FERTILTY: WOMEN’S ROMAN EMPIRE? Season 2 Episode 9 This special episode of Bravery Academy features Dr. Victoria Thompson with Emma discussing the joys and challenges during different stages of pregnancy - from pre-pregnancy anxieties right through to the first two trimesters. They also touch upon topics such as miscarriages, fertility experiences, and the impact of these on relationships. Drawing from their own experiences and wisdom, they explore coping mechanisms for stress, the importance of communication, and the unpredictable physiological changes that women go through. The episode underlines the importance of seeking help, creating space, self-care, body acceptance, and staying informed while also highlighting how unique every pregnancy journey is. The discussion also explores the psychological and emotional aspects of pregnancy, providing reassurance that anxiety, stress, and uncertainty are common experiences among women. 00:00 Introduction to the Episode 00:07 The Excitement and Challenges of Pregnancy 00:40 Personal Experiences and Insights 01:24 The Stress and Anxiety of Pre-Pregnancy 02:40 The Impact of Stress on Fertility 03:50 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Infertility 06:54 The Pressure and Expectations of Society 07:55 The Struggles and Coping Mechanisms of Fertility Treatment 10:59 The Importance of Communication and Support 17:07 The Impact of Miscarriage and Grief 19:20 The Experience of Hyperemesis Gravidarum 22:33 Coping with Pregnancy Challenges 23:07 Navigating Medical Support 24:04 Understanding the Reality of Pregnancy 25:46 Dealing with Anxiety and Uncertainty 28:30 The Importance of Seeking Help 29:40 The Role of Partners in Pregnancy 30:25 Body Changes and Acceptance 33:18 The Impact of Pregnancy on Mental Health 35:45 Body Image and Self-Acceptance 40:41 Looking Forward to Motherhood Remember to subscribe to The Bravery Academy podcast for more inspiring conversations. Access ad-free, early access content on Apple Podcasts and patreon.com/thebraveryacademy. And if you have a question get in touch with Emma on Instagram or Facebook @thebreatheffect @drvictoriathompson MORE CONTENT or to simply support the Podcast: patreon.com/thebraveryacademy WANT AD FREE/ EARLY ACCESS APPLE PODCASTS SUBSCRIBERS MORE CONTENT or to simply support the Podcast: patreon.com/thebraveryacademy Subscribe to "The Bravery Academy" on Apple Podcasts to access early ad-free episodes and be part of a community dedicated to building resilience. WANT AD FREE/ EARLY ACCESS APPLE PODCASTS SUBSCRIBERS Check out Emma’s website to access her free resources such as her breathing quiz and find out how you work with her one on one, in a group, with her Thrive Workshops or on retreat: THE BREATH EFFECT RESOURCES The Bravery Academy is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The episodes on The Bravery Academy discuss a range of topics from mental health, trauma, abuse, stress, loss and bravery. If you are struggling please reach out for help. If you are in New Zealand and need to talk free, call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counselor. The Depression helpline is on 0800 111 757 or free text 4202(to talk to a trained counselor about how you are feeling or to ask any questions). Youthline call 080 0376 633 or free text 234. You are not alone. PROUDLY PRESENTED BY Sarah Ferris Media on the EVERGREEN NETWORK Check out more: CONNING THE CON KLOOGHLESS - THE LONG CON GUILTY GREENIE STOP THE KILLING Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices