Scarlett Johansson reflects on postpartum life: ‘I was staring into the abyss like, what have I done?’

Motherhood is a journey filled with transformative moments, but those early postpartum days? They’re a whirlwind of raw vulnerability, overwhelming love for your newborn, and, let’s be honest, moments you could never fully prepare for. Scarlett Johansson recently reflected on this reality during a candid conversation on the TODAY show, where she shared her own postpartum experiences alongside Jenna Bush Hager.

While marveling at Brittany Mahomes, who attended a Kansas City Chiefs game just six days after giving birth, Johansson’s reflections struck a chord. Her unfiltered honesty serves as a comforting reminder: every mom’s postpartum recovery is as unique as her journey into motherhood.

Related: The need for postpartum support doesn’t end after the fourth trimester

The emotional rollercoaster of new motherhood

Johansson, 40, didn’t hold back when recounting her early postpartum days. The mom of two—daughter Rose, 8, and son Cosmo, 1—shared her experience with humor and honesty: “Six days after I had a baby, I think I had a giant Guinness and a huge bowl of puffed Cheetos. Somebody told me that beer would help bring in your milk or whatever it is. So, I thought, why not?” Johansson joked. “I was staring into the abyss like, ‘What have I done?’”

Johansson’s reflection captures the emotional complexity of postpartum life—the simultaneous love and fear, joy and exhaustion. Adding to the conversation, Bush Hager shared her own candid experience: Adding to the conversation, Bush Hager shared her own candid reflection: “I love my babies, but there was some hormone stuff acting up. I was sort of sitting in a corner somewhere, crying in a ball, and taking it all out on my husband.” 

These raw and relatable stories remind us that postpartum challenges transcend age, experience, and circumstance. Whether navigating hormones, sleep deprivation, or feelings of doubt, moms deserve to feel seen and supported.

Related: Managing sleep deprivation as a new parent: Strategies for restful nights

When postpartum strength means just showing up

Johansson and Bush Hager also expressed awe at Brittany Mahomes, who showed up to cheer on her husband just days after giving birth. “Not only was she upright, but her hair looked great. How?” Johansson marveled.

Mahomes credited her glam squad for helping her feel “human” in those tender postpartum days, offering a reminder of the different ways moms find strength after childbirth.

The fourth trimester: What every mom needs to know

Research shows that the postpartum period, often referred to as the “fourth trimester,” is a critical time for physical and emotional recovery. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), recovery can take weeks or even months, with challenges ranging from fatigue, breastfeeding struggles, and mental health changes to physical symptoms like pain, urinary incontinence, and decreased sexual desire.

Studies highlight the importance of community support during this time. Whether it’s a partner, close family members, or a circle of supportive friends, having a reliable network can significantly improve a mom’s well-being. A study published in the A study published in the Journal of Maternal and Child Health found that mothers with strong social support reported lower levels of stress and greater confidence in their parenting roles.

Mental health is another vital aspect of postpartum care. Research published in JAMA Psychiatry reveals that up to 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression. Early intervention and accessible mental health care options, such as therapy or peer support groups, can be lifesaving. Scarlett’s candid reflection about feeling lost emphasizes how essential it is to normalize seeking help, shedding light on a topic too often left in the shadows.

Physical recovery also plays a critical role. Studies from International Journal of Preventive Medicine show that even small, intentional acts—such as gentle yoga or a walk—can reduce stress, improve sleep, and boost mood. These small acts of self-care are foundational to recovery.

Every mom’s journey is different—and that’s beautiful

What’s remarkable about Johansson’s and Mahomes’ stories is how they highlight the spectrum of postpartum recovery. Johansson’s relatable “abyss” moment shows the messy, emotional side of motherhood, while Mahomes’ game-day appearance reminds us that strength can also look polished. Both experiences are valid, and both deserve to be celebrated.

There’s no single right way to navigate the postpartum period. Some moms feel ready to take on the world days after giving birth, while others need more time to find their footing. What matters is that every mom’s journey is her own.

Let’s celebrate the full spectrum of motherhood

Scarlett’s openness and Brittany’s confidence remind us that there’s power in defining your own postpartum narrative. Whether you’re at a football game six days postpartum, crying into a bowl of Cheetos, or somewhere in between, your journey is valid.

At Motherly, we celebrate the individuality of every mom’s experience. Postpartum life isn’t one-size-fits-all, and that’s exactly what makes it so extraordinary.

Sources:

1. Guidelines on physical activity during and after pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). 2020. “Physical Activity and Exercise During Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period”
2. How social support impacts maternal confidence. Maternal and Child Health Journal. Springer. 2012. “Social Support During the Postpartum Period: Mothers’ Views on Needs, Expectations, and Mobilization of Support”
3. Examining the prevalence of postpartum depression and its link to social support. JAMA Network Open. 2024. “Trends in Postpartum Depression by Race, Ethnicity, and Prepregnancy Body Mass Index.”
4. Exploring the benefits of exercise for postpartum mental health. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). 2018. “The Effect of Yoga on Stress, Anxiety, and Depression in Women“