I had my first son 21 years ago. I remember being somewhat prepared for what the birth would be like (honestly, not as bad as I expected!) but what completely threw me was looking down at my body during that first post-birth shower. My stomach looked like that of a 90 year old woman! Droopy, saggy, weirdly wrinkled. I was horrified. I burst into tears because I thought I would look like that always and I remember thinking “why didn’t anyone TELL me??”. Of course I eventually bounced back (albeit a little slower with each child) but I sure felt alone at that moment. I think your site is wonderful for new mom’s and moms-to-be. Every mother’s body is something to be celebrated and I want to thank all of you for sharing your stories and pictures.
Your post is so true. See my post ‘Postpartum – 21 and 25 years’. I was even brave enough to post pictures. I don’t remember having wrinkles and I was lucky to have no stretchmarks but we need to reassure all these lovely young mums. A body is a remarkable thing and will recover in time, not the same as it was but often better. Please learn to love your bodies as they mature into true womanhood, having done the job they were intended for. I love this site even at my age.