Sharona Steed (32) currently 20 weeks pregnant and Adiya (2.5)
Los Angeles, CA | Photographed in San Diego, CA
Sharona shares -
"Pregnancy, birth and breastfeeding have significantly affected my body image in a positive way. Having suffered with eating disorders for a decade, these changes and powerful transformations have empowered my view of myself and have encouraged me to view myself and my body in a more positive light.
The postpartum period with my first was rough for me since I had excruciating breast pain for the first 6 weeks. One professional after the next failed to properly diagnose and treat me until finally I found an OB who had a solution. I came close to giving up breastfeeding altogether on multiple occasions during that time, and now that I'm 2.5 years in with my daughter I am more determined than ever to breastfeed her for as long as she wants to, despite the discomforts of nursing through pregnancy and the fact that I'm in the minority now, not knowing many people who have nursed their children even this long.
I want to help portray the beauty of motherhood, nursing, extended breastfeeding, nursing through pregnancy (and ultimately tandem nursing hopefully). For years I was ashamed and uncomfortable with my breasts and other parts of my body that identified my femininity and reminded me of how I had been violated as a child. I still struggle with the aftermath but being a mother and making the parenting choices I have along with my husband has helped me heal so much more than the years of therapy I've done. I love capturing these moments, showing women just how strong and courageous they really are and helping normalize basic and important elements of motherhood that are so taboo in our society.
(I want other parents to know) You are stronger than you think you are, and your instincts for yours and your child's needs trump anyones ideas about how you should parent."