I can totally understand where you ladies are coming from. But there is a light at the end of the tunnel!

I had my DD when I was 21 (but looked way younger) & from the time I was obviously pg until long after I had her, I copped crap from all sides. Complete strangers, so called friends, well-meaning but tactless family members, all told me I was too young & told me all the things I should be doing & what I was doing wrong.

Man, now I have a way thicker skin. Believe me, when you start having to defend yourself & the way you raise your child, you will get tougher. I learnt the hard way to tell people, "thanks, but I'm doing it my way". Or else ignore it completely.

My DD is now 10 & a lot of people tell me what a great job I have done. Which I have. I still get the odd 'helpful' comment but take it with a grain of salt. And I have a huge amount of pride that I raised her using my own judgement & values.

One day hopefully the people in your lives will respect the great effort you ladies have made to raise wonderful kids & the joy you find in being a mother. If they don't at least you will know in your heart that you've done a damn fine job. Maybe they will recognise that you don't need their advice every step of the way & only give it when you ask for it?!