Dr Punam Krishan: Why So Many Mothers Feel Exhausted, Overwhelmed and Unseen

About this episode

Zoe Blaskey interviews Dr Punam Krishan about the challenges mothers face regarding their health and well-being, particularly after her own experiences with breast cancer and postnatal depression.

What happens when a doctor becomes the patient? This week, Zoe sits down with GP, broadcaster and author Dr Punam Krishan for a powerful conversation about motherhood, health and what happens when we put ourselves last. Following her recent breast cancer diagnosis, Punam reflects on recovery, the traumatic birth of her first child, severe postnatal depression, and the moment she realised that while everyone was focused on the baby, nobody was asking how she was. Together, Zoe and Punam explore the "maternal health penalty" - why so many mothers normalise exhaustion, pain and overwhelm - and what needs to change so mothers receive the care and support they deserve. 💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: Why mothers often ignore symptoms and put their own health last The hidden long-term impact of birth trauma and postnatal depression What the "maternal health penalty" means and why it affects millions of women How motherhood physically changes the brain, nervous system and body The symptoms mothers should never dismiss as "normal" How to advocate for yourself and get the healthcare support you need If you've ever felt exhausted, unseen or wondered whether what you're experiencing is…

People in this episode

Host: Zoe Blaskey

Guest: Dr Punam Krishan

Topics covered

• maternal health
• breast cancer
• postnatal depression
• birth trauma
• motherhood burnout
• women's health

Keywords

• maternal health penalty
• exhaustion
• birth trauma
• mental load
• healthcare support
• motherhood identity

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: breast cancer, postnatal depression, maternal health penalty

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