postpartum-wellness

“You’re going to want to bounce back fast.” If you’re pregnant, just delivered, or thinking about starting your family, you’ve probably heard this line more times than you can count. Society puts enormous pressure on new moms to shed pregnancy weight quickly and “get their body back.” But is this mindset helpful, or is it actually doing more harm than good?

A recent revealing article on Business Insider, I’m a personal trainer who gained over 50 pounds while pregnant. Being kind to myself made getting fit again much easier, shares the candid story of Emily Ricketts, a personal trainer who gained over 50 pounds during pregnancy. Rather than succumbing to the pressure to “bounce back,” Emily found liberation and motivation in embracing the experience of being a beginner all over again.

Why Does Society Demand a ‘Bounce Back’?

Let’s face it: media images and pop culture glorify rapid postpartum weight loss. Celebrities often appear just weeks after giving birth looking flawless, which sets unrealistic expectations for everyday women. This constant bombardment can leave new moms feeling guilty, inadequate, or frustrated when their bodies don’t conform to those ideals.

But here’s the thing — pregnancy changes your body in profound ways. It’s not a flaw or failure; it’s a testament to the incredible process of creating life. Trying to rush the fitness journey often leads to burnout, injury, or emotional distress.

Emily’s Approach: Embracing the Beginner Mindset

Emily’s story is powerful because it challenges the very foundation of postpartum fitness culture. Instead of forcing herself to get “back” to a previous state, she granted herself grace and patience. She treated her postpartum body as if she were starting fresh — a beginner learning new movements, regaining strength, and respecting limits.

This shift had surprising benefits:

• Increased motivation: Viewing fitness as a positive journey, not a race against time, helped her stay consistent.
• Less pressure: Removing unrealistic expectations reduced anxiety and self-criticism.
• Better results: Gradual progress allowed sustainable strength and health improvements.

Would this approach work for everyone? Certainly, every woman’s postpartum journey is unique. But the message is clear: kindness towards yourself can be a game-changer.

How This Ties Into Fertility and At-Home Conception

If you’re reading this on your path to motherhood—perhaps using fertility technologies or at-home insemination kits like those provided by MakeAMom—this mindset is just as crucial before and after conception. The process of trying, conceiving, and carrying a pregnancy is emotionally and physically demanding. Embracing kindness and realistic expectations supports not only your physical health but your mental well-being.

For example, MakeAMom’s innovative at-home insemination kits are designed to give individuals and couples control, comfort, and confidence throughout their fertility journey. Their products cater to different needs, such as low motility sperm or sensitivities, helping to reduce stress and increase chances of success in a private, non-clinical setting.

Visiting the MakeAMom website offers valuable information and resources to empower your journey without added pressure or stigma.

Practical Tips for Embracing Your Postpartum Beginner Phase:

• Set small, achievable goals: Instead of focusing on “losing all the weight,” aim to move your body gently, improve flexibility, or build endurance bit by bit.
• Celebrate progress: Every step forward is a win, whether it’s a short walk or holding a plank for a few seconds.
• Create a supportive environment: Surround yourself with people or communities who uplift rather than judge.
• Listen to your body: Honor pain, fatigue, or emotional signals instead of pushing through blindly.
• Consider professional guidance: Working with postpartum-friendly trainers or therapists can help tailor a safe routine.

The Bigger Picture: Mental Health Matters

Postpartum mental health is just as important as physical health. The pressure to “bounce back” can exacerbate feelings of anxiety, depression, or body dysmorphia. By realigning your mindset, you open doors to compassion, patience, and resilience that support long-term wellness.

Let’s Reframe the Narrative Together

Pregnancy and postpartum phases are transformative chapters—not something to “fix” or race through. Inspired by Emily’s journey, we encourage everyone to embrace the beginner’s spirit in fitness and self-care. What if gaining strength meant gaining kindness for yourself?

We’d love to hear from you: How have you navigated postpartum fitness or fertility challenges? What mindset shifts made a difference? Share your experiences below and join the conversation!

References: - Emily Ricketts’ story on Business Insider: I’m a personal trainer who gained over 50 pounds while pregnant. Being kind to myself made getting fit again much easier

• Learn more about empowering at-home fertility options through MakeAMom’s discreet and versatile insemination kits.

Remember, your strength starts with kindness—let’s celebrate every step of the way.