Updated: Aug. 21, 2023
Originally Published: Aug. 22, 2021
Pregnancy does a number on our bodies, but let’s not overlook the impact it has on our minds. Since becoming a mom, I’ve not only developed “Momnesia,” but I’ve also turned into a full-blown emotional wreck. I used to take pride in being the strong, reliable friend who never shed a tear; crying always felt like a sign of weakness, something I kept behind closed doors—usually in the shower.
However, motherhood appears to have left my big girl pants somewhere between diaper changes and late-night feedings. Now, I cry at just about anything, especially when it involves my children. I might be just one tear away from landing a role in a cheesy Hallmark movie!
Here’s a glimpse of what’s brought me to tears in the past month—let me just grab a tissue first.
- Pampers Commercials – The genius marketing behind these ads is unreal! They create an emotional connection that’s hard to resist. Even as a cloth diaper user, I find myself wanting to buy Pampers after watching those cute babies and their mothers cherishing every moment. Cue the tears!
- Lysol Commercial – I stumbled upon a heartwarming video about bringing home a newborn. It took me back to when my first child was born, and I remember the mix of awe and confusion on my husband’s face. I’m tearing up just thinking about it! What’s wrong with me?
- My Son’s Sweet Words – My little boy occasionally surprises me with a “present” that turns out to be a heartfelt “I love you, Mom.” The way he hugs me tightly afterward? Instant tears.
- Cleaning Out Baby Clothes – My youngest just celebrated his first birthday, so it was time to sort through baby clothes for donation. Looking at those tiny onesies made me sob uncontrollably.
- Selling Baby Gear – The same emotions hit me when I had to let go of the Jumperoo. It felt like I was prying my own heart from my chest.
- A Haircut Debacle – Parenting can be chaotic! When I took my son for a haircut and found out there would be a 45-minute wait, I lost it in the car. I ended up giving him a haircut at home, which was definitely not my best idea.
- Decorating the Tree – This was the first year my son really understood the holiday spirit. We decorated the tree together, and afterward, I found myself in tears. I can’t even explain why!
- Watching My Baby Grow – Every night, I glance at my baby in his crib and feel a pang as I realize how quickly he’s growing. He’s losing that “baby” look, and it makes my heart ache.
- Stories of Hurt Children – Whenever I come across news about ill or injured children, I can’t help but break down. Why do I keep reading these stories when I know it’ll just make me cry?
- Turning One – I received an email from Baby Center referring to my baby as a toddler. That was it; I completely lost it.
Sometimes, I find humor in my newfound sensitivity. Why has everything become so emotionally charged? Has motherhood opened the floodgates of tears we once had under control? Will my hormones ever stabilize? Or should I just accept that I’ll be carrying tissues wherever I go for the foreseeable future?
If you’re on a similar journey, you might find helpful resources on fertility and home insemination at Mount Sinai and Make a Mom. Additionally, for insights on infant reflexes, check out Rooting Reflex.
Summary: Motherhood transforms us in unexpected ways, and for many, it brings forth a flood of emotions we never anticipated. From heartfelt moments with our children to the bittersweet realizations of their growth, the journey of being a mother can leave us feeling vulnerable yet deeply connected.