The transition to motherhood: a qualitative study of new mothers’ experiences of loneliness and associated challenges

Purpose: Motherhood is widely recognized as a profound developmental life event, encompassing physical recovery, life and identity reorganization, and new caregiving responsibilities, but the emergence of loneliness in new mothers remains under-researched. The aim of this study was to explore new mothers’ experiences of loneliness and associated challenges. Methods: A qualitative exploratory design and content analysis were conducted. Interviews were conducted with ten first-, second- and third-time mothers. Results: The analysis generated three main categories: 1. Social dimensions of loneliness, 2. Emotional dimensions of loneliness, 3. Existential dimensions of loneliness. Discussion: Loneliness among new mothers is a multidimensional experience encompassing social, emotional, and existential dimensions. Loneliness may arise from changes in social relationships, challenges within partner relationships, and the profound identity transition associated with becoming a mother. Additionally, participants described existential aspects of loneliness, including feeling overlooked as individuals and experiencing a disruption in their sense of self during the transition to motherhood. Conclusion: As seen in our findings, social, emotional, and existential loneliness can be associated with becoming a new mother. Preventive measures should be considered, such as low-threshold counseling services for new mothers and partners, aimed at supporting the well-being of the entire family.