Photo credit: @thelovelytrio (left); @_jessielynn (top middle); @maggie.hartman (bottom middle); @kellythemodernmom (top right); @sarahgrandmother (bottom right)
Let’s be honest: when I first glimpsed my postpartum body a few days after welcoming my first child into the world, I was taken aback. My belly hung low, almost brushing against my thighs, and the stretch marks that decorated my skin were as vibrant as the day I gave birth. The cellulite that had made its home on my thighs during pregnancy hadn’t budged either. In short, I was shocked.
This shock stemmed from the pervasive narrative that bombards new mothers—the idea that one can “bounce back” mere days after giving birth. The uncertainty of how long this postpartum phase would last compounded my feelings of horror. With everything about being a new mom feeling so out of my control, I didn’t need another source of anxiety.
Over a decade ago, the concept of sharing postpartum images on social media didn’t exist. While social media often faces criticism for amplifying stress among new moms, it’s important to acknowledge the power of sharing authentic representations of motherhood. This openness can foster connection, dispel shame, and ultimately normalize the postpartum experience.
That’s why I was thrilled to discover the #celebrating_postpartum movement on Instagram, initiated by Sarah Reeve, a photographer and mother of three. The premise is straightforward: share an honest postpartum photo that honors the incredible journey of motherhood.
Sarah’s inspiring Instagram post kicked off this movement, where she openly discusses the challenges and victories of her own postpartum journey, including the joys of raising her triplet girls. “Embracing this change hasn’t been easy, but it’s been profoundly empowering,” she shared. “I now look in the mirror and see not just my body, but a testament to my journey as a mother.”
The response to Sarah’s hashtag was overwhelming, with hundreds of mothers joining in to showcase the authentic beauty of their postpartum bodies. Their images and stories are raw and breathtaking, capturing the essence of motherhood in all its forms.
For instance, @jessica_mommy shared her own postpartum experience, writing, “My body isn’t perfect by magazine standards. But when I look in the mirror, I see a mother, and that’s the greatest honor.” Many of these mothers emphasized the extraordinary significance behind their body changes—the miraculous fact that they carried and nurtured new life.
@kellythemodernmom expressed this sentiment beautifully, stating, “These marks are reminders of the 40 weeks I carried my child. They are a testament to the labor and love that brought her into this world.”
Tissues, please! The emotional depth of these posts is truly moving. Some mothers have candidly shared their struggles, acknowledging that embracing their bodies post-baby is a journey, not an instant revelation.
@thelovelytrio poignantly addressed her postpartum marks, stating, “You are a painful reminder of my journey, yet you symbolize hope and resilience. You represent the miracle of bringing my children into the world.”
Celebrating our postpartum bodies means sharing photos despite any fears or self-doubts. It’s about not allowing insecurities to hinder our lives or our children’s lives. Yes, it’s about wearing that bikini if we want to—regardless of our insecurities. Most importantly, it’s about snuggling with our babies, who view us as perfect just the way we are.
To learn more about the journey of motherhood, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination: Mayo Clinic on IVF. You can also explore how to celebrate your postpartum body for further insights on this empowering topic. And if you’re looking for at-home insemination options, consider checking out the artificial insemination kit we have shared.
In summary, the #celebrating_postpartum movement is a heartfelt reminder that our bodies tell stories of love, sacrifice, and resilience. Embracing the beauty of our postpartum selves not only empowers us but also enriches the experience of motherhood for ourselves and our families.