The Top 10 Stresses of New Moms

Unless you’ve spent lots of time babysitting or helping with younger siblings, parenting is neither automatic nor instinctive. For most new parents, caring for a baby is the toughest job we’ve ever had. So don’t be surprised to find yourself wishing you had six arms—like a Hindu goddess.

The Most Common New Mom Stresses

• Intense fatigue
• Inexperience
• Isolation from family and friends
• Intrusive family and friends
• Inconsolable crying (the baby’s that is)
• Irritating arguments with your partner
• Instantly stopping work (may come with loss of income, gratification)
• Insecurity about your body
• Intense pain (from delivery or breastfeeding)
• Indelible barf stains on every piece of clothing you own!

When you become a parent, you enter a vulnerable psychological space. Being in the midst of one of life’s most intense experiences—particularly having a colicky baby—can increase your vulnerability to other life stresses. The sum effect is that many new parents suffer from distorted self-perceptions and waves of anxiety and depression.

Fortunately, once the early pressures pass, you'll most likely melt into a warm love that is more powerful and profound than any you’ve ever felt before. So, please be patient with your baby, your partner and most of all—with yourself!

For help getting more sleep...

• SNOO Helps Your Whole Family Rest More!
• How White Noise Helps Babies, Big Kids, And You Sleep
• 9 Ways to Fall Asleep Faster
• Tips on Ending Momsomnia 

Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider.