I went through my first pregnancy comparing my damaged body to all the other women I believed came out of it completely unscathed! It seemed like just about everyone had a washboard unblemished stomach just weeks after giving birth.
It took me a long time to accept my post pregnancy body and to realise it wasn’t nearly as unattractive as I believed it was. In fact, while the father of my boys failed to appreciate my post pregnancy body and our marriage didn’t last, I have gone on to date some stunning (and younger) men who have never had a problem with my post pregnancy stomach! I was recently told by an old (now pregnant) colleague that my ability to attract young hot men was an inspiration to mothers everywhere! I agree. I’m still looking for a man who is the whole package (not just a Personal Trainer or an Ironman – seriously) but quite simply, my post pregnancy body has been no inhibitor. I take excellent care of my body by leading an active and healthy lifestyle and I am grateful every day for the privilege of having my two boys.
I may choose to have a tummy tuck one day, I may not – I simply know it is no longer required for me to feel good about myself, attractive and to be grateful for what I have.
~Age: 36
~Number of pregnancies and births: 2 boys
~The age of your children, or how far postpartum you are: aged 10 and 2
Good story. I like your positive attitude. But it does sadden me that we can birth someones children and them find something wrong with our bodies for doing so. I am in the same situation and it is not easy to deal with. Hopefully I’ll have your attitude about my situation soon enough.
yes – exactly. it would almost be easier if men were just totally shallow creatures who only were attracted to certain textures and dimensions. but, believe it or not ladies, men are complicated too – physically, emotionally and sexually. if we could predict what men wanted based only on our looks we wouldn’t have to worry about becoming interesting or developed people.
You go, girl! :D
@Jenny, it does get easier I promise!! Having many friends now who are in their late 30’s and 40’s without children, I know which path I would choose again even if I’ve had to do it on my own.
@Alexis – they certainly are complex creatures sometimes and I’ve learnt that the only person I really need to focus on pleasing is me and my boys!! Being with a lovely man is a nice to have but not essential to living a very happy and fulfilled life – especially once your biological closk stops ticking!
@Sarah – until the package comes along I may as well enjoy the scenic journey ;-)