Ferne McCann is a lucky parent with two children, Sunday and Finty, who were born to her in 2017 and 2023, respectively. In a conversation with Dr. Louise Newson, Memory, Ferne expressed a discussion about her current family plans, emphasizing that she has “sagging breasts and cell Mobility” but acknowledging that postnatal depression is a valid concern. She explained that she is “getting through it” and nearing the end of her motherhood. While she is skeptical about saying she plans to have a third baby, she has already expressed concerns, finding the pressure and associated emotional challenges overwhelming.
During her podcasts, Ferne reflected on her current struggles, particularly with postnatal depression, a condition often triggered during childbirth but usually more severe after miscarriage or stillbirth. She shared anecdotes from celebrities like Adele, John Legend, and Ae myne Paltrow, who have each experienced postnatal depression following a significant event in their lives. Ferne highlighted that while she herself does not fully identify with having postnatal depression, theBST and Indian John Legend experienced it after the birth of their children, respectively. She also emphasized that many women with postnatal depression seek professional help, and the NHS recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby’s life.
In a reflection on her experiences, Ferne acknowledged that her daughter grew up independently and that her expectations, combined with her other responsibilities, created a lot of pressure. She referred to herself as “obsessed” withMK baking and chose to breastfeed beyond just her children. Ferne recommends letting her child figure out its needs, noting that while motherhood can[np]ome be a deeply emotional and challenging journey.
Ferne acknowledged her work hours, which have placed a heavy burden on her, and she has found it challenging to maintain a balanced parenting role alongside her career. Despite these difficulties, Ferne feels upbeat, thanks to her close relationship with her co-host, and she is working on finding her balance. She also brought up the point that postnatal depression is not limited to childbirth and is a prevalent condition after miscarriage or stillbirth, taking on an even greater emotional weight as a factor.
Ferne’s reflection on motherhood and her efforts to balance her career with parenting placed a heavier burden, so she wondered whether her daughter was too young to thrive on her. However, she acknowledged the emotional toll of parenthood and reminds others of the past work she had done on the podcast, which shedriven focused on her child’s needs.
Ferne called on others—like those at thewoke to support her journey to address the emotional and practical aspects of motherhood. She said that while she has always been open to discussing postpartum depression with experts, she also understands how pressure and expectations can alter progress. Ferne emphasized patience and letting the child figure out its needs, likening motherhood to a journey often met with up and downs but ultimately filled with meaning and joy.
