Meghan Markle made a dramatic comeback to the world of podcasting with her project, Archetypes Presents: Confessions of a Female Founder. The Duchess of Sussex opened up in the first episode about a deeply personal experience - her struggle with postpartum preeclampsia, a life-threatening and under-the-radar condition that affects new mothers.
A rare and terrifying experience
During an honest talk with Bumble founder Whitney Wolfe Herd, Meghan revealed that both of them had gone through postpartum preeclampsia, a medical condition characterized by elevated blood pressure and possible damage to organs, which can prove deadly if untreated.
"We both had just extremely similar experiences - although we didn't know each other then, but we both experienced preeclampsia. Postpartum preeclampsia," Meghan disclosed. "It's so rare and so terrifying. And you're still trying to balance all of these things, and the world doesn't have any idea what's going on behind closed doors."
Wolfe Herd, who left her post as CEO of Bumble earlier this year, echoed Meghan's feelings. "I mean, life or death, really," she said, underscoring the gravity of the condition.
Meghan did not indicate whether she suffered from preeclampsia after giving birth to her son, Archie, or her daughter, Lilibet, but by speaking out about the topic, she underscores the significance of maternal health and the struggle faced by many women in silence.
What is Preeclampsia and why it is dangerous during pregnancy
Preeclampsia is a dangerous pregnancy condition marked by high blood pressure and potential organ damage, primarily affecting the liver and kidneys. It typically develops after the 20th week of pregnancy and poses severe risks to both the mother and baby.
This condition can lead to complications like preterm birth, organ failure, and fetal growth restriction. In severe cases, it may progress to eclampsia, causing seizures that can be fatal. Symptoms include persistent headaches, swelling in the hands and face, vision problems, and high blood pressure. If left untreated, preeclampsia can result in placental abruption, reducing oxygen supply to the baby.
Management includes regular monitoring, blood pressure control, and, in critical cases, early delivery. Expecting mothers should undergo routine check-ups to detect preeclampsia early. Prompt medical intervention is crucial to ensure a safe pregnancy and minimize risks for both mother and child.
Balancing motherhood and business
Aside from the medical scare, Meghan utilized the experience to think about the delicate balance of motherhood and career, especially as she begins her new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard. She explained how she plans her work according to her children's schedules, making sure that she is still available to them while establishing her business.
"I don't go out the door to head to an office; my office is here," Meghan explained. "She [Lilibet] only does a half-day in preschool. If she wakes up and feels like finding me, she knows where to find me. She'll be sitting there on my lap during one of these meetings. I wouldn't have it any other way."
She also acknowledged the emotional labor involved in raising children while striving to create something meaningful. "You’re building something while your child is going through potty training. And both are just as important."
Technology’s role in work-life integration
Wolfe Herd highlighted how evolving technology has made it easier for working mothers to balance their careers and personal lives more effortlessly. "Technology is a beautiful tool for parents because you can dial in and be present and do a great job on the call while you sit in the carpool line."
The new podcast series, created in association with Lemonada Media, will comprise eight episodes dedicated to the triumphs and setbacks of female entrepreneurs as they negotiate leadership, innovation, and family obligations.
Meghan's ongoing advocacy for women
Meghan's return to podcasting comes on the heels of her earlier effort, Archetypes, launched in 2022 on Spotify, which delved into the terminology ascribed to women in the world. Her current effort represents a renewed focus on female empowerment and the crossover of personal and professional identity.
She said, "They're opening up, sharing their tips, tricks (and tumbles). It has been absolutely eye-opening and inspiring. and fun!"
With Confessions of a Female Founder, Meghan Markle shines the spotlight on women's struggles and successes once again, providing a platform for open conversations on success, failure, and the precarious balancing act of contemporary motherhood.
A rare and terrifying experience
During an honest talk with Bumble founder Whitney Wolfe Herd, Meghan revealed that both of them had gone through postpartum preeclampsia, a medical condition characterized by elevated blood pressure and possible damage to organs, which can prove deadly if untreated.
"We both had just extremely similar experiences - although we didn't know each other then, but we both experienced preeclampsia. Postpartum preeclampsia," Meghan disclosed. "It's so rare and so terrifying. And you're still trying to balance all of these things, and the world doesn't have any idea what's going on behind closed doors."
Wolfe Herd, who left her post as CEO of Bumble earlier this year, echoed Meghan's feelings. "I mean, life or death, really," she said, underscoring the gravity of the condition.
Meghan did not indicate whether she suffered from preeclampsia after giving birth to her son, Archie, or her daughter, Lilibet, but by speaking out about the topic, she underscores the significance of maternal health and the struggle faced by many women in silence.
What is Preeclampsia and why it is dangerous during pregnancy
Preeclampsia is a dangerous pregnancy condition marked by high blood pressure and potential organ damage, primarily affecting the liver and kidneys. It typically develops after the 20th week of pregnancy and poses severe risks to both the mother and baby.
This condition can lead to complications like preterm birth, organ failure, and fetal growth restriction. In severe cases, it may progress to eclampsia, causing seizures that can be fatal. Symptoms include persistent headaches, swelling in the hands and face, vision problems, and high blood pressure. If left untreated, preeclampsia can result in placental abruption, reducing oxygen supply to the baby.
Management includes regular monitoring, blood pressure control, and, in critical cases, early delivery. Expecting mothers should undergo routine check-ups to detect preeclampsia early. Prompt medical intervention is crucial to ensure a safe pregnancy and minimize risks for both mother and child.
Currently listening to new podcast by Meghan, Duchess of Sussex - Confessions of a Female Founder.
— D.B.🌸 (@DBrown99944) April 8, 2025
Finding out Meghan experienced postpartum preeclampsia in the midst of all that media smear campaigns and vitriol🥹#MeghanSussex #ConfessionsOfAFemaleFounder #AsEver #COAFF pic.twitter.com/ux6yaJriFA
Balancing motherhood and business
Aside from the medical scare, Meghan utilized the experience to think about the delicate balance of motherhood and career, especially as she begins her new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard. She explained how she plans her work according to her children's schedules, making sure that she is still available to them while establishing her business.
"I don't go out the door to head to an office; my office is here," Meghan explained. "She [Lilibet] only does a half-day in preschool. If she wakes up and feels like finding me, she knows where to find me. She'll be sitting there on my lap during one of these meetings. I wouldn't have it any other way."
She also acknowledged the emotional labor involved in raising children while striving to create something meaningful. "You’re building something while your child is going through potty training. And both are just as important."
Technology’s role in work-life integration
Wolfe Herd highlighted how evolving technology has made it easier for working mothers to balance their careers and personal lives more effortlessly. "Technology is a beautiful tool for parents because you can dial in and be present and do a great job on the call while you sit in the carpool line."
The new podcast series, created in association with Lemonada Media, will comprise eight episodes dedicated to the triumphs and setbacks of female entrepreneurs as they negotiate leadership, innovation, and family obligations.
Meghan's ongoing advocacy for women
Meghan's return to podcasting comes on the heels of her earlier effort, Archetypes, launched in 2022 on Spotify, which delved into the terminology ascribed to women in the world. Her current effort represents a renewed focus on female empowerment and the crossover of personal and professional identity.
She said, "They're opening up, sharing their tips, tricks (and tumbles). It has been absolutely eye-opening and inspiring. and fun!"
With Confessions of a Female Founder, Meghan Markle shines the spotlight on women's struggles and successes once again, providing a platform for open conversations on success, failure, and the precarious balancing act of contemporary motherhood.
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