The Fourth Trimester, Honestly with Cathy McCormick
· 1 h 04 min
Episode The Fourth Trimester, Honestly with Cathy McCormick
In the finale episode of The Cyclist Pregnancy Miniseries, Jess and Kat sit down with Jess’s own postnatal care midwife, Cathy McCormack. With over 30 years of experience as a midwife, IBCLC lactation consultant, and infant mental health specialist (via the Fussy Baby Network), Cathy brings a deeply compassionate, real, and holistic perspective to what actually happens after baby arrives.
Together, the three of them dive into the unglamorous and unfiltered realities of the fourth trimester. Cathy breaks down the physical recovery process, from C-section scar healing and heavy bleeding to bladder trauma, bowel care, and hormone crashes. They explore the emotional transformation of matrescence, why social media rules and contact napping pressure can turn modern mothers into martyrs, and how to spot the signs when postpartum anxiety or depression start to take hold.
They also tackle the vital topic of support systems. They chat about practical ways to prepare your birthing partner, how to protect your relationship through the common dis-satisfaction of that first year, and why taking a simple "pause" can change your entire parenting journey. This candid, reassuring conversation is packed with wisdom for expectant mamas, support people, and anyone navigating life with a newborn.
This series is proudly brought to you by our headline sponsor, Pure Mama. Thoughtfully developed, genuinely clean bodycare for every stage of pregnancy and postpartum: https://www.puremama.com
And our supporting partner The Lactation Station, easy, practical products for pregnancy, postpartum and breastfeeding: https://www.thelactationstation.co.nz
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Instagram: @wearethecyclist
Website: wearethecyclist.com
Hit play. And send this finale episode to your partner, family, or support crew to help them truly understand how to show up for you during postpartum recovery.
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