“It was a horrible shock”: The experience of motherhood and women's family size preferences

Abstract

Synopsis Women's capacity to have children has often been manipulated to suit a particular state agenda, neglecting women's interests. We report on qualitative research from regional Australia in which 26 women with children participated. The findings support the view that motherhood within a nuclear family context may threaten the well-being of women who lack external support. The women's narratives of their experience of motherhood were frequently of “shock” and struggle. They tended to prioritise their children's well-being (in keeping with the “good mother” ideal) but some identified their own needs as important and recognised their need for support. The struggle participants experienced and the negotiations they underwent to preserve their own well-being were suggestive of the oppressive power of motherhood but also of their agency. We conclude that meeting the challenges of providing adequate information and support for women in regard to childbearing are pivotal in overcoming oppression associated with motherhood.