Post-Pregnancy Body
Aaaahhhh the joys of being knocked up! Such amazing news, but soon come the zillion thoughts about what to expect after you’re expecting. Doctors begin to track your weight as if it were some important test score, giving you feedback on eating for two. Plus, besides the endless question of “what are you having?” even strangers want to know exactly how much weight you've gained. At some point, most women who can’t wait to show off their belly bump then wonder how the eff is this thing ever going to go back?
Carrying a child is such a privilege, but still most women are concerned about what their body will look like after the baby. Sleep deprivation and the unpredictability of a newborn can make you cuckoo alone... nevermind the hormone imbalances! As much as you may want to ditch those maternity clothes as soon as you leave the hospital, chances are it is going to be a while before you are back in your skinny jeans.
And, breastfeeding does not always melt away those added pounds, despite the stories your doctor will tell you (trust me, I was one of those lucky ones that did not lose one pound the entire time I nursed both of my gorgeous babies!).
As much as every woman may hope to magically get back to their pre-baby shape, you have to allow your body to do what it is supposed to do. Interfering with your body’s natural process through dieting or over-exercising may increase frustration when you don’t get the results that you are hoping for.
Simply stated, nine months out, nine months in. Plus, we know that stress affects cortisol levels, which contributes to increased fat storage. If you are constantly berating yourself because you feel trapped in your own body, you may be prolonging weight gain. Instead, eat healthy, balanced meals with an intuitive process, and exercise according to your doctor’s recommendations.
Yes, that means you can’t eat a bunch of junk. You won’t look or feel good if you don’t eat right! Setting reasonable expectations around the changes in your body will allow you the freedom to enjoy those early stages of motherhood. Even I was surprised to see the return of my pre-baby body in my mid-30s – PRAISE JESUS!
Stay focused on the miracle of your baby, enjoy those granny panties… and, let your body heal naturally!
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