New mum Gemma Atkinson has had enough of people telling her what she should and shouldn’t do since having a baby.
The 34-year-old presenter and former Strictly star, who gave birth to Mia on 4 July at the Royal Bolton Hospital in Greater Manchester, posted a quote on Instagram that read: “On your mark, get set, go fuck yourself.”
In the caption, Atkinson detailed some of the criticisms she’s had since having Mia: “She shouldn’t have a dummy. It’s not cold enough for a hat. I hope you’re breastfeeding. Get a proper pram. Can’t believe you wake her to feed. She doesn’t need two blankets.”
People also told the new mum: “She shouldn’t be around the dogs. Her head’s not supported on that. She’s sat too low in the papoose. Put mittens on her. Can’t believe you went out without her already.”
Atkinson explained that she’s received a barrage of criticism from people online about her parenting, despite her daughter being less than eight weeks old. “I’m absolutely all for getting help and advice,” she wrote. “But there’s ways to do it.”
She called her critics “unqualified experts” and directed her Instagram quote to them: “Print it and hang it on the wall next to your perfect parent award.”
Since hitting back at the comments, Atkinson received many supportive messages on her post.
“You are doing brilliant,” one person wrote. “You go on your mother instinct. Just know that you are doing the best you can and you’ve got a partner who worships the ground you walk on, your little princess is happy, content and loved.”
Another person commented: “Absolutely! You learn as you go along each day is a new day. Sending you best wishes enjoy your baby.”