E30 featuring Jessy Conflon: the cost of pregnancy for gay women and what pregnancy costs a woman (incl PND)

In this conversation, I talk to Jesse Conflon, co-founder at Yay Startup Marketing, about her journey as a parent and entrepreneur. We discuss topics such as career expectations, challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community in parenthood, fertility treatment, and work-life balance. Jesse shares her experiences of running her own business while planning for parenthood and the importance of having a supportive partner. We also explore the division of labour in same-sex couples and the benefits of proactive and equitable parenting. In this conversation, Jessy shares her experience with postpartum depression and how she realized what was happening. She discusses the challenges she faced in the early weeks of motherhood and the impact it had on her mental health. Jessy also talks about how she managed to find balance between her career and parenthood, including going back to work and seeking therapy. Finally, she shares her thoughts on how organizations and society can reduce barriers for women, including acknowledging the hormonal changes women experience, providing support for fertility treatments, and creating policies that support pregnant employees.   Takeaways Career goals and aspirations may change as life circumstances evolve, and it's important to be open to new opportunities. The LGBTQIA+ community faces unique challenges when it comes to parenthood, including limited access to fertility treatments and unequal treatment compared to heterosexual couples. Starting a business while planning for parenthood requires careful consideration of work-life balance and the need for flexibility. Postpartum depression can be challenging to recognize, but it's important to seek help if you're experiencing symptoms. Finding balance as a working mum can be difficult, but it's important to prioritize self-care and seek support when needed. Organizations and society can reduce barriers for women by acknowledging the hormonal changes women experience, providing support for fertility treatments, and creating policies that support pregnant employees. It's important to create a supportive and understanding work environment that allows women to be their authentic selves and navigate the challenges of motherhood. You can find out more about Jessy's business here: https://yaystarter.com/