As busy mums ourselves, we were thrilled to speak to Alana and Shannon, co-founders of Mothers Mylk, Australia’s first online health hub for mums! Mothers Mylk are on a mission to fill the very large gap in postpartum health care available to mothers in the mainstream medical world and reduce the rates of postpartum health conditions. Their book Nourished Postpartum and online courses provide vital education on what to expect through pregnancy and postpartum, and empower mums to take a holistic approach to their health so they can feel their best through motherhood.
We’d love to hear more about your personal and business journey which inspired you to create Mothers Mylk.
Alana: I’m a Naturopath and own a women’s health clinic in Brisbane. I’ve seen major gaps in our healthcare system which leads mothers to feel depleted and increases their risks of developing postpartum health conditions like postpartum depression. I had my first baby boy in 2021 (at the same time we were writing our first book Nourished Postpartum). Since then we’ve developed our pregnancy nutrition course, postpartum depletion course and so many more mini-courses to support mamas to and through motherhood.
Shannon: Back when I had my first baby in 2020 I had no idea what to expect, nor was I provided the information I needed to support myself through such a transformative time. Sadly I experienced an array of postpartum health conditions including depression, depletion, anxiety, thyroiditis… the list could go on! It was supposed to be the best time of my life but it ended up being the darkest time of my life. By educating myself I learnt that there were many preventative strategies to these conditions which if I had access to could have changed my entire postpartum journey. I didn’t want any mother to have to go through the same experience I had, and so Mothers Mylk was born!
What do you wish people knew about the 4th trimester?
The fourth trimester is such a transformative time for a mother. We wish that mothers and their families were provided education on the hormonal, social and physical changes that will be experienced during this time. Understanding Matrescence and preventing Postpartum Depletion could be one of the best things to research during pregnancy. Everyone plans for birth, but very few plan for postpartum. Our book and courses cover all the information you need to know!
What are your top 3 tips for new mums?
- Ask for help (people often want to help, they just don’t always know how!)
- Research Matrescence and Postpartum Depletion
- Eat protein with every meal (it will support your energy, mood and brain function)
What inspires you?
Alana: My clients and our mama community! The strength and courage that the mothers around me have teaches me so much and gives me so much strength.
Shannon: My past experience with postpartum depletion/depression and knowing that sharing my story can help other mums.
Best advice you’ve been given?
Alana: Ask for help. My sister told me this when I was pregnant with Hudson. She said no matter how hard it is, you need to ask for help when you are struggling. Her voice pops into my head every time I need help and gives me the courage to ask for it without guilt!
Shannon: Don’t forget to put your own oxygen mask on first.
What’s your favourite recipe to make with our Mylk Bases?
The Nutty Acai Bowl recipe! It’s delicious and the Mylk Bases make it so creamy – they’re the perfect base!
Special offer: Use the code ULUHYE for 15% off the Mothers Mylk range here.
