You do have a good point, Mumma2girls. Thanks for sharing your experience.

It's just that the word fulfillment always irks me. It's not the meaning of the word itself. It's just that it is often used in a context that I dislike. It's those people that ask me: "What, you want to JUST be a SAHM. Are you sure you can be fulfilled that way?" Or an aunty who told me that she regretted being a SAHM while her kids were little because it was boring and unfulfilling.

Well, I see it differently: I find it extremely fulfilling (whatever that means) being there for my child/ren and my family. I couldn't imagine that working for someone else would be more fulfilling TO ME.
Having said that, DH and I do run our own business and I do work there a little still. But tbh, I'd rather step back even further. My mum was a SAHM as well, and she would never do it any other way. So although, we've now left the nest, she is still "fulfilled" because she knows that what she has achieved in her life is the greatest achievement: raising kind, loving and compassionate children (well, I am blowing my own trumpet here a little, sorry).
Sorry, that was so off topic...

Yes, I do think it is important that a mother's needs are met, even if they might not always come first. It is so important to have a support system around you. For help when you need it or just as a shoulder to cry on. If you feel like you are not alone in this, you can get through the hard days and nights. But if you feel isolated and neglected, then it is very difficult to keep perspective. I know I would have lost the plot on a few occasions if it hadn't been for my family and good friends and you ladies here on BB. Thanks!

Saša