Having Kate Middleton Open Up About Mom Guilt Was a ‘Surreal’ Experience

Kate Middleton may have taken the prize as the most relatable member of the royal family. Earlier this year, Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, discussed the challenges of parenting on a podcast with Giovanna Fletcher. Royal watchers were surprised by Kate’s openness throughout the interview, and Fletcher recently revealed that hearing Kate talk about mom guilt was a “surreal” experience.

Inside Kate Middleton’s pregnancy struggles

Earlier this year, Kate appeared on Fletcher’s podcast Happy Mum Happy Baby and discussed her experiences becoming a mother. According to Express, Kate started the podcast by talking about her struggles with severe morning sickness, something she experienced in all three of her pregnancies.

“Lots of people have it far, far worse, but it was definitely a challenge,” Kate shared. “Not just for me but also for your loved ones around you.”

The Duchess of Cambridge noted that Prince William felt pretty helpless when she was sick. Although he wanted to help her out, there was really nothing he could do but watch.

In an effort to find a solution, Kate researched the benefits of hypnobirthing, which uses breathing techniques to manage stress during pregnancy. The method worked for Kate who said it was “hugely powerful” during labor.

Middleton admits to having mom guilt

During the podcast, Kate also discussed what it was like becoming a mom. Now that her children are older, Kate admitted that she often deals with “mom guilt,” especially when she has to travel as part of her royal duties.

“Yes absolutely – and anyone who doesn’t as a mother is actually lying. Yes – all the time,” Kate stated. “There’s such a pull, but I am such a hands-on mum, and whatever you’re doing you want to make sure you’re doing the uttermost best job you can for your children.”

Kate gave birth to her first child, Prince George, back in 2013. She went on to have two more children with William, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.

In the interview, Kate acknowledged that mom guilt is a “constant challenge” for mothers around the country. She also stated that even moms who do not work deal with these types of issues.

Kate’s comments offered a rare look into her views on parenting, and Fletcher later confessed that the entire interview was “surreal.”

Fletcher dishes on having Kate Middleton as a guest

Motherhood is a common subject on Fletcher’s podcast, but having Kate discuss her own experiences was something Fletcher believes all of her listeners can relate to.

“Having the Duchess of Cambridge as a guest was a surreal experience,” she stated. “I talk all the time about how motherhood is a leveler and think our discussion really highlighted that.”

Fletcher added that she felt “honored” that Kate agreed to come on her podcast. Although she did not expect Kate to be as open as she was, Fletcher was glad to have the opportunity to discuss topics that are sometimes swept under the rug.

Kate and William are currently staying at their country estate, Anmer Hall, amid the coronavirus pandemic. They have been fulfilling some of their royal duties via video chats, and have also been staying busy homeschooling their three children.

The Duchess of Cambridge surprises new mom

While Kate and William are practicing social distancing at home, the Duchess has been keeping up with her work behind the scenes. At the beginning of May, Kate spent a few hours contacting medical workers, parents, midwives, and others as part of the United Kingdom’s Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week.

According to Glamour, this includes paying a virtual visit to a new mom who had just given birth in a hospital in London.

“Hello! Very nice to meet you,” Kate told the mother and her husband, who showed Kate their newborn boy. “He’s so sweet. Aww, congratulations.”

During the video call, Kate Middleton discussed the importance of managing stress in the early days of parenthood, especially in light of the current crisis. Kate may not be able to visit people in person but she is certainly doing her part to support people in need.