Hormones change dramatically during pregnancy and the postpartum period. These shifts can be surprising and affect both physical and mental health. But they don’t have to catch moms off guard; helpful information and support are available.
In this episode of Momcozy Village: Together We Grow, Natalie Gouché talks with Dr. Kate Hom, an OB-GYN and co-founder of Mone Wellness, an app that supports moms throughout the postpartum period.
Dr. Kate describes pregnancy as a “hormonal cascade,” with each trimester bringing different changes that affect moms in many ways. Symptoms such as nausea and mood changes may ease from the first to the second trimester as hormones stabilize, while the well-known pregnancy glow may appear.
During the postpartum period, estrogen and progesterone drop sharply within 24 to 48 hours after birth, which can contribute to emotional overwhelm and brain fog. Once the baby arrives, sleep deprivation, hunger, and environmental factors can also affect blood sugar levels, cortisol levels, and other chemicals in the body.
Breastfeeding brings another major hormonal shift. Prolactin supports milk production while suppressing ovulation, and oxytocin helps strengthen the bond between mom and baby.
If a mom feels overwhelmed, the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale can help identify whether she may benefit from further support or treatment.
Episode Highlights
01:26 – How hormones change across trimesters.
04:20 – The misunderstood parts of pregnancy hormones.
06:03 – How hormones change after birth.
08:04 – What is ‘normal’ when it comes to hormones?
09:45 – Breastfeeding and hormones.
12:44 – The similarities between menopause and postpartum.
15:37 – Where moms can get help if they’re struggling.
19:51 – Dr. Kate’s final thoughts.
About the Guest: Dr. Kate Hom
Dr. Katherine "Kate" Hom, MD, FACOG, is a board-certified OB/GYN and co-founder of Mone Wellness, a San Diego-based startup whose app supports new mothers through the "fourth trimester" (the first 12 weeks postpartum). She practices at UC Irvine's Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute (SSIHI) and positions herself as a bridge between conventional obstetric medicine and holistic, integrative women's health care.
Connect With Us
About the Podcast: Momcozy Village – Together We Grow
Momcozy Village: Together We Grow is a podcast where moms gather to learn, share, and support each other. Hosted by Natalie Gouché, each episode features inspiring conversations on motherhood: from career transitions to mental health and beyond.
Backed by Momcozy, makers of innovative wearable breast pumps and cozy nursing bras, the podcast is part of a movement to empower moms through every phase of early motherhood
Enjoying the Show?
Subscribe so you never miss an episode. If you’re enjoying the conversations, consider leaving a five-star review. It helps us grow the village and support more moms.
Narrated by Abbe Opher
Music by Sokratis Seirlis
What is Momcozy Village - Together We Grow?
Welcome to the Momcozy Village - Together We Grow. Dive into candid conversations with host Natalie Gouché, alongside maternity experts and remarkable moms. Together, we'll explore the highs and lows of motherhood and uncover new possibilities for personal growth.
In each episode, you'll have the opportunity to hear practical parenting tips tailored to your needs, inspiring mom stories, and receive essential tips on self-care and personal development. Discover how to thrive while nurturing both your baby and yourself in our community.
Raise a child, nurture yourself. Embark on this journey of support, connection, joy, and self-discovery with us!