When you’re expecting a baby, people looooove to share advice. You’ll hear about sleepless nights, the relentless diaper changes, and the overwhelming love that’s waiting for you. What often gets left out of the conversation, though, is what happens to your body.
Because the truth is, pregnancy and postpartum bring changes - some temporary, others more lasting - that can leave you feeling just a little unfamiliar in your own skin. And while every mom’s journey is unique, knowing what’s normal (and that you’re not the only one who feels this way) can make the process of adjusting and embracing your new body much easier.
Here’s the list no one hands you when you leave the hospital
After pregnancy, you might notice changes in places you never expected:
Belly
Ok, this is an obvious one but can be the most difficult to come to terms with. Your stomach may feel softer or look different even long after birth. This is completely normal, and your core muscles often need time (and a little exercise) to rebuild.
Teeth
Though this one surprises a lot of mamas, hormonal shifts can affect dental health! Regular check-ups are key.
Hair
Some moms enjoy thicker hair during pregnancy, only to face clumps of hair falling out in the months postpartum. This usually balances out over time.
Skin
Dryness, stretch marks, or pigmentation changes are common. (Pro tip: the same liniment you use on your baby’s bottom, like La Petite Crème, can also work wonders on your own dry skin.)
Eyes
Vision changes can occur during and after pregnancy. If things feel off or a little different, get them checked.
Feet
Swelling may linger, and some women even find their shoe size changes!
Breasts
Full, sore, saggy, leaky, or forever different. Breasts tell their own postpartum story - and every story is wonderfully unique.
Pelvic floor & vagina
Weakness, sensitivity, or changes in sensation are common. Gentle exercises or pelvic floor therapy can help.
Fun fact: In France, pelvic floor ‘reeducation’ is a standard part of postpartum care, offered to all moms by their midwives and/or OBGYNs!
It’s okay to feel sad about it
One of the most surprising parts of postpartum recovery is the emotional adjustment. You might look in the mirror and feel grief for the body you had before you became a mom.
And it’s completely normal to feel that way.
Instead of rushing to “get your body back,” give yourself permission to get to know your new body. Notice the strength in your core as it rebuilds. The resilience in your skin as it stretches and heals. The sheer power of your body in carrying, birthing, and nurturing new life.
A little practical support
Sometimes, embracing change also means making small, practical adjustments. Discovering your new body type and adjusting your wardrobe can make getting dressed feel joyful again instead of frustrating. (This body type resource is a helpful place to start.)
And when it comes to your skin, remember that it deserves just as much gentle care as your baby’s. That’s why multi-use products like La Petite Crème’s liniment are a small but comforting way to care for yourself, too.
Petites pensées
Your body has done something extraordinary - and yes, it might look or feel different now. But it doesn’t mean that damage has been done, it just means that big changes have happened. Remember that baby you grew and birthed?
Yeah, that was a big change.
Learning to accept, adapt, and even celebrate those changes takes time, but you don’t have to do it all at once. One kind thought toward your reflection at a time is enough.