First-time mum to premature twins at 40: How Psychologist Cristina handled conflicting emotions and the unique challenge of raising multiples | S3E33
Becoming a parent for the first time can be an amazing and exciting experience, but also very scary and overwhelming. Considering, then, that today’s guest, Cristina, was 40 with an established career when she found out she was pregnant, then shortly after discovered she was having twins – even with her doctorate in psychology, she just wasn’t prepared for the vastly conflicting emotions that came up for her.
After a high-risk pregnancy and premature birth, by the time she was able to take her babies home, her confidence was shattered and she struggled with self-doubt and beliefs of not being a “good enough” mother. Realising that all her struggles were down to a lot that was lacking in the systems around her, she set out to help other parents through the incredible life change that is becoming a first time parent to multiple children.
So if you’re a parent of multiples, or sometimes feel shame about the emotions that come up for you, this chat with Cristina will help to reassure you that parenting perfectly is not a thing – and you’re not alone in how you feel!
In this episode, we’re chatting about:
- The struggles Cristina faced as a 40 year old first time parent to premature twins
- Handling the mix of emotions that come up not just as a mother but as a mother of multiples
- Why it’s important to realise that there is no perfect way to parent
- How to regulate as a parent and why you should embrace your emotions
Take what you need!
[01:44] The creation of Fierce, Kind Mama
[07:09] Cristina’s experience of having twins at 40
[10:06] Mixed emotions in motherhood
[18:37] Differences between raising multiples vs singletons
[24:31] Challenging the narrative of “doing things perfectly”
[29:51] Emotionally regulating yourself as a parent who has limited time
[36:24] Stay connected with Cristina after the show
A huge thank you to Emma at Cover My Bubble for supporting our podcast - you can find out more about all that Cover My Bubble offer at www.covermybubble.co.uk
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Listen to the Fierce, Kind Mama of Multiples podcast
Email Cristina at hello@fiercekindmama.com