Coping with body changes in pregnancy and postpartum

Embracing Your Body During Pregnancy and Postpartum: Breaking Free from Harmful Standards

Pregnancy and postpartum are transformative times in a woman’s life. However, they’re often overshadowed by unrealistic and harmful standards about how women’s bodies should look. The pressure to "bounce back" after giving birth can lead to unnecessary stress and negative body image.

Harmful Standards of Pregnancy and Postpartum Bodies

Society often promotes a narrow ideal of what a pregnant or postpartum body should look like. This pressure is not only unrealistic but also harmful. Every woman's body is different, and how your body changes during and after pregnancy is unique to you.

Instead of celebrating these changes, many women are made to feel that they need to hide them or work to reverse them as quickly as possible. The truth is, your body is not supposed to "bounce back" to its pre-pregnancy state immediately—or ever. It’s natural and normal for your body to change during this time.

Coping with Body Image During Pregnancy and Postpartum

1. Celebrate What Your Body Is Doing

Your body is performing a miracle—creating and nurturing new life. This is no small feat, and it deserves recognition and celebration. Instead of focusing on what your body looks like, focus on what it’s doing. Whether it’s growing a baby or healing after childbirth, your body is strong and capable.

2. Challenge Harmful Messages

When you encounter harmful messages about pregnancy and postpartum bodies, challenge them. Remind yourself that these standards are unrealistic and do not define your worth. Surround yourself with positive, body-affirming content that celebrates all the different ways a postpartum body can look.

3. Practice Self-Compassion

It’s normal to have days when you struggle with body image, especially when your body is going through such significant changes. On those days, practice self-compassion. Speak to yourself the way you would speak to a friend—with kindness, understanding, and love.

4. Connect with Supportive Communities

Finding a supportive community can make a big difference in how you feel about your body. Whether it’s a group for new moms, a body-positive community online, or a therapist who specializes in body image and perinatal health, connecting with others who understand can help you feel less alone.