A positive self image is important during pregnancy. Often, women develop a poor self image in pregnancy. You may feel fat, unattractive and clumsy as your pregnancy progresses. These feelings are not healthy. It’s important to maintain a good self image both during and after pregnancy.
There is pressure to look perfect in our society. The media and television hold up the slim woman as the ideal. Celebrities seem to gain little weight or bounce back soon after the birth of their babies. Trying to live up to this ideal is impossible. Women end up struggling with their changing bodies and feel out of control. You may dread getting on the scale at the doctor’s office.
It’s normal for your self image to change during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester. Your belly is growing, you feel tired and your center of gravity shifts causing your balance to be off. This can all cause negative feelings about your body. These feelings can continue after birth, since you won’t have your shape back. In some cases, this can lead to a depressed mood or add to depression after the baby is born.
The people around you can impact your body image. Some men find pregnant women to be beautiful and even sexy. Others don’t feel this way. Women often mirror their husband’s feelings. Comments from others can impact your self image. Rude comments about your size are all too common. Most of the time, people don’t mean to be hurtful, but speak without thinking.
Keep in mind that all women carry differently. Your height and body structure can contribute to how you carry your baby. Even the same woman will carry differently with each pregnancy. I’m expecting my fourth baby and each of them have been different.
Remember that trying to measure up to the ideal body image of others is impossible. It’s just not worth it. Work on building your self esteem. Surround yourself with positive, happy people. Exercise regularly to help you feel good and keep your weight under control. Eating healthy foods will help you feel healthy and happy. Concentrate on having a healthy baby and remember, the weight gain is temporary.