Ep. 172 - The psychology of infertility and new parenthood: A conversation with Dr. Mary Riddle

In this episode, reproductive mental health expert Dr. Mary Riddle joins us to explore the psychological dimensions of infertility, new parenthood, and donor conception — drawing on both clinical expertise and her own fertility journey.

Dr. Riddle reframes infertility as a genuine psychological crisis, not just a medical one and discusses reasons for dropping out of treatment. She further discusses how partners often grieve differently, and assuming otherwise creates distance. After finally conceiving, parents may face anxious pregnancies and guilt around normal feelings of ambivalence — all of which Dr. Riddle urges parents to normalize and voice.

On postpartum mental health, she covers both depression and the under-recognized postpartum anxiety (affecting 11–21% of new mothers), encouraging parents not to let cultural pressure to appear blissful delay seeking help. Finally, Dr. Riddle advocates for early, open conversations with donor-conceived children.

Resources

• Seleni Institute (seleni.org) — therapy, support groups, and educational resources for individuals and families navigating infertility, postpartum mental health, and all stages of the family-building journey

• American Society for Reproductive Medicine (asrm.org) — mental health provider finder and patient resources

• maryriddle.com — Dr. Riddle's research and practice information (coming soon)