So you’ve just given birth to your beautiful baby—congratulations! The postpartum period (or “fourth trimester”) can be a time of significant mental and physical changes, including adjusting to your postpartum body. While this change can be a difficult adjustment for some, it’s important to embrace and love your body for the incredible work it has done. Here are a few tips to help you embrace and love your body after giving birth.

1. Acknowledge Your Accomplishments

First and foremost: you have accomplished something amazing by bringing a human into the world. Remind yourself of this achievement regularly. Taking the time to acknowledge your strength and the resilience of your body can help you appreciate it more. Additionally, celebrate milestones of all sizes: whether it’s breastfeeding, healing after a C-section, or simply getting through another sleepless night, every milestone is worth celebrating.

Postpartum Body Image WFMC Health

2. Be Patient with Yourself

Recovery from birth and adjustment to life with a baby can take time. Your body will not look or feel the same as it did before pregnancy, and that’s okay! Allow yourself time for healing and give yourself grace during the process. Set realistic expectations and understand that it took nine months for your body to change during pregnancy, and it will take time to recover postpartum. It’s also important to avoid comparison with others. Everyone’s postpartum journey is unique; avoid comparing yourself and your body to others’, whether it’s friends, family, or celebrities.

3. Practice Self-Care

Making sure your needs are met is crucial for both physical and mental health. Taking time for self-care can help boost your mood and improve your overall well-being.

  • Stay Active: Gentle exercise, like walking or postpartum yoga, can improve your mood and energy levels. Be sure to get cleared by your healthcare provider before starting a new exercise routine or going back to your old routine.
  • Eat Nutritious Foods: Nourishing your body with healthy foods can also boost your energy and mood. Incorporate fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  • Rest When You Can: Sleep is already vital for rest and recovery, but especially so after giving birth. Try to nap when your baby naps and ask for help when you need it to help  you get enough rest.

4. Surround Yourself with Support

Having a supportive network can make a big difference in how you feel about your body postpartum. Find people who encourage and uplift you in support. Let your partner, family, and friends know how they can support you—whether helping with the baby, helping at home, or simply having someone to talk to. You might also consider joining a new mom support group, which can provide comfort and understanding. Connect with new mothers, share your experiences, and uplift each other through this shared experience.

5. Focus on the Positive

It may be difficult, but try to shift your focus to the positive aspects of your body and the postpartum experience. Use positive affirmations to remind yourself of your body’s strength and beauty. Remind yourself with statements like “My body is strong,” “My body is capable,” or “I am proud of what I have achieved.” You can also learn to embrace postpartum changes over time—instead of viewing them as negative, see them as reminders of the journey you’ve been through.

6. Seek Professional Help if Needed

If you are experiencing postpartum depression, anxiety, or negative body image, don’t be afraid to reach out for professional help. For example, talking to a therapist can provide valuable support, treatment options, or management strategies.

Embracing your postpartum body is about recognizing the incredible journey you’ve been through and being kind to yourself as you adjust to the changes. By acknowledging your accomplishments, practicing self-care, seeking support, and focusing on the positive, you can develop a more positive body image after birth. Your postpartum body is unique and beautiful!

This article is meant for informational purposes only. If you have questions or would like further information, make an appointment with your primary care provider.

This blog post was first published on WFMCHealth.org.