A big part of social media falsely shows what a woman should look like after giving birth. The reality is, this is not even possible and is only causing false expectations that lead to body shaming and depression.
Can you even imagine what this can do to a woman who just gave birth? Emotionally, physically, and psychologically, postpartum should be a positive and uplifting experience, but that’s not what’s happening.
That’s why instead of feeling proud about giving birth, and instead of being grateful for how amazing our bodies are, we are left with shame and disgust for our own bodies. This is just wrong.
That’s why we love how some celebrities are breaking the stigma and sharing their own experiences about their being a mother.
They want YOU to know that you’re not alone, and you should be proud of yourself for being a good mom and for bringing a beautiful baby into this world.
Take it easy, mom. You’re doing great, and you’re lovely! Take a look at these amazing women who inspire others through their own experiences.
1. Hilaria Baldwin
Hilaria Baldwin honestly shared that she was a bit nervous about sharing a photo of her body postpartum, but she did. Why? Because she wants to promote “healthy” self-esteem, and we’re so proud of her!
“It always makes me a bit nervous to do something like this, but I feel that in the age of such strong body shaming, I want to do all that I can to normalize a real body and promote healthy self esteem.”
2. Peta Murgatroyd
Latin dancer Peta Murgatroyd posted this photo just 8 days postpartum, and her message to all of us is just so real. According to her, she left the hospital, still looking five months pregnant, and that’s the truth.
“Many people think a woman should shrink right back to her pre-birth weight immediately. That is just not the truth for most. The female body is incredible and resilient, but healing and strengthening take time.”
3. Desiree Siegfried
Desiree Siegfried gave birth two years ago, and she posted her postpartum body for awareness. According to her, she’s not someone who loves to post photos of her body, but this one is an exemption. She wants to share awareness by saying:
“The fourth trimester is no joke, and it needs to be recognized that a woman’s pregnancy journey doesn’t end when the baby arrives- there’s so much healing and recovery that needs to take place physically and mentally when lack of sleep and roller coaster hormones are at work.”
4. Melissa Suffield
Melissa Suffield is known for her character Lucy Beale in the BBC soap EastEnders. She also shared her postpartum realizations, even posting a photo on her Instagram story.
In the said photo, she was sunbathing with the funny caption, “Let’s tan them into oblivion.”
5. Gemma Atkinson
Gemma Atkinson knows how to live in the glamorous world, and she is used to the spotlight but being a mom gave her a new perspective in life. She shared her postpartum photo and said:
“I hope new moms realize they don’t have to be back to their post baby body so quickly. Growing a human for 9 months is a big deal and it’ll take longer than a few weeks to get your body back to how you want it.”
6. Audrey Roloff
Audrey Roloff posted what it’s like to recover from her pregnancy. This post was from her third baby, and still, she had new lessons learned. She wanted all the women out there to know that it’s okay to take time and heal.
“So here I am 👋🏻showing up with my 1 week postpartum belly exposed and telling you my body hurts. But despite the physical pains, I know these weeks of forced slow-down are exactly what my body and heart needs. REST. So if you’re in this season of life too, give yourself permission to rest and heal.”
7. Peta Murgatroyd
We love how Peta is so positive. She has shared several photos of her pregnancy, as well as her postpartum journey. She always reminds all the ladies out there who have just given birth to take it easy and start at their own pace.
“I definitely don’t have my 6 pack, and I still have excess skin and rolls on my belly, however I feel good. After all, slow and steady wins the race! I knew I needed to get back into the gym for my own sanity, but I also remind myself (as does Maks 😉) that I still need to take it easy. I cannot jump yet and still can’t run a mile, but the exercises I’ve planned out are a good start.”
8. Loren Brovarnik
90 Day Fiancé star Lauren Brovarnik posted her postpartum photo and, along with it, is the most accurate description of motherhood!
“Today I am 13 days postpartum. I’m beyond exhausted. I haven’t brushed my hair in 2 weeks (I’m lucky if I can shower for 5 min a day). I haven’t worn makeup in who knows how long. I’ve been pooped and peed on regularly. I’m nursing every 2 hours, like clock work. I’ve never smiled bigger and I’ve never been happier. I hope you smile today and have a Marvelous Monday! ✨”
9. Daniella Monet
Singer and actress Daniella Monet is proving that postpartum bodies just snapping back into place is a myth! Seriously, people should stop setting such expectations. Truth is, it takes time and discipline to achieve your pre-baby bod.
10. Brie Bella
Brianna Monique Danielson, also known as Brie Bella, is a retired pro-wrestler, American reality television personality, and entrepreneur.
Just August last year, she proudly posted a photo of her postpartum body. She shared that we must take care of ourselves, so we would be able to take care of our baby as well.
“Let’s be proud of our bodies and be open and honest about the process so future moms can feel more prepared too!”
11. Jenny Mollen
Jenny Mollen shared her postpartum private moment with us when she shared a photo of her CS scar.
In her Instagram post, she wrote:
“I just met my new c-section scar for the first time this morning. Thank you Dr. Albert Sassoon for your artistry. Because I wish somebody had shown me a pic like this 9months ago, I’d like to insist this be your new business card.”
12. Camila Nakagawa
A woman who just gave birth will still be emotional. Some can’t even look in the mirror. That’s why Camila wanted to share what she does for herself.
“I wake up everyday and work on my self love by focusing on the things I love about life and the things I am appreciative for and that helps me also see the things I love and appreciate about myself. Energy is real, and the more we focus on the positives, the more positivity we see in every day things. 💫 please remember, you are beautiful!!! 😘😘”
13. Jessie James Decker
Jessie is like many of us. She’s a mom, but she is also a woman. The reality is, we all feel insecure after giving birth, and talking about it doesn’t make you weak or weird.
“Growing a baby is such a beautiful super power and I don’t want to sound like I’m complaining one bit but I am a human being and sometimes the loose skin does make me a little insecure and make me wonder if I’m still sexy to Eric or if people are looking at my stomach when I’m in a bikini which I’m sure sounds silly but it’s just me being in my head sometimes.”
14. Ali Manno Fedotowsky
We love how these women use social media to promote body positivity and self-love. Ali is posting this to share and spread awareness. It’s something that can be very helpful for women who are feeling down.
“Self love is a difficult thing to fully embrace. When I look at myself in the mirror I can’t help but notice that my hips are wider than they used to be, my wrinkles are deeper than when I was in my 20’s, and my stomach has lumps and bumps that didn’t used to be there. But then I try to remember that my hips are wider because they give birth to two beautiful children.”
15. Rachel Platten
Singer, songwriter, and author Rachel Platten shared a photo of herself at 3 a.m, in her bathroom, looking at herself in the mirror. Does it look familiar? Yep, every new mom will experience this too.
“Caught a cute glimpse of myself at 3am and thought I’d #blessyourfeed and put to rest the whole “wow Rach you look so recovered and not tired wtf” vibe.”
16. Jamie Otis
We adore Jamie for being so real in her postpartum journey. She just wanted to eat and feel comfortable, and that’s what we all want. Try carrying a baby and giving birth; you’d need more than comfy pillows and food!
17. Katrina Scott
Katrina Scott shared her very inspiring post to everyone and we couldn’t agree more. She’s an amazing woman and YOU are too.
“I wanted to film this and share exactly where I’m at with you bc I don’t want anyone to ever think things are ‘perfect’. I weighed myself (I wouldn’t have done this, but I want to share in case any of you ever feel discouraged leaving the hospital after birth) I went in weighing 175 (up 40lbs) and left with a 7 pound baby in my arms weighing 165. I don’t recommend weighing yourself, but I want you to know that this is completely normal.”
18. Kenya Moore
Kenya Moore is looking incredible for someone who just gave birth. She posted this photo and shared that recovering from her C-section was far from easy.
“The SnapBack is real! 🙈👀😝😊LOL
I still can’t work out yet but I feel much better. I was cut twice during my 3 hr Csection but I made it! I’ve always been healthy and worked out my entire life…whatever my body will do I’m not rushing it. It feels good to start to feel myself again.”
19. Carrie Underwood
A few years back, Carrie Underwood won America’s Got Talent, but did you know that she has been juggling work and being a mom for a while now? It sure wasn’t easy, but she overcame her doubts and was even able to share her thoughts.
“I’m going to be honest, “bouncing back” after having Jacob has been much more difficult than after I had Isaiah and I’ve been pretty hard on myself lately.”
20. Amy Schumer
Actress and comedian Amy Beth Schumer posted her 5-week postpartum photo. Her candid images showed a different side of her, and it only proves that postpartum is far from being glamorous!
She is seen wearing her maternity panties, and as big as they may seem, any mom will tell you how comfortable they are!
21. Bekah Martinez
Bekah Martinez is all about embracing yourself and loving every part of your body. She posted her postpartum bod with a little poem for everyone.
“Every mom bod is different—
some are thin and some are round,
some are wrinkly and some are hairy,
some are light and some are brown.No one’s body is “🤢”. If you think otherwise, kindly fuck off or unfollow 🙃”
22. Jessie James Decker
Jessie is not just a fantastic singer; she is also outstanding in uplifting women. She posted her postpartum tummy photo on Instagram, explaining that baby #3 has been the most challenging recovery so far; she also noted that:
“I know i say this after each baby but remember what our bodies just when through for 9 months and be proud, don’t stress over post baby body, just enjoy your new baby because these are beautiful moments and memories you will cherish forever (aaaand drink your coffee to survive the no sleeping all night long ha!) ❤️”
23. Catherine Guidici
Another star from “The Bachelor” has given birth last 2019. Catherine Guidici’s Instagram photo shows her one-week postpartum body. No long explanation, just an adorable caption:
“She escaped! #1weekpost”
24. Daphne Oz
This is another postpartum journey from Daphne Oz. She shared that this is her ten weeks postpartum photo where she had her second real workout.
“I’m not in a rush, I just want to start to feel my core again and strength in my skin. consistency and baby steps get it done 💪”
25. Cardy B
Actually, Cardi B’s body looks fantastic postpartum! Who agrees? She did, however, had some issues of her own. She asked her followers how she would get rid of the black line on her stomach.
“Ladies how do you guys get rid of the black line in the middle of your stomach after giving birth??”
26. Sadia Slayy
Sadia is an Instagram Guru and beauty vlogger. She also became a mom nearly two years ago, and as an influencer, she wanted to share awareness to women who also gave birth.
She shared her postpartum story and what she felt after giving birth to her son, Aydin. For her, social media has given people the wrong mindset – prioritizing physical looks more than anything else.
“I’m here to show you that we aren’t perfect. We all have flaws, and here is one of mine. I want you to feel better about yours and not be ashamed.”
27. Ashley Graham
Now, Ashley is one proud mom! She looks fantastic in her bikini shot! We love this post because she didn’t mention her stretchmarks because why should she? She’s still the Ashley that we love and more! Because now, she’s a mom!
“Some things I love: a cute bathing suit and a backyard shoot with the family! We’ve had such great time making the most of this summer in Nebraska and these suits have me feeling great for my first summer as a mommy!”
28. Iskra Lawrence
Even British supermodel Iskra Lawrence is among the women who wanted to share their postpartum image through Instagram. She showed her photo when she was nine months pregnant and another shot two weeks postpartum in her post.
She educated her audience that all bodies aren’t the same. We should embrace our bodies and be proud, especially when you have just given birth.
29. Carly Waddell
For Carly, this postpartum post is all about honesty and being real. She shared her breastfeeding journey and her lessons as a mother.
“It’s been a week since Charlie was born, he is the greatest blessing and one of the greatest lessons for me as a mom.
I had all these hopes and dreams that postpartum would be easier this time. But I still ache. I’m healing. I’m tried.”
30. Jenny Mollen
New York Times bestselling author and actress Jenny Mollen shared her postpartum photo along with an update on her sudden weight loss. According to her, it’s not anorexia but a thyroid issue.
“Last Friday, I had a bulge in my neck that finally got me to the doctor. I’m STILL waiting on blood work but my doc thinks it’s Graves. If you just had a baby and have lost an inordinate amount of weight, feel like you are on cocaine, are suddenly heat intolerant, can’t stop losing hair, and think your husband is being a dick it might just be your thyroid!! Get checked ASAP.”
31. Chrissy Teigen
We are so proud of these women! The truth is, there is no need to be ashamed of your postpartum body! You were able to grow a baby inside and deliver, and that’s far from easy!
Chrissy Teigan is proud of her “mom bod,” and we all should be.
32. Ashley Graham
Ashley Graham is one of the women that gives inspiration. Being a plus sized model, she shares how important it is to learn to embrace what you have.
In this photo, her caption was short but meaningful. She’s still the same, Ashley, and her stretch marks don’t define who she is.
“same me. few new stories.”
33. Natia Essex
Natia Essex gave birth last year, and she wanted to share what she looks like postpartum with everyone. She doesn’t hate her body; in fact, she loves it and is very thankful for the gift of life.
“I’m not doing this because I hate my body, I’m doing it because I love it 🥰 I’m in awe of what it did, grew my baby and kept us safe.”
34. Kayla Rae Reid
Ryan Lochte’s lovely wife, Kayla Rae Reid, wanted to share her experience as a new mom. So, she shared a photo of her postpartum body through her Instagram stories.
She then proceeded to list some facts about what she has experienced. Of course, we understand her right?
35. Jamie Otis
By now, you know why we love Jamie, right? Her words are pure truth and will touch you deeply. Having a baby is hard but when you see that little baby smile – all your pain will go away!
“Having a baby is a total life changer over night. You know this going into it, but can never fully prepare for it all. I learned that I can function {at least partially😜} on 4 hours of sleep.😴 But the best thing I learned in these last 4 weeks is the amount of LOVE I have inside me – not only for my precious baby girl, but for her daddy as well.💕 I never knew I could love this much.👶🏼🎀 And gosh, it feels SO good.💗”
36. Alaia Baldwin
Alaia fearlessly posted what she looked like a day after giving birth. It wasn’t glamorous at all! She posted what reality looked like. She also didn’t post any lengthy caption. Instead, she used 3 very powerful hashtags that can’t be more real.
“#thisispostpartum #day1 #womencandoanything 💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻”
37. Gretchen Rossi
Gretchen Rossi shared her postpartum photo in her Instagram stories. There, she revealed that she was actually heavier than she’d started out before getting pregnant. But everyone who has gone through pregnancy knows that this is just normal.
38. Tia Mowry
Again with the mindset that you can snap back to your sexy body after giving birth. The reality is, that’s not true for most women out there. Take it from Tia Mowry, who shared what she felt with her postpartum body and what she can tell all the moms out there as well.
“To be honest, it had to take time for me to embrace my new body. With this second pregnancy, I now have embraced that fact that I’ve housed a human being. A miracle. A life. If it takes a while for me to get back to my normal self, than so be it. This.Is.Me. And I love me. ❤️”
39. Jamie Otis
Jamie Otis of The Bachelor has posted two very different photos of her postpartum journey. According to her, sucking it in & pulling up your yoga pants can change your look drastically.
You can quickly post the better photo, but this is just deceiving the people who admire you, and even yourself.
“It’d be easy to only share the left pic where I look a bit more toned & skinnier, but it’s so *normal* to have a “bump” after having a baby! ”
40. Jazz Charlton
If you would think Kieran Culkin’s wife, Jazz Charlton, would feel depressed because of her not-so-easy experience when she gave birth, then you’re wrong.
In her Instagram post, she wrote:
“This is me 4 days postpartum – I live in sexy surgical mesh underwear that’s keeping a world of pain in check, my boobs are engorged, I burst blood vessels In my face from pushing, my big pregnant belly that I loved so much deflated to a mere paunch but it’s all so worth it. I’ve never been more in love and we’ve never felt more complete.”
41. Daphne Oz
Dapne Oz is keeping it real. Even if she’s an author for nutrition and wellness doesn’t mean she can just go back to her postpartum body! In fact, she shared her own experiences as a new mom.
“I especially want the new mamas out there to hear that, because we see so much of how glossy motherhood can be and not enough of how real 3D life is always complicated (and better for it). you’re experience will be just right for you. prepare to be amazed by some things and horrified by others.”
42. Jenna Cooper
Jenna wanted to be transparent about her postpartum journey. Her experience taught her many lessons, and that made her want to share her story with everyone. Take time to read.
“Presley is the biggest blessing, and I’m so thankful for the opportunity to be her mom. But I’ve had bad days, and I just wanted to make sure you know that you are not alone, or gross, or a failure, so please don’t ever say that💔Every woman and body and experience is different. We try our best, and that is enough. It helps when I tell myself that my body is powerful, and it made me a mother…that I am worthy and loved. And you are too!!”
43. Amy King
Amy King showed off her postpartum body, saying that her physical appearance is far from being “magazine perfect,” but she’s not ashamed of her body because it has created life.
“To all the mama’s out there struggling to except their new figure just remember every scar, tummy pooch, and stretch mark and flabbiness you have now has created life! Be proud of that! Your body is powerful and made you a mother!”
44. Jade Roper
Let’s all learn from Jade here, okay? Ladies, instead of hating how your postpartum body looks, why not appreciate the amazing achievement that it has given you?
“Women’s bodies are seriously phenomenal! It’s taking my uterus more time to return to its normal state this time around, but honestly I have never loved my body more than I have this postpartum.”
45. Millie Mackintosh
Being a celebrity is hard when everyone expects you to magically bounce back to the pre-baby size that you had. Millie wanted to be real and shared her postpartum realizations and story through Instagram.
“Fitting into my pre-pregnancy clothes seems a long way off and I have no intention of rushing into ‘getting my body back’ but it would be a lie if I said I feel totally happy and at one with my body post pregnancy. The process has been made a lot harder by some overly strong and hurtful comments online about my appearance (as much as you try and ignore them).”
46. Katy Perry
We admire Katy Perry for being so real with her pregnancy experiences. In her Instagram stories, she shared the “reality” of giving birth.
We can see her wearing maternity underwear, a nursing bra, and no make-up or filter in this viral photo. She looks so tired, but this is the real face of motherhood, and she’s proud of it.
47. Teddi Mellencamp
Being a new mom is never easy. It’s a rollercoaster ride, but is it all worth it? Of course! Teddi openly shares her own postpartum journey, and we just want to give her a tap on the shoulder and say, “Good job, mom!”
“It is a constant reminder to live in the moment and feel all the highs and lows that a new baby brings. It is the simultaneous notion of wanting to slow down while still feeling the need to rearrange and organize the entire house. It is doing your best to not compare your journey to anyone else’s. It is overwhelming gratitude for each friend and family member who shows up without judgement, only to bring you love & food. It is a constant roller coaster & I wouldn’t change it for the world.”
48. Kate Hudson
Kate Hudson shared something so relatable to all moms. She shared that as she is getting more used to the new baby routine, she is now finding time for herself, focusing on her health.
She explained that she wants to stay healthy to live longer for her kids, and as clear as this goal is, she is also very aware of the challenges surrounding it.
“Let’s be honest, kids take the number one position and it’s haaaaard to make the time for yourself. I’ve been doing a lot of research and I’ve spent my life time trying all kinds of new things that are focused on health and wellness.”
49. Millie Mackintosh
When Millie Mackintosh gave birth to a beautiful daughter – her body changed. At first, she was hesitant to post her photo because of the cellulite on her legs, but then she changed her mind.
50. Pink
Three years ago, Pink posted on Instagram that she weighs 160 lbs and is 5’3″. She also said that if you calculate this, she’s already obese.
“I know I’m not at my goal or anywhere near it after Baby 2, but dammit I don’t feel obese. The only thing I’m feeling is myself. Stay off that scale ladies!”
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