And whether you have lost your mum recently or awhile ago, when you have your first baby, or even your second or third, you can feel immense sadness that can affect your enjoyment of your bundle of joy.
To help you cope and feel better, have a read of the following advice.
Embrace your emotions
While many people will expect you to feel nothing but joy, it is important you don’t hide your feelings or try to put on a brave face: if you feel sad, cry; if you are feeling angry, tell someone -never try to hide it for the sake of other people’s feelings.
Reach out to others
Don’t feel like you have to handle it on your own. Even if your mother passed a few years prior to you becoming a mum, you can be hit with plenty of conflicting emotions that can leave you feeling drained. Make sure you reach out to others and tell them how you are feeling - you might even find that they are going through the same emotions as you.
Talk to your baby about your mum
One of the most heartbreaking things about becoming a mum after the loss of your own is knowing what both of you are missing out on. While your little one won’t understand what you are saying, talking about your mum out loud to them will help you feel like she is involved in your little one’s life.
Seek professional help
Being a new mum your emotions are sure to be all over the place already, so make sure you get help if you feel things are starting to get on top of you. Postpartum depression is a very real possibility, particularly when you are feeling vulnerable, so talk to your midwife, GP or a counsellor - never think it will just go away on its own.
Create a lasting tribute for your mum
Why not plant a tree or engrave a garden bench with your mum’s name on it. This will give you a place to take your baby, sit down and talk about your mum – it will then be something that your little one will grow up with.
