It’s often overlooked that mothers are complex individuals with their own identities. The disparity in care between expectant mothers and new moms is striking. Once the baby arrives, the attention shifts from regular checkups and reassurances to a quick six-week postpartum visit, leaving many mothers feeling neglected. The person you were before becoming a mom seems to fade away—not just for you, but for those around you as well.
Jessica Thompson experienced this feeling of invisibility after welcoming her child into the world. To illustrate her point, she decided to remove one of her earrings and observe how long it would take for anyone to notice. Remarkably, it took seven months. She documented her feelings on social media, where her post quickly resonated with many.
“All those interactions, and no one ever looked me in the eye and noticed,” she wrote. “As a busy mom of two little ones who ‘just stayed at home’ or ‘didn’t work,’ I felt as if I became invisible—not just to society, but to my family and friends, and maybe even to myself.”
This earring analogy may not resonate with every mother, but who can deny feeling overlooked in the whirlwind of new motherhood? Admitting this can be daunting, as many fear being judged for expressing the need for personal care. Mothers often feel pressured to be selfless, worrying that voicing their struggles might lead others to question their commitment to motherhood or their love for their children.
“I guess people assumed if my kids were fine, then I must be too,” she reflected. This sentiment rings true for many. Personally, I’ve faced postpartum anxiety since I returned home from the hospital. (I’ve recently sought therapy, which has been incredibly beneficial.) Although my close friends may have noticed my shift from the carefree person I used to be, only a handful have reached out to discuss it. Over the past year, my journey from being a full-time working mom to navigating self-employment and launching a freelance career has gone largely unacknowledged by those around me.
While we cherish the love our children receive from others, there are moments when we long to remind the world, “Hey, I’m still here too.” Many mothers relate to Jessica’s experience, regardless of their children’s ages. She concludes her post with an empowering message: “If today you’re feeling overwhelmed, invisible, or as if you don’t matter, know that you truly do. You are essential and likely the glue that holds everything together. Keep up the fantastic work, and if no one else tells you this week, remember that your contributions are invaluable and your sacrifices do not go unnoticed.” Sometimes, simply being acknowledged can make all the difference.
For further insights on home insemination and related topics, check out this post on our other blog. Additionally, for authoritative information, visit Make A Mom, the experts in home insemination kits. And for those seeking guidance on pregnancy and fertility, this resource is highly recommended.
In summary, Jessica Thompson’s story highlights the often unrecognized struggles of motherhood, emphasizing the importance of self-worth and the vital role that mothers play in their families. It serves as a reminder that acknowledging one’s own needs is essential, even amidst the demands of parenting.