A Transformative Moment
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In a historic first for the Swimsuit Issue of Sports Illustrated, a model has proudly displayed her C-section scar, celebrating the journey of motherhood and the beauty of female bodies.
Which model revealed her C-section scar in Sports Illustrated?
Thanks to a collaboration with the brand Frida Mom, which aims to reshape the narrative surrounding women’s experiences, the 2022 edition features a striking image of Maya Johnson confidently flaunting her scar while wearing a bikini. The accompanying text reads, “all great achievements leave their mark.”
“This was the first time I’ve ever shared my scar publicly, and it holds so much personal significance for me,” Johnson explained. “Coming to terms with it took time, so having the opportunity to showcase something I used to feel insecure about in such a prestigious magazine stirred up a mix of emotions.”
Maya Johnson reveals her C-section scar in an image destined to become iconic in Sports Illustrated.
Johnson, a mother to a 3-year-old named Leo, described the mental and physical journey she undertook to embrace her scar, especially in an industry that often emphasizes unrealistic body standards. Now, she feels empowered. “I’ve never felt more confident about my scar than I do today, and this photoshoot has truly boosted my self-esteem,” she shared. “There’s an inspiring shift toward inclusivity and acceptance of the changes our bodies undergo, and being part of this movement is liberating.”
How many women undergo C-sections each year?
In the United States, over 1.2 million women give birth via C-section each year, making it nearly a third of all births. Despite the procedure’s prevalence, many mothers are left with emotional scars of disappointment or shame, especially when unplanned. Cultural misconceptions often label cesarean births as an “easy way out,” which couldn’t be further from the truth. Frida Mom has recently introduced a C-Section Recovery product line aimed at improving the postpartum experience for mothers. Their partnership with Sports Illustrated through the Pay For Change initiative seeks to redefine motherhood narratives and celebrate the strength of women’s bodies.
“I was invited to join the advisory board for Sports Illustrated Swim to help positively influence the conversation around women,” said Chelsea Morgan, CEO of Frida. “We’re excited that Sports Illustrated is committed to showcasing authentic representations of women, including those with C-section scars.”
Johnson, who experienced an unplanned C-section followed by additional surgery due to an infection, appreciates the efforts of brands like Frida Mom in normalizing the realities of motherhood. “The notion of returning to your pre-baby body is unrealistic for many—it’s about embracing the journey that shapes us,” she reflected. “I now view my scar with pride; it tells my story, and I will wear it like a badge of honor for life.”
In addition to Johnson, models Ava Scott and Maya Lee also appear in the issue—one during early pregnancy and another six months postpartum. “These photoshoots portray authentic motherhood,” Morgan added. “The modeling industry has evolved significantly over the last 20 years, and it’s refreshing to see Sports Illustrated celebrating mothers of all shapes and sizes.”
The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue will be available on May 16. For more insights on home insemination, check out our other blog posts, such as this one on intracervical insemination.
Summary
The 2022 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue marks a significant milestone by featuring model Maya Johnson, who reveals her C-section scar, celebrating motherhood’s realities. In partnership with Frida Mom, the shoot encourages acceptance and empowerment among mothers. Johnson reflects on her personal journey of embracing her scar, while the issue aims to normalize diverse representations of women’s bodies in media. Other models featured include Ava Scott and Maya Lee, highlighting the evolution of the modeling industry.