Becoming a mum is one of the most life-changing experiences you’ll ever go through. The love is overwhelming, but so can the pressure. Between sleepless nights, endless feeding sessions, and the mental load of caring for a newborn, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly falling short.
And then there’s breastfeeding. While it can be a beautiful bonding experience, it also comes with a heavy dose of expectation. Many mums feel guilty if things don’t go to plan, or pressured to push through even when it’s painful, stressful, or simply not working out.
At The Night Owl, we believe your wellbeing matters just as much as your feeding journey. That’s why we want to talk about two things that go hand in hand: self-care for new mums and easing the guilt around breastfeeding.
Why Self-Care Isn’t Selfish
New mums often hear, “Sleep when the baby sleeps”....easier said than done. The truth is, your needs don’t suddenly disappear once bub arrives. Eating well, resting where you can, moving your body, and finding small moments for yourself are essential.
Self-care might look like:
- Asking your partner, friend, or family member to watch bub while you shower in peace.
- Lying down for 20 minutes with a podcast instead of folding the washing.
- Saying yes to help and no to things that drain you.
These little acts keep you going, mentally and physically. Remember: when you care for yourself, you’re better able to care for your baby.
The Weight of Breastfeeding Guilt
If you’ve ever thought, “Am I doing enough?”, you’re not alone.
Guilt creeps in when:
- Your supply feels low.
- You need to supplement with formula.
- You choose to exclusively pump.
- You decide to wean earlier than planned.
There’s also pressure from well-meaning advice, social media comparisons, or even strangers who feel entitled to comment. But here’s the truth: every mum’s journey is different, and there’s no “one right way” to feed your baby.
Finding Freedom with Pumping
This is where the right tools can ease the load. For some mums, wearable breast pumps are a lifesaver giving flexibility, freedom, and peace of mind.
At The Night Owl, our pumps are designed to make feeding fit into your life, not the other way around. They’re quiet, portable, and hands-free, so you can reclaim a little time back for yourself.
Letting Go of Pressure
Self-care also means letting go of guilt that doesn’t serve you. Instead of focusing on what you think you should be doing, remind yourself of what you are doing: keeping a tiny human alive, fed, and loved.
Some affirmations that might help:
The Night Owl’s Final Word
Motherhood isn’t meant to be a solo endurance test. It’s okay to ask for help, to choose a feeding path that works for your family, and to take moments for yourself without guilt.
At The Night Owl, we’re here to support you with wearable breast pumps that bring comfort and freedom to your journey, but also with a reminder: you matter too.
Your baby needs a happy, healthy mum far more than they need “perfect” feeding. So breathe, let go of the guilt, and make space for your own care along the way.
