This is actually a topic that I’ve thought about for a while now, so I figured I’d throw it out there. Perhaps we’ll even get some good discussion going?
Now let me first say that I am certainly NOT knocking anyone else who has done/documented their postpartum body updates in some way, shape, or form. For many people, it is a good and useful indicator of progress that is made postpartum, and I have no problem with that.
In fact, I’ll be the first to admit that when I see a fellow blogger publish a post about their postpartum body updates, it’s one of the first ones I’ll go to read. Magazines at the checkout at the grocery store? All over ’em. What can I say? I’m human. I’m nosy. I’m curious. I think many of us would probably agree.
Fellow bloggers aside, we are all still completely inundated with the media splashing stories of how celebs “dropped the baby weight” and all that jazz on a regular basis. I mean, yes, I get it…it’s interesting to see the side-by-side comparisons. But really, sometimes I just want to shout ENOUGH already!
This past year has been quite a journey for me. When I first began my struggles with HA a little over a year ago, I knew there changes that needed to be made to my lifestyle. I needed more of a focus on becoming healthy as a whole, and less of a focus on extreme exercising and being a certain size. It wasn’t easy for me, and if we’re being honest, I have no doubt that it’s still something I’ll continue to struggle on finding balance with post-baby.
I am more than ready to get back into exercise again (I have been craving sweaty workouts like it’s nobody’s business!), but for the first time, I can honestly say that I’m not craving it for the aesthetic factor…I’m craving it for my peace of mind.
And the whole idea of a “finding your happy weight” that we all hear everyone talking about? It’s still somewhat of a mystery to me. Since I was purposely trying to put on weight before getting pregnant, I really have no idea what that is for me. What the heck IS my “happy weight?” Is there such a thing? Who knows.
So for all of those reasons and others, I’ve decided that I won’t be tracking my post baby body weight loss and/or measurements on the blog. Whether or not I’ll do any sort of tracking for my own personal knowledge is still undecided. I want to see progress, obviously, but at the same time, I don’t want to get caught up in all of that hoopla of numbers again. At first I thought, “Geez…do I not want to publicize it for fear of failure?” But after weeding through all of my thoughts on the topic, I realized that’s definitely not it. Basically, my feeling is this…
Plain and simple, I just don’t want that to be the focus of my blog (and I’ve actually already turned down offers from a couple different companies to review their products on the blog for that very reason). I don’t want to feel pressured to have to be a certain size/drop a certain amount of weight/look a certain way by any particular time. Been there, done that, and quite frankly, don’t want to do it again.
And as nice as it is to hear things like “you look great!” or “way to go!,” I don’t really need that either. I don’t need to be compared to someone else, and really, I wouldn’t want anyone comparing themselves to me. We are all so different and respond SO differently to pregnancy…to compare one to another just isn’t necessary or fair.
I’ve had an absolute blast sharing my Baby Tooth updates with you all, and from what I can tell, it seems like you’ve all enjoyed them too…
Speaking of which, the Baby Tooth page was updated this morning!
But as far as post baby goes, I’m keeping those updates for myself. Does it make sense? Am I being a cop out? I mean, after sharing so much through my pregnancy, including weight gain, why wouldn’t I share weight loss?
I don’t know if I really have an answer for that, but all I can say is that it’s just what I’ve decided to do and what feels right for me. While I have no idea what will be the focus on the blog, I know my main focus in life is going to be my little man…which will be more important than any sort of weight loss.
So what do you guys think?
- What are your thoughts on postpartum baby updates?
- Do you enjoy reading them?
- Would you/did you share your own? What made you do one way or the other?
If I ever had a baby (and I have no plans to do so, not my scene), my post-baby body update would be “There was a human being inside of me. Now there isn’t. That’s the most drastic change you’ll ever see.”
hahahaha this is the best comment ever.
Hahaha, agreed!
Haha. Love this comment. amen.
Ha amazing, and I’d steal this idea
A-freakin-men!
Wow – you are so right on.
I can’t really speak to my own post-baby weight loss because I don’t have any children yet but I totally respect your decision. I think being pregnant makes you respect your body more and I’m happy to hear that you are not going to be pressured to fit some “ideal” type post-baby but rather want to focus on how you feel. You go girl.
So glad you posted this! Another reason why you’re one of the few “healthy living blogs” I still read. Not to mention I’m more excited for posts about baby tooth than anything else! :)
Thanks, Gracie! :)
Yes–what Gracie said :)
Not a cop out at all! I really like how Caitlin from Healthy Tipping Point did her updates – she focused on “Mind and Body” so it wasn’t all about “I’ve lost x lbs.” For my blog, I haven’t decided how much I want to share – I don’t have the readership that you do, so it’s a little more private. This post got me thinking, though, so thank you!
THIS is why you are my favorite blogger. So incredibly happy to read this post and definitely refreshing…7 months pregnant myself! You’ve come A LONG way – nice work!!
I think this makes complete sense! Postpartum weight loss/size/whatever is such a personal thing, and it shouldn’t be something that you feel you have to share on your blog. If someone does want to share that part of their journey, great! If not, I completely, 100% respect their choice and privacy :) So excited for your little guy to arrive!
It’s refreshing to hear your POV. While I haven’t experienced pregnancy yet, I *think* we share the same mentatlity. This is so not the same I know, but when I participated in the last round of Best Body Bootcamp, I didn’t track my progress by way of the scale or specific measurements. I just didn’t think it was the right thing for me. Glad to read that you’re following your gut on this one!
I totally respect your decision!
I think this is a great point of view, and I totally agree. I don’t have kids (yet) but I think that health should be the most important thing, yet our culture is wayyy too obsessed with weight. I mean after all, it takes your body 9 months to go through pregnancy, so there shouldn’t be this unrealistic expectation that you need to lose all the weight instantly, that’s just silly/unhealthy. Besides, after your son is here I can imagine that it will take awhile to adjust and the important thing will be soaking up time with him, not stressing about numbers on a scale. So excited for your little guy to get here!
SO glad to read this!!! You’re taking a stand and doing what’s right for your own life balance and peace of mind. In no way is that a cop out. I think it’s not any of our darn business. :-)
Speaking from experience, your body is NEVER the same again. No matter how you look clothed, there are going to be things that have changed. And ya know what– SO WHAT– you created a LIFE, you carried that life for over 9 months, AND you brought that life in to this world!
Chicks rule. Plain and simple.
And THAT’s what the focus should be.
The only advice I’ll give you is that things change. There were a million things I said I wouldn’t do…and then I did them. Post daily baby pictures — check. Share her full name on the Internet. Check. Tweet on the #zombiemoms hashtag during 3 a.m. feedings. Check. Those are ALL things that I confidently said I wouldn’t do.
If I hadn’t given myself the space and grace to be OK with shifting my plans, I think it would have been tough. You’re about to go through an incredibly emotional experience…you’ll want your community around.
I’m 100% on board with your decision and your feelings (I’m not doing regular post-baby body posts either) but just know that my experience is that everything changes once the baby is here.
Great points, Katy (as always!). :)
I agree. I am one week Post partum with my first child and I am surprised at all the things I said I would NEVER do…I am doing. Facebook announcements and pics of my little one, introducing formula as opposed to breast feeding, etc. Things (your life) changes DRAMATICALLY after the baby is here and even when people tell you this, it is SO different when it actually happens.
I thought I would struggle with pressuring myself to be my pre pregnancy weight right away but the thought has not crossed my mind. I am so focused on providing for the little guy that I realize my self absorption in the size of my body is not something I care about. I am gentle and appreciative of all that my body has just done for this little guy!
You know the posts we are all going to be dying to see/read are going to be the ones about what it’s like being a new mom anyway. Nothing beats pictures of NEW BABIES!! And if you feel like sharing a little of your postpartum journey – you can focus on how you’ve found healthy, slow ways to get stronger after delivery like walking with Baby Tooth or adding power greens into your diet… Things like that :)
I think baby updates are the best. I feel that everyone loses weight differently and if you go by how everyone else lost the weight, you’ll go crazy. You have to listen to your body. I only gained 24 LBS with Keely and lost it pretty quickly because I didn’t have a lot of healing to do, no tearing for me. Now, my body doesn’t look like it did pre-baby but I am so happy with my “mom” body. I didn’t have any stretch marks but I still have a faint line down my belly and my skin is a little looser. Anyways, just listen to your body, you are a beautiful person inside and out so it doesn’t matter. Enjoy your time with the little man because it will go by fast. A year and half has flown by. So excited for you!!
Honestly, that decision makes me want to continue reading your blog even more. I get really annoyed with the post baby updates. I think the most important thing is for you to do once you have your adorable son is to rest and enjoy your baby. We put way to much pressure on ourselves to lose the baby weight. Having a newborn is exhausting and stressful enough! Why do we need to add more stress and pressure to the mix? Do I wish I would have lost a bit more of my pregnancy weight before getting pregnant again? Yes. But do I regret spending quality time with my son instead of constantly worrying about my weight and getting in enough workouts? Not one bit.
I’m always a fan of you doing you, no matter what! So stick to your gut feelings and it’s YOUR blog anyway! :)
Honestly, the celeb weight-loss articles get major eyerolls from me. OF COURSE they lost the weight in record time, they have a team of people to help them and are PAID to look a certain way. It’s not reflective of the average woman at all. An article about a celeb losing baby weight the way EVERYONE ELSE does would be more interesting to me, because I know my friends don’t have personal trainers, chefs, assistants, childcare, endorsements, etc. They do it all themselves. That’s way more impressive to me than some millionaire who has all the time in the day to do it.
I think this is a great decision Courtney! I think this is a very personal journey that shouldn’t necessarily be shared to the world. Quite frankly, I’m not really into reading about postpartum baby updates. Every person is different and every person will bounce back differently after baby and publicizing such updates leaves room for comparison and self-critiquing. It seems to me like it’s an unnecessary evil…if that makes any sense!
Good for you for making the best possible decision for YOU!! You should never have to feel pressured to post about certain topics on your blog. Plus, I find that these posts can often lead to comparison traps, so I do not think that I would write about that topic either.
I think you made the best decision for you and you aren’t comparing yourself to others which is awesome. If I was pregnant I don’t think I would write about it either. Everyone is SO different with weight gain//loss that it just leads to comparison. As long as you are healthy that is all that matters!
this is one of my favorite posts – you have to do what’s right for you and I couldn’t agree more!
This is your blog, and you should do whatever makes you most happy and comfortable. There’s no rule saying you have to go and talk about your post-baby weight loss. To be honest, it gets sort of repetitive with all the bloggers out there popping out kids, lol. You do whatever YOU feel comfortable with. Your readers will still be here :)
I love following your blog, especially the baby tooth page since I am pregnant as well and its fun to see what I can expect as your 12 weeks ahead of me. I have to say that I’m really nosy or I mean why else would I follow blogs and I definitely read everyone’s weight updates but I completely respect your reasoning for not doing weight updates postpartum. Your body after baby is going to be completely different and trying to compare yourself to what you used to be is unnecessary. I never comment on blogs but I had to let you know I loved this :)
I give you a lot of credit! Good for you, and good for doing what’s best for YOU!
Just like you, I agree that I’m curious about others. I read them and find them interested having not had a baby yet myself. I think I’d feel differently if we’d had a baby too…maybe not be so interested or curious?
After all the media attention on Kim Kardashian, while I certainly am NOT her biggest fan, I can’t help but think we as a society focus way to much on Mama’s and their bodies! After all, they just finished growing a HUMAN in the body and giving birth. People, and the media, need to remember that and cut these ladies some slack. Just like pregnancy, recovery is not one size fits all :)
I hope you find your recovery journey to be smooth and you find the peace of mind you want! <3
To be honest, the more I focused on numbers… The deeper I went into a dark place and it just became my top priority. When you solely focus on what you want for your body and try to push it to a place it doesn’t want to go, you lose focus on the most important people in your life, your goals, etc. It’s horrible. The more I focus on how I feel, the happier I am as a person. It IS a struggle but it gets easier with time. I don’t blame you AT ALL for not posting post-baby body updates because, quite frankly, it’s nobody’s damn business but your own. If you need advice, ask. If not, I’m looking forward to tons and tons of baby pictures :D
I agree with you Courtney … the post-baby body blog posts are often the ones that intrigue me the most because (like you said) I’m human and nosy. If someone feels comfortable enough to post about their body like that, then more power to them. However, I also agree with you wholeheartedly on your decision NOT to post such updates. Though I do not yet have children of my own, I would like to try for them in the next few years and this is something I’ve already started thinking about myself. Like you, I spent many precious years of my like comparing myself to others, trying to be as skinny as possible (without requiring medical attention), and thinking that all of my “hard work” would make me happier. I’ve since let go of that awful lifestyle and can honestly say I’ve never been happier. I don’t weigh myself anymore, I eat healthily and I don’t feel guilty when I take a “rest” day. I really don’t want a pregnancy, which is supposed to be a completely HAPPY, POSITIVE thing, to derail the progress I’ve made over the past two years. That being said, I don’t think I would share my post-baby progress with others for the exact reasons you’ve already mentioned. Who cares if you lose “x” number of pounds in 1 month, “x” number of inches from your waist in 2 months, etc. All that really matters is that you and your baby are happy and healthy.
FYI – I just want to thank you for always being so open and honest Courtney. I really appreciate it, as I am sure so many other women do. I am learning so much more about what pregnancy is really like from reading all of your Baby Tooth posts, and look forward to seeing Baby Tooth himself! Good luck to you and your family with everything that is to come – I wish you nothing but the best!
I’m not going to lie, I LOVE reading those updates too – mainly because I’m so nosy. ;) But I totally understand where you’re coming from and I will probably act in the same manner. Just like my “every pregnancy is different” post today, every postpartum experience is different as well. No judging/comparison! I want to judge my fitness level after I get back into it though. My big goal is to be able to run a half marathon next September in honor of my dad, but I”ll be doing some mini steps along the way. If I can reach that goal, I”ll be MORE than happy!
I think it is amazing that you share as much of your life as you do! As someone who has also struggled with weight, at this point in my life I know where I have to draw the line. Tracking food for me is a disaster, its a one way ticket to restrictive behavior so I refuse to do it. You will already have an amazing little baby to focus on and while I’m sure you will want to get back to your old clothing, you do not need to explain why sharing that journey might not be your priority or the best thing for you. Just keep doing what is right for you and your post- baby health!
I am not pregnant and I don’t plan to be for a while but I couldn’t agree with you more. It would be very hard for me to do post baby body updates. I feel like it made make me feel worse about myself some weeks. I also give you a lot of props for doing weekly baby bump posts, I know that would be pretty hard for me to do. But I also have a different view because I am not currently making a human in my belly, so I would hope my thoughts would change!
I’m totally with you on this! I’m nosy too and like reading updates, but I wouldn’t document my postpartum progress either. There are so many emotions that are connected with getting back to your prepregnancy self, that it’s just not worth it. Plus…. you’ll have a little bundle of joy to focus on! ;)
I am PROUD of you…you are an excellent role model and I applaud your strength in being who you are, and doing what is comfortable to you..for you, instead of trying to fit in to what is right for others. As a mother to four amazing children, I APPLAUD YOU!!
On another note, I am so happy for you and your hubby! Once you hold that dear sweet baby in your arms you will be IN THE CLUB! The club is the most amazing, rewarding, beautiful club ever! Knowing the love of a Mother/Father for their child is just more that I can express in words. Thank you for being brave enough to share the good and sometimes not so “good” moments of your pregnancy! You have captured my heart and I can’t wait to see your little love! Best wishes!!
Good. For. You.
I am so sick of reading about post baby body updates! I want to read about things like…I dunno…THE BABY! We have been waiting 9 months to see him!! You will lose the weight at your own speed! Its summer…enjoy a margarita and some bbq….and that new baby!
Totally get it. I think everyone is different. For me, I struggled with losing too much weight and gaining too much weight back in the past. For the few years before I was pregnant I stayed pretty consistent and finally found balance for the first time ever.
I loved being pregnant and felt really comfortable so for me I thought doing post-baby updates was simply just a way to hold me accountable and get me back to my happy place. I thought it was going to be easy because hey, I’m a trainer and certified in Precision Nutrition. ;-)
I was training for a kettlebell certification that was 10 months after giving birth and I needed to pass certain strength tests so making sure to get strong was really my priority, but it was also nice to see my body changing over time. The first few months after having my son were tough because I didn’t feel super comfortable with my body and there were times where I felt like it was way harder than it should have been.
What having a baby taught me about my body is that we are all REALLY different. ;-) You need to do what’s comfortable for you!
I am really impressed. It would be tempting to use one’s blog as a weightloss tool, channeling reader expectations into meeting lb. goals, but I think you’ve nailed it when you said that’s not healthy. Women are so competitive as it is, and I can’t imagine how it would feel to see how your own post-baby posts lined up against someone else’s. Even if you’re not doing that explicitly, it would probably always be in the back of your mind. Removing this from the table will allow you to focus on your baby and your body free of pressure. Good for you.
Thank you SO much for saying this. While I understand why women want to track their post-baby loss, I find focusing on that, especially on a blog, kind of…scary? It’s like…you just had a baby! Enjoy your baby, enjoy being a mom, and you’ll get back to a good weight when you get there.
Also, you’ll find your “happy weight”! Now, I caution you that it may be 5 or 10 lbs more than what you might consider to be ideal, but if you’re eating healthy and exercising moderately, your body seems to find a happy weight pretty well on its own :)
I will be a fan of your blog either way! :) It’s important to share what you want to share. I admit that I do like looking at other blogs that share their post baby body updates, because I do not have kids yet and it does make me curious, but I understand those who do not want to post that. I have enjoyed following your pregnancy, and you will be an awesome mommy! :)
Thank you for doing what is right FOR YOU!!!! Everyone does things differently and while tracking weight after a baby is important for some to share it’s not important for everyone!! And everyone loses weight different after a baby! It’s the way it is! People compared themselves to me after a baby…it’s human nature….but losing weight too quickly (not on purpose) can also have it’s negatives :) so you do you and we’ll keep reading your blog and I look forward to pictures of that little boy once he arrives!!!!!!
To be honest, this post wasn’t even necessary in my opinion. This is YOUR blog, you can write what you want, and you don’t need to explain why you are or aren’t writing about something.
I do like reading those type of updates, simply because I am nosy (like you said, most people are), but I think it’s great you’re doing what YOU want to do & what you feel most comfortable doing. Way to go!
I love this. As much as the healthy blogging world helps me, I know for a fact it can be dangerous territory. Girls will always compare themselves to each other. I see the “omg you just had a baby how are you soooo skinny!!!” so much that it makes me sad. We encourage each other and sometimes compete in ways that are absolutely the opposite of healthy. I dealt with anorexia for many years in my teens (I was a dancer) and that mind set never really goes away. Having a body just for you without pressure of comparison is such a great idea. Thanks for sharing with us! I love it!
I do love reading about post baby bodies simply because I’ve never experienced pregnancy and hope to one day so I find it interesting to see how our bodies bounce back (or don’t). With that being said, I think if you are someone who has struggled with eating disorders, obssessing over the scale, etc, I don’t think it’s healthy to blog about it publicly or you could fall back into that unhealthy trap! Great topic! :)
Ah PERFECT post <3 I really enjoyed reading Katie's, Ashley's, Gina's post-partum body updates but I was curious how they were feeling in private and not posting on their blog. If that makes sense? I totally know where you're coming from! Good for you <3
I am so glad you posted this out there today. I am struggling to lose weight so we can hopefully be successful to have a baby. I keep getting questions about, “so when are you guys going to have a baby?”. I think weight topics are hard enough on people. If you feel uncomfortable about writing it then I would think your readers would also feel your pain in this struggle. I’ve enjoyed reading your blog and feel excited when you are excited. I would feel sad, if you were writing just to please others. Keep Positive, you look great!
So glad you posted this. I totally think it’s great if people post updates for what works well for them, but I admire that you’re going a different route. This is why I love your blog so much. I mean I love reading update posts, because I think as blog readers we’re a tend nosy;) but you have to do what works best for you!
And that’s the most important thing.
Love that you are doing your own thang. :)
I post mine every month (this month will be the last – 12 months! whoop!), but it’s because I lost the way in a SLOW and HEALTHY way. I wanted to show people that it’s not a race. I didn’t even start to look like “myself” (even in the face! haha) until 6 or 7 months after the baby. I really wanted to explain that there’s no rush. I had so many months where *nothing* changed and yet I still posted them to show that it’s okay.
I’m the first to admit that I AM vain and DO want to lose the baby weight and get back in shape. I don’t think either way of thinking or going about it is wrong. Honestly, for me, sharing helped me “vent” about my private struggles with standstill progress. I figured, I treat my blog as my public diary, so why would I leave anything out? That being said, I can TOTALLY understand why someone wouldn’t want to post those types of pictures. I can see how it could lead to destructive thoughts if you put too much emphasis on it. I just treated it like “eh, this is me today”, ya know? I also will hopefully be able to give some people some hope… like you *can* get to a place where you’re comfortable in your skin again, because for a little while I swear I felt like I wouldn’t get there. Those first few weeks can be really hard to adjust to your new body.
I still have flabby skin, I will always have these stretch marks on my thighs, and my boobs are little deflated balloons. BUT IT’S ALL GOOD. haha :)
I’ve not had a baby, but I enjoyed your updates and your reason behind them! Showing people that getting back in shape is a process and doesn’t happen over night like the media portrays it is important. And it was good motivation to get in shape regardless of baby body or not! :)
As a blog reader, I admit, I’m pretty nosy about other people’s lives. Courtney, I’m glad that you chose not to post rather than doing it just because it might’ve been expected or to please readers. You are a person behind that computer screen after all! I enjoy what you do share; we shouldn’t expect anything of any blogger willing to open up at all to complete strangers on the internet!
Blog reading wouldn’t be any fun if there wasn’t any individuality! :)
I definitely respect your decision, Courtney; and if you change your mind and decide to post updates, then I’ll respect that too. If there’s anything I’ve learned, it’s that change is the only constant, and a lot of the things we think now aren’t necessarily the things we’re going to think later when circumstances are different. I guess what I’m trying to say is: do whatever feels right and comfortable to you. Don’t worry about pleasing anyone or being judged. Your readers know you well enough to know that you’ve got a really good head on your shoulders, so never be afraid to just be you :)
You have such a good head on your shoulders! You are going to be a great role model for that baby. :)
More power to you! As women, we are under so much pressure to look a certain way and we forget about how we feel. When I workout to look good for swimsuit season or to fit in a dress (or whatever the reason is), I don’t enjoy the gym nearly as much as I do otherwise. It makes for too much negativity!
Post baby, I think you should soak up every minute enjoying motherhood – and using those rare moments you get for yourself and use them for YOURSELF! :) Not for anyone else. Getting back into hard, sweaty workouts will be so exciting for you…enjoy it!!!
I really admire you for this girl! I stopped my own — and my son’s monthly updates — at 4mos because it just felt weird. I didn’t lose all the weight or fit into my jeans until 8mos postpartum and I feel like that was on the late side around these parts.
And also, no matter what, I know you’ll love your post-baby body. My stomach looks no where near the way it did before having Wyatt, but I actually love it. My pooch reminds me that my body was once someone else’s home — I grew another human being! Pre-baby I never ran outside in only a sports bra but now I do it all the time. Mom bodies are awesome.
You go Courtney! Just curious, will you still keep the Baby Tooth page alive for other updates; advice to new moms, product reviews, etc.? I am expecting and know I would LOVE to read your thoughts on all things post delivery! :)
I think this is genius of you! What a smart decision to make not only for yourself but for those that read your blog. :)
I think it’s great that you’re not going to do the whole post-baby body pictures…I agree that it’s fine for plenty of people, but yes, sometimes I just want to scream the same thing, “enough already!!” … I absolutely respect that you’re not going to do those posts, and I’m glad that you’re just going to focus on being happy and healthy!
Totally respect your decision, glad you are making the best decision for you! Can’t wait to see posts about your new little boy though!
I actually really enjoy reading those kinds of updates because they feel inspiring to me. However, I totally understand your decision. We’ve become far to focused on every woman being a certain size in our society, and it has very little to do with health. I really feel like we need to move back to that being our focus.
I’m so happy you are putting this out there! I think people feel like they HAVE to show the world their progress because others want to see it and not because they themselves are helped by it. I would do the same thing. There is nothing wrong with taking your time with your newborn and not having to worry about losing “baby weight”.
I did hte post baby body updates and to tell the truth reached a point where I did them because I felt I “had to” to finish out what I started (back in my stupidity blogging days haha!). I definitely think its unnecessary when your focus is on loving that baby and getting back to YOUR healthy place. Taking that pressure off is a huge first step to doing that. Love you!
I think it’s fantastic that you’ve realized it’s not for you. The great thing about your blog is you choose what you want to post about or not :)
Personally, I love reading post baby body updates. I find it interesting to read about so many different journeys back to healthy (the challenges, tips, etc) and it gave me a much better sense of what to expect after I had Hailey. I shared my journey not to show how amazing I was, but more so to show how normal it is to still look 6 months pregnant after delivery! Haha. But seriously, every body is different and I love seeing the amazing ways women’s bodies can stretch, then return to a healthier, fit state in heir own time through non-extreme measures.
Can’t wait to read about your little guy!
I loved reading your post-baby updates Brittany! Thanks for being so real with them and you look awesome! :)
The ones I’ve seen of late have been refreshing. Real women, dealing with real issues but focusing on their baby, their health and ensuring they’re in tip top form for breast feeding and what not. Kath over at Kath Eats is a case in point. I completely understand where you’re coming from and I’m delighted you’ve made your own stand in doing what you see fit and best for you. Equally feel free to change your mind, you never know what you might want to share in terms of your feelings and way of dealing with food and weight post baby :)
During my pregnancy I would read them all the time and I enjoyed it a lot…Until my son came and I found myself reading other’s updates and kept thinking to myself “Why am I not losing weight like them” He just turned three months old and even though I’m breastfeeding the weight hasn’t “fallen off” , but I’m happy with where I’m at and the main thing is I have a healthy happy little guy! I’m glad you realized that post-baby updates aren’t for you!
I have to admit that I would probably be really interested in reading posts like that; however, I think it’s amazing that you know where your personal line is and don’t want to cross it. Good for you for choosing to do what you think will be best for your health (mental AND physical).
Honestly, one of my good friends recently had a baby and every time I go shopping, to the pool, anywhere, with her, all she does is fixate on how her body is different than ours. And all we see is that she looks amazing and she’s actually thinner than before. I definitely think focusing on your body too much can be really detrimental to your sanity, so I hope you really just enjoy the time you have with your new little one.
Good for you! It sounds like you’re making the decision that’s best for you and your baby and also approaching your workouts with a healthy attitude.
I do find myself reading some of the postpartum baby weight updates. I guess it’s because I have such a curiosity about how it all works. In the back of my mind, I keep wondering how my own body will respond one day! At the same time, I do think there is an obsession in magazines with that whole post-baby weight thing. And I think it’s gotten to a point where it’s unhealthy and makes women feel pressure to lose weight faster when they should just be enjoying time with their newborns. That, to me, is not acceptable.
I couldn’t/wouldn’t do it either. I’d get too caught up in it, and make myself upset, I think! Sometimes I look at other people’s post-pregnancy updates and get jealous that their belly is flatter than mine, and I’ve never had a baby! I’ve had to stop looking at those pictures. Too much of a comparison trap!
Hey there!
I haven’t commented in QUITE a while, but I read your blog daily, and I wanted to let you know that I, even though I am young and motherhood won’t be on my agenda for MANY years, really have enjoyed your pregnancy updates, and think out of every blogger I have seen, you have seemed to have had some of the most honest updates and have taken one of the healthiest approaches to pregnancy. I know that I cannot judge what anyone’s pregnancy/life is, but I have loved that you have taken pride in trying to strive for balance by getting in your fruits/veggies when you can for Baby Tooth, but still ENJOYING your life, and eating what you want. I mean, my mom said that when she was pregnant with me, she used to walk from her office to Eat N’ Park almost daily to get a Cheeseburger, french fries, and a glass of chocolate milk. I turned out just fine. :)
As for skipping the postpartum body updates… I support that 100% as well. Whenever I see women doing that on their blogs, I just think that their time could be so much better spent elsewhere. I would not want to spend my first few months of motherhood measuring my waist when I have just been blessed with a beautiful child. I would not want to set that kind of example. As someone who also struggled with HA and has gained approximately 20-30 pounds (no idea, really.. haven’t weighed myself since I moved out for college) in the last year.. I think there is SO much more to life than fitting into a small size of jeans. Ice cream tastes way too good for that. ;)
So props to you on skipping the body updates. Who cares what size jeans you fit into as long as you and the baby are happy and healthy! :) Best of wishes to you and your family.
Well said!
I totally understand and support your decision on the postpartum body updates. Yes, I have enjoyed reading them but at the same time – although motherhood is quite far in the future – they make me ALREADY feel guilty thinking I’ll never make that… I wouldn’t do it because it puts so much focus on the less (weight) is more idea. I highly doubt there is such a thing as your “happy weight” except in the sense that you can’t reach it in any other way than coming to accept love yourself. Way to go Courtney, you’ve come such a long way!
Totally support your decision!!! No need whatsoever to put any pressure on yourself when you should be enjoying every last second post-pregnancy and savoring your time spent with your baby. You already know you crave exercise again and that part will come easily. Let weightloss/postpartum or whatever come naturally since you already eat a clean diet and you’ll want to workout anyway. You know those are the basic components and that you wont have to force yourself to do. Just let happen what’s supposed to happen and don’t interfere with it. I honestly think from just reading your post for a while, that you’ll bounce back SUPER fast…..not that you need that to happen but it’s nice to hear:)) yay! So excited for you and I haven’t even met you! Ha!
HEY! Of course they are fun to read…but I agree with you! It really is nobody else’s business. Do you girl! Enjoy your pregnancy…and your baby when he is here!
I think your decision is very wise! I totally agree with everything you said!
I’ve been reading your blog for quite some time now and as much I love reading your posts, I never commented, but… I love this! I’m not pregnant yet, but I do know that sometimes pregnancy will open ones eyes about the beauty of oneself as a whole. Yes, you’ll want to lose weight but just being healthy for yourself and your family, even if you aren’t at your goal weight is what’s most important. Like you said, your little man will be your main focus on life. And who cares, you look amazing at 37 weeks! Best wishes!
We support you and any decisions you make on your blog! One good thing to think about in terms of baby and weight is that you will lose 8-9 lbs in one day when baby tooth makes his world debut ;) .
THANK YOU! :-) Good for you! I love this!
You made a great decision. I support you 100%. Good for you!
I think you have made the perfect decision. I understand that many women use blog updates or things like that to keep themselves inspired and going, but I tend to think more like you on this subject. I don’t have any kids, but when I do, I hope I will never pressure myself into looking like a Victoria’s Secret model two days after having a child. Yikes! Anyway, I’m glad you’ve come to this decision, and thanks for sharing your thoughts with us!
Courtney! I absolutely love reading your blog because you always stay true to yourself and you are not easily influenced by anyone else! At the end of the day, you have to do what is best for you and your baby. I am not sure why I will do in that position someday, but I will definitely keep in mind to just stay true to myself, just like you remind your readers to do everyday! :)
I totally respect your decision not to share this info on your blog. I’m 27 weeks along and have already gotten SO much unwanted weight comments from my in-laws. My husband’s sister told me she only gained 14 lbs with her first baby and 16 lbs with her second. Meanwhile I’ve already gained 16 lbs and I have anther trimester to go. It just makes me feel like crap when she says this but I know that my baby needs me to gain this weight and what she gained is not a healthy amount of weight and also not recommended by the doctor. It’s amazing what some people will say to a pregnant woman.
Unless your husband’s sister was very overweight when she got pregnant, 14 and 16 lbs is definitely NOT healthy. Average sized women need to gain more than that to maintain their own health, as well as the health of their baby. Just keep doing your thing! Your body, your baby!
If I could love you more, I would after this post! You are such an inspiration. xoxo
Suuuuuuper post! I’m so glad that you’re doin’ you and keeping what’s right for you in mind.
I have an idea for you- you should do “Post Baby Shower/Bathing Updates”. Finding the time to shower is juuuuuust as challenging as losing the baby weight! ;) Thiiiiink about it!
I completely identify with you and your feelings on this topic. I wrote a little about post-baby body, but nothing substantial. A few friends asked me to use it as topic, so I went for it. It made me feel under pressure, though, so I kind of just let the issue die. It’s hard enough being a new mother; you don’t need the added stress of focusing too much on body image! Xx
I think that postpartum weightloss is such a personal subject and journey, and that is most definitely up to each individual about how they want to undertake (and/or share) it. Your journey with both HA and your pregnancy has been inspiring, and I have loved the Baby Tooth updates so far. Keep on doing you, girl. :-)
Good for you Courtney! It sounds like you are in a very healthy place, mentally and emotionally. I don’t even feel comfortable posting pics of my pre baby body! It’s more important tht we be happy with ourselves than put it all out there to be judged. And I love hearing that your main focus is your son, you’re going to be such a great mama to that lucky baby boy!
Do what you’re comfortable with and what works for you. We like you–that’s why we’re here. We’ll still be here reading, no matter what you decide to post! =)
Courtney, I love this and I so appreciate your honesty! I do enjoy reading post-partum baby body posts…but I don’t have a baby, so for me the unknown is fascinating. I can’t say that I WOULD post my post-baby body updates either…that is a lot of pressure!!! You just need to do what your doing and be happy :) And PS…you look great!! :)
I really respect you for making the decision NOT to share body updates. You are right…it doesn’t really matter what size you wear or what your weight is, as long as you’re healthy. I don’t think you have anything to worry about either. Knowing you, you’ll eat a balanced diet and partake in a balanced exercise program.
Like you were, I’m currently fighting to put on weight in order to regain..hmmm….lady functions. It’s so hard (especially the battle in my brain), but I must say, it was so nice to read about your updates and see how you handled things.
I look forward to meeting your precious little one and seeing you become a great mama!
This makes me a very happy reader! I had my 1st daughter in 2008 and only 13 months later, i had my 2nd daughter. So working out and getting my pre-pregnancy body back was usually the last thing on my mind. But reading about other new moms who were training for marathons, working out and had lost all the baby weight within a few months made me feel really bad about myself. Why couldn’t i manage to do it all? Then my doctor told me that it can take as long as 18 months for your body to completely recover from carrying and delivering a baby. So i stopped reading those blogs and just concentrated on doing the best i could for myself and my daughters. We bought an awesome BOB double stroller for long walks around our village and did my best to provide healthy meals for the whole family. It’s been 4 years now since my youngest was born and the baby weight is off, i’m working out & running regularly and eating well — but it’s taken that full 4 years to really find my new pace (and i’m still tweaking things based on the needs of both myself and my family). Remember, this is no sprint, time is on your side :)
I’m with ya. I wrote one post on the topic after having Addie, but then decided that I really don’t want to talk about it anymore. I don’t need the comparisons and the pressure. I am really trying to focus on NOT talking about my body/looks (good or bad) like I used to, because I don’t want to pass my issues on to my daughter. :)
Courtney – again I have to say I LOVE and appreciate your honesty. Comparison is the thief of joy – if you don’t track your progress you won’t have to worry about it.
Good for you, Courtney. I have not had a baby (yet) but of course those thoughts of ‘how am I going to react to my body changing’ comes to mind. But when you think of it, you know yourself, you know where you’ve been in terms of good body image and bad body image and now is a great opportunity to enjoy your new life while also fitting in those sweaty workouts you miss! I guarantee you will be more than fine!
While I always think it’s interesting to read weight loss and fitness updates, it’s more important for you to be happy and keep your sanity. Instead of focusing what you should be looking like and when, it’s more important to be the healthiest you can be for your baby!
Good for you! Honestly, whatever you decide to do is fine as long as you are comfortable with it. Heck, it’s your blog! Your readers will read regardless, you are definitely not being a cop-out. Do what you want, and that’s all that matters :)
Hey, I think this is an important and great post!
I was just wondering about your experience with overexercise/HA. It’s really difficult to get information on this, and I’m wondering if you have any info on how much exercise is too much or how to tell when you’re overdoing it (before it’s too late!).
I feel the culture for women is to do more, more, more. I’ve fallen into that trap, and I need to back off for sure.
I would check out Your Eatopia for more info on this :)
As much as I love reading about the post-baby weight-loss stuff, I totally see it as different for each mom. Some will really need to be a certain weight to be comfortable, even after their bundle of joy as arrived. No judgment in either camp… it’s the mom’s decision. Just like how breast-feeding is really painful and difficult for certain moms who chose to go with formula… we can’t judge these kinds of decisions. I thank you for sharing your decision, and making it clear how you will approach your postpartum journey.
Congratulations on your decision to go with your inner feelings and not do post baby body posts! It’s great that you understand your reason behind this and now are an example and inspiration to all other bloggers who were struggling with the same issue! I hope they will be post-birth posts of baby tooth though – can’t wait to see what he looks like!
I love your thoughts on this. I really have enjoyed reading about your pregnancy, but I totally understand why you don’t want to post about that. Really, I don’t think it’s necessary for everyone. I think that’s very personal, and since everyone is different, it could easily become a really touchy subject.
I love your honesty, and I totally support your outlook!
I think it’s great that you want to focus on health and not size. Reading the above comments, it seems most are of the same mind. Everyone is different and every body is different. If you stress about size it isn’t healthy for you, your baby or your marriage. Let me just say, after my first son was born I dropped to my pre-baby weight and then even further quickly and without even trying. After my second a few years later I was much more active and living healthier and it took me a loooong time to drop all the baby weight. I was MUCH healthier post-baby the second time around though. It bothered me at the time, but in hindsight I see that I was healthier and as long as I took care of myself it doesn’t matter what my numbers are. Some women never get back to their pre-baby weight, and that’s okay too. There is way too much judgment between women and I view your blog as a judgment free zone, that’s why I love coming here.
Good luck! Having kids is the most rewarding and most frustrating (especially when they hit their teens) thing in the world. I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
Pas de signe de vie depuis presque 2 jours… Baby Tooth serait-il en train d’arriver? :)
J’ai pensé la même chose!
Moi aussi!
It sounds like you are a bit nervous about after-baby body and I can totally relate. Here is a little reassurance that based on the way you maintained your healthy eating and your interest in work outs: you will be fine. If you breast feed you will drop all the weight. Within the first month post baby i was surprised that I was back in my old clothes. I was a little softer in spots but had to wait for my 6 wk postpartum appt before doing more than walking. Good luck and no worries!
Good for you! Do your own thing girl :)
I definitely agree! That is way too much pressure to put on yourself! Even for your own personal journey, I think it would be helpful to resume eating and exercising as usual and just enjoy your new little guy!!
However, as you said, who doesn’t love reading ‘what works’! My suggestion would be to post any random positive things that have been making you feel better (physically or mentally), random times, only if you feel like it. This way you do not ‘have’ an obligation to, but if you are feeling great, and there’s a reason behind it, why not share it!
Good for you! It’s you’re decision what you want to share and there’s no need to open the door for comparison. You’re focus will clearly be somewhere else, and as long and you and your baby are healthy, the weight loss aspect of it shouldn’t matter to your readers. I totally get the being nosy thing – I definitely read updates when they’re published because curiosity is normal – but if I were to think about doing it myself, I’d want to keep some things private!
Just another reason why you’re my fav HLB :) Not only are you never triggering to my own recovery, but you are inspiring and motivating. Love your posts, always! Your little guy is the MOST important thing… I wish other women would realize this…
I struggled with the same thing, and in the end decided against documenting the journey to losing my baby weight. Honestly, that was the LAST thing on my mind. I started working out soon after because of my sanity, but you are so busy with being a mom that, to be honest, you lose the weight rather easily (that is if you didn’t go overboard with eating for two thing while preggers). I have never felt more comfortable in my own skin than I do now. My baby will be one on the 30th :) Good luck!
Good for you! Don’t feel like you “owe us” anything just because you shared so much during your pregnancy. It’s a personal issue and you have to do what’s best for YOU. After being a reader for about a year and a half and hearing about some of your earlier struggles, I think you are absolutely doing the right thing. Don’t worry about us- we will be your happy readers no matter what. We just want to see the little guy and the happy momma!