Mother Opens Up About Struggling with Motherhood Journey

Karla Tenório founded the 'Regretful Mother' movement in Brazil after candidly sharing her emotional struggles with parenthood. Her vulnerable story has sparked meaningful conversations and support across social media.

Karla Tenório's story has resonated across social media as she bravely opens up about something many mothers feel but hesitate to express: deep emotional struggles with parenthood. This Brazilian woman, mother to a 10-year-old daughter named Flor Inae, created the 'Regretful Mother' movement to give voice to women who find themselves struggling emotionally with motherhood.

Karla explains that she initially didn't feel ready for motherhood but decided to have a child to honor her partner's wishes. During a spiritual journey to India, while meditating by the Ganges River, she experienced an awakening that led her to prepare for motherhood over two years. However, immediately after giving birth, she found herself overwhelmed with emotional challenges.

The mother experienced significant postpartum mental health struggles and became what she describes as an 'over-vigilant caregiver.' She kept detailed records, meticulously tracking her nursing routine. She turned down work opportunities and withdrew from activities due to feelings of guilt about not being the 'perfect mother.'

'It's suffocating,' Karla describes her emotional experience. 'Motherhood can feel like a high-pressure responsibility with no recognition and no way to pause. The emotional toll includes frustration, a sense that life has stopped, feelings of abandonment, and a loss of motivation for personal growth.'

Mamá de una niña confiesa que DETESTA ser madre y se ARREPIENTE de la maternidad

In 2017, Karla connected with other women sharing similar feelings and realized she wasn't alone in her struggle. This connection helped her understand that she could acknowledge her emotional challenges while still loving her daughter deeply. 'My daughter is an incredible person and a wonderful success story, and I love her very much,' she clarifies.

Today, Karla manages an Instagram account called 'Regretful Mother' where she supports women navigating similar emotional journeys. Her mission is to shift unrealistic expectations around motherhood and have honest conversations about the real challenges mothers face. 'I have a 10-year-old daughter, and I'm working through complex emotions about motherhood. I've transformed my personal struggle into a supportive community,' she reflects.

Original story published in Milenio.com.