What Mothers are Talking About-- The Common Topics and Challenges

Research gathered via Reddit highlights which topics and challenges are most frequently discussed by moms. From the moment a baby is born, the words we use to describe the journey of the mother hold immense power in shaping her reality.This data brings insight into not only the connotations and associations that the terms "postpartum," "postnatal," and "4th trimester" have, but provides insight into the broader themes that mothers focus on. WIth this aspect, it is important for mothers to be validated, listened to, treated as their own/important individual (outside of being "mom"), and have support, whether that be from you as a loved one, a mental health provider, mom support groups, or from a source like Postpartum Support International.

Most Discussed Topics (Percentage of Posts)

Postpartum: Emotional challenges (32%), body changes (27%)

Postnatal: Physical recovery (35%), medical concerns and body changes (both at 29%)

4th Trimester: Emotional challenges (34%) and bonding with baby (25%)

Least Discussed Topics (By Percentage of Posts):

Postpartum: Bonding with baby (9%)

Postnatal: Bonding with baby (0%) and sleep deprivation (0%)

4th Trimester: Support systems (9%)