I spotted you the other day, and I felt compelled to share something important: you’re doing an incredible job.
Much like the pain of labor, the chaos of those initial months as a new mom tends to fade from memory once your little one starts to grow up. But seeing you reminded me of all those moments I thought I had forgotten.
I remembered the hormones that turn you into an emotional rollercoaster, making you cry over the most ridiculous things—like a commercial about dog food. And the sleepless nights that push you to the edge of sanity, where you might even start to hear your breast pump chanting “Justin Timberlake, Justin Timberlake, Justin Timberlake.” Or maybe that was just me?
I recalled the exhaustion so profound that you could nod off while standing up, and the fear of drowning in your own glass of water. I remembered the times you let your own hygiene slide just to ensure everyone else was taken care of. No judgment here—I’ve worn the same hair tie for days, too. You rock those sweatpants, mama.
I thought about the sheer bliss of a quick five-minute shower, cranked up to “eternal hell fire,” and how that tiny slice of time could almost piece your sanity back together. I remembered the despair of 3 a.m., when it’s just you and a colicky baby, and no amount of bouncing or shushing seems to help either of you.
Yet, I also remembered the joy that washes over you when that same little one finally drifts off peacefully on your chest, and you think, “I can do this.” The constant self-doubt and overwhelming mom guilt that gnaws at you, making you second-guess every decision you make—yeah, I forgot about all that until I saw you.
So here’s my advice: be gentle with yourself. This gig is tough, especially when you’re new to it. You’ve created a whole person! And that little one will grow to be a source of immense joy, even if they spill Kool-Aid on the rug and break your favorite things. They will drive you to the brink of madness, but trust that you will navigate this wild ride together from here on out.
I saw you, and it all came rushing back. And I just wanted to remind you—it’s all worth it. Hold on tight.
If you’re looking for more insights on pregnancy and parenting, check out this great resource from the CDC, or explore our piece on boosting fertility supplements for those considering different paths to motherhood at Make a Mom.
Summary
This heartfelt message to new moms highlights the challenges and joys of early motherhood, reminding them to be patient with themselves. It reflects on the struggles of exhaustion, hormonal changes, and self-doubt, while emphasizing the rewarding experience of raising a child.