Show notes
Have you registered for the fall FACTS virtual conference yet?
Do not miss this two-day educational event featuring expert presentations, networking with like-minded medical professionals, and connecting with exhibiting organizations in this space! November 20th-21st.
Register now at https://www.factsaboutfertility.org/2026-facts-virtual-conference/
Join us on Friday, November 20th in the evening and Saturday, November 21st during the day.The postpartum period can be beautiful, challenging, unexpected—and a time when women need more support than they realize. In this episode of The Hormone Genius Podcast, we’re joined by Anne Marie Williams, host of the Postpartum on Purpose podcast, to discuss how women can prepare for postpartum with greater understanding, intention, and community.
Anne Marie shares her personal journey through postpartum struggles, including panic attacks, intrusive thoughts, and her eventual diagnosis of postpartum OCD. Her story reminds us that frightening, unwanted thoughts can happen to many new mothers, and experiencing an intrusive thought does not automatically mean you want to act on it.
We discuss the importance of recognizing when postpartum anxiety, depression, or OCD may need professional attention. Anne Marie explains exposure and response prevention (ERP), an evidence-based therapy for OCD, and why it’s important to consider both mental health support and possible physical contributors, such as nutritional deficiencies or other medical conditions.
We also explore the dramatic hormonal changes that occur after birth, how women can support themselves through this transition, and why preparing for postpartum should include more than stocking the freezer with meals. Building a community of support, what Anne Marie calls a “grandma tribe”—can help mothers feel less isolated and give them the practical help they need.
Plus, Anne Marie shares three simple practices for navigating postpartum: free things to be grateful for, one small change to notice, and a daily dose of discomfort. These reminders can help mothers approach this season with greater perspective, flexibility, and purpose.
Find Anne Marie’s postpartum plan and habit tracker at PostpartumOnPurpose.com or follow @postpartumonpurpose on Instagram.
OUR SPONSORS
We Heart Nutrition : Support your nutritional wellness with quality supplements, including postnatal nutrients, iron, omega-3s, and magnesium. Visit WeHeartNutrition.com and use code GENIUS for 20% off.
Radiant Health Clinic : Looking for a root-cause approach to women’s health, fertility, PMS, PCOS, or perimenopause? Learn more about Dr. Monica Minjeur and telehealth services at RadiantClinic.com.
Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare professional about your specific needs. If you experience frightening or distressing postpartum symptoms, seek professional support promptly. If you believe you may harm yourself or your baby, seek immediate emergency help. Call 988 for immediate mental health concerns.