When you’re expecting a new bundle of joy, you might worry about how childbirth will affect your body. You wonder if you’ll ever look the same on the outside.
Medical professionals can also be hesitant to share the realities of new motherhood. They may want to sugarcoat the changes you’ll experience.
It can be helpful to prepare yourself mentally and to understand what changes to expect. Keep reading for a list of body changes after giving birth and how your body will adjust after having a baby.
Table of Contents
1. Breast Changes
Your breasts will likely feel larger, heavier, and more tender than they were before pregnancy. Your nipples may also be larger and more sensitive.
You may notice that your breasts leak a small amount of milk when you hear your baby cry or think about feeding them. This is called the “let-down reflex” and is normal.
2. Stretch Marks
Stretch marks are a common occurrence during pregnancy and after giving birth. They are usually caused by the skin stretching as the body grows. It may appear on the stomach, breasts, thighs, or buttocks.
While stretch marks are not harmful, some women may feel self-conscious about their appearance. There are a few ways to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks, such as using a moisturizer or exfoliating the skin. In most cases, stretch marks will eventually fade on their own.
3. Diastasis Recti
After birth, you can experience an increase in the size and strength of your abdominal muscles. This is especially true of the rectus abdominis, or “six-pack” muscle.
This muscle can weaken and separate during pregnancy. Diastasis recti can cause a bulge in your stomach and make it difficult to lose the baby’s weight. But don’t worry, there are many things you can do to strengthen your abdominal muscles and close the gap.
4. Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence is more common after giving birth. This is due to the weakened pelvic floor muscles and the increased pressure on the bladder from the growing uterus. But these are temporary and can be treated with pelvic floor exercises and other methods.
If you are leaking urine, be sure to see your doctor to rule out any other causes.
5. Vaginal Changes
Vaginal changes after giving birth are normal and to be usually expected. The vagina will likely be wider and there may be some vaginal prolapse. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine what changes are normal and what changes may need treatment.
6. Fat Storage
Before giving birth, your body stores fat in the subcutaneous layer, which is below the skin. After you give birth, your body starts to store fat in the abdominal cavity, which is a much deeper layer of tissue. This change in fat storage is one of the reasons why you may notice your belly looking a bit different after you have a baby.
All these changes are normal and will eventually go away. However, some women may want to consider a mommy makeover at Allure Plastic Surgery to help them feel better about their post-pregnancy bodies.
Dealing With Body Changes After Giving Birth
Overall, it is important to be aware of the many ways your body changes after giving birth. From your skin to your hair to your breasts, your post-childbirth body undergoes a lot of changes. Be sure to take care of yourself and listen to your body as it adjusts to these changes.
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