MOTHERHOOD: It's not a diagnosis for fatigue

What if I told you fatigue wasn’t a normal part of motherhood?

Or that the idea of ‘mum brain’ is a stereotype that wrongly sets mums up to believe motherhood equals chronically fatigued. 

What if I told you that lack of sleep might not be the reason you feel exhausted or burnt out? 

It’s clear from day one of motherhood that it won’t be a piece of cake, but when do we ‘make the call’ between ‘normal’ and ‘depleted’. 

 

In my clinical practice, fatigue, and brain fog, which is characterised as lack of focus, confusion, and forgetfulness are the most common symptoms mothers present with, and often sleep deprivation ISN’T the underlying cause.  

Knowing this information, the big question here is:
what else could it be? 

Pregnancy and childbirth place a HUGE demand on a mother’s body and nutrients like iron, B12, folate and DHA are used up rapidly. Throw in the demands of breastfeeding, societal pressures, and lack of sleep, there is no wonder why so many mothers end up feeling ‘completely depleted’ or literally ‘sucked dry’. 

 

Postpartum depletion is the result of the hormonal, physical and emotional changes that occur after childbirth.

Symptoms of postpartum depletion can include: 

·      Fatigue

·      Brain fog

·      Noise sensitivity 

·      Self-doubt 

·      Hypervigilance 

 

Like most things in life, there is no ‘quick fix’ but there are steps you can take today to make sure your health is getting back on track ASAP! 

  • Rule out nutrient deficiencies, especially iron. Symptoms of iron deficiency are fatigue, poor concentration, poor exercise tolerance and weakened immunity. 

  • Eat small regular and protein rich meals. Prioritising eating protein balanced meals that are easy to grab and go will keep you energised all day! Some great options include, fritters, frittata, rissoles, overnight oats, chia pudding and smoothies. These options are easy to prepare and can be eaten with one hand on the go! 

  • If you are breastfeeding, continue to supplement essential nutrients like iodine and DHA which are recommended supplements during this ‘high demand’ time. 

  • Use mindfulness techniques to support nervous system flexibility and resilience. There are many different types of mindfulness techniques such as breath work, gratitude, journaling, movement. You may need to try a variety before you find what works best for you! 

  • Consider an Activated B Vitamin supplement, B-vitamins are not stored in the body and we use them up rapidly throughout the day. B-vitamins are essential for energy production! They are best taken in the morning with breakfast. 

Alana specialises in a variety of conditions including : Reproductive Health Conditions, Pregnancy, Gut Health, Skin Conditions, Hormonal Conditions + more.  

She’s also a mother to a very wonderful little human!

Alana is a fully qualified Naturopath registered with the Naturopaths and Herbalists Association of Australia (NHAA).

Check her out:

Website: https://www.alanamulhallnaturopath.com.au

Instagram @alanamulhallnaturopath_



Alana Mulhall