My Story

I would give anything to have my first birth back. Due to no one’s fault, but an unfortunate lack of attention to my signs of perinatal depression, I traveled down a very difficult path that nearly took my life, and robbed me of a joyful labor, delivery, and recovery. I was a trained mental health provider and still I assumed the mood swings, insomnia, and anxiety was all part of being pregnant.  My well-meaning, but uninformed, health care provider chalked my symptoms up to having a “big baby” and being past my due date. Even my birth doula missed the signals that I was in trouble.

Untreated throughout my pregnancy, I landed smack dab in the middle of a prolonged, medicated, difficult labor—trying to do it the “right” way. The triggering effects of enduring so much physical pain and invasive medical procedures catapulted me into Postpartum Depression at light speed.  I was three-months postpartum and in seriously ill before I found treatment.

The only way I chose to have another child, was because I had an OB/GYN, psychiatrist, and therapist who worked together and without judgment. My OB/GYN was my angel. Armed with evidence based science and compassion for women grappling with pregnancy and mental health, she advocated my pregnancy and delivery. As a result, I got the pregnancy, birth, and postpartum recovery I deserved the first time around! I was depression free, and joyous. My gratitude to her, and to my psychiatrist is infinite. I would not have my amazing daughter, if it weren't for their kindness and wisdom. Now, it is time to give back!