Curvy. Statuesque. Voluptuous. Amazon-like. Not small. Baby rhinoceros. These are just a few of the playful ways I’ve described my body in the eleven months since my son made his grand entrance. While I’m tall, I won’t deny that my belly — adorned with stretch marks — is just one cupcake away from performing the Truffle Shuffle. Given its resemblance to a saggy rear end, I’ve affectionately dubbed it the “front butt” or “Frutt.” I also sport a few extra chins. My breasts are large yet uneven, as my little one insists on nursing primarily from the right side. And let’s not forget, my pants are perpetually sliding down due to my Frutt’s influence.
And you know what? I’m completely fine with it.
What baffles me is why others aren’t. From the moment my bump started showing — which, by the way, happened at just three months — I’ve been bombarded with unsolicited comments about my weight.
- “Wow, you’re really growing!”
- “Oh, are you having twins?”
- “Getting that baby weight off might be tough!”
- “That’s going to be a BIG baby!”
(Okay, I’ll admit, the last one was spot on; my son weighed in at a hefty 10 pounds, 8 ounces. But still, people didn’t know that beforehand, so zip it.) During doctor visits, I often found myself on the brink of an emotional explosion as a petite nurse would glance between me and the scale, then dryly ask, “Do you want to take your boots off?”
No, I don’t want to take off my damn boots.
Any hope that the judgment would fade after my son was born vanished quickly when I realized the scale wasn’t exactly being my friend post-baby. Sure, I lost the weight I gained during pregnancy, but the extra pounds I had accumulated after quitting smoking two years ago had transformed into a shape I’d never seen before.
For the most part, I’m good with this. I brought a beautiful, healthy baby into the world. Naturally, I wouldn’t mind looking a little different, but it’s not high on my list of priorities right now.
During a recent check-up, the doctor asked if I was aware that I was overweight. Oh, really? I had no clue! After all, I don’t exactly buy new clothes or own any mirrors! Thanks for the heads-up, doc!
I might be taking the wrong approach, and I’m not claiming to be brimming with confidence. I still find myself rummaging through my closet weekly, looking for an outfit that will conceal my Frutt. I occasionally wear my maternity jeans, and I’ve deleted pictures from my husband’s phone that showcase my chins.
Some women effortlessly shed the weight shortly after giving birth; I am not one of them. Even though I prepare healthy meals for my son, the weight sticks around. Others may hit the gym hard to reclaim their pre-baby bodies, and I applaud them wholeheartedly. Me? I struggle to keep up with work, playtime, and chores before collapsing on the couch, makeup still intact.
What I do have is a husband who cherishes me, flaws and all. I have a wonderful son that I adore. Someday, I might lose the extra chins and the Frutt, and perhaps I’ll finally tuck away those maternity jeans. But for now? You’ll find me relishing time with my family and soaking up every moment.
For more insights on pregnancy and the journey of motherhood, check out our other posts here. If you’re interested in home insemination, don’t forget to visit Cryobaby for expert advice. For additional resources, the CDC has a wealth of information on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary:
This article reflects on the changes to body image and societal pressures after childbirth. The author embraces her post-baby figure while expressing frustration with unsolicited comments about her weight. She highlights the importance of self-acceptance and cherishing family moments over societal expectations.