I realize it’s ironic that I talk about food and weight and health and happiness for a living and I’m about to share with you an insecurity that involves all of those things and my own body. But there’s something about this pregnancy that has been making weight gain [the thought of and the actual happening of] really hard for me. While I know a healthy weight for Mom means a healthy, happy baby, it doesn’t make the feeling of “extra” on one’s body easier. I can’t help but be extra sensitive about the weight because this time around I’m having a girl. Which makes me feel even worse about my weight gain insecurity, because that’s the last thing I want for ANY of my children, regardless of their gender.
I hadn’t really noticed my weight gain until I went for my 27-week appointment this past week. Since I’ve been pregnant with Joey, I’ve asked nurses and doctors NOT to tell me my weight. But this time, I saw a new doctor, and he just nonchalantly shared the amount I’ve gained thus far and what my current weight was. Needless to say, I immediately became insecure and was holding back the tears. I’m practically at the weight I was right before Joey was delivered! Having been pregnant the past 3 years there really hasn’t been a chance to lose ALL the baby weight. I’d like to think it’s all the muscle I’ve gained from carrying two toddlers and getting them in and out of the house and car, but that’s wishful thinking. Could it be my pregnancy eating habits? Yes. Could it be I’m working out when I can, vs. 5-6 times a week like I did when I was pregnant with the boys? Yes. But it could also just be how my body is responding to carrying a new baby. All babies are different, and the same goes for how Mom’s body responds to the pregnancy as well.
It feels selfish to complain or vent about this topic. Heck, there’s thousands of women out there who would probably love to add a few pounds to their bodies if that meant they could carry a healthy baby. And in the grand scheme of things, I know how this weight thing works [as reminded by a friend]. I’ve lost it before, and gained it back again because that’s what my body and my babies need. But alas, this is a season in time, and someday I’ll miss being pregnant. And my hope is that if and when I’m helping one of my children with weight insecurities, I can hold them and let them know too this is a season in time. And we’ll all get through it together. Healthy, and happy!
I’m almost positive I’m not alone here with this pregnancy insecurity. So I’d love to hear from you. What do you do to keep pregnancy emotions about weight in check? For me, I’m surrounding myself with positive people. People who support me and sweet little sis. Those who don’t judge that bowl of cereal before bed OR those who want to accompany me to a weekly barre class.
