Navigating Pregnancy and Postpartum with Body Positivity

1 April 2025

Pregnancy and postpartum are beautiful and transformative phases of life, but let’s be real—they can also be tough on your body image. Your body is creating life, stretching, shifting, and evolving in ways you never imagined. And after birth? Well, things don’t just snap back overnight (or ever, in some cases).

But here’s the truth: Your body is doing something extraordinary. It deserves love, respect, and appreciation from you—now more than ever. So, let’s talk about how you can navigate pregnancy and postpartum with body positivity, embracing the changes rather than fighting them.

Embracing Your Changing Body During Pregnancy

Your Body Is Supposed to Change—That’s Its Job!

From the moment you conceive, your body shifts into high gear to make room for your baby. Your belly expands, your breasts grow, and your hormones take you on an emotional rollercoaster. It can be overwhelming, but instead of focusing on what’s "different" or "bigger," think of it as proof of the powerful work your body is doing.

Your body isn’t "losing shape"—it’s taking on a new, temporary form to support your baby. And that’s something to celebrate!

Celebrate the Strength, Not Just the Size

Pregnant bodies are strong bodies. You’re literally growing a human, which takes an immense amount of energy and resilience. Rather than criticizing the way your arms, thighs, or belly might look, remind yourself of everything they are doing for you and your baby.

A great way to shift your mindset? Keep a gratitude journal. Write down two or three things your body did for you each day. Maybe your legs carried you through a walk. Maybe your belly provided a safe home for your little one. Focusing on function over appearance changes everything.

Ditch the "Bounce-Back" Mentality Before It Starts

The pressure to "bounce back" after pregnancy starts before you even give birth. Society has drilled into us that we need to return to our pre-pregnancy weight and shape ASAP. But here’s the deal—your body will never be exactly the same, and that’s okay!

Instead of thinking about "getting your body back," focus on moving forward in a way that prioritizes health and happiness. Your body isn’t something that needs fixing. It has adapted, evolved, and nurtured life.

Navigating Body Image Challenges Postpartum

Your Body Just Did Something Incredible—Show It Some Love

After birth, it’s easy to look in the mirror and feel unfamiliar in your own skin. Stretch marks, loose skin, scars, and a soft belly might greet you. Instead of seeing flaws, see reminders of your journey.

Every mark and change tells a story of love, growth, and resilience. Instead of negative self-talk, practice affirmations like:
✅ "My body is strong and capable."
✅ "I honor the journey my body has been through."
✅ "I am more than my appearance."

It might feel silly at first, but words have power. Speak kindness to yourself—you deserve it.

Unfollow Unrealistic Standards

Social media can be a dangerous place when it comes to postpartum body image. If your feed is filled with "snap-back" culture, fitness pressure, or unrealistic portrayals of motherhood, hit that unfollow button.

Instead, surround yourself with accounts and communities that support body positivity and self-love. Follow real moms who share the highs and lows of postpartum life. Be kind to yourself—healing takes time, and everyone’s journey is different.

Dress for Comfort and Confidence

One of the easiest ways to feel better in your postpartum body? Wear clothes that make you feel good.

You don’t need to squeeze into old jeans if they don’t fit comfortably. Whether it’s a soft nursing-friendly dress or cozy leggings, choose outfits that make you feel like yourself. Feeling confident isn’t about the size on the label—it’s about how you feel in your own skin.

Practical Tips for a Body-Positive Mindset

Move in Ways That Feel Good

Exercise doesn’t need to be a punishment for changes in your body. Instead of focusing on getting "back in shape," find movement that feels enjoyable and energizing.

✅ Take short walks while pushing the stroller.
✅ Try postpartum yoga or stretching.
✅ Dance around the living room with your baby.

Movement should be about feeling good, not about "fixing" anything.

Nourish Your Body Instead of Restricting

It’s tempting to fall into diet culture post-baby, but your body needs fuel—especially if you're breastfeeding and healing. Rather than focusing on restriction, think about nourishment.

Eat balanced meals, enjoy your favorite foods, and listen to your body’s hunger cues. Your worth isn’t measured by the number on a scale.

Talk About Your Feelings

Struggling with body image? You’re not alone. Open up to your partner, a friend, or even a therapist. Talking about your feelings can lift a huge weight off your shoulders.

Joining a mom group (online or offline) can also help. Hearing others share similar struggles makes you realize that what you’re feeling is normal—and that you’re not alone.

Setting a Positive Example for Your Child

Your Self-Love Sets the Tone

If you’re hard on yourself, your child will pick up on it. Whether it’s a son or daughter, they’ll learn how to treat their own body by watching you.

Speak kindly about yourself. Avoid self-criticism in front of them. Show them what confidence looks like, even if you’re still working on it. By embracing your postpartum body with love, you’re teaching them to do the same for themselves.

Avoid Negative Talk About Your Body

When you look in the mirror, instead of saying, "Ugh, I hate how my stomach looks," say, "Wow, my body worked so hard to bring my baby into the world." Your words matter, not just for you but for your child’s future self-esteem.

Final Thoughts: Give Yourself Grace

Pregnancy and postpartum are full of changes, challenges, and adjustments. But here's the most important thing: your body is not the enemy. It is your greatest ally—it has carried you through one of life’s most incredible experiences.

So give yourself grace. Let go of the pressure to look a certain way. Instead, focus on feeling strong, healthy, and happy. Your journey is unique, and every stretch mark, scar, and curve is a testament to the miracle you’ve been part of.

You are enough, just as you are. And your child? They love you not for how you look, but for the love and care you give them every single day.

### Now, take a deep breath and remind yourself—you are beautiful, strong, and worthy of love. Just as you are.