Ep 2: Caity's story

Ep. 2: Guest Interview with CaityHello, thank you for being here. I’m excited to have my friend Jeni joining me as co-host for this episode, a role she’ll take on from time to time. Jeni is also a middle-aged mama, giving birth in her 40’s to her now two-and a-half-year-old daughter. Welcome Jeni! I hope you all enjoy this episode and thank you for bearing with us as we navigate the podcast learning curve. Hosts: Shelley & JeniGuest: CaityEpisode Highlights:· Introduction to Caity: 39 years old, expecting her first baby in November, sharing her journey as a middle-aged mother.· We discuss experiences and expectations around pregnancy and delivery at an older age.· Breastfeeding: Pressures, hospital resources, and the value of community advice.· Navigating “geriatric pregnancy” label and how OBs present age-related risks and benefits in appointments.· Generational perspectives: Gen X vs. Millennial experiences of motherhood.· Mental health: The importance of proactive self-care, recognizing warning signs, and openness.· Cravings, food restrictions, and funny anecdotes about pregnancy symptoms.· The value of doulas and support systems during delivery.· Reflections on the emotional journey: Anticipation, anxiety, and the reality of becoming parents later in life.· Community and connection: The importance of sharing stories to support other women.Key Topics Covered:· 00:00 Welcome to Middle-Aged Mama Drama· 00:30 Meet Our Hosts and Guest· 00:52 Caity’s Pregnancy Journey· 01:33 Hospital Experiences and Breastfeeding· 05:19 Navigating Pregnancy as an Older Mom· 14:42 Generational Perspectives on Motherhood· 19:15 Mental Health Support During Pregnancy· 20:45 Food Cravings and Restrictions· 28:00 Birth Preparation and Delivery Plans· 34:00 Closing Thoughts and Future EpisodesResources Mentioned:Book: “Expecting Better” by Emily Oster, available here. Discussion of research on pregnancy risks and mental health for middle-aged mothershttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38540450/Connect With Us:Remember to subscribe and share Middle-Aged Mama Drama with your friends, family, and coworkers. If you are a middle-aged mama and have a story you would like to share, or know someone you would like us to interview, please reach out to us at [email protected] you for being here. Our community is stronger and better because you are in it. You belong here exactly as you are.Subscribe to get the rest of this series, plus workshop announcements, podcast episodes, and coaching opportunities delivered straight to you. You need the information. You need the support. This is your community. Get in. Get full access to Middle-Aged Mama Drama at shelleybee.substack.com/subscribe