Lauren d (37 - she/her), Malley (2), and Natalie (6 weeks)
Boston, MA
How has parenthood impacted your body image?
As the mother of two beautiful girls, I have made it a priority to ensure that I am aware of how I talk about my body. That does not mean it is easy. I enjoyed being pregnant but the changes to my body were somewhat challenging. I recognize how beautiful and powerful my body is while also sometimes struggling with these changes. I continue to be amazed at the things my body has done throughout my pregnancies and while breastfeeding.
I was raised in a very loving household but as I have gotten older, I have recognized how much my parents, in particular, value skinny bodies. I was slim for most of my life but with both of my pregnancies I was very large. I received many comments from complete strangers such as “Are you sure there aren’t two in there?” and “I don’t know if you’re going to make it to your due date.” I was astounded at people’s insensitivity. When is it ever ok to comment on someone else’s body? I would love to say that these comments didn’t bother me. I knew I was healthy and my babies were too. My husband told me daily how beautiful I looked but I still struggled with my body image.
What was your postpartum experience?
My postpartum experience was different with each of my children. I gladly accepted support from family in the new days of motherhood. Caring for my second child has been easier because I knew what to expect as far as the healing of my body, breastfeeding, and caretaking.
The main difference in my postpartum body image is a pressure I have put on myself. After giving birth to my first child, I did not feel as much pressure to “get my body back” as I do this time around. This is because I knew I wanted to get pregnant again. Now that my family is complete, I feel like I need to look the way I used to look. I realize this is a pressure I am putting on myself. I want to focus more on the health of my body rather than the size and shape.
What is your truth that you'd pass along to your former self, or a new parent?
You know what is best for you and your family. People will give unsolicited advice and you will second guess your decisions but you are always going to be the best advocate for your children.
Why did you choose to participate in this movement and share your story?
I have felt a beautiful sense of empowerment viewing the photos from this project. I know I am a work in progress when it comes to my postpartum body image. I love seeing other parents of different backgrounds and experiences come together with the common goal of shedding light on the parts of parenthood that are not always talked about and that are not always pretty. There is incredible beauty in that.