317: Navigating Postpartum Mental Health and “Mommy Brain” with Dr. Nikki Pensak

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Nikki Pensak, clinical psychologist and author of "Rattled", to discuss postpartum mental health and the challenges of new motherhood. Dr. Nikki shares her professional insights and personal experiences to help new mothers understand and navigate the complexities of the postpartum period. We dive into the different aspects of postpartum struggles, coping strategies for intrusive thoughts, and the realities of baby bonding. We also discuss the crucial importance of maternal sleep, changes in intimacy after having a baby, and how to deal with overstimulation as a new mom.Key Takeaway / Points:The different aspects of postpartum mental health (anxiety, depression, and OCD)Dr. Nikki’s personal experience with postpartum mental health strugglesThe importance of proactive postpartum mental health careNavigating intrusive thoughts and overstimulation as a new momThe concept of "mommy brain" and the difference between “baby blues” and depressionHow to navigate feelings of guilt and disconnection in early motherhoodStrategies for maintaining intimacy in relationships after having childrenThe transformative nature of motherhoodHow to set up a postpartum support systemPractical tips for managing overstimulationThe importance of self-care and positive experiences for new momsThis episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct, or indirect financial interest in products, or services referred to in this episode.Sponsors:Arya: Go to Arya.Fyi/Cameron to get 15% off your first orderLMNT: Right now LMNT is offering a free 8-count Sample Pack of their most popular drink flavors with any purchase. Get yours at DrinkLMNT.com/cameronStasis: Get an extra 25% off your first purchase of Stasis using my code CAMERON at checkout!Little Spoon: Go to LITTLESPOON.COM/CAMERON30 and enter our code CAMERON30 at checkout to get 30% OFF your first Little Spoon orderFollow Dr. Nikki Pensak:Instagram: @drnikkipensakWebsite: drnicoleamoyalpensak.comOrder Dr. Nikki Pensak's book "Rattled" hereFollow me:Instagram: @cameronoaksrogers and @conversationswithcamSubstack: Fill Your CupWebsite: cameronoaksrogers.comTikTok: @cameronoaksrogers and @conversations_with_camYoutube: Cameron RogersProduced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.