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As I embrace my body again after the arrival of my third child and a pandemic, I find myself confronting new realities. For the first time, I’ve noticed some belly fat—something I never had before. There are a few inches of skin that sags when I lean over or stretch in certain poses. I’m grateful for the mom jeans trend; can you imagine if low-rise jeans were still the norm? Not only would they expose my underwear, but they also offer no support for a belly. (I apologize to everyone for allowing that trend to continue.) And honestly, who even wears thongs anymore? They feel like medieval torture, likely designed by someone who had no clue about comfort.
With the surge of digital media, body positivity is finally finding its way into mainstream conversations. Women are confidently sharing photos in swimsuits, and influencers like Mia Thompson are enlightening us on how poses can conceal imperfections. Platforms like Instagram allow us to curate our feeds, giving us a healthier escape from the unrealistic beauty standards often seen in magazines. Quick tip: if you come across ads that feel offensive—like ones promoting weight loss or anti-aging treatments—report them. This can help create a more positive online environment.
I can’t recall a time when I didn’t feel self-conscious about my thighs. Growing up, I was often called “big” even when I was just a skinny kid. Standing at 6’2″ by the time I was 16, I constantly worried that my thighs were the first thing others noticed about me. If I saw someone with toned legs, I felt a pang of jealousy, and if they didn’t fit that mold, I felt ashamed. I learned to push myself with workouts, trying to mold my thighs into something they were never meant to be—just thighs. They don’t define my worth as a woman; they’re simply part of my body.
Perhaps you’ve felt similarly. Articles that categorize body types or label certain features as “problem areas” do a disservice to our self-image. Who even decided that certain body parts are problems to fix? It’s clear that such standards often stem from societal pressures and unrealistic ideals.
I’ve been sober for 18 years from bulimia and other struggles, yet it’s still strange to come to terms with my body after childbirth and a global crisis. There’s anxiety about how others perceive me now—what if they see me as a “big girl” or judge my thighs? These narratives can shape our reality if we let them. But thighs aren’t disgusting; they’re just thighs. I may compare to others, but I’m the right size for me. It’s crucial not to allow external judgment to dictate our self-worth. The value lies in how we view ourselves.
Consider where your own self-doubts stem from. Did you grow up hearing negative comments about your body? Reflecting on these memories can help in dismantling the lies we believe about ourselves. Learning to love ourselves is a journey, and it’s hard to grow when we’re trapped in self-loathing. Remember: You are beautiful, and your body is extraordinary. Let’s encourage each other in this affirmation.
It’s time to wear those shorts, embrace your bathing suit, and rediscover yourself. You are loved, and don’t forget that.
For more insights, check out one of our other blog posts about home insemination here. And if you’re looking for resources on fertility, Make a Mom has some great information. Additionally, WebMD is an excellent resource for understanding pregnancy and home insemination.