Lindsey Basler’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and strength as she navigated the uncharted waters of motherhood during the pandemic.
From her experience as a teacher to enduring preeclampsia, premature birth, and the NICU journey with her daughter, Piper, Lindsey’s transparency sheds light on the emotional complexities of motherhood.
Embracing the Unexpected
Lindsey’s pregnancy took an unexpected turn when she developed preeclampsia, a condition marked by high blood pressure and other complications. She recalls the physical challenges and emotional toll it took: “Preeclampsia, I don’t think, gets enough attention even though it is pretty prevalent.” Her birth plan shifted drastically as Piper arrived prematurely, requiring an extended stay in the NICU.
“My birth plan’s gonna be a little altered. It’s not gonna be exactly what I thought it was gonna be. But then to like have it be even further and even further and even further from what you thought it was going to be, that’s so much to absorb,” she shares, highlighting the emotional process of accepting an altered reality.

The NICU and Breastfeeding Challenges
Lindsey’s NICU experience was both a testament to her strength and a reminder of the importance of healthcare support. “Leaving the hospital without your baby can be emotionally challenging,” she says, acknowledging the heartbreak many NICU parents face. The support from NICU nurses provided her with comfort and reassurance during those difficult weeks.
Breastfeeding presented another challenge, leading Lindsey to make the decision to switch to formula. While this was a tough choice, it ultimately brought relief and allowed her to focus on bonding with Piper. “Breastfeeding can be challenging, and it’s okay to switch to formula if it’s the best option for both the baby and the mother,” Lindsey emphasizes.

Postpartum Mental Health and Healing
Lindsey also opens up about her experience with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), sharing how she sought help to navigate postpartum struggles. She highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing mental health issues, noting that healing can often be found in creative outlets and community support.
“Just because you’ve gone through birth trauma doesn’t necessarily mean that you will have a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder, but you are definitely more susceptible if you’ve gone through a traumatic birth experience,” she explains. Her journey underscores the value of honesty, advocacy, and creating safe spaces for mothers to share their stories.
Motherhood is a journey of self-discovery and transformation. If you are navigating postpartum challenges, remember: healing takes time, support is essential, and your intuition is a powerful guide.
You can find resources and support by visiting https://www.postpartum.net/
Catch Lindsey's episode here!
*This post was created by AI, drawing on information and transcripts from Lindsey's podcast episode.
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