Mother explains why she's proud to be a 'bad mum' in viral Instagram post

The mother-of-two says it's time to put a stop to 'mum shaming'

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Mum shaming – whereby women are criticised for how they choose to raise their children – has become an all too common phenomenon.

From those who work to those who don’t, those who breastfeed to those who bottle feed, and mums who co-sleep to those who put their babies in cribs, most women have at some point faced scrutiny for their child-rearing choices but according to one mother it needs to stop.

Sia Cooper, a mother-of-two and certified personal trainer, recently posted a photo on her Instagram page addressing the issue by listing all the things she’s been accused of being a “bad mum” for.

“If I had a nickel for every time I’ve been called a 'bad mum' I would be soooo rich!” she writes.

“I’ve been called a bad mum for workout out during pregnancy, for caring about my looks and health, having tattoos and piercings and enjoying wine every now and then.”

In addition, she revealed she has also been shamed for letting her kids use technology and eat sugar, co-sleeping, running a full time business from home and taking time for herself.

Essentially a response to parents who choose to judge others Cooper’s candid post also serves as a reminder that parenting comes in many forms and can look different to everyone.

“There’s no one right way to parent or to be a mum,” she explains.

“We all are running in the same race and doing the best that we can. Motherhood is not a one size fits all – what works for one family may not work for the next.

“Being a mum is hard enough and if all of the following make me a ‘bad mum’ then I’ll gladly wear it proudly!” she continued.

“Here’s to all the bad moms out there.”

With more than 23,000 likes since posting it's clear that Cooper’s post has resonated with parents everywhere as thousands also flooded the photo with comments thanking her for being honest and sharing their own experiences.

“I appreciate you writing this!” one person wrote.

“I feel judged everyday being a mother too. If we just keep inspiring those around us I'm sure we can make a little difference.”

Another added: “I got so much hate for lifting while I was pregnant. People made all kinds of nasty comments to me that I was going to hurt my baby and I must be incredibly vain to want to exercise that much while growing a child.

“Every woman is different, as is every pregnancy and being a parent or how to parent doesn’t fit into a small box.”