In The Cradle Boss Baby’s series, “What to Expect When You’re Expecting”, we uncover the best tips and tricks to prepare new and experienced parents on their pregnancy journey. Sometimes that journey can spark isolating and incomprehensible thoughts in regards to how we feel about our mind and body. Various studies have indicated that many women can struggle with negative postpartum body image for months, even years. In part 5 our series, let’s discuss 3 common ways that you can improve negative body image after having your baby.

Don’t Obsess Over the Numbers: 

Chances are, you may not be the same size jeans you were before you were pregnant – that’s ok. You may not wake up at the same time of the day that you used to – that’s ok. You may not be the same number on the scale as you used to – that’s ok too. Numbers don’t define you. Here are small changes to integrate on a daily basis:

• Get rid of the scale: The scale can be emotionally triggering. Unfortunately, we tend to unconsciously connect our worth with our weight. Please remember, the scale does not reflect you or define your worth as a person. Start by putting the scale away for a couple weeks and see how it impacts your overall mood.
• Stop body checking: Try unconventional ways to focus less on your appearance. Turn standing mirrors around so you are unable to constantly check your appearance. Try brushing your teeth in the kitchen to not see your reflection. Wear clothes that you feel good in to promote better body image.

Honor Your Body With Healthy Habits:

We recommend not restricting food choices and/or workouts as this could lead down an unsustainable path. Instead, give yourself unconditional permission to eat foods that you crave (in moderation). Also, eat foods that fuel your body for a healthy recovery. Activities like breastfeeding and cooking require extensive energy to be full present, so you may need to eat more to compensate for a bigger appetite. When it comes to exercise, workout to feel proud of your body – not punish it. Start with a slower exercise routine such as a low-impact cardio class or a 20 minute at-home workout. By practicing healthy habits, establish a routine for yourself to make each day a little easier than the last.

You’re Not Meant to “Bounce Back”:

In the age of social media, modern movies and models on magazines, people tend to forget that photoshop exists. The perfect woman however, does not. We’ve been told throughout our lives that “bouncing back after a baby” is amazing! fantastic! OMG! when in reality, it’s hard and unnatural to do so. The weeks and months after giving birth to your baby is the hardest as you are sleep-deprived, drained and simply just want time with your little one. If the last thing you want to do is workout, we don’t blame you. Thousands of women are now beginning to share their struggles of weight gain, stretch marks and breast changes on social platforms like Instagram. Here are 3 practical and body positive pages to follow:

• @thebirdspapaya on Instagram: Sarah Landry, mother of four, advocates for body-confidence and positivity in the chaotic world of motherhood. She discusses disordered eating, body image and divorce.
• @takingcarababies on Instagram: Cara, a neonatal nurse has amassed 2.1 million followers over the years for her expertise on all things postpartum including sleeping schedules, helping families thrive and establishing a new routine.
• @rookiemoms on Instagram: Rookie Moms is the mother of essential #momhacks. Need a pair of postpartum underwear? A motivational quote to get you through the day? This is the page for you!

The Cradle Boss Baby is the #1 resource for new and current parents to help break down the best practices for pregnancy, parenting and beyond. Our team is composed of highly-skilled childcare specialists, nannies and caregivers (some who are parents themselves!) to best support and understand your needs as a new parent. Stay tuned for Part 6 of our “What to Expect When You’re Expecting” Series where we discuss all things breastfeeding after birth.

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