Let’s talk about the lie we’ve all heard: the myth of the postpartum “bounce back.” Society has painted a picture where new moms are supposed to emerge from childbirth looking like they never carried a baby at all, as if creating life is a minor inconvenience to a perfect body. This toxic narrative not only pressures women but also minimizes the incredible journey of motherhood and the toll it takes on our bodies and minds.

My (Marcella) personal postpartum experience was nothing short of a mental rollercoaster. During my pregnancy, I hated feeling out of control of my body. For the first six months, I was so sick that I could barely function. The nausea and exhaustion consumed me. And just when the “morning” sickness finally subsided, crippling back and hip pain took its place. I spent much of my pregnancy stationary and in survival mode, feeling disconnected from the body I thought I knew.

I had assumed that once I delivered my baby, I’d get that sense of control back… but postpartum hit differently. I could feel my hormones flip-flopping, my body looked completely unfamiliar, and I couldn’t move the way I used to. Everything about me had changed, and instead of focusing on healing, I found myself wrestling with frustration over why I couldn’t just “get back to normal.”

If you’ve felt this way too, you’re not alone. But here’s the truth: Your postpartum body doesn’t need to “bounce back.” It deserves praise for everything it’s been through—and it’s time we celebrate that.

The Harmful Narrative of the ‘Bounce Back’

The term “bounce back” makes it sound like postpartum recovery is as simple as snapping a rubber band. But where does this narrative even come from?

For one, media glorifies celebrities who seem to effortlessly return to pre-pregnancy bodies mere weeks after giving birth. What we don’t see are the personal chefs, trainers, nannies, and Photoshop tools that help craft that illusion. This creates unrealistic standards that everyday moms can’t—and shouldn’t—be expected to meet.

The damage is profound. Women are left feeling like failures for not looking the way society says they should, rather than being celebrated for the incredible feat they’ve just accomplished. The pressure to “bounce back” reduces the postpartum journey to an aesthetic timeline, overshadowing the physical and emotional healing that should take precedence.

Why Your Postpartum Body Deserves Praise

Your postpartum body has done something extraordinary. It grew and nurtured life, adapted to countless hormonal and physical changes, and endured the immense effort of childbirth—whether vaginally or via C-section.

Even after delivery, your body continues its work, from producing milk to providing comfort and care for your newborn. Every stretch mark, scar, and change is a testament to your strength and resilience.

But let’s not sugarcoat it—this transformation, while beautiful, is hard. It’s not easy to adjust to a body that feels unfamiliar. It takes personal work and mental exercises to move past the frustration and grief that can come with these changes.

For me, it meant reminding myself daily that my body wasn’t “broken”—it was healing. I had to practice gratitude for what my body had done and allow myself to feel those moments of discomfort and grief without judgment. Quick affirmations helped me begin the healing process- I literally had a sticky note on my bathroom mirror that said “size does not equal value”, and while not a failsafe, it did help shift my mindset when negativity crept in.

This journey isn’t linear, and it doesn’t happen overnight. But with time, patience, and compassion, you can learn to see your postpartum body not as something to “fix” but as something to honor and love.

Reframing the Conversation Around Postpartum Bodies

It’s time we rewrite the script and reject the toxic myth of the “bounce back.” Here’s how we can start:

Change the Language

Words matter, they’re what rattles around in your head at night and shape the way. Instead of focusing on “bouncing back,” let’s talk about healing, adjusting, and embracing transformation. These words honor the reality of the postpartum experience rather than minimizing it.

Focus on Strength, Not Size

Your body’s strength and resilience are worth celebrating. Whether it’s breastfeeding, walking around the block, or simply making it through a tough day, these milestones deserve recognition. If you really want to go crazy, challenge yourself to not look at a scale at all!

Shift Your Mindset

Practicing self-compassion is key. Try journaling about what your body has accomplished or repeating affirmations like, “My body is powerful,” or “I am proud of how far I’ve come.” These small mental shifts can help combat the pressure to look a certain way. After all, affirmations are about faking it until you make it.

Practical Tips for Embracing Your Postpartum Body

1. Stop Comparing

Social media can be a wonderful tool for connection, but it’s also a breeding ground for unrealistic expectations. Unfollow accounts that make you feel less-than and fill your feed with body-positive voices instead.

2. Nourish, Don’t Punish

Focus on giving your body what it needs to feel good, whether that’s nourishing food, movement you enjoy (like gentle yoga or walking), or much-needed rest. This isn’t about punishing yourself for how you look but nurturing yourself for how you feel.

3. Surround Yourself With Support

Having a supportive community can make all the difference. In our VIP women-only Facebook group, the Hype Girl Boudoir VIP Babe Cave, we’ve created a space where moms can share their journeys, celebrate their bodies, and lift each other up. If you’re looking for encouragement and connection, join us here. You don’t have to navigate this alone—we’re here for you.

4. Celebrate the Small Wins

Progress doesn’t have to be dramatic to be meaningful. Maybe you made it through a sleepless night, got outside for some fresh air, or simply let yourself rest when you needed to. These are all victories, and they’re worth celebrating.

So here is your reminder that your postpartum body is nothing short of incredible. It doesn’t need to bounce back to be worthy of love and praise—it already is. While the transformation can be challenging, it’s a journey that deserves patience, compassion, and celebration.

If you ever need help remembering just how amazing your body is, I’m here for you. WE are here for you.

Your body is worth all the love in the world! If you’re ready to embrace that truth and connect with others on the same journey, tap here to join our supportive community in our VIP women-only Facebook group- the Babe Cave. Together, we’ll break free from the toxic myth of the “bounce back” and celebrate the beauty of what makes us moms.

You are worthy. You are strong. And your body is incredible.