A survey of 2,000 mums found that 55% of millennial women aged 25-44 believe being a mum is more difficult today than it was in the past. The research, commissioned by Philips Avent, highlights the unique challenges faced by modern mothers.
Key findings on modern motherhood
Some 49% of respondents feel they lack the community-like support of past generations. Meanwhile, 42% of those with young children aged 10 and under don't have the support their own mums once had, and 62% say they face new pressures, such as those stemming from social media and peer groups.
Nearly eight in ten millennials admit they struggle to juggle work and motherhood. Conversely, 43% of boomers said their time as a mum was 'easy', due to being able to stay at home and care for their little ones without having to work.
Mental burden and lack of recognition
The majority of mums felt their partner or family didn't recognise the mental burden they were carrying (59%) or that their own needs were treated as less important (49%). Overall, almost all (95%) mums reported feeling they bear most of the mental and emotional responsibility of parenting.
To help address this, Philips Avent has launched 'A Mum is Born', a new campaign calling on family and friends to step up and support new mums without being asked. Marci El-Deiry, spokesperson for the brand, said: "While we celebrate every first smile and milestone for the baby, we don't always recognise the person learning one of life's biggest new roles. As a mum raising my sons, I've learned that parenting isn't something you figure out overnight. What made the biggest difference wasn't having all the answers but having people who showed up. That’s why this campaign and raising awareness of the need to share the care is so important, as I’ve heard my experience echoed in this research."
Small moments of acknowledgement
According to data from OnePoll.com, 38% struggle to ask for help due to feeling too embarrassed to admit they're struggling, believing they should be able to cope on their own. But the research also found 85% agreed that small moments of acknowledgement would have a powerful impact on how they feel day to day.
When asked what these moments of acknowledgement would be, the top answers included reassurance they are doing a good job (37%), help with household chores (35%), and being checked in on as a person, not just as a mum (35%), as a third said they were overlooked after becoming a mum. Modern mums also wanted continued support; offering to watch the baby so they can rest (39%) and checking in regularly beyond the first few weeks (38%).
Mural celebrates the moment a mum is born
To bring this message to life, Philips Avent has partnered with internationally renowned artist and mum Kelly Anna to create a mural now on display at Westfield White City London, which celebrates the moment a mum is born. Speaking on her involvement, Kelly Anna said: "When I became a mother, I realised how isolating it can feel, and how impactful a simple moment of acknowledgement can be. When working on this piece, I didn't want to just recreate the emotive and widely recognised image of a mum giving birth; I wanted to create a call to action. Art has always been my way of creating connection, and I hope this mural reminds everyone in our community that mums should be equally supported as their baby."
