Bianca Munoz Norman (28), Emilio (6.5), Lucy (4), and Nola (7.5 months).
Long Beach, CA | Asheville, NC
Bianca is a previous project participant. You can view her original photo and story from 2015 here.
Bianca shares -
“Before ever having children, I was not happy with my body. I would look at myself in the mirror always checking to see what I would change or be different. I was unhappy with the skin I was in. Also, I had a lot of self-identity struggles and that did not make life easy. After having three children, I embrace every stretch mark, every curve, and every imperfection that makes my body mine. I love my brown skin! I look back at pictures before children, and think DAMN I looked good; And now, I think, “I gave birth to three children and my body is AMAZING.” My body did that! Birthing my children helped me to conquer my self-identity issues as well as recognize and appreciate the power of my body.
I first participated in the 4TBP in February 2015, and that day and those pictures further changed the way I looked at my body forever. I was so proud of myself for sharing that photo! I definitely felt more confident after the shoot, even three years later! I cannot wait to do it again! I had one more baby since my last shoot with 4TBP and I know my body has changed. I am excited to see the changes and embrace my last 4th trimester.
I remember riding in the backseat of the car, on our way home from the hospital after I had given birth to my firstborn. Emilio arrived one month early, and we had a weeklong stay in the hospital, mostly due to jaundice. I remember sitting in the back next to his car seat, totally unattached from reality. Just wondering how I was going to do this parenting thing without the help of nurses. The car ride home was not as exciting as society makes it out to be. There were no roses or butterflies. I was nervous, scared, and felt lonely.
Before having children, I was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. I also dealt with depression and anxiety. These mental health issues played a huge role in worries about being a new parent. Although I did (and still do) have the help of my partner and my mom, I just felt that I wasn’t going to be a good parent. Three children later, and each experience have been so different. I’m rocking it out, embracing my mistakes, and bettering my parenting skills as I go. I’m more informed and empowered since the birth of my last two babies.
{I want others to know} You have control of your birth and your body. If you feel like you need help, mentally or physically, REACH OUT! Do not wait until it’s too late. And also, get yourself a doula! I was super lucky to have a doula for my last two births, and it was one of the greatest decisions I made because it provided a different kind of support and encouraged me to take ownership of my body and birth!”