Stephanie Weinberg (34 - due with baby #3 in September), Erin (5), and Dean (3)
Bethesda, MD | Washington, DC
Stephanie shares -
"I am a person who likes to be in control, so I've certainly struggled through pregnancy and parenthood where control is hard to find! After my first pregnancy, I really struggled with finding control which resulted in postpartum depression and a rapid amount of weight loss. I felt like I could at least control how I looked on the outside, if I couldn't control what I felt like on the inside. After receiving professional help, I had a much healthier postpartum period with my second child.
Now, pregnant with my third, I certainly struggle with the body changes that come along with pregnancy but I'm also learning to be kind to myself. As this is the likely our last baby, I am trying to remind myself that my body is growing something precious and I'll have the rest of my life to reclaim my body - I'm trying to enjoy the body I have now, but I'm not naturally one of those people that looks at the changes happening during pregnancy and rejoices. That being said, I've also put a lot of pressure on myself to present a positive body image for my kids. I want them to know that it's important to eat healthy, be active, and appreciate everything your body is capable of.
There have been times where I've really struggled with the demands, pressures, and anxiety of being a parent. There are times where I've reveled in it. There are times I've been really disappointed in myself. There have been times where I've exceeded even my own expectations. I think the thing I continue to work on is being "enough". There is always more I can do for myself, my husband, my kids, my job, my parents, my siblings, my in-laws. But at some point I have to choose to be happy and proud with everything I have. I'm still working on that.
I'm so touched by the other women who have been brave enough to participate in this project; sharing their pictures, families and stories. I decided to participate because this is completely out of my comfort zone and I want to treasure this time in my life with my beautiful family, and baby on the way.
No one does it alone - get the support you need. I didn't start seeing a therapist until my daughter was 6 months old, but I wish I had done it sooner so I could have enjoyed my pregnancy and first few months with her more than I did. It's up to YOU to find the support you need, and get it.