In this episode, I sit down with Jenny to talk about something many moms quietly struggle with but don’t always say out loud: health anxiety after becoming a parent. Jenny shares how her worries around health intensified after motherhood, shifting from occasional concern to intrusive, obsessive thoughts that were hard to shut off. Suddenly, small things felt catastrophic, and the weight of responsibility for her family made everything feel more fragile.

Together, we explore how becoming a mother can heighten awareness of mortality, deepen fear, and completely change the way we think about our bodies and our lives. Jenny reflects on how loving her family so deeply shaped her anxiety but also her appreciation for life. This conversation is about naming the fear without judgment, understanding why it shows up, and reminding ourselves that we are not broken for feeling this way. Awareness, compassion, and support matter specially when anxiety tries to take over.

Key Takeaways

1. Motherhood can amplify underlying anxiety in ways that feel sudden and overwhelming
2. Obsessive thoughts often stem from love and responsibility, not weakness
3. Fear can coexist with gratitude, appreciation, and deep connection
4. Talking openly about anxiety reduces shame and creates space for support

About The Host:

Dr. Christelle Oliver-Dussault is a family physician with a clinical focus on aesthetic medicine, women’s health, and psycho-education. Her work is grounded in a holistic, whole-person approach that integrates medical science with a deep appreciation of the mind–body connection. Alongside her clinical practice, she is deeply committed to medical education and mentors the next generation of family physicians through her work with the Department of Family Medicine at the University of British Columbia.

She is the founder of the Reclaim The Pink Within, a community created to support women through life’s most profound transitions. This project was born from personal experience. After becoming a mother, Dr. Oliver-Dussault became aware of a quiet but profound shift in her sense of self, one she had long observed in her patients, yet only fully understood once she lived it herself. What had once been a clinical observation became a deeply personal insight, shaping the lens through which she now supports and guides other women.

You can connect with her on Instagram at @drchristellemd and @getyourpinkback_project

Website: www.getyourpinkbackproject.com

Email: info@getyourpinkbackproject.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Reclaim The Pink Within podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The content shared in this podcast reflects the personal views and professional experiences of the host and guests and is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

While Dr. Christelle Oliver-Dussault is a licensed physician, this podcast does not constitute a doctor–patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your own qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical or mental health concerns, diagnoses, or treatment decisions. Never...