If you're trying to get pregnant, it's good to know when you're ovulating. We only have a small fertile window each month to get pregnant. But with some basic information about your cycle, an ovulation calculator can predict when your ovulation day will be, so you know your most fertile days. Try an ovulation tracker today and learn everything you need to know about ovulation, your conception window, and how to increase your chances of conceiving. Now we can move on to myths and facts about becoming a mom.

We hear more than our fair share of motherhood and unsolicited parenting advice. Do this, don't do this, why are you doing this... so tired! Where do you even start to find out what's true and what's not? Continue reading...

Myth 1: Having children must be the happiest period in a person's life. One of the most prevalent misconceptions is this one. Many moms thus think that they should only be joyful, proud, and pure after giving birth. The time following childbirth may be rewarding and joyful, but it can also be demanding, stressful, and draining. Both new and seasoned mothers frequently feel overburdened and worn out. The path to parenting has its ups and downs, just like any other. These difficulties are a normal element of transition, not a sign of personal shortcomings.

Myth 2: Women "know" from birth how to be mothers. When moms make errors or are unsure of what to do, this belief causes them to feel guilty and ashamed. Despite having certain biological components, motherhood is mostly a learning process through trial and error. Learning how to be a happy parent requires time and effort, just like learning to ride a bike or drive. No woman is born with the requisite information, and making errors is quite natural. Making mistakes is a chance to gain knowledge and uncover new information about the circumstance, yourself, or your infant. Therefore, instead of thinking you already know everything, be interested and receptive to new ideas.

Myth 3: She was a "terrible" mother because she asked for help. Even though many women have faced several obstacles and problems, they frequently minimize the negative aspects out of concern that they would be branded as "bad mothers". They published their "achievements" and "successes" on social media rather than discussing their problems. In fact, they unintentionally contributed to the idea of the "super mom" who leads a beautiful life free of commotion at home and at work. The fabled super mom always knows what to do, is mindful of her needs and those of her family, strikes the ideal balance, and has flawless timing. Pressuring yourself to be a supermum, never complaining or asking for help, is possible – but unrealistic and possibly self-destructive. Motherhood is an extremely complex and complicated role, hence achieving perfection and being right all the time are simply impossible. Every mother makes mistakes because mothers are only humans. It is human to want some time alone, become frustrated and feel overwhelmed when things do not go our way. There is no shame in admitting that the journey of motherhood is not an easy one, and giving yourself permission to attend to your needs. You matter, too.

Myth 4: "You can't commit unless you're breastfeeding." We really don't like hearing this. There are many ways moms can bond with their babies. If you are fortunate enough to have the option, we always recommend breastfeeding for health reasons, but we respect and support moms in all situations. Whether you're breastfeeding or bottle feeding, there are some sure-fire ways to bond during meals: keep the room quiet, don't be afraid of skin-to-skin contact, communicate with your baby (eye contact, buzzing, etc.), and smell that cute small brain (it releases oxytocin)!

Please know you're just fine. There is absolutely no need to succumb to pressure from others. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact your doctor. So, be real and be easier on yourself. Believing the above myths often leads mothers to measure their performance against unrealistic expectations, which can lead to the development of postpartum depression and anxiety. By rejecting these myths and adjusting their goals to a more realistic level, mothers are more likely to feel better about themselves and spend more time bonding with their babies. Healthy habits like planning breaks, developing your emotions by learning to express and accept negative emotions, building a good support system, and developing a sense of humor are just a few of the many ways you can practice self-care. Remember to keep telling yourself, "I'm important, I'm important, and I'll take care of myself." Then motherhood will almost certainly become less of an obligation and a chore, and more of something to enjoy and appreciate personal experience.