The quote speaks about the societal pressures new mothers face when discussing their babies' sleeping patterns and feeding habits. When encountering other new moms, people often inquire if a baby is sleeping through the night or if breastfeeding continues, which can lead to comparisons and self-judgment for those who feel they are not meeting certain expectations.
Beyond its surface meaning, the quote delves into the broader societal norms and pressures that mothers encounter in their early parenting stages. These inquiries reflect the often unspoken assumption about what constitutes successful or desirable infant care practices. This can create a sense of competition and inadequacy among new parents as they navigate the challenges of parenthood. Mothers may feel compelled to find ways to align with these perceived norms rather than focusing on the unique needs and development stages of their own children.
Whitney Port, the author of this quote, is an American fashion designer, television personality, and entrepreneur best known for her involvement in reality TV shows such as "The Hills" and "The City." She has gained recognition not only for her work in the fashion industry but also for sharing insights about various aspects of life, including motherhood.