This incredible journey of motherhood, especially for first-time moms, is so distinct that it deserves its own word. Unfortunately, no suitable term currently exists. So, I’m taking the liberty of creating one!
Dear Editors of Merriam-Webster,
I see that you recently added a whopping 150 new words to your dictionary—quite the impressive feat! I mean, that’s more words than some teenagers use in an entire week. Among those new entries were “selfie” and “tweep.”
Really? “Selfie”? “Tweep”? I half expected to see “twerp” instead! These terms seem more fitting for a reality show than for a dictionary. Speaking of which, “tweep” sounds like a sneeze from one of those Kardashians.
But here’s the kicker: while you’re busy defining trendy words, there’s a crucial term missing: a word for new mothers! I propose the term “neomama.”
A “neomama” is a first-time mother navigating the bewildering world of parenting without a clue of what she’s doing. She’s overwhelmed, anxious about every little decision, and let’s not forget—exhausted to her very core. This state of being is as unique as it is challenging, and we need a word that reflects that.
New mothers have existed long before “selfies” and “tweeps” came into our lives. It’s high time we had a term that distinguishes the fresh faces of motherhood from those seasoned pros managing toddlers, preschoolers, or even—depending on your favorite reality shows—baby number 23.
I understand the dictionary has a “mother” section. But let’s be real: “den mother,” “earth mother,” “motherland,” and even “motherf#%ker” don’t capture the essence of a new mom. Shocking, I know! But none of those terms fit the bill for what a “neomama” truly embodies.
Let me share a little story. Picture my first morning home alone with my newborn. My little one was about six days old, and I was utterly on my own. No family was around to help with questions about umbilical cords or peculiar poop situations.
I thought a stroll around the block would be a nice way to start the day. Armed with a sling and a DVD for guidance, I set out. But anxiety kicked in, and I quickly removed my baby from the sling, fearing he might be suffocating. As I carried him, an elderly lady stopped to ask about his name.
“His name?” I froze. My husband and I had just named him, but in that moment, I drew a complete blank. After a couple of seconds, the name finally came to me. But boy, did I feel like a “neomama” in that instance!
Time passed, and slowly but surely, I grew more comfortable in my role. Eventually, I transitioned from being a “neomama” to simply being called “mom” — and that term, thankfully, is already in the dictionary.
So, I implore you to consider adding “neomama” to your lexicon. This term encapsulates the unique experience of new motherhood, which is a whole different ballgame compared to what seasoned moms face. For more insights into pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource, and for those interested in at-home methods, this authority provides great information.
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In summary, let’s embrace the term “neomama” to honor the distinct experience of new mothers. It’s time for this unique journey to have its own name!