Healthy As A Mother

If you’ve experienced pregnancy loss and are thinking about trying to conceive again, this episode walks you through what most women aren’t told about getting pregnant after pregnancy loss. From the emotional impact of miscarriage and pregnancy loss to the physical factors that can influence fertility, we break down what actually matters when preparing your body and mind for another pregnancy.We cover common causes of pregnancy loss, including hormonal imbalances like low progesterone, egg and sperm quality, inflammation, thyroid health, and other underlying fertility factors. You’ll also learn how long to wait before trying again, how to support your body after pregnancy loss, and what steps you can take to reduce the risk of another loss.This episode also dives deep into the emotional side of pregnancy loss, including anxiety, fear, grief, and the mental challenges of trying to conceive again after loss. Whether you’ve had one pregnancy loss or multiple, this conversation is designed to help you feel less alone and more empowered with both knowledge and support.If you’re navigating fertility after pregnancy loss, trying to get pregnant again, or looking for answers about why pregnancy loss happens, this episode will give you a grounded, whole-body perspective, combining science, mindset, and real experiences.00:00 — Trailer + Intro01:27 — The Emotional Reality of Pregnancy Loss04:41 — Real Stories of Loss & Trying Again07:44 — Pregnancy After Loss Feels Different11:20 — IVF, Embryo Loss & Different Grieving Experiences13:07 — Why Pregnancy Loss Happens (Physical + Unknown Factors)14:41 — It’s NOT Your Fault (But You Can Optimize)15:35 — Spiritual & Emotional Interpretations of Loss18:57 — Physical Causes of Pregnancy Loss21:45 — What Happens During Pregnancy Loss (Options Explained)27:18 — Emotional & Physical Preparation for Each Option30:35 — When Can You Try Again?32:39 — Your Body Is in “Mini Postpartum”35:36 — The Emotional Side No One Supports Enough38:07 — Male Fertility: The Missing 50%40:13 — Egg & Sperm Quality Optimization41:23 — Hormones & Progesterone Explained46:15 — Inflammation, Gut Health & Vaginal Microbiome48:58 — What to Do After One Loss vs Multiple Losses52:39 — A Practical Game Plan Moving Forward53:50 — Emotional Integration & Healing55:33 — The Hidden Losses (Identity, Timing, Life Plans)56:28 — Closing Thoughts & Support ResourcesResources From This Episode:8 Root Causes of Pregnancy Loss | #116 - https://youtu.be/8nKRemVWIrM?si=wDeVseGOjgkLEaQ4The Power of Progesterone: An Essential Fertility Hormone | #31 - https://open.spotify.com/episode/66SZoAvmnxWS3IQsbSOfCh?si=SAQxaAOcQE2tp_3hwOicMQMiscarriage Mystery Decoded with Dr. Aumatma | #51 - https://open.spotify.com/episode/53ikQ9sbpca3nP3T0J9i9s?si=d1fXivahQ22-KgH9r_cf2gHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

What actually happens to your baby in the first 24–48 hours after birth, and which newborn interventions should you say yes or no to?In this episode, we break down 14 common newborn interventions and procedures parents may be offered right after delivery. From delayed cord clamping and suctioning to vitamin K, hepatitis B, erythromycin eye ointment, newborn metabolic screening, hearing and heart tests, circumcision, jaundice, early bathing, and pediatric follow-up, we explain what these interventions are, why they’re offered, and what parents should understand before birth.Whether you’re planning a hospital birth, home birth, or birth center delivery, this conversation will help you make informed decisions about newborn care and know what questions to ask when creating your birth plan.00:00 Trailer + intro01:13 Why newborn interventions matter03:44 Delayed cord clamping09:23 Rubbing and suctioning after birth14:26 Swaddling, hats, and skin-to-skin18:37 The golden hour and delaying newborn exams21:10 Vitamin K shot vs oral vitamin K29:44 Hepatitis B vaccine at birth34:07 Erythromycin eye ointment36:57 Newborn metabolic screening / heel prick / PKU test39:19 Newborn blood sugar testing41:42 Hearing test and congenital heart disease screening46:36 Circumcision considerations47:32 Early bath and newborn microbiome52:31 Newborn jaundice explained56:39 Breastfeeding jaundice vs breast milk jaundice59:04 Pediatrician visits and delayed vaccine schedules01:05:39 Closing thoughtsResources From This Episode:Vax Dilemmas: Hesitancy, Studies, and Alternate Schedules with Dr. Joel Gator Warsh | Ep. 109 - https://youtu.be/d72t0Dv18Ok?si=OawY6xJOcWhy0w44Vaccines From A Neurodevelopmental Perspective with Dr. Ari Calhoun | Ep. 52 - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/healthy-as-a-mother/id1663942916?i=10006483825895 Things That Ruin Breastfeeding | Ep 146 - https://youtu.be/BQgB9rQ_Msk?si=fwrB0QJ1DvfzrrUmBreastfeeding and Trying To Conceive | Ep 113 - https://youtu.be/vRXXioExVh8?si=epAYIrJeqe197ftJBreastfeeding: What to KNOW before your baby is born | Ep 10 - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/healthy-as-a-mother/id1663942916?i=1000601146225Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

In this honest life update episode, we’re sharing what motherhood looks like for us right now... the wins, the challenges, and the very real in-between.We talk about rebuilding strength after a C-section, navigating toddler chaos and overstimulation, how sleep deprivation affects everything, and why routines can feel life-giving in certain seasons of motherhood. We also open up about feeling baby kicks during pregnancy, the emotional weight of the mental load, waking up at 5 a.m., hormone-supportive habits, and the financial pressure that can come with running a business while raising a family.This episode is candid, relatable, and full of those real mom moments that often go unspoken. If you’re in a season of trying to hold it all together while also finding your way back to yourself, this one will feel like a conversation with friends who get it.In this episode, we cover:Rebuilding strength and reconnecting with your body after a C-sectionThe emotional and physical impact of postpartum sleep deprivationToddler chaos and the reality of parenting multiple kidsThe invisible mental load many mothers carry every dayWhy routines can actually create more freedom, creativity, and flowThe transition out of the postpartum season and back into personal rhythmsNavigating motherhood while growing and supporting a businessThe financial and emotional pressures of entrepreneurship during family lifeThe beauty of sharing both the wins and the challenges of motherhoodWhy real conversations about motherhood matter more than perfection online00:00 Intro01:33 Life updates02:14 Toddler chaos and the destruction phase07:49 Reflecting on postpartum while caring for other children12:33 Why sleep deprivation is so hard in motherhood13:35 Trying to stay organized as a mom (and why chaos still happens)21:39 The small parenting struggles that add up31:00 The Skylight calendar and organizing family life39:24 Getting back into exercise after a C-section44:30 Getting back into routine and finding rhythm again54:45 The pressure for business to grow financially1:00:00 Money as the next personal growth frontier1:03:51 Why sharing life updates matters1:07:19 OutroResources Mentioned:Uplift Workout Program: Use code DRLEAH0770 for $20 off Dow Janes Financial ProgramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

Your menstrual cycle isn’t random; it’s a monthly hormone report card.In this episode, Dr. Leah breaks down how to decode your cycle from bleed to bleed and what common symptoms may be telling you about progesterone, estrogen, inflammation, ovulation, and fertility.If you’ve ever wondered whether your spotting, PMS, heavy bleeding, dry cycles, painful periods, or irregular timing are “normal”, this episode will help you understand what your body may actually be communicating.In this episode, we cover:• Spotting before your period & what it means for progesterone• Light or short periods & signs of low estrogen or under-fueling• Heavy bleeding & estrogen dominance• Ovulation pain: normal vs red flag• PMS, PMDD & progesterone deficiencies• Mood shifts right after ovulation• Low cervical mucus / dry cycles• Long cycles & PCOS clues• Short cycles, luteal phase defects & egg reserve• Brown blood & blood stagnation• Severe cramping & endometriosis• Breast tenderness, prolactin & fibrocystic changes00:00 – Trailer & Intro02:06 – Your cycle as a “report card”06:14 – Spotting before your period (low progesterone clues)08:53 – Mid-luteal spotting: infection, polyps, implantation13:54 – Light or short periods (low estrogen & under-fueling)18:54 – Heavy bleeding (estrogen dominance & growth conditions)23:47 – Ovulation pain explained26:05 – PMS & PMDD (progesterone, nutrients, blood sugar)30:19 – Mood changes after ovulation33:38 – Low cervical mucus / dry cycles36:46 – Long cycles & PCOS42:47 – Short cycles & ovarian reserve47:25 – Brown blood & stagnation48:50 – Severe cramping & endometriosis53:09 – Breast changes & lymph support57:06 – Final thoughtsResources From This Episode:Episode #31: The Power of ProgesteroneEpisode #151: When Sex HurtsHormone & Cycle Health Episode PlaylistIf you want step-by-step hormone education, cycle tracking guidance, and root-cause protocols, explore the Womanhood Wellness Membership for deeper support: https://drleahgordon.com/joinHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

Pregnancy over 40 is often surrounded by fear, but the real story is more nuanced than most women are told.In Part 2 of our Over 40 series, we break down what actually matters when considering pregnancy later in life, including medical risks, lifestyle factors, birth decisions, and even the surprising benefits of having babies in your 40s.If you’ve been labeled “advanced maternal age,” feeling pressure about timing, or wondering whether it’s too late to grow your family, this episode offers an evidence-based and compassionate perspective.In this episode, we discuss:✔️ Induction pressure and spontaneous labor after 40✔️ How to evaluate pregnancy risks realistically✔️ Miscarriage and chromosomal risk explained simply✔️ When shorter age gaps may make sense biologically✔️ The truth about twins and fertility after 40✔️ Longevity myths — why later fertility may signal better health✔️ Breastfeeding, family planning & timing decisions✔️ Breast cancer risk reduction linked to pregnancy and nursing✔️ Lifestyle factors that matter most in pregnancy after 40✔️ Preconception health, nutrition, and exercise recommendations00:00 Trailer + Podcast Intro01:45 Episode Begins — Pregnancy & Birth Over 40 Overview02:13 Why More Women Are Having Babies After 4003:55 Advanced Maternal Age: What Actually Matters06:02 Chromosomal Risks Explained (Down Syndrome & Testing)08:00 NIPT Testing — Pros, Cons & When It Makes Sense10:14 Twin Pregnancy Risk After 4013:27 Miscarriage Statistics by Age16:54 Pregnancy Complications Over 40 (Hypertension & Preeclampsia)19:35 Placenta Previa Risk Factors21:35 Gestational Diabetes & Lifestyle Factors23:30 Growth Restriction & Paternal Health Influence24:58 Preterm Labor Risk25:47 Stillbirth Risk — What the Numbers Really Mean28:02 Induction & Cesarean Rates After 4030:35 Medical System vs Physiological Birth DiscussionPregnancy outcomes are influenced by far more than age alone: metabolic health, lifestyle, and individualized care play a major role. Whether you’re trying to conceive, are currently pregnant, or are simply exploring your options, this episode aims to replace fear with clarity.Watch Part 1 of this series HEREResources From This Episode:Dr. Morgan's 6 Week Pregnancy CallEpisode #31 The Power of ProgesteroneEpisode #150 Everything You Were Never Taught About The PlacentaEpisode #113 Breastfeeding and TTCHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

Part 1 of a 2-Part Series: Fertility Over 40Fertility over 40 is becoming more common than ever, but with it comes confusion, fear, and a lot of outdated information.In this episode of Healthy As A Mother, we begin a two-part fertility series focused on conception after age 40. We break down what actually changes with age, what matters most for fertility, and — most importantly — what you can influence.Because chronological age is only one piece of the picture.You’ll learn why egg quality matters more than egg count, how lifestyle and metabolic health impact fertility outcomes, and how women can support ovulation, hormone balance, and mitochondrial health as they age. If you’ve been told your age alone determines your fertility, this episode offers a more nuanced and hopeful perspective.In this episode, we cover:• Why chronological age doesn’t equal ovarian health• The real role of egg quality vs. egg count (AMH explained)• How mitochondrial health impacts fertility• Environmental toxins and hidden fertility stressors• Blood sugar balance and metabolic health after 40• Inflammation, oxidative stress, and hormone disruption• Ovulation strength and progesterone production• Short luteal phases and why they matter for implantation• Signs of low progesterone you shouldn’t ignore• How lifestyle changes can meaningfully improve fertility outcomes00:00 — Trailer & Podcast Intro03:25 — Episode begins: Fertility over 40 overview05:10 — Chronological age vs ovarian environment21:30 — Egg quality, lifestyle, and metabolic health23:58 — Inflammation, stress & nutrient deficiencies explained24:25 — Progesterone, luteal phase & cycle changes after 4025:10 — Signs of low progesterone to watch for48:43 — IVF myths: why optimization matters first49:12 — Why IVF doesn’t bypass egg or sperm quality49:42 — Rethinking fertility decisions after 4050:51 — Fertility as a marker of overall healthHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

Painful sex is far more common than most women realize and far more complex than we’re ever taught.In this episode, Dr. Leah shares her deeply personal 18-year journey with painful sex, low libido, and feeling dismissed by the medical system, alongside a comprehensive breakdown of the real root causes of pain during sex, from trauma and pelvic floor dysfunction to hormonal changes and lesser-known conditions like provoked vestibulodynia (PVD).We talk honestly about why painful sex is not something you should “just push through,” why many conventional treatments miss the mark, and how healing often requires addressing multiple layers at once: physical, neurological, hormonal, and emotional.If sex has ever felt painful, burning, tense, or emotionally complicated, or if you’ve been told everything “looks normal” but something still feels wrong, this conversation is for you.Painful sex is not a personal failure, a relationship problem, or something you should tolerate. It’s often a signal, and when you understand the signal, healing becomes possible.Content NoteThis episode includes discussion of sexual trauma, medical trauma, and chronic pain. Please take care while listening and pause if needed.What We Cover in This EpisodeWhy painful sex is common but not normalHow trauma (sexual, medical, or cultural) can create involuntary pelvic floor tensionThe difference between deep pain vs. pain at the vaginal opening (and why that matters)What vaginismus is and why dilators alone often aren’t enoughHow pain and pleasure share the same neurological pathwaysThe role of vibration in interrupting pain signalsWhy hormonal birth control can contribute to painful sexWhat provoked vestibulodynia (PVD) is and why most women have never heard of itHow postpartum hormonal shifts can cause pain even when labs look “normal”Why testosterone matters for vulvar tissue healthThe connection between low libido and painHow hypertonic (overly tight) pelvic floors contribute to pain, birth challenges, and postpartum issuesWhy every woman should see a pelvic floor physical therapist at least onceHow scars, tailbone injuries, infections, and nerve pain syndromes play a roleWhy healing painful sex requires a root-cause, multi-layered approachA message of hope: healing is possible, even after years of pain00:00 Trailer + show intro02:00 Why painful sex is more common than we think (and why women feel so isolated)04:00 Dr. Leah’s personal story: living with painful sex from the very beginning08:00 Being dismissed by doctors + why chronic pain is so confusing and isolating12:30 Why treating symptoms doesn’t work16:00 Endometriosis and deep pain during sex25:30 Why pregnancy sometimes improves pain (and why it doesn’t always last)32:45 Vaginismus explained40:45 Pain, pleasure, and the nervous system44:30 Trauma healing during pregnancy and how it changed postpartum pain47:45 Provoked Vestibulodynia (PVD)52:45 Birth control, testosterone, and why estrogen isn’t always the issue56:45 What finally worked59:45 Other overlooked causes of painful sex1:04:30 Hypertonic pelvic floors1:08:30 Final reflections, hope, and next stepsResources From This Episode:Dr. Leah's When Sex Hurts Immersion Course WaitlistWhen Sex Hurts (book)Womanhood Wellness MembershipEpisode: Birth Preparation for Sexual Trauma SurvivorsHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

The placenta is one of the most misunderstood organs in pregnancy, yet it plays a central role in implantation, miscarriage risk, fetal growth, preeclampsia, birth complications, and postpartum recovery.In this episode of Healthy As A Mother, Dr. Morgan delivers a clear, grounded crash course on the placenta: what it is, how it forms, how it functions, and what can go wrong. We unpack common myths, explain real risks without fear, and clarify why the placenta quietly determines so many pregnancy outcomes.This conversation is designed to replace anxiety with understanding and confusion with clarity, so parents can make informed decisions throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.In this episode, we cover:What the placenta actually is and why it’s often called the baby’s “twin”How implantation and early placental development affect pregnancy outcomesWhy male fertility and sperm health matter more than most people realizePlacental anatomy explained simply (chorion, amnion, Wharton’s jelly)Common placental variations and what they really meanSerious placental complications and how they’re managedFirst-trimester bleeding and subchorionic hemorrhagePlacental insufficiency, fetal growth restriction, and preeclampsiaThe third stage of labor and birthing the placentaActive vs expectant management and Pitocin useRetained placenta, postpartum hemorrhage, and recoveryWhat to do with the placenta after birth: encapsulation, burial, lotus birth, or disposalEducational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare provider for personal medical care.TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Why the placenta matters more than people think03:00 – Placenta development and implantation09:00 – Male fertility, sperm health, and pregnancy outcomes15:00 – Placental anatomy explained simply18:30 – Cord insertions and placental variants22:00 – Velamentous cord insertion and vasa previa27:00 – Placental positioning and placenta previa32:00 – Placenta accreta and surgical risks37:00 – Subchorionic hemorrhage and first-trimester bleeding42:00 – Placental insufficiency and fetal growth restriction45:00 – Preeclampsia explained48:30 – Placental abruption50:00 – Retained placenta and postpartum hemorrhage53:30 – Birthing the placenta (third stage of labor)56:00 – Pitocin and hospital management59:00 – What to do with the placenta after birthHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

Why does modern motherhood feel so hard — even when you’re doing everything “right”?In this episode of Healthy As A Mother, we explore a powerful lens for understanding hormones, fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and burnout: humans are animals — and modern life is not designed for our biology.From nervous system dysregulation and chronic stress to fertility struggles, postpartum depletion, and emotional overwhelm, this conversation reframes modern motherhood as a biological mismatch, not a personal failure.We cover:The “human animal in captivity” conceptWhy community is essential for mothersSunlight, sleep, movement, and hormonal healthNervous system overload, modern stress, and burnoutWhy self-care isn’t indulgent — it’s biological necessityThis episode is for women and mothers who feel like something about modern life, health, and motherhood just isn’t working — and want a deeper, root-cause understanding.00:00 Introduction: The Human Animal02:05 Humans as Animals05:10 Animals in Captivity09:15 The Continuum Concept14:05 Biohacking vs Nature18:20 Hormones, Detox & Toxic Load22:45 Genetics & Sensitivity27:10 Evolution or De-Evolution31:30 The Loss of the Village36:20 Reciprocity & Support40:55 Parenting, School & Disconnection44:35 Sunlight, Sleep & Circadian Rhythm48:40 Men, Women & Biological Roles53:10 Food, Nutrient Depletion & Seasonality57:45 Sensory Overload & The News1:03:10 Warriors, Nurturers & Purpose1:08:40 Living Like an Animal Again1:12:30 Final Thoughts👉 New episodes every WednesdayResources Mentioned in This Episode:I Am Documentary Continuum ConceptThe Red Tent Ishmael Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

Our culture and systems have failed many women who want to be mothers, not through malice, but through neglect, misalignment, and outdated priorities.In this episode, we explore how education, feminism, medicine, and career culture shaped a generation of women who were never truly prepared for motherhood. This is a nuanced, honest conversation about how our culture and systems have failed many women who want to be mothers.We want to say this clearly up front: this conversation reflects our lived experiences and what we see in our work. It is not meant to invalidate women who had supportive, empowering paths to motherhood, nor does it represent every experience across different socioeconomic or cultural backgrounds.What we explore here is a pattern. For decades, women were encouraged to prioritize education, career, and productivity, often with little to no preparation for health, fertility, or motherhood. Feminism brought women freedom, opportunity, and choice, and we honor that deeply. But like all cultural movements, there were unintended consequences that many women are only now grappling with.In this conversation, we discuss:• Why motherhood was treated as an afterthought rather than a life path• How feminism empowered women — and where systems failed to evolve alongside it• The lack of reproductive and health education for young women• How birth control often masked dysfunction instead of addressing root causes• Why so many women feel blindsided by fertility struggles in their 30s• The cost of prioritizing weddings, careers, and productivity over preparation for motherhood• Maternal burnout, postpartum strain, and the lack of systemic support• What a more integrative, honest, and compassionate approach could look likeThis is not about blame. It’s about awareness because we can’t change what we don’t acknowledge. Our hope is that by having these conversations openly, we can support women now and create better systems for future generations. If this episode resonated with you, please consider subscribing, sharing, or leaving a review. These conversations matter. 00:00 — Why We’re Having This Conversation02:45 — This Isn’t Everyone’s Experience But It’s a Real Pattern05:30 — Feminism Gave Women Choice... And Then the Pendulum Swung09:45 — When Motherhood Became an Afterthought13:20 — Career First, Motherhood “On the Side”17:40 — The Lie We Were Sold About Fertility & Birth Control22:10 — Why So Many Women Are Struggling to Conceive in Their 30s27:15 — “Our Society Is Not Set Up for Women to Become Mothers”31:00 — We Prepare for College & Sports — But Not Health34:30 — Imagine a World Where Girls Are Taught About Their Bodies38:20 — The Cost of Ignoring Motherhood (Burnout, Infertility, Trauma)42:45 — Weddings, Nurseries & Misplaced Priorities47:30 — What the Medical System Gets Wrong About Fertility52:10 — How This Could Change for the Next Generation56:00 — This Isn’t About Blame, It’s About What’s Broken59:00 — Final Thoughts, Hope & Why These Conversations MatterResources Mentioned in This Episode:Join Womanhood WellnessSocial Studies DocuseriesThe Time Machine MovieHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER