Princess Eugenie's parenting 'struggle' and how Sarah Ferguson coped with it

May 4, 2026 - 21:03

Princess Eugenie, who is expecting her third child with husband Jack Brooksbank this summer, has spoken candidly about the emotional challenges of motherhood. During a revealing podcast appearance last year, the royal admitted she often struggles with parenting guilt, a feeling she says many mothers face but rarely discuss openly.

Eugenie described the pressure of balancing her royal duties, personal projects, and time with her two young sons. She confessed that she sometimes feels torn between being present for her children and meeting other responsibilities. The princess credited her mother, Sarah Ferguson, with helping her navigate these difficult emotions. According to Eugenie, the Duchess of York offered simple but powerful advice: acknowledge the guilt, but do not let it define your parenting.

Sarah Ferguson, who raised Eugenie and her sister Beatrice amid public scrutiny after her divorce from Prince Andrew, has long been open about her own struggles as a mother. Eugenie said her mother taught her that no parent is perfect and that showing vulnerability is not a weakness. Instead of trying to do everything, Ferguson encouraged her daughter to focus on quality time with her boys, even if it is just a few minutes of undivided attention each day.

The princess also noted that she has learned to forgive herself for not meeting impossible standards. She hopes that by speaking out, she can help other parents feel less alone in their own struggles. With a third child on the way, Eugenie says she is embracing the chaos of family life, knowing that her mother's steady support will continue to guide her through the ups and downs of raising a young family.