Episode Details

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Kim to talk about conceiving through IVF, recovering from postnatal depression, and finding support through a Parent and Infant Unit.

Kim shares her deeply personal journey to motherhood, from conceiving through IVF to experiencing postnatal depression after the birth of her daughter. She reflects on the challenges of recognising she needed help, navigating the mental health system, and the life-changing support she received through a Parent and Infant Unit.

Together, we explore the realities of maternal mental health, the importance of timely and compassionate support, and Kim's experience of seeking an autism diagnosis for her daughter. Her story is an honest reminder that motherhood rarely unfolds the way we imagine, and that asking for help is an act of strength, not failure.

If you've experienced IVF, postnatal depression, you're considering admission to a Parent and Infant Unit, or you're navigating an autism assessment with your child, I hope Kim's story helps you feel seen and reminds you that support is available.

Perinatal mental health resources

Parent and Baby Unit (NSW)
https://www.slhd.nsw.gov.au/mentalhealth/ParentBaby.html

Additional support

• @gidgetfoundation – gidgetfoundation.org.au

• @pandanational – panda.org.au

• @lifelineaustralia – Lifeline Australia (13 11 14) – lifeline.org.au

Topics discussed: IVF, IVF pregnancy, postnatal depression, postpartum depression, Parent and Infant Unit, Parent and Baby Unit, Mother and Baby Unit, maternal mental health, autism diagnosis, neurodiversity, perinatal mental health, recovery, motherhood.