In todays episode of The Pelvic Floor Connection, I’m joined by Aled Hughes — a father whose journey into parenthood was marked by postnatal depression, identity loss, and emotional shutdown.
***Please be aware we explore themes of depression and suicide. Please seek the support you need by contacting 111 or 999 if you have been affected by this episode. Please contact your GP or health care professional.
Together, we explore the often silent mental health experiences of new fathers, and how trauma, sleep deprivation, cultural messaging, and internalised expectations shape men’s ability to ask for help.
This episode is for anyone navigating early parenthood, anyone supporting partners, and anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed, disconnected, or alone in their role.
We talk about:
- The early signs of male postnatal depression no one talks about
- How trauma in the perinatal period impacts identity
-The cultural “be strong, be fine” conditioning men carry
- How shame blocks help-seeking
-The impact of partner dynamics, sleep, fear, and emotional overload
-How Aled found support — and what he wishes all partners knew
-Healing, communication, and reconnecting with your own needs
Resources mentioned
The Colour Monster - Alana LLenas
Connect with Aled:
Instagram @sutmaedad_howsdad
Facebook @how.sdad.sut.mae.dad
If this episode moved you, helped you, or opened a conversation — please leave a review on Apple Podcasts. It genuinely helps more people find this work.
