As I cradled my daughter while she breastfed, my 2-year-old was peacefully napping nearby. Suddenly, a wave of fatigue hit me, and I felt unsteady on my feet. I struggled to lay her down in her crib, light-headed and craving comfort food like a jar of peanut butter and a box of crackers.
I was already late for my period and had taken two pregnancy tests—both negative. But something felt off, and I felt the nagging urge to test again. This sensation was all too familiar, reminiscent of my first pregnancy. If I wasn’t expecting another child, I knew I needed to check my blood sugar; a mom with two tiny tots couldn’t afford to feel this way.
I retrieved a test from my stash (we all have one, right?), and to my surprise, it confirmed I was pregnant. Thankfully, I still had my maternity jeans from my last pregnancy, which turned out to be a lifesaver. I hadn’t planned on using them again, but at six months postpartum, they were the only garments that fit comfortably.
Did I feel defeated for still wearing them? Was I embarrassed that my belly hadn’t returned to its previous shape? Not at all. I had two little ones under two years old (and soon to be three), and those jeans made me feel fantastic.
It’s a common experience for many mothers to wear maternity clothing long after giving birth. After my first child, I confidently packed away my pre-baby pants, only to realize they were nowhere close to fitting me a few weeks later. It’s part of the journey, but no one prepares you for the possibility that your old clothes may not fit for months or even years. It can be disheartening, leading to feelings of inadequacy—don’t worry, you’re not alone.
Unspoken Truths About Motherhood
There are several truths about motherhood that often go unspoken, and it’s time to shed light on them:
- Breastfeeding Can Be Painful
You might experience bleeding, dryness, and discomfort during breastfeeding. Those first feeds can feel like your little one is giving you a titty twister, and you might even feel shooting pains when they latch on. I didn’t expect this with my first child, and after weeks of using nipple cream, I finally started to feel better. Keep an eye out for mastitis and consult your doctor if you suspect something is wrong. - Feelings of Resentment Are Normal
While you will love your child immensely, there will be days when it feels like you’re carrying the entire load. Help from family or your partner may not come unless you specifically ask for it, and let’s be real—you often lack the energy to voice your needs. You might find yourself longing for your old life, feeling like a servant to your baby’s needs, and confused by your mixed emotions. - You Might Feel Frustration Towards Your Partner
When a friend warned me that I would likely resent my husband after having a baby, I brushed it off. We had just gotten married and were in the honeymoon phase. However, that changed quickly when my husband invited friends over to meet the baby just a day after we returned from the hospital—after days without sleep. I was overwhelmed and wanted to scream for some peace and quiet. - Hemorrhoids Can Be a Reality
Let’s not sugarcoat it: the first post-baby poop can be brutal. Sometimes, you might avoid going for days, and the hemorrhoids that develop can be quite uncomfortable. If over-the-counter remedies aren’t helping, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor. - Incontinence Is Common
After giving birth, your bladder might not be as strong as it once was. Balancing your new responsibilities while neglecting your need for bathroom breaks can lead to some embarrassing moments. I once had a mishap while washing dishes, thinking I could hold it until my newborn woke up—I was wrong. - Infections Are a Possibility
Postpartum bleeding can last for weeks, and if you’ve had a vaginal birth, you’re advised to avoid anything entering the vagina for six weeks. This lack of air circulation can lead to yeast infections or rashes, which can be uncomfortable. At my six-week checkup, I discovered I had a yeast infection and a rash, thinking it was all part of the healing process.
These truths about motherhood often remain unspoken, but sharing them can provide comfort to others experiencing similar struggles. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone in this journey.
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Summary
Navigating motherhood can be overwhelming, and many women find themselves wearing maternity clothes long after giving birth. Unspoken truths include the physical challenges of breastfeeding, feelings of resentment, and unexpected frustrations. Embracing these experiences and sharing them can ease the journey for many new mothers.
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