As I embark on the final sacred weeks of my pregnancy, I've been reflecting on one thing I wish more people truly understood about pregnancy, postpartum and motherhood. It is the profound interconnection between a woman’s hormonal health and her emotional wellbeing. After going off the contraceptive pill back in 2020, I went through a rough period of hormonal withdrawal. Those months led me to dive deep into learning about hormonal balancing, and how our lifestyle—our stress, diet, and overall wellbeing—plays a crucial role in maintaining it. I began getting monthly acupuncture, taking supplements specifically for women’s health, syncing my exercise and diet to support my monthly cycle, and pacifying my nervous system through rest so that my body could begin producing sufficient amounts of progesterone. It was incredibly eye-opening and empowering, and I realised that so much of our emotional state is tied to our hormones, yet this connection is often overlooked or misunderstood.

Pregnancy, postpartum, and motherhood are seasons where our bodies and hormones undergo immense change. Hormones like progesterone, which help with relaxation and mood regulation, can be severely impacted by physical exhaustion or mental and emotional stress. It’s essential that we support and nurture not just our babies, but ourselves too. And I’m not just talking to first-time mothers here—this applies to all women, but especially mothers, no matter how many children we have.

We live in a world that often encourages women to push past their limits, to overextend ourselves, to always be "on" and to meet the needs of everyone else before our own. But as women and mothers, we need to learn to respect and honour our bodies—to set boundaries, speak up and take up space, to nurture ourselves, and to release the people-pleasing mentality that so many of us carry. Those who truely care and have your best interests at heart will understand and want to help. But you may need to tell them what you need, because each woman’s journey is unique and each of our needs and wants can look different. 

It’s so important that we prioritise ourselves—our health, our emotional balance, our needs—so that we can show up fully for our children, our families, and ourselves. When we advocate for our own wellbeing, we not only empower ourselves, but we also model strength and self-respect for those we love. 

So, to all the mothers out there: You’ve already done something amazing by growing, carrying, and nourishing life. Now, it’s time to honour yourself through this journey—embrace the need to slow down, to recharge, and to prioritise your emotional and physical health.

And for those around women in this season of life, I urge you to show up in a way that truly supports them:

Don’t ask to see the baby. Instead, ask the mother what she needs. Ask how you can help.

Don’t ask to hold her baby when she is bonding and healing. Wait for her to offer when she is comfortable to.

Respect that mothers will need space and time to adjust, heal, and enjoy this fleeting phase with their new family. Be patient.

Be patient and understand that we want to be surrounded by loved ones, but on our terms, when we are ready.

Respect her needs and acknowledge that they are more important than your wants. Understand that every woman’s journey into motherhood, from conception to postpartum, is unique to her.

Recognise that each woman’s experience of motherhood continues to evolve. She may have so much to share with you, but also much she may never voice.

Support her emotional journey, because her needs for comfort, reassurance, and affirmation don’t disappear—whether it’s her first or fourth child.

Motherhood is not a one-size-fits-all experience. Every woman adjusts in her own way, at her own pace, and different things work for different people. So, let’s show up with patience, understanding, and a deep respect for what she needs during this sacred season of life. 

With Love,

Jess x