The article explores the emotional complexity of motherhood as experienced by Estonian women, emphasizing that the arrival of a new life, while profoundly beautiful, can also be accompanied by feelings of isolation and misunderstanding. Anna-Kärt, a mother of a five-year-old daughter, and Triin, a mother of two sons aged 19 and 11, share their personal stories, highlighting the unexpected challenges that come with motherhood, contrasting the public perception of joy with the private struggles they face.

Triin's experience sheds light on the abrupt transition to motherhood that many women encounter, recounting how her unexpected pregnancy plunged her into a life-changing situation despite her initial preparations for adulthood. She reflects on the feelings of loneliness that can accompany motherhood, suggesting that these emotions are rarely openly discussed or acknowledged in society. This sentiment is echoed by Anna-Kärt, who also grapples with the complexities of balancing her identity as a mother with her personal aspirations and relationships.

The insights provided by these mothers illustrate a broader societal issue where the challenges of motherhood are often overlooked or stigmatized, leaving many women to navigate their feelings in silence. The narrative calls for greater understanding and support for mothers who face these hidden struggles, advocating for a more open dialogue about the realities of motherhood that includes both its joys and challenges.