The Viral Reality of Postpartum Overwhelm: 17 Diapers and the Conversations It Sparks

In a recent viral TikTok video, a mother named Hannah, who goes by @nursehannahbh online, has sparked significant discussion by sharing her unfiltered experience of postpartum life. The video, which has amassed over 5 million views, depicts Hannah searching through her home for discarded diapers, a snapshot of domestic chaos many mothers experience during postpartum.

Hannah explained in her video that due to the absence of a diaper pail, used diapers often end up scattered around her house until she collects them at the end of each day to dispose of them. In this instance, she discovered 17 diapers left from a day of solo parenting her toddler and a 3-week-old baby while her husband was away hunting.

The response to Hannah’s candid depiction has been polarized, with reactions ranging from appreciation for her honesty to criticism. Many viewers, however, have related to her experience, commenting on the pressures and realities of motherhood. “Having 17 diapers scattered throughout the house is probably a symptom of a much bigger issue,” observed Isabella, another TikTok user. She emphasized that postpartum anxiety and overwhelm can severely impact new mothers’ ability to manage day-to-day tasks, urging people to offer support rather than judgment.

The discussion has gained momentum with over 2,000 videos using the hashtag “#17diapers,” where parents share their own struggles with managing household tasks amidst the demands of parenting. These encompass more than diapers—some discuss piles of unfolded laundry or continued reliance on quick meals when overwhelmed.

Andrea Davis, a licensed counselor and author, responded with a TikTok titled “A love letter to ‘17 diaper mom,’” offering solidarity to Hannah. Davis, sharing her own experiences, stated, “If you’re ’17 diaper mom’ and you see this, you’re fine. I did this too.”

Despite receiving criticism, Hannah has noted that the support and understanding expressed by fellow parents outweigh the negative judgment. She continues to engage in the broader conversation about the realities of motherhood, encouraging other mothers to speak openly about their experiences.

Rosie Colosi contributed to this report. Colosi, a reporter with TODAY Parents, has also written for The Atlantic and other notable publications.