Navigating postpartum and being a mom - September 2023 Babies | Forums | What to Expect (2024)

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Navigating postpartum and being a mom - September 2023 Babies | Forums | What to Expect (1)

bri-mtl

I want to start by expressing my genuine appreciation for maternity leave and acknowledging the privilege I have in watching my baby girl grow and hit her milestones.

However, lately, I've been struggling with feeling disconnected from my identity. Even though I've shed some weight since I stopped pumping, I'm still 15 pounds heavier. I no longer feel familiar in my own body and find myself stuck in a cycle of wearing the same four outfits repeatedly, mostly consisting of leggings or sweatpants because that’s all that fits.

We are also going through a crap-nap phase (30-45 minutes) so my LO’s short naps leave me with minimal time for self-care. Frankly, I'm not even sure how to define self-care these days!

Are there any other moms out there experiencing similar feelings? How are you navigating this new life and finding ways to fill your cup?

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Navigating postpartum and being a mom - September 2023 Babies | Forums | What to Expect (8)

Magendavid

100% relatable. Makes me feel very ugly

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bremansell

Ugh this. I am certainly not navigating this phase well. I pick fights with my husband daily and I'd say 75% is me just being a b.

I do, and my husband makes sure I go to the gym at least 4 times a week. I am not losing weight, but the me time,.doing something I love helps. I'm also going this week to buyore spring like clothes my. my friend gave me allmher nursing shirts (she likes grey and black, it frankly depresses me lol)

I've been reading a.lot, mostly because it's a manageable hobby with 2 kids. I also just tell myself I will get there one day.

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Chelsea453

I definitely feel this. My LO has napped 30-45 minutes since two months and I’d started to fall apart. I wasn’t taking care of myself, and I had a back injury. I’m taking small steps and it’s a bit better, very basic things like remembering to eat more than protein bars. I’m still about 10-15 pounds heavier than before but I’m slowly working out as I can and it helps me feel human (even when I only manage 20 minutes). I’m getting my first postpartum haircut soon and plan to get some clothes that fit so I don’t feel so bad about myself.

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