Megan Davenport (35 - she/her), James (5), Emily (4), and William (3)
Houston, TX
How has parenthood impacted your body image?
Aging and having three kids back to back has really taken a toll on my body, body image, and how I perceive myself. I am probably asked often if I am expecting a child. This is challenging and I am learning to love and embrace the new me every day. I am working on a diet and bettering myself, but I am embracing the me that is now and loving each and every curve.
What was your postpartum experience?
The pregnancies were challenging and hard work. All three pregnancies I had gestational diabetes. I worked hard to make sure each child did not grow too big. All three kids I was put on a strict diet and I had to walk for thirty minutes after every meal. I gave myself insulin injections for both James and William. This scared me and I really pushed through a mental block to do this. I had cesarean births for all three children. Emily has a unique story. I had a check-up close to my scheduled cesarean appointment. Two of my doctors noticed that my hemoglobin was dropping to a dangerous level and they had me admitted for observation right away. I didn't have anything or anyone with me at that moment but the support of nurses and doctors that day. Chris was able to get off of work early and he was able to join me in the early evening. The next morning I gave birth with Chris by my side and family in the waiting area.
The first postpartum experience was rough at first. I didn't realize how much sleep new parents really miss. Those first few months were the toughest with the sleep deprivation and constant breastfeeding. I would say I had the hardest time was when William was born. James and Emily were just two and one. I am thankful every day for the constant support of Chris and my parents for showing up and helping with the kids. Chris is my rock and I can't thank him enough for how much he helped me. We had added stress when William was 11 months and our house flooded from Hurricane Harvey. We were juggling a 3-year-old, 2-year-old, and infant on our second floor for five days with our cats and navigating how to survive. A truly stressful experience and thankful for everyone that just showed up and helped us rebuild. It helped throughout this time that I did and still do pray and meditate every night. This helps with living in the present and being 100% there for my kids.
What is your truth?
My truth is that I am a plus size mama with three amazing children and a loving husband. I want to show that our bodies are amazing and to love your body! We just brought life in to this world and to give yourself a break. Embrace each and every stretch mark and those cesarean scar(s).
Why did you choose to participate in this movement and share your story?
I have followed 4th Trimester Bodies Project for a while and I have always wanted to participate. I chose to participate because I want women of all ages to feel loved in this constant diet-obsessed culture. That it's okay not to have the perfect body and to embrace your now.