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In Part Two of our conversation with Debbie, we delve deeper into the emotional aftermath of involuntary childlessness and what it means to reclaim identity and purpose beyond motherhood. Debbie shares how her healing journey evolved over time—from silent grief and societal pressure to finding empowerment through community, advocacy, and storytelling.

We explore the nuanced realities of life after fertility loss: the quiet milestones, the unexpected triggers, and the process of redefining fulfillment in a world where parenthood is often seen as the default. Debbie also reflects on the ways pronatalist messaging continues to shape public discourse, healthcare practices, and even well-meaning relationships.

This episode offers a powerful continuation of Debbie’s story and a compassionate look at what it takes to live a full, visible life outside traditional narratives of womanhood. Whether you’re childless, childfree, or simply seeking to better understand this often-silenced experience, Debbie’s insight brings validation, solidarity, and hope.

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After coming to terms with the end of her journey to motherhood, Debbie has spent years processing the emotional impact of being labeled “childless” in a society that often idealizes parenthood. Her recent work focuses on sharing her personal experience and raising awareness about the prevalence and influence of pronatalism in modern culture.

Debbie was diagnosed with unexplained infertility following three years of unsuccessful attempts to conceive. Later, with a different partner, she endured the loss of four pregnancies due to early miscarriage, again without a clear medical explanation aside from age-related factors.

Her story highlights a broader societal gap in how we address and acknowledge the experiences of those without children. Debbie is committed to advocating for greater visibility and understanding, encouraging a cultural shift where women's lives and choices—regardless of motherhood—are respected without unsolicited advice or attempts to "fix" them.

Through her work, she aims to build community and connection among women navigating the grief, stigma, and isolation often associated with being childless or childfree.

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Dr. Maria Canter is double board-certified in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery as well as Obstetrics and Gynecology—making her one of the first surgeons in the country to hold both certifications. Known for her thoughtful and individualized approach, Dr. Canter takes the time to understand each patient's unique needs and creates personalized treatment plans with the goal of improving their quality of life. She specializes in minimally-invasive techniques that allow for quicker recovery and lasting relief.

Originally from the Washington, D.C. area, Dr. Canter attended Georgetown University School of Medicine and went on to complete her residency in Obstetrics & Gynecology at Georgetown University Medical Center, where she received the Minimally Invasive Endoscopy Award. She then completed a three-year fellowship in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, during which she earned multiple awards for her academic and research contributions—including the American Urogynecologic Society’s prestigious June Allyson Award for her work in urine proteomics.

In 2016, Dr. Canter opened the Urogynecology Center NoVa, a practice devoted to helping women regain comfort, confidence, and control in their lives. With over a decade of experience caring for patients in Northern Virginia, Dr. Canter says she feels deeply grateful for the work she gets to do. “I have the privilege to take care of women,” she says. “I get to build relationships, renew confidence, and restore quality of life for people who are often used to putting everyone else first.”

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