39. Why It’s Okay to Feel Both Love and Frustration as a Mom with Dr. Margo Lowy

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Motherhood is filled with love, joy, and beautiful moments—but it also holds frustration, guilt, and sometimes even resentment. In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Dr. Margo Lowy, author of Maternal Ambivalence: The Loving Moments & Bitter Truths of Motherhood. Together, we explore the real, complex emotions that many moms experience but rarely talk about.

Dr. Lowy brings light to the concept of maternal ambivalence—the idea that it’s possible to deeply love your child and still feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or even conflicted at times. She shares why these feelings are not only normal but essential to acknowledge for a mom’s emotional well-being.

If you’ve ever wondered, "Is it just me who feels this way?" — this conversation is for you.

In this episode, we cover

• What maternal ambivalence is and why it matters
• How to hold love and struggle at the same time
• Common cultural myths that make moms feel guilty
• How partners and loved ones can support moms through mixed emotions
• Why talking about the hard parts of motherhood helps moms feel less alone

Connect with Dr. Margo Lowy: 

>>Head to her website to learn more about her work and her newest book - Maternal Amivalence: The Loving Moments & Bitter Truths of Motherhood

>>Send her a DM on Instagram @drmargolowy

Resources Mentioned on the Podcast:

>>Mothering Through the Darkness: Women Open Up About the Postpartum Experience Edited By Jessica Smock and Stephanie Sprenger

Support the show

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>>Don’t forget to follow along over on Instagram at @abridgetomotherhood for more.

>>Visit our website: www.abridgetomotherhood.com

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