Becoming a mother changes every single aspect of your life: your priorities, sex-life, schedule, and of course, body. If you’re an expectant mother or you’re in the throes of newborn life, you might be wondering what the next few months hold in store for your body.
In this article, we’ll discuss the major changes that happen to your body after a baby. We’ll also share some tips for how to boost your self-esteem and be content with your body.
Your Figure
Many women struggle to come to terms with their after-baby bodies. It can take up to six weeks for your uterus to contract back to its normal size. Attempting a speedy loss of pregnancy weight during this period is unhealthy and unnatural.
If after several months of giving birth, you still feel unhappy with your figure, there are of course other options. Particularly women who are unhappy with their body after a second baby, or when they’ve finished having children, might look to surgery as an option.
There are many plastic surgeons who offer specialized treatments for mamas, such as the mommy makeover by Dr. Chasan, which can include breast lifts, tummy tucks, and more.
Your Skin
Most women will notice significant differences in their bodies before and after a baby. Many notice that their skin becomes more freckly after having a baby, not to mention stretch marks and looser skin.
If you find yourself thinking “I hate my body after baby”, there is plenty of help available. Try using retinoid creams that have plenty of vitamin A to minimize stretch marks that are still pink and purple.
While many new mothers will struggle to find the time for a full beauty routine, it’s worth applying a moisturizer with SPF at least. This will help prevent dry skin and potential damage from the sun.
Exercising
It is not uncommon to think “my body is ruined after having a baby”, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. There are, however, many benefits to exercising, and the endorphins released might help improve your mood.
Most doctors will recommend starting up an exercise routine at a minimum of six weeks postpartum. Focusing on rebuilding your core strength is a perfect place to start.
In addition to mama-specific exercise classes, it’s worth remembering that breastfeeding burns lots of calories. It’s also a great idea to engage in pelvic floor exercises as these will help guard against incontinence issues in the future.
Your Body After a Baby Is Good Enough
It’s all too easy to compare your body after a baby to the celebrities and influencers we see on Instagram. It’s worth remembering that these women often have personal trainers and dieticians.
No matter how your body looks, it is an incredible thing. It has given life to another human being and continues to provide it with food, warmth, love, and support. For more tips, advice, and support for mamas, check out the rest of our website.
