Ok mama! I'm sure we've all heard some myths of motherhood.
I remember when I became a mother. Friends, relatives and even random strangers will offer some interesting information about motherhood; the classic myths, the old wives tales but sadly, social phenomenon can sometimes do more harm than help and that makes motherhood a lot harder than it is.
Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love being a mom and I'm thankful to have 2 lovely children but the struggle is real! From conception, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and parenting...The different stages of motherhood brings different emotions of excitement, fear, joy and many overwhelming experiences.
The journey of motherhood is challenging but it's definitely worth it! However, many misinformation and misconceptions can often caused moms to get judged brutally and unfairly, these myths impact many moms that made them feel bad, guilty and shamed.
Here are some myths that I have heard, in my journey of motherhood...
Myth #1 : "Breastfeeding help you lose weight..."
Well, I heard this one all the time but too bad it didn't work for me!Lol. I breastfeed for about 15months for my firstborn and the truth is (*at least in my personal experience) I get super hungry after I breastfeed many times a day and I actually eat more, I don't see a significant drop on the scale so this one is busted! (*for me)
Myth #2 : "Breastfeeding is a natural thing!"
We all know "Breast Is Best" and I fully support breastfeeding campaigns and giving our babies the best nutrients, but sometimes it's not always easy for new mothers. Breastfeeding is a process that requires patience, determination and proper techniques.
Personally, I love the bonding and the skin-to-skin contact when I nurse my baby but breastfeeding can be uncomfortable, exhausting and inconvenience especially when you are in public places and there is no nursing room nearby. It can be quite embarrassing when the milk leaks, imagine walking around with a soaked blouse, oh gosh! Nonetheless, my breastfeeding journey has been a memorable experience but I don't miss it! 😅
I strongly believe every mom wants the best for their child so whether you breastfeed for a month, for a year or even longer, it doesn't make you less or more of a mother.
I see many new moms struggling with breastfeeding, feeling immense shame for poor lactation and blaming themselves for not providing enough breast milk. Please don't be too hard on yourself, mummies! Not all moms have a milk supply of a fountain. Breastfeed as long as you can and it's OK to stop when you need to.
Myth #3 : "A mom should dress like a mom."
This is one hilarious remark! I mean seriously, is there actually a mom's 'outfit'? Ok, I get the point but in my opinion, I feel that every mom should allow to dress whatever that makes them feel beautiful, comfortable and confident. There is nothing wrong if the mom wants to wear the mini skirt or that bikini, etc...The way we dress has nothing to do with the status of motherhood.
Myth #4 : "You are the mom, you should fix the problems!"
We often see people pointing fingers and start blaming the poor mother when the child misbehaved. People are too quick to judge without a clue what exactly happened.
Hang on! Moms are not problem solvers, we are only humans. Be kind to mothers, we are learning, we trying very hard everyday, we get tired and we made mistakes too. Be more supportive and encouraging instead of mom-shaming.
Myth #5 : "Csection isn't a real birth..."
The controversy of Cesarean vs Natural Birth is totally pointless. What matters most is the safety of the baby and the mother.
I had Csect twice, probably the most nerve-wrecking ordeal of my life when the gynecologist told me I had to go for an emergency c-section when the dilation was slow. I was scared and didn't know what to expect but I didn't care about the procedure and how long the recovery would takes, all I wanted was to bring my baby out safely.
Not all labors are fast and smooth, some are long and traumatic. The birthing methods should never define the labor of love and motherhood. All births are amazing, it doesn't matter how it happens, both takes much courage and strength.💪😎
Myth #6 : "You will enjoy being a mom every day!"
As much as I love my kids and they are my world, but there are some days I wish I can take a day off, just relax, do my own stuff and hang out with my besties. Kids can sometimes get you so annoyed and stressed-out with their constant whining and tantrums. We all have bad days, mummies need a little break and some space too.
Myth #7 : "Asking for help is a sign of weakness..."
No, surely not!
Mothers are multi-taskers and they play many roles. It is not humanly possible to manage everything alone! We all need help from time to time, so don't feel weak to ask for help, it's better to get some help than dealing with all the meltdowns that could affect your emotions and mental well-being.
As mothers, we need to take care of ourselves first in order to take care of the children and our family. Don't be afraid to reach out for some support and assistance.
The judgement from society can be unjustified and cruel, we need to detach the myths of motherhood from reality, besides, there is no fixed formula for motherhood. Every child and every situation is different, do not let negative beliefs and stereotype criticism affect your role as a mother. Do what is best for your children and the family! 😉
"A mother's love is instinctual, unconditional and forever..."
What are some interesting myths you heard, share with me and comment below.
