I want my body back: Post-baby body changes and how to deal with them
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1by Lifestyle Blogger Sophie Andersen
For most women, coping with postpartum body shape is not easy. During the pregnancy months, future moms tend to put on some weight but it’s only after the baby’s out that the body changes truly start showing. If you’re a new mom who’s come to face some ungainly anatomic issues you neither like nor know how to deal with, we have some tips for you right here to help you get through the first few post-delivery months with minimum stress and effort.
The abhorrent postpartum side-effects: Hemorrhoids and how to deal with them
One of the common conditions most women experience after childbirth, hemorrhoids can truly be a menace. Hemorrhoids are inflamed skin tissue that tends to form due to prolonged pressure of extra weight growing in your tummy, and they can be very painful and unpleasant if left unattended. One of the ways to cope with your postpartum hemorrhoids is to use crèmes, wipes, cold compresses and lotions that alleviate the defecation routine, but in case of more serious hemorrhoid issues, it would be a good idea to consult your doctor about potential surgery procedures to remove them altogether.
Sweat and tears, my dear: Losing baby weight through workout
Getting back in shape after childbirth is not easy, but it certainly won’t happen all by itself: you’ll need to get up from that sofa and get on to some workout to burn that baby fat. Don’t let celebrity postpartum pics fool you: every woman needs to take exercise after birth to tone up their belly muscles and skin left flabby or wobbly after delivery. Check with your doctor when you’ll be able to start working out again and make sure you book yourself a month at the nearby gym or aerobics class – your body will be eternally grateful to you for the extra effort.
The inevitable diet changes: Swap sweets for healthy snacks
In the lactation period, you will need to take extra care of your diet and make sure you intake all the necessary vitamins, minerals and nutrients to ensure high quality of your milk. If you’re breastfeeding, you’ll have to eat more than when you didn’t have a baby, but still, you shouldn’t gulp through mouthfuls of sweets and pastry on the excuse it’s for your baby’s sake. To ensure both your baby and your body stays healthy and well-nurtured, try swapping sweets and pastries for fresh fruit, wholegrain snacks, cereals, boiled veggies and low-fat energy bars. Smoothies and protein shakes can also come in handy as these help lose weight while still being sufficiently tasty and nutritious.
Bladder issues: Post-delivery incontinence
Due to the growing life in you and the weight it entails, your bladder will be exposed to quite a bit of pressure during the pregnancy months. One of the frequent unpleasant side-effects of pregnancy is a weak bladder and consequent incontinence upon childbirth. Usually a temporary condition, incontinence and weak bladder are normal in most women who’ve recently given birth due to the weakening of pelvic floor muscles around the urethra, but they should go away after a few weeks. However, if the condition persists for more than a couple of months, it would be best for you to talk to your doctor and have him prescribe some medications or physical rehabilitation to remedy your bladder-related woes.
Carve it off: Surgical procedures to remedy postpartum bodily changes
Sometimes even the best of your efforts and patience will not produce the desired results for your changed postpartum anatomy. If you catch yourself feeling trapped in a stranger’s body quite a few months after giving birth, perhaps you may want to consider some surgical procedures to remedy your anatomy-related issues. Tummy tuck, breast augmentation and liposuction are the most common surgical procedures new mothers opt for when their figure-related self-confidence takes a sudden plunge, so you shouldn’t feel embarrassed if the thought crosses your mind. Just be careful when picking your surgeon – after all, you only get one body per lifetime, so you’ll want to show it some tender, love and care even when undergoing slight adjustment procedures.
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Sophie Andersen
Sophie is hooked on yoga and healthy living. She loves to write and share her daily tips and tricks.
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