New Mum Emotions to Look Out for and How to Deal with them

Being a new mum is a time of immense joy and excitement, but it can also bring a whirlwind of emotions. Experiencing a range of feelings during this period is completely normal. Recognising and managing these emotions is crucial for the well-being of both mum and baby.

10 common emotions after giving birth

1. You’re feeling lonely

Talking to other new parents can be reassuring and help relieve any new mum feelings of loneliness and isolation. You could join some local mum and baby groups on social media, too. And don’t forget your old friend - they’re still there for you. Rather than staying indoors all the time (it’s OK to feel bored too by the way), meet a friend for a coffee or a walk around the park.

2. You’re feeling stressed

If you’re struggling to keep on top of chores, or haven’t walked the dog for days, don’t be shy, and ask friends and family for some practical help around the house. They’ll be pleased they can help with your postpartum stress and you’ll be able to tick off that to-do list.

3. You’re feeling overwhelmed 

Give yourself time if you’re feeling overwhelmed as a first time mum, it’s a huge change in your life. The constant needs of a newborn baby are a massive shock, so you’ll need a period to adjust to parenthood. Be kind to yourself.

4. You’re feeling exhausted

Yes, it’s all very well saying sleep when your newborn baby sleeps, but there are other things you can do to help keep your energy levels up and your new mum exhaustion at bay. Don’t forget to eat—keep it simple and nutritious.  

5. You’re feeling guilty

It’s entirely normal to not feel happy 24/7 as a new mum. You’ll feel a huge range of postpartum emotions, including negative ones like mum guilt. Accept these feelings - embrace them and talk about them. And never compare your parenting skills to other new mums. You’ll end up feeling guilty that you’re falling short. You’re not! Trust yourself and your intuition - you know what’s best for your baby.

6. You’re feeling lost

You’re a woman, friend, partner—but now you need to add mum to the top of that list. New mum identity crisis is a very common new mum emotion, but remember that you’re not selfish if you sometimes need to put your self-care needs above your baby’s. Take some time to yourself to clear your head. Get some exercise, have a bath, go see some friends for a chat. You’ll feel refreshed and stronger.

7. You’re feeling sad

During the first week after childbirth, many women get what’s often called the “baby blues”. You may feel tearful and emotional, or irritable. This is due to the hormonal and chemical changes that take place in your body after childbirth (and lack of sleep certainly doesn’t help either). All these emotions after giving birth are normal and should ease as your hormones settle down. Don’t suffer in silence. Talk to your partner, friends, and family. And if you’re worried, speak to your healthcare professional.

8. You’re feeling confused

Friends, family—even strangers in the street—will try to give you unwanted baby advice. Yes, everyone has an opinion and they’re desperate to let you know it. No wonder you’re confused and feeling insecure in your own decisions. Their advice is well intentioned, so listen but feel free to ignore them! If you need help answering unwanted breastfeeding questions, read our quick comebacks. It’s best to trust the baby experts, so follow up with your HCP if you’re unsure about anything.

9. You’re feeling like a failure

Let’s face it, nobody can prepare for the reality of becoming a parent. But that doesn’t stop us making plans while pregnant and imagining this perfect family life. Now that your well-laid plans are out the window, you may feel out of control, cheated even, and like you’re failing as a mother. Parenting is hard and you can’t plan for it, so try to go with the flow.  

10. You’re feeling happy

And so you should! It’s true: that unconditional love you feel for your newborn baby is amazing. Embrace being a happy new mum. Becoming a parent is a wonderful thing so enjoy every crazy, tough, exhausting moment of it!

Coping strategies for new mums

Navigating the emotional journey of being a new mum can be challenging. Here are three key strategies to help you manage:

1. Establishing a support network: Surrounding yourself with a strong support system is crucial. Reach out to family members, close friends, or fellow mums who can provide a listening ear, offer advice, or simply be there for you. Online forums and support groups can also be valuable, connecting you with other mums experiencing similar emotions.
2. Practising self-care: Taking care of yourself is essential for your overall well-being. Make time for activities that bring you joy and help you relax. Whether it's going for a walk, reading a book, or indulging in a bubble bath, self-care allows you to recharge and better cope with the rollercoaster of new mum emotions that have come.
3. Seeking professional help: If your emotions become overwhelming or interfere with your daily life, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance, support, and resources to help you manage your emotions more effectively. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength.

When to seek help as a new mum

While it's normal to feel a range of emotions after giving birth, it's important to be aware of signs of postpartum depression, a more severe form of these postpartum emotions. If your emotions last longer, are more severe, or affect your ability to cope with and enjoy your daily life it’s important to seek help and talk to your doctor. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms for more than two weeks, consult a healthcare professional. Seeking help is a sign of strength and the first step towards feeling better.

Frequently asked questions about new mum emotions

How do new mothers feel?

New mothers can experience a range of emotions, including joy, love, exhaustion, or overwhelm. Feeling a mix of happiness and uncertainty as you adjust to your new role is fairly normal. It's common to experience a rollercoaster of emotions, and seeking support from loved ones, joining new parent groups, and practicing self-care can help navigate the emotional journey of new motherhood.

What do new mums need emotionally?

New mums need emotional support and understanding during this transformative time. They benefit from validation of their feelings, reassurance, and a safe space to express their emotions. They need empathy, encouragement, and someone to listen without judgment. Providing practical help, allowing them to rest, and offering reassurance can also greatly support their emotional well-being.

Why are new mums so sensitive?

New mums can be understandably sensitive due to a myriad of new challenges they are having to cope with including hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, physical recovery, and the overwhelming experience of adjusting to motherhood. The combination of these factors can make them more emotionally vulnerable and reactive. Providing understanding, support, and empathy can help new mums navigate their heightened sensitivity with care.