Overwhelmed mom of newborn triplets called the hospital asking for extra support — one suggestion made her never want to ask for help again
Looking after a newborn postpartum can be challenging, and the reality of raising triplets can seem overbearing, especially for moms who don't have support. For one Instagram user, a search for extra guidance turned into a disappointment when the hospital maternity team suggested an unexpected option to her. In a video posted on July 3, 2026, under the username The Fen Family and Triplets (@thefenfamilyandtriplets), the mother opened up about the phone call that left her stunned and why she never wanted to ask for help again.
The woman explained that after bringing her triplets home, she called the hospital's maternity team to ask whether there was any extra support available for moms with newborn triplets. A staff member initially said she would look into it, but after following up two days later, she confirmed there was no additional help available. The person suggested that she hire a private nanny. When she explained that she was living on statutory maternity pay and couldn't afford that, the worker's response took her by surprise. She replied, "If you're really struggling, we can call social services," and asked whether she wanted them to do so. The mother declined, as the conversation discouraged her from seeking any further guidance.
While sharing her experience, she said many mothers feel as though they're "hanging on by a thread" but are afraid to reach out because they're worried they either won't receive support or will be judged for asking. Instead of stressing about asking for help, she said she's now trying to take care of herself, because that is how she'll be able to look after her children. As she shared the video, sitting alone in her parked car, she admitted that it was her way of catching her breath before going back inside to her family. "I'm not going to clean, I'm not going to answer calls, I'm just going to sit here," she said. Practical child support for new moms plays an important role in helping them take care of their own well-being.
A study published in the Maternal and Child Health Journal found that new mothers considered practical support with caring for their babies and managing daily responsibilities as important to both their physical and emotional recovery after childbirth. The study also found that many women expected this assistance to come from their partners, families, and support networks without having to ask for it. Many parents said they related to her frustration. @homeschooling_aid commented, "Maybe, we moms, should set up a charity for mothers to help mums." @dollybirdsxx shared, "I called them today on myself because I got to my breaking point and hit the lowest point to have to call them." @rhirhimurphy added, "You absolutely need assistance with triplets. I’ve got one, and I’m hanging on by a thread! Sending love, momma."
For more of her family content, follow @thefenfamilyandtriplets on Instagram.