Resources

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You may experience many changes in your postpartum body.  It is easy for women to feel disconnected to their new bodies.  In addition to stepping into a new role of “mom”, it can also feel hard to not even recognize your own body when you look in the mirror.  Often times women describe feeling as though their body is not their own. As women we tend to feel so much shame attached to our bodies and our appearance.  One of the first things we ask ourselves is “will I ever get my body back?”

Common Body Changes After Pregnancy & Birth:

Vaginal Discharge (lochia)

Vaginal tearing or C-section scar

Weight Gain

Wider Hips

Changes in nipple size and color

Skin Changes (stretch marks, hyperpigmentation, spider veins, acne)

Swollen extremities

Enlarged breasts

Back pain

Vaginal tearing

Stomach pooch

Urinary incontinence

Hair loss

Accepting Your Postpartum Body

While it is normal to grieve for the body we once had, I want to challenge you to also make space for gratitude for your current body.  

1. Make a list of things that you appreciate about your body just the way it is now.  (For example, “my arms allow me to pick up and comfort my baby, my breasts allow me to feed my baby, etc).

2. Wear clothing that fits your body and feels the most comfortable. Having 1-2 staples of clothing that you feel good in can make a huge difference in your body confidence.

3. Postpartum bodies need a lot of self-care.  Do things that are soothing and healing for your body.  Take a warm bath, use ice packs for any vaginal or breast swelling, take easy walks, use a hand lotion or soap that smells nice, ask for someone to watch baby so you can take a nap, drink plenty of water.  

4. Have reasonable expectations for yourself.  Will your pre-baby clothes ever fit again?  Yes! But remember it took 9 months to grow a baby, and it will take just as long (and usually a little longer) to heal from the experience.  By giving your body what it needs right now (food, plenty of water, nourishing foods, and sleep) you will begin the journey of healing your body and celebrate the amazingness of pregnancy and childbirth!

Studies also show that starting/maintaining a fitness regimen postpartum can help to improve maternal mental state, boost confidence and energy levels. So, if and when you are ready to start your postpartum fitness journey, we are ready to support you through Bump & Beyond.

*If you have a current eating disorder, history of an eating disorder, intense thoughts of body shame, or if you find that your negative body image impairs you daily functioning in any way, please consult with your doctor or therapist.*