10 things new mamas struggle with the most

I asked ChatGPT to tell me according to research what top things new moms struggle with and make it into a blog post. I have to say it did not disappoint. Check out these struggles and see if you can relate.

Becoming a mother is one of the most beautiful transitions in life—but it’s also one of the most overwhelming. There’s joy, yes. But there’s also pressure, exhaustion, and a lot of silent struggles that don’t always make it into the baby announcement or Instagram post.

If you’re a new mom feeling the weight of it all, you’re not alone. In fact, studies show that many moms experience similar challenges—and knowing that can make the road feel a little less lonely.

Here are 10 things new moms struggle with the most, backed by research and real statistics:

1. Postpartum Depression (PPD)

Up to 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression, according to the American Psychological Association. It can show up as sadness, anxiety, irritability, or a feeling of disconnection from your baby or yourself. It’s not just the “baby blues”—it’s real, it’s common, and it’s treatable.

2. Sleep Deprivation

Newborns sleep in short bursts, which leaves moms struggling to get rest. A study published in Sleep Medicine Reviews links sleep deprivation with mood swings, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating. Over 75% of new moms report poor sleep quality in the first 3 months postpartum.

3. Loss of Identity

Many moms say they feel like they’ve lost themselves in the process of becoming “mom.” A Journal of Family Psychology study found that identity changes are a major source of emotional stress, especially for first-time mothers navigating career shifts or social withdrawal.

4. Relationship Strain

Bringing a baby home doesn’t just change you—it changes your relationship. Research from the Gottman Institute shows that 67% of couples report a decline in relationship satisfaction during the first three years of parenting.

5. Breastfeeding Challenges

While often portrayed as “natural,” breastfeeding can be physically and emotionally demanding. According to the CDC, 60% of mothers don’t breastfeed as long as they intended due to pain, supply issues, or lack of support.

6. Guilt (and More Guilt)

“Mom guilt” is real and pervasive. Whether it’s related to feeding choices, screen time, or returning to work, guilt affects a large majority of moms. A survey by BabyCenter revealed that nearly 9 in 10 moms feel judged—and internalize guilt because of it.

7. Body Image and Recovery

Your body changes dramatically through pregnancy and postpartum recovery. A study in the Journal of Health Psychology found that more than 50% of postpartum women report dissatisfaction with their post-baby bodies, which can contribute to lowered self-esteem and mood.

8. Loneliness and Isolation

Even with a baby in your arms, it’s easy to feel alone. A PLOS One study found that 1 in 10 new moms report feeling severely isolated after birth—especially if their support systems are weak or they’re not part of a community.

9. Unmet Expectations

Whether it’s about how easy (or hard) it would be, how much help you’d receive, or how you’d feel—you might be grieving the difference between expectations and reality. This mismatch can heighten feelings of failure, discouragement, and sadness.

10. Pressure to Be Perfect

From Pinterest-perfect parties to Instagram-worthy milestones, new moms are often crushed under the weight of unrealistic expectations. According to a Motherly State of Motherhood survey, 85% of moms say they feel pressure to “do it all”—and do it perfectly.

You’re Not Alone, Mama

These struggles don’t make you a bad mom. They make you human. Beautifully, fully, honestly human.

The good news? Help is available. Support groups, counseling, trusted friends, and faith-based communities can all be lifelines in this season. Let go of perfection. Embrace grace. And remember that becoming a mom is not about doing it flawlessly—it’s about loving fiercely, growing through the mess, and showing up every day.

You’re doing better than you think.

And mama—you’ve got this.