Everybody keeps asking me how I feel emotionally after giving birth, and I want to be completely honest with you. Postpartum depression was something I had always feared. I was convinced it would not affect me, partly because I tried to prepare myself and partly because I believed I was emotionally strong enough to avoid it. I still cannot say that I have it, but these weeks have brought a new set of emotions I did not expect to experience so intensely.

One of the strongest feelings that appeared almost out of nowhere is what many call mom’s guilt. It is the quiet, uncomfortable thought that I am somehow not doing enough for my baby, even when I devote every moment and every effort to him. It is the constant worry that I may be missing something, not noticing something, or simply not being the mother he deserves. And even though I rationally know that I give him all my love, the guilt still finds its way into my mind.

Another feeling I never imagined I would face is wife’s guilt. It is the awareness that the balance in our relationship has shifted and that I give far less time and attention to my husband. Not because I want it this way, but because being a new mother consumes so much physical and emotional energy. Some days I feel torn between two roles that both matter deeply to me, and I am still learning how to adjust and not feel guilty for simply being human.

The lack of sleep adds another layer to all of this. On certain days, when exhaustion is overwhelming, I feel as if I am drowning in responsibilities, emotions and expectations. I know it is mostly hormones, temporary changes and the natural adjustment period after childbirth, yet it does not make the feelings any less real. I remind myself that the most important thing is to find something positive even in the smallest moments and to recognize that this phase is just a part of a long and beautiful journey.

Mamas, I would really like to know if you experience something similar and how you cope with it. Sharing our feelings and supporting each other makes this path much easier, and I believe that honest conversations help us navigate this chapter with more strength and understanding.