In this episode, I have an inspiring discussion with Dr. Brenna Squires, a psychologist and couples fertility coach. Together, we delve into the complexities of communication, teamwork, and boundary-setting for couples facing fertility challenges. Dr. Squires shares her personal seven-year infertility journey and highlights strategies that helped her and her husband, emphasizing the importance of deep communication, creating safe spaces, and prioritizing the relationship. The episode is rich with practical tips and real-life examples, aimed at helping couples build stronger foundations and navigate the emotional landscape of the fertility journey.
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Understanding Communication and Teamwork
Dr. Brenna Squires emphasizes the critical nature of communication in strengthening relationships for couples attempting to conceive. During her seven-year personal struggle with infertility, she discovered that what she and her husband thought was communication was merely surface-level conversation. They weren't truly working as a team. By beginning to share their fears, frustrations, and hopes, they developed much deeper connections. According to Dr. Squires, this deeper level of communication not only improved their relationship but also set the groundwork for an enduring family foundation.
The Role of Assumptions and Expectations
Katie and Brenna delve into the pitfalls of assumptions and expectations within relationships during the fertility journey. Often, partners make assumptions about what the other is feeling or thinking, leading to misunderstandings and undue stress. Dr. Squires advises couples to have open and honest conversations to clarify these assumptions and expectations. This vulnerability can provide essential context and help partners approach each other with more empathy and support.
Importance of Boundary Setting
Boundaries, both internal and external, play a pivotal role in maintaining relationship health. Dr. Squires shared her own experience of living with her mother-in-law as a lesson in understanding and establishing boundaries. These lessons extended beyond her home, as she learned to say no to unnecessary obligations that could detract from relationship quality. Setting boundaries allows couples to make time for restorative solo or shared activities, which are crucial for well-being and relationship health.
Supporting the Male Partner
In the context of fertility struggles, Dr. Brenna Squires provides insights on supporting male partners who might be hesitant to open up. Creating a safe space for them to share their feelings is essential. By being clear about when she could be the strong support system, Brenna was able to facilitate deeper connections and understanding with her partner, allowing him to express his emotions more freely.
Strategies and Success Stories
Dr. Squires outlines several key strategies that have proven effective for many couples struggling with fertility issues, including:
1. Open Communication: Encourage ongoing dialogue about fears, assumptions, and hopes.
2. Alignment in Goals: Ensure that both partners have a shared vision for family planning.
3. Teamwork and Integration: Coordinate efforts and support to deal with external challenges.
4. Healthy Boundaries with External Parties: Establish protective boundaries where necessary.
5. Faith and Belief Systems: Explore and align spiritual or personal beliefs to strengthen the bond.
One particularly inspiring example from her practice was a couple who, through improving communication and boundary-setting, not only strengthened their relationship but also experienced positive changes that extended into their professional lives.
Closing Thoughts
The journey toward parenthood is indeed a complex one, fraught with varying levels of emotional, physical, and relational challenges. However, as shared by Dr. Brenna Squires on the podcast, it is also an opportunity to build resilience, deepen relationships, and prepare a nurturing environment for future family growth. By prioritizing communication, setting boundaries, and collaborating as a team, couples can not only survive the fertility journey but thrive together.
For those embarking on or currently navigating this journey, integrating these insights and strategies can make a world of difference in fostering a supportive and loving environment. If you wish to dive deeper into Dr. Brenna Squires' methodology, her complimentary offer, "Eight Powerful Ways to Strengthen Your Marriage While Trying to Conceive," is available and well worth exploring. You can connect with her through Encourage and Empower Wellness or follow her on Instagram and LinkedIn for ongoing support and inspiration.
00:00 Welcome to Rising Into Mindful Motherhood
00:53 Introducing Dr. Brenna Squires
01:49 The Importance of Communication
03:35 Setting Boundaries for a Healthy Relationship
06:29 Supporting Each Other Through Fertility Challenges
14:26 Creating a Safe Space for Vulnerability
19:03 Prioritizing Marriage and Setting Boundaries
24:48 Tips for Couples Struggling to Conceive
29:02 Success Stories and Final Thoughts
33:51 Closing Remarks and Special Offer
Connect with Dr. Brenna:
Website: http://www.EncourageandEmpowerWellness.com
Instagram: http://www.Instagram.com/drbrennasquires
Freebie: https://www.encourageandempowerwellness.com/strongertogetherpdf
Are you currently on your TTC or fertility journey?
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Email - katiewood@happynourishedmotherhood.com
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Dr. Katie Wood is a pharmacist and integrative fertility consultant certified in Integrative Nutrition, Fertile Foundations and Womb Embodiment with over a decade of experience. She helps couples to restore their fertility so they can finally *get and stay* pregnant.
DISCLAIMER: By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use it as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others. This podcast offers information to help the listener cooperate with physicians, mental health professionals or other healthcare providers in a mutual quest for optimal well-being. We advise listeners to carefully review and understand the ideas presented, and to consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. Under no circumstances shall Pharm to Wellness LLC, any guests or contributors to the Rising into Mindful Motherhood podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of Pharm to Wellness LLC be responsible for damages arising from the use of the podcast. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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