire a doula and letting go of your old perfectionist self—it’s a lot to process.
While it’s undoubtably challenging, you can take some comfort in knowing you’re not alone—and we have the essays to prove it.
Pregnancy Announcements & Theater Fires
In this essay, our writer explores the unexpected emotions triggered by her close friend's pregnancy announcement. The news prompted a deep exploration of her own journey and unresolved feelings about motherhood. Through candid reflection and honest narrative, she eloquently describes what it’s like to go through the decision process of becoming a mom—or not.
Read it here.
What is a Postpartum Doula? Do You Need One?
While most associate doulas with birth, beyond pregnancy, they can be pillars of support during the fourth trimester. You hold your baby—and they hold you. From helping you physically and emotionally recover from birth to helping you navigate breastfeeding issues to staying overnight to give you extra sleep, they are a meaningful investment for many families. Delve into the assistance they offer and consider how they could be a game-changer in your post-birth journey.
Read it here.
I’m a Recovering Perfectionist Forced to Let It Go (Thanks, Elsa)
Yes, you’ve probably watched Disney’s ‘Frozen’ more times than you can count—but have you truly listened to the lyrics? This mother did—and like Elsa, she had to learn to Let. It. Go. In this essay, she explores her battle with perfectionism in motherhood, navigating the clash between high expectations and the chaotic reality of raising children. Through humor and introspection, it emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care in the journey of parenting.
Read it here.
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News Moms Are Talking About:
Abortion Pill Access Hangs in the Balances: Politico reports that justices seem doubtful about limiting access to abortion pills, with a decision expected in June. This ruling could strengthen the FDA's control over prescription drugs and protect access to mifepristone, crucial for two-thirds of U.S. abortions.
The 2023 Motherly State of Motherhood Report is out: It examines the experiences and challenges faced by moms, and reveals a growing demand for support and resources, particularly in areas such as mental health, childcare, and workplace flexibility. (No surprises here!)
A Mom’s Hospital Bill Was $4 Million: A mom is going viral for sharing her exorbitant healthcare bill for her premature quadruplets born in 2021. Despite having health insurance, the family faced significant out-of-pocket expenses, highlighting the financial strain many families experience due to healthcare costs, especially for those with multiple births or medical complications.
Substacks We Recommend
We aren’t meant to mother alone—and yet, there are so few resources available to women as they try to find their footing and new routines. As journalists, we read as much as we write—and these are the Substacks we love:
Emily Oster’s ParentData: Rather than Googling your latest anxiety, search your pregnancy, postpartum & mothering concerns here. Economics professor at Brown University, best-selling author and mom of two uses science to answer burning questions with a smart, calm attitude every mom needs.
Two Truths: Two Truths is a newsletter honoring and exploring the duality of motherhood by journalists Cassie Shortsleeve and Kelsey Lucas. We love the thoughtful researching and the realistic perspective that gives mothers permissions to feel everything—the good and the bad.