As a brand-new mama, it’s no wonder how your life turns into a roller coaster ride. There’s an upsurge in emotions, an unceasing ecstasy, countless questions, doubts, and “what-ifs” exploding in your mind now and then. And as if that was not enough, some people would give their unwanted, awkward opinions, transforming you into a bundle of nerves!
Today, we talk about certain common yet awful topics that a mother-to-be or a brand new mum may have to encounter. Read on to know which issues to be a little mindful of in conversation with them.
9 Taboo Topics for New Moms
When you have a baby on the way, everyone has an opinion and tips for new mothers. Let’s take a look at some of the most common taboo topics to steer clear of.
#1 Breastfeeding or Bottle-Feeding?
This can be a very sensitive question for most women who have recently embraced mommyhood. The reason is simple – it all depends on your and your baby’s comfort. Some mothers nurse their little ones for a couple of years, while others do it for a few months or simply do not breastfeed at all. And that’s alright. Although breastfeeding does have certain health benefits, doctors suggest that bottle-feeding can also work as a fine alternative.
#2 Your Baby’s Name
Naming your baby is a huge decision and it might take several months to find a name you’d like your child to be called by for the rest of their life. However, do not stress too much about it. Taking other people’s advice is great until they start being too critical about your choices. It’s a very personal matter, after all. Likewise, if someone asks you for suggestions over a list of baby name ideas, keep the negative comments to yourself!
#3 Cloth vs Disposable Diapers
As and when you start preparing for a baby, some people would come out of nowhere and tell you how you are supposed to cover your child’s rusty-dusty. But, make sure that you consider your convenience and your baby’s health first. Cloth diapers are gaining popularity again these days due to their breathable fabrics. Having said that, they can be a higher-maintenance and less convenient option for busy families, where disposable diapers are handier.
#4 Birth Experience
Your baby’s birth is special, and so is your birth-giving experience. You have the freedom to go about it your way. Some moms prefer the natural process at home, while others go to a birth centre or a hospital. So, with or without an epidural, do not be guilty about the childbearing process you opted for. Giving birth to another human is beautiful in itself, and hence it should be free from unnecessary judgments.
#5 Impolite Conception-Related Questions
As a new parent, you might be bombarded with awkward and impolite questions regarding your baby’s conception. We advise you not to entertain such questions and stay away from people who come up with them. Because it is really not okay to ask whether or not a baby was planned, was it a surprise, or how long it took you to get pregnant.
#6 Your Baby’s Development and Growth
Babies grow and evolve differently. Still, you may have to bear with constant remarks on your baby’s growth and answer people whether or not they have started crawling, walking, or talking yet. Do not compare your baby’s development with other people’s kids. Each one of them has its own pace, and they will catch up in time!
#7 Parenting Styles
Much like the fact that children differ in their behaviours and psychologies, the methods of raising them differ too. Moreover, every mom has a different child-rearing style, and we believe that nobody has the right to interfere with it. Feel free to choose your way, and don’t worry if someone calls you overprotective or something like that.
#8 Are you a Working Mom?
Well, are you? Because if you are, you may have to put up with the judgements that come alongside. Both working mamas and stay-at-home mamas are incredible when it comes to taking care of their children, and both have their own set of challenges. So, do what makes you happy and is best for you and your family.
#9 Crybabies
When you have a baby, you also have constant crying and screaming noises in your home. Some babies are fussier than others – and that’s fine. Comments like “why does she cry so much?” should not be made in the first place. And as the mother, you probably know better what they need at the moment.
Motherhood is not a phase but a journey in women’s life – a journey that is full of unconditional love, surreal bliss, and mixed emotions. A journey that keeps progressing, unfolding, and transforming. So, let us not misrepresent its very beginning with unnecessary and problematic opinions. Postnatal advice for mothers comes in all shapes and sizes. Be sure that you only take the healthy and non-judgmental ones into account.
Have you been asked any of these taboo topics, as a new mom?
Share your experiences with us below.
