Bringing a new life into this world is one of the most beautiful and life-changing experiences a person can have. However, it can also be a challenging time for new parents as they adjust to their post-baby bodies (for first or fifth time). Hair loss, diastases, soft bellies, wider rib cages and hips, engorged breasts and beat-up nipples, plus rocking that adult diaper for a few weeks… its no wonder that many postpartum people struggle with body image issues after giving birth! Even if you know what to expect, or heck you’ve even gone through postpartum before, it can be a jarring experience to not feel connected to your body or even recognize the person in the mirror.  If this sounds familiar, you are SO not alone.

Here is a reminder: you don’t have to live in the discomfort – here are some tips on how to feel confident and comfortable in your post-baby body.

Be Kind to Yourself

The first step towards feeling confident and comfortable in your post-baby body is to be kind to yourself. Or at the very least be neutral.
Remember that your body has just gone through an incredible transformation, and it will take time for it to heal and recover. Organs and bones literally moved to accommodate that new human. It takes a hot minute for things to find their place again.
Here’s a hot take, whatever feelings you’re having about your post baby body are valid. To move towards self- kindness, simply start by noticing what feelings you’re having. If it’s a negative thought, see if you can flip it into a neutral observation.

For example, take the thought:

“ugh I can’t believe my stomach still looks like it’s six months pregnant. I’m so lazy and gross”
to

“My belly is round, just like it was when I was pregnant”

Try to remove the value judgment that often comes along with negative self-talk.

Avoid the comparison trap

Try to avoid comparing yourself to other moms or celebrities who seem to have “bounced back” quickly. Everyone’s body is different and responds to postpartum demands differently, everyone has access to different support, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to postpartum recovery.
Personally, my body doesn’t change much until I’m done nursing!

Focus on Your Health

So much of the focus in social media is on the appearance of our postpartum bodies. When in reality, focusing on your health and well-being is key to feeling confident and comfortable in your postpartum body. Nourishing your body, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest are all essential for postpartum recovery. You can also try incorporating exercise, such as walking or yoga, and strength training into your routine. It doesn’t have to be intense or complicated! We have a whole library of at-home strength and mobility workouts within the Badass Birthers Club.  Not only will moving help you feel better physically, but it can also boost your mood and mental health.

Get Clothes that Fit your Body… Today.

Squeezing into pre-pregnancy jeans is one of the least fun things I can imagine doing. It’s important to remember that your post-baby body is a new and different version of yourself.  You may have stretch marks, scars, or a different shape than before, but these are all signs of the incredible journey you’ve been on. Celebrate your body for all that it has done and all that it continues to do. Instead of trying to “get your old body back,” remember that you have evolved! Embrace your body, boost your confidence and be WAY more comfortable by wearing clothes that fit your body as it is today.

Find Support

Finally, don’t be afraid to seek out support from loved ones, friends, or even a therapist. Talking about your feelings and concerns can be incredibly helpful in processing your emotions and building confidence. You can also connect with other new parents who are going through similar experiences through support groups or online programs (like our very own Badass Birthers Club)

Feeling confident and comfortable in your post-baby body is a journey that takes time and patience. By being kind to yourself, focusing on your health, embracing your new body, and finding support, you can learn to love and appreciate your postpartum self. Remember that you are strong, beautiful, and capable of amazing things.

 

Featured Photo by Lawrence Crayton on Unsplash