The Science of Motherhood

• Ep. 162 Dr Siobhan Kennedy-Costantini - Mother's Perspective: Experiencing PND, Anxiety and Psychosis

  ⚠️ Content Warning: This episode discusses postnatal depression, anxiety, and psychosis from a mother’s perspective. If you’re not feeling up to it today, consider pausing and coming back when you feel ready. If you need support, the PANDA National Helpline is available on 1300 726 306 (Monday to Saturday, Australia-wide). Please take care of yourself. 💛In this episode of The Science of Motherhood, Dr. Renee White sits down with Dr. Siobhan Kennedy-Costantini, a child developmental psychologist and passionate advocate for maternal mental health. Siobhan shares her deeply personal experience with postnatal depression, anxiety, and psychosis, shedding light on what it is really like to navigate these challenges while caring for a newborn.Motherhood is often painted as a time of joy and love, but for many mums, the reality is much more complex. The mental load, the sleep deprivation, the constant worry. It can all take a serious toll. But what happens when those struggles turn into something more?Siobhan’s story is raw, honest, and deeply relatable because no mum should feel alone in their struggles.You’ll hear about:✔️ Recognising the signs – What PND, anxiety, and psychosis can look like in new mums and how to know when to seek help.✔️ The mental load of motherhood – Why so many mums feel overwhelmed and how to lighten the burden.✔️ The importance of support – How your village (or lack of one) can impact recovery and ways to build a network that works for you.✔️ Navigating motherhood after mental health struggles – What Siobhan did differently with her second baby and the strategies that made all the difference.✔️ Seeking help without shame – Why taking care of yourself is not just for you but for your baby, your family, and your future.If you have ever felt the weight of motherhood press down on you, this episode is for you. Whether you are currently struggling, supporting a friend, or simply want to understand more about maternal mental health, Siobhan’s insights are powerful and necessary. You are not alone mama, and help is always available. 💛Resources and Links:🌐 Want to learn more about Dr Renee White and explore Fill Your Cup Doula services📲 Want to chat more about this? Connect with Dr. Renee White on Instagram: @fillyourcup_🍪If you want to gobble up our famous Chocolate + Goji lactation cookies, look no further!📲 Connect with Dr. Siobhan Kennedy-Costantini on Instagram @science_minded or visit her website scienceminded.org.🌱 Need support? Check out:PANDA National Helpline – Free and confidential support for perinatal mental health concerns. Call 1300 726 306 (Monday to Saturday). Learn more at www.panda.org.auPeach Tree Perinatal Wellness – A Queensland-based organisation supporting perinatal mental health. Learn more at www.peachtree.org.auWhite Cloud Foundation – Offering free counselling, occupational therapy, and meal support for parents struggling with mental health. Learn more at

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• Ep. 161 - Check In Tuesday - I'm Still Breastfeeding and Returning to Work - Help!

  Returning to work while still breastfeeding? You’re not alone mama, and you don’t have to figure it out on your own.This transition can feel overwhelming, from wondering how you’ll pump at work, to whether your baby will take a bottle, to managing the emotions of this next chapter. But with the right support, strategies, and mindset, you can make it work in a way that suits you and your family.In this episode, Dr. Renee White shares practical, real-world tips for making the return to work smoother while continuing to breastfeed. Whether you’re expressing at work, introducing a bottle, or adjusting to a new routine, this episode will give you the tools and reassurance you need.You’ll hear about:✔️ Talking to your workplace early – How to set yourself up for success with a comfortable expressing space, scheduled breaks, and support.✔️ Introducing a bottle or cup before returning to work – Why practice makes perfect (and why some babies need extra time to adjust).✔️ Timing your feeds and pumps – Creating a schedule that works for you, your baby, and your job.✔️ Keeping yourself fuelled – The best snacks and meal ideas to support milk supply and energy levels during busy workdays.✔️ Navigating the emotional side – Acknowledging the big feelings that come with weaning, pumping, or shifting your feeding routine.You’re not alone in this Mama!Breastfeeding while working is possible, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Whether you continue feeding for months or decide to transition to formula during the day, your journey is yours to own. Be kind to yourself, you’re doing an amazing job!Need extra support? Whether it’s a meal delivery service, a lactation consultant, or a doula to help you prep, reach out for the help you deserve.💛 If this episode helped you, share it with another mum who needs it.Resources and Links:🛜 Want to learn more about Dr Renee White and explore Fill Your Cup Doula servicesWant to be nurtured and nourished after the birth of your baby, have a peek at our doula offerings.🍪If you want to gobble up our famous Chocolate + Goji lactation cookies, look no further!📲 Want to chat more about this? Connect with Dr. Renee White on Instagram: @fillyourcup_🥩 Exclusive Offer from Our Cow! Our Cow is Fill Your Cup’s trusted Aussie butcher delivering top-quality, sustainably sourced meat straight to your door. Use the code FILLYOURCUP at checkout for a special discount on your first order when spending over $199! Shop now at ourcow.com.au.Disclaimer: The information on this podcast presented by the Fill Your Cup is not a substitute for independent professional advice.Nothing contained in this podcast is intended to be used as medical advice and it is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes or as a substitute for your own health professional's advice.

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• Ep 160. Dr Cheryl Phua - Fertility Treatments 101

  Trying to conceive can be an emotional roller coaster. From tracking cycles to navigating fertility treatments, the whole process can feel overwhelming, especially when you're bombarded with advice, acronyms, and uncertainty. If you've ever wished for a clear, no-stress guide to fertility, this episode is for you.This week, Dr. Renee White sits down with Dr. Cheryl Phua, a fertility specialist at IVF Australia, to break it all down in a way that makes sense. They chat about when to seek fertility support, what treatments like IUI, IVF, and ICSI actually involve, ****and how to take control of your reproductive health, without the confusion or pressure.You’ll hear about:Optimising fertility naturally: Small but powerful changes to your lifestyle, diet, and mindset that can make a real difference.When to ask for help: How long to try naturally before considering fertility treatments and what the latest guidelines suggest.Understanding fertility treatments: Breaking down IUI, IVF, and ICSI in simple terms, plus how to know which path might be right for you.Genetic testing and fertility science: How modern technology is helping improve pregnancy outcomes.The emotional side of fertility: Why this journey can feel so overwhelming and how to get the right support along the way.Whether you're at the start of your journey, considering fertility treatment, or just want to understand your options, this episode is packed with practical insights, expert advice, and plenty of reassurance.Resources and Links:Learn more about Dr Renee White and Explore Fill Your Cup Doula ServicesWant to be nurtured and nourished after the birth of your baby, have a peek at our doula offerings.If you want to gobble up our famous Chocolate + Goji lactation cookies, look no further!📲 Want to connect with Dr. Cheryl Phua? Follow her on Instagram: @drcherylphua or visit her website: drcherylphua.comIf this episode gave you clarity or confidence, share it with a friend who might need it too. And if you haven’t already, hit subscribe so you never miss an episode.Disclaimer: The information on this podcast presented by the Fill Your Cup is not a substitute for independent professional advice.Nothing contained in this podcast is intended to be used as medical advice and it is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes or as a substitute for your own health professional's advice.

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• Ep 159. Justine Schofield - Double the Meal, Half the Effort: Cooking Ahead for Busy Mums

  If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed in the kitchen or wondered how to balance feeding your family with the chaos of everyday life, this episode is for you!In this week’s episode of The Science of Motherhood, Dr. Renee White is joined by the incredible Justine Schofield, MasterChef alum and author of Cook Ahead. Together, they dive into the world of family meals, freezer-friendly recipes, and the real-life journey of cooking while juggling motherhood.Justine opens up about how her freezer became her secret weapon while caring for her baby and how it empowered her to provide nourishing meals for her family. From the importance of batch cooking to the joy of sharing family traditions through food, Justine shares tips and stories that will make you rethink your approach to mealtime.You’ll Hear About:Freezer Hacks for Busy Mums: How to use batch cooking and the humble freezer to save time and reduce stress in the kitchen.Cooking as Connection: Why food is more than just fuel, it’s about connecting with your family and creating lasting memories.Real-Life Motherhood: The highs and lows of motherhood, from baby blues to finding strength through support.Flexibility in the Kitchen: How Justine’s Cook Ahead cookbook embraces easy, adaptable meals that everyone in the family will love.Finding Joy in Family Meals: How to turn mealtime into a cherished tradition that strengthens family bonds.Whether you’re overwhelmed by the demands of family life or looking for ways to make mealtime easier and more meaningful, this episode is filled with tips and heartwarming insights to inspire you.Join us for a conversation that celebrates the power of food, family, and finding balance in the kitchen and at home. You’ll walk away feeling more confident in your ability to nourish your family without the stress!Resources and Links:Learn more about Dr Renee White and Explore Fill Your Cup Doula ServicesWant to be nurtured and nourished after the birth of your baby, have a peek at our doula offerings.If you want to gobble up our famous Chocolate + Goji lactation cookies, look no further!Follow Us on Instagram: @fillyourcup_Follow Justine Schofield on Instagram: @justineschofieldDisclaimer: The information on this podcast presented by the Fill Your Cup is not a substitute for independent professional advice.Nothing contained in this podcast is intended to be used as medical advice and it is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes or as a substitute for your own health professional's advice.

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• Ep. 158 Melissa Hays - Breastfeeding Myths Busted

  In this weeks episode, Dr Renee White is joined by Melissa Hays, a seasoned IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) and Holistic Sleep Coach, to tackle some of the most common and frustrating breastfeeding myths. Together, they dive into the misconceptions and misinformation that often overwhelm mums, offering clarity and confidence to navigate your feeding journey.Navigating the sea of advice, unsolicited opinions, and outdated beliefs can be overwhelming as a mum. Melissa is here to set the record straight, offering practical, evidence-based guidance and plenty of reassurance. You’ll walk away from this episode feeling informed, supported, and ready to embrace your unique feeding journey.You’ll Hear About:Is Breastfeeding Supposed to Hurt? When discomfort is normal and when it’s time to get help.Milk Supply Myths: Why soft breasts or small size don’t mean you’re not making enough milk.Breastfeeding While Sick: How your breast milk can actually help your baby when you’re unwell.Beyond Nutrition: Why breastfeeding is about so much more than food—it’s about connection and comfort.Drowsy But Awake: Why this popular sleep advice often doesn’t work and better alternatives to try.Breastfeeding can be one of the most rewarding yet challenging parts of early motherhood. With the sheer amount of conflicting advice available, it’s easy to feel unsure, overwhelmed, or even defeated. From social media to well-meaning friends and family, the noise can drown out your instincts and make it hard to know what’s truly best for you and your baby.Whether you’re dealing with discomfort, concerns about your milk supply, or the pressure of external opinions, you’ll find actionable tips and comforting validation here. Let this episode be your reminder that you’re not alone in this journey, and with the right guidance, you can navigate the challenges of breastfeeding with confidence and ease.Resources and Links:Shop Dr. Renee’s Birthday Special: Use code LOVEFYC for 20% off lactation cookie mixes, Creamy Coconut Dahl, and Postpartum Recovery Sitz Bath Kits at ifillyourcup.com.Learn more about Dr Renee White and Explore Fill Your Cup Doula ServicesWant to be nurtured and nourished after the birth of your baby, have a peek at our doula offerings.If you want to gobble up our famous Chocolate + Goji lactation cookies, look no further!Follow Us on Instagram: @fillyourcup_Follow Melissa Hays on Instagram: @cocoonandcradleLearn more about Melissa’s breastfeeding & sleep support servicesJoin the conversation:Have a breastfeeding myth or question? Send us a DM or message, we’d love to hear from you and might even cover it in a future episode!Disclaimer: The information on this podcast presented by the Fill Your Cup is not a substitute for independent professional advice.Nothing contained in this podcast is intended to be used as medical advice and it is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes or as a substitute for your own health professional's...

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