Maternity leave is often painted as a blissful, relaxing holiday—a period of lounging with your new baby while you soak in the joy of parenthood. But for anyone who has experienced it, the reality couldn't be further from the truth. Becoming a mum is an emotional, transformative journey that shifts your entire world. Here, we’ll break down the realities of maternity leave, explore the emotional challenges, and share practical tips to help new mums navigate this intense and rewarding phase of life.
Brought to you by Elise & Jess the founder and 2 children each
Life Changes Overnight
The arrival of a baby turns your world upside down. Maternity leave is a big life changing event and should be nurtured and celebrated.
The life you knew undergoes a 360-degree transformation as you learn to care for your new little one on maternity leave
This phase is not just about feeding and changing nappies; it's about forming a bond with your baby and adjusting to a new identity as a mother.
The steep learning curve can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that this is normal. Every mum finds her way in her own time.
Elise our founder "I found maternity leave overwhelming not being able to just go and do something in the house or nip out, I went from being a 22 year old designing shoes in london to becoming a mum. But you will get there and find your feet and become a whole new women!
When Your Partner Returns to Work and maternity leave begins
- One of the most emotionally challenging aspects of maternity leave is when your partner returns to work. Suddenly, you're left to figure things out on your own, often feeling isolated. The responsibility of looking after a baby, managing your home, and adjusting to this new chapter can feel immense. It's okay to feel overwhelmed. Reaching out to friends, family, or support groups can make a significant difference during this period. You will find your feet and honestly become a super women! Trusting your instincts on maternity leave.
"Maternity leave is no sitting on the beach drinking a cocktail, its the most beautiful, emotional journey and you will come out the other side resilient and proud"
Letting go of perfection on maternity leave
- There will be days when it feels like you haven’t accomplished much. The laundry might pile up, or dinner might be a takeout order instead of a home-cooked meal. And that’s okay. It’s crucial to take the pressure off yourself and celebrate the small wins. Caring for a baby is a full-time job, and simply getting through the day is an accomplishment. Remember, you are doing an amazing job.
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Preparing for maternity leave
One of the best things you can do for yourself before your baby arrives and maternity leave begins is to prepare meals ahead of time. Batch cooking and freezing nutritious meals will be a lifesaver in those early months when finding the time or energy to cook feels impossible. Eating healthy, balanced meals will not only nourish your body but also aid in postpartum healing. And on days when you’re too exhausted to think about food, you’ll be thankful for those ready-to-eat meals in the freezer.
My favourite batch cook recipe for postpartum, you can fill with your favourite vegetables and meat. I just found for lunch's or dinner it always went down well
Ingredients
2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
olive oil
1kg quality minced beef
1kg higher-welfare minced pork
4 carrots
2 onions
4 sticks of celery
2 heaped tablespoons tomato purée
4 x 400g tins plum tomatoes
350g dried lasagne sheets
WHITE SAUCE
150g mature Cheddar cheese
2 medium leeks
2 fresh bay leaves
4 tablespoons plain flour
1 litre semi-skimmed milk
1 whole nutmeg, for grating
Building Confidence in Baby Steps
Leaving the house with your baby for the first time can feel daunting. Will they cry? What if you forget something important? Start small. Begin with short walks around your neighborhood. Once you feel more comfortable, try heading to a nearby coffee shop or meeting a friend. Over time, these small steps will build your confidence, and you’ll feel ready to take on bigger outings. Remember, each outing is a milestone and a testament to your growing confidence as a mum.
You have got this! keeping going it honestly does get so much easier as they grow and your confidence grows!
A Final Word: Be Kind to Yourself
Maternity leave is not a holiday. It’s a period of immense change, growth, and emotional highs and lows. Give yourself grace and understand that every mum’s journey is unique. Celebrate the small victories, lean on your support network, and remember: you are enough. You are learning, growing, and doing the best you can for your baby. And that is more than enough.
By sharing these honest truths and practical tips, we hope to empower new mums to embrace the realities of maternity leave with confidence and compassion for themselves. You’ve got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Newborn Bubble
This is the most sacred time in your life, your body is vulnerable and the last thing you need is people disturbing your peace, so set boundaries you are comfortable with. Set up a drink station before birth so people can help themselves if they would like. Remember you are not a host!
Not letting people kiss your baby
Set your boundaries of what you expect, newborns and vulnerable and need protecting so make sure you let people know where you stand.
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