Public Libraries of Suffolk County, New York

When postpartum packs a punch : fighting back and find joy, Kristina Cowan

eng

illustrations

index present

non fiction

When postpartum packs a punch : fighting back and find joy

Kristina Cowan

When Postpartum Packs a Punch offers solace to mothers who have faced traumatic birth and perinatal mood disorders, as well as a chorus of different voices—parents, experts, and researchers. All are singing the same song: while the U.S. has made strides in caring for new mothers, we still have far to go. Stigma silences women, and blinds those on the sidelines. Stories of others’ struggles are an antidote for stigma, because they let mothers know that they’re not alone. Kristina Cowan describes her own experience with traumatic birth and postpartum depression, and weaves it together with stories from other parents. Representing diverse backgrounds and perspectives and underscoring the prevalence of mood disorders after childbirth, these stories serve as a balm. They help heal and stir hope. And they show how an overcoming spirit can fight terrors of the mind—and win

Nobody told me it wouldn't be perfect: my story of postpartum trauma -- A different kind of war: when childbirth leads to posttraumatic stress -- Postpartum depression and anxiety: worse than we think -- Over and over: the unsettling spiral of postpartum OCD -- Postpartum psychosis: a break with reality -- Shaking off the shame: how to confront stigma -- What about Dad? Help by and for men -- A struggle worth sharing: how women heal from PMADs -- Getting there: where we've been, and where we need to go -- Better for it: when postpartum pain is used for good

adult