**Carrie Johnson Hospitalised for Severe Dehydration After Birth of Fourth Child, Urges New Mums to Prioritise Self-Care**
Carrie Johnson, wife of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, has spoken candidly about a recent health scare that saw her admitted to hospital for two nights. The incident, she revealed, occurred after she was struck by “severe dehydration” scarcely a month following the birth of her fourth child, Poppy. Mrs Johnson is now urging new mothers to pay close attention to their health, particularly as the UK braces for soaring summer temperatures.
This week London found itself in the grip of a heatwave, with temperatures climbing beyond 30°C and forecasts indicating further rises. Mrs Johnson, aged 37, took to social media to share her experience and raise awareness among other new parents about the risk of dehydration—especially those who are breastfeeding. She described her ordeal as unexpected, stating: “Being hospitalised for two nights for my severe dehydration was not on my postpartum bingo card.”
The new mother accompanied her message with a photograph holding baby Poppy and emphasised how vital it is for breastfeeding parents to maintain hydration and nourishment—particularly in the midst of persistent heat. She soberly advised, “Breastfeeding mums make sure you eat and drink enough in this heat. Especially if your babe is clusterfeeding.”
Carrie also outlined her ongoing postnatal difficulties, revealing she has suffered from mastitis—an infection common among breastfeeding women—while her infant daughter was dealing with reflux. In her words: “This week has honestly been brutal. Mastitis (me), reflux (her), dehydration (me). What a pair we are!” She went on to extend her thanks for the outpouring of support and advice she has received from other parents regarding her daughter’s reflux troubles, stating, “It really made me feel way less alone going through it all.”
Amidst her reflections on these taxing experiences, Mrs Johnson expressed heartfelt gratitude to “our amazing NHS” for their role in her recovery and her family’s wellbeing. Her public thanks underscored the ongoing appreciation for the work of Britain’s healthcare professionals, particularly amongst new mothers coping with postpartum challenges.
Just last month, Mrs Johnson had joyously announced the arrival of baby Poppy on social media, sharing heartwarming pictures of her with two of her older siblings. She described being amazed by how pretty and tiny the newborn was, noting her other children were “utterly delighted” by the addition to the family. Her daughter Romy, in particular, was said to be “desperate for a little sister. Bring on the matching dresses,” according to her post.
Further capturing the highs and lows of early motherhood, Carrie documented moments of bliss on returning home, writing, “Back from hospital now and time for cocktails and pizza with my tiny baby snoozing on my lap. Life doesn’t get any better.”
Carrie and Boris Johnson married in 2021, the same year they welcomed their first child together, Wilfred. Romy was born in December 2021, followed by their son Frank in 2023, and now baby Poppy completes the quartet. Boris Johnson also has several children from previous relationships, bringing the former prime minister’s total number of known offspring to at least eight.
Carrie Johnson’s honest reflections resonate with many parents; her transparency about her struggles highlights both the physical demands of parenting newborns and the heightened risk factors brought on by extreme summer heat. Her message serves as an important reminder for all parents to seek support, prioritise self-care, and stay vigilant about health concerns during a uniquely vulnerable time.
As the nation continues to navigate high temperatures and the health risks they present, experts echo Carrie Johnson’s advice for new mothers to drink plenty of fluids and rest wherever possible. The National Health Service also recommends speaking to a healthcare professional at the first sign of postpartum complications such as dehydration or mastitis.
The Johnson family’s personal stories have, once again, shone a light on the need for community, support, and awareness when facing the challenges of new parenthood under difficult circumstances.