Before my twins arrived, I stumbled upon an article on social media that discussed the unrealistic expectations placed on women to shed baby weight at an alarming pace. It was infuriating, especially as I munched on my favorite snack. Who are these celebrities that flaunt their post-baby bodies within days of giving birth? The pressure is unbearable! I thought to myself, as I indulged in my white cheddar popcorn, that it’s absurd to feel compelled to fit back into pre-baby attire while we’re busy nurturing life, enduring sleep deprivation, and dealing with the inevitable messes of motherhood. We should be applauded for our strength and resilience, not shamed for our appearance.
Deep down, I convinced myself I wouldn’t struggle with my weight after childbirth because everyone reassured me that I would simply bounce back. It seemed like a given, right? Fast forward seven months, and here I am, curled up in a corner of my room, repeating affirmations while fixating on a pair of jeans that are four sizes larger than anything I’ve ever owned.
Spoiler alert: they didn’t fit. In a fit of frustration, I flung them across the room.
I had high hopes when I decided to purchase a proper pair of jeans, thinking that after a week of dieting and exercising, I’d be ready to wear something that didn’t come from the maternity section. But I was mistaken.
Now, I find myself reminiscing about my old jeans, belting out Lady Antebellum’s “Need You Now” to them, as I recall the days of less jiggling and fewer dimples—when I could wear something other than leggings, which I now pull up to my bra just to make everything fit. #sexyandiknowit
On top of the false promises, like “Kids are the best thing that will ever happen to you,” I was told that breastfeeding would help me shed those extra pounds “in no time.” Seven months into breastfeeding, one would expect me to be slipping into non-maternity jeans effortlessly, right? Wrong.
According to research, breastfeeding can burn anywhere from 200 to 300 calories (or more) per feeding, and since I’m feeding two, I can only assume my calorie burn is higher. But you know what happens when your body expends that much energy? You get hungry. And time for healthy meal prep? Nonexistent. If I did have the time, I’d still choose carbs over egg whites because they’re far more comforting.
I understand that my body has gone through a remarkable yet traumatic transformation, and it’s going to take time to adjust. But some days, I simply wish to feel like my old self, even if just for a moment. My hair is still falling out, my nails are brittle, and putting on makeup or even shaving my legs feels like an impossible task. I’m constantly tethered to a breast pump or a child, and while I’m getting used to the lack of sleep, grappling with a new, larger body that sometimes aches from a surgery performed seven months ago is not something I’m ready for.
Why did I even attempt to squeeze into jeans, you might wonder? I was “inspired” by an article about a mom who ran a marathon while pushing her triplets and even set a world record. Seriously? People actually do that? If she can push three kids and run a marathon, surely I can fit into real pants. Except, I can’t. My inspiration has dwindled; I’m just plain tired. But that’s probably because I’m recovering from an epic food coma after indulging in Ben & Jerry’s The Tonight Dough and cheeseburgers.
Whatever. Real pants are overrated anyway.
For more insights on motherhood and the journey of self-discovery, you can check out this post about at-home insemination kits here. If you’re interested in understanding the emotional aspects of motherhood, you might find this study about how babies sense their mother’s sadness enlightening here. For comprehensive information about pregnancy, visit this excellent resource here.
In summary, the journey of motherhood is filled with challenges, and the pressure to conform to societal expectations can be overwhelming. Embracing one’s new reality, regardless of weight or appearance, is crucial in navigating this rollercoaster of emotions and experiences.