10 Postpartum Myths New Moms Should Stop Believing
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The postpartum phase is powerful, messy, emotional, and incredibly misunderstood. Even today, new moms are surrounded by outdated beliefs that add pressure instead of support.
Here’s a clear, evidence-based breakdown of the most common postpartum myths so you can heal, bond, and step into early motherhood with confidence.
1. Myth: You should “bounce back” quickly after birth
Truth: Recovery isn’t instant. Your uterus is shrinking, hormones are settling, and your body is rebuilding after something extraordinary.
Healing takes weeks to months, not days. Focus on nourishment, rest, and gentle movement once your provider clears you.
2. Myth: Breastfeeding should come naturally
Truth: Breastfeeding is natural, but it’s still a learned skill.
Many moms deal with latch struggles, nipple soreness, or supply questions in the early days. Support changes everything.
Learn more: Sore Nipples While Breastfeeding: Causes and Remedies
3. Myth: “Newborns just feed and sleep.”
It sounds simple, but newborn life is intense.
They feed every 1–2 hours, sleep in short bursts, and crave closeness and comfort.
Knowing this upfront reduces frustration and sets realistic expectations.
4. Myth: “It’s easy to look after a newborn.”
Caring for a tiny human while recovering yourself is physically and emotionally demanding.
There’s nothing “easy” about it, and acknowledging that doesn’t make you weak — it makes you honest.
5. Myth: “You forget the pain once the baby is born.”
Meeting your baby is magical, but the healing continues.
Stitches, cramps, discomfort while breastfeeding, emotional shifts — these can last weeks or months.
Honour your recovery. Your body deserves patience and care.
Myth: You should manage everything on your own
Truth: The supermom narrative harms more than it helps.
Postpartum recovery improves with support — meals, check-ins, baby care, or even emotional grounding.
Partners matter too.
Read more: How Dads Can Support Breastfeeding
7. Myth: “You’ll feel happy all the time.”
Postpartum emotions don’t stay in one lane. Joy, overwhelm, anxiety, pride, sadness — they all coexist.
Hormonal shifts and sleep deprivation make feelings unpredictable. If you don’t feel blissful nonstop, you’re not failing. You’re human.
8. Myth: If your baby cries, your milk isn’t enough
Truth: Crying is communication, not a supply report.
Babies cry when they’re tired, overstimulated, need comfort, or just want to be held.
Cluster feeding is normal and helps build supply.
9. Myth: You need heavy, ghee-rich foods to improve milk supply
Truth: Warm, traditional foods can feel comforting, but excess fats won’t magically increase milk.
A balanced diet with protein, whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and plenty of hydration supports recovery and supply far better.
10. Myth: “Mothers have been doing this forever — it should be easy.”
Birth is ancient. Modern motherhood is not.
Earlier generations had a village. Today, many moms navigate postpartum in isolation.
Your struggles are real and valid. “Natural” doesn’t mean effortless.
The bottom line
Postpartum life is raw, beautiful, confusing, and deeply human.
Let go of unrealistic myths and gather information, empathy, and community support.
Every mother’s journey is different. You’re doing better than you think.
Written by:
Seema Kazi Rangnekar
Childbirth, Lactation & Parenting Educator, USA
https://samabirthingandbeyond.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the biggest postpartum myths?
Common ones include bouncing back quickly, breastfeeding being instinctive, and handling everything alone.
Is it normal to struggle with breastfeeding?
Yes. Most moms need adjustment time. A lactation expert helps you find comfort and confidence.
How long does postpartum recovery take?
It varies, but most women recover over several weeks to months depending on the birth and overall health.