While the majority of my pregnancy and postpartum has been a positive experience and I wouldn’t trade my little guy for anything else in the world, let’s not get it twisted: it’s not all rainbows and butterflies for a postpartum mama.

You’ll be tested on a physical level from carrying and holding your baby and sleep deprivation and if you’re breastfeeding, all that entails. You’ll be tested emotionally too.

Your life changes in an epic way. I know my life is only getting better and I’m so excited to finally be a mom, but there’s also a part of you that mourns.

The day you give birth to your baby you as a mother are born. And there can be growing pains along with it.

Personally, my post-baby body is experiencing incontinence and needs pelvic floor rehab. I’m on track to recovery but man, it’s HARD in the moment to see the light at the end of the tunnel. So many layers of emotions that bubble through. Thoughts of “this wouldn’t be happening if I didn’t give birth” and then thoughts of guilt for thinking that as you look at your beautiful baby’s smile.

After reflecting upon this, my husband said to me: it took a whole lot of work to bring our son into this world, so it’s ok and I just need to take some time to build back my body’s strength and recover from it all.

Know that whatever you’re going through, you’re not alone. Our thoughts don’t define us, especially when you’re struggling. Feel your feelings and give yourself all. the. grace.

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