As Mother’s Day approaches, YouGov has released a poll which has revealed 59% of mums concealed their pregnancy from their own mums.
Commissioned by UK pregnancy charity Tommy’s as part of its #WeSeeAMum campaign, the poll revealed ‘embarrassment’, it being ‘too personal’ and ‘not having that type of relationship with their mum’ as the top reasons for keeping the journey a secret.
Furthermore, 40% of UK adults agreed that we should talk more about people’s different experiences of becoming a parent.
The survey is a part of the charity’s Mother’s Day campaign #WeSeeAMum to highlight the different ways people become parents, the struggles faced by some and the complex range of emotions triggered by their experiences.
Kath Abrahams, Tommy’s Chief Executive said “Our poll suggests that sadly, many mums find it difficult to share their journey to parenthood, even with their own mum.
“At the same time, many of those who took part said we should be able to talk more openly about experiences such as baby loss and difficulties conceiving.
“#WeSeeAMum was created to capture different moments from different journeys, from the joyous to the devastating.
“Our message is that all mums should feel able to share their story and know they will be supported, whatever challenges and losses they have been through or are going through.
“Every experience should be recognised, and every mum celebrated and supported, from the moment they feel like a parent.
“For some, that’s when they hold their baby in their arms. For others, it’s when they see a positive pregnancy test.
“Whenever it happens, no mum should have to hide that precious moment. At Tommy’s, we see a mum, and we’re here to support you.”
To speak to a Tommy’s midwife about any aspect of your pregnancy, or if you need support and advice following a pregnancy loss, contact the team at midwife@tommys.org. You can also call them for free on 0800 014 7800 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm).
Readers can find out more about the #WeSeeAMum campaign and get involved here: https://www.tommys.org/WeSeeAMum
