pregnancy

Whether you are becoming a mom for the first time or you are having baby number four, your post-baby body is always something in the back of your mind. As if adding a new and enormous responsibility to your life isn’t enough, the fear of how your body will look and react in the aftermath of childbirth can also be a major concern. While we understand that everyone’s body is different and will heal and adjust at various rates, there are a few helpful reminders we would like to share to help with transitioning back.

First, wait until you are fully healed to start a workout regimen. The doctors will most likely suggest you wait six weeks post-partum or possibly even longer if you have had a cesarean section. Yes, it is important to get back into a workout routine, however, if you jump in too soon you may end up with complications and not healing properly. Listen to your body; you will know when you are ready.

Next, pay attention to your calorie intake. If you are breastfeeding, you will need to eat approximately 300 calories above what someone who is not breastfeeding should typically consume. Make sure to check with your doctor to find out exactly what the best plan is for you. Keep in mind that your calories should be comprised of a healthy balance of proteins, fats, veggies, and carbs. For example, a bag of chips should not be your serving of carbs for the day if you are trying to shed pounds. Rather get your energy from complex carbs like sweet potatoes or added energy from fruit, and don’t forget to eat breakfast. Once you get into a routine of eating right, you really can’t go wrong. Also, if you feel really motivated try meal planning and freezing them before your baby is born. This way, you won’t even have to think about dinner in the first few months.

If your post baby eating habits are on point, then you should be on track to losing almost all of your baby weight. Remember that the last 10lbs can be the hardest to lose, and you will have to work for it. Start incorporating exercise into your daily routine even if it’s only 20 minutes per day in the beginning. Be sure and increase your intensity and duration steadily over time. You can even get creative and use your little one as a prop.
The last thing to remember is that you should not compare yourself to others. Just because your best friend into her pre-pregnancy jeans in the first two weeks post-baby, doesn’t mean you will too. Keep in mind; it took you around nine months to get this way so give yourself around nine months to get back to where you want to be. You have enough pressure on you as it is so the last thing you should do is make yourself feel bad. If you find yourself feeling down, talk to other moms who are or were in your situation. Support from those who are empathetic to what you are enduring is always uplifting. Just remember to try and stay positive and motivated and you will succeed!