Body After Baby #2

I went back and forth on whether or not I wanted to write about this topic – body after baby. Especially 10 days after giving birth. I finally decided to write about it because it’s an important topic to be open about, but I didn’t want you guys to think that I believe losing weight quickly after childbirth is something that should happen. Because I don’t think that at all. Everyone and every body is different. I guess I’ve just been surprised at how I look after giving birth to Riley because my body has reacted so differently than when I gave birth to Molly. And what is even more bizarre to me is that I thought I looked WAY skinnier when I was pregnant than I do now. And here I am 10 days after giving birth and still looking 5 months pregnant. I guess I’m just surprised by it all. This picture below was taken a week after I gave birth.

1. MAXI DRESS | 2. CHAIR | 3. FAUX COTTON BRANCHES

I gained about 45 lbs during this pregnancy (I think I gained 40 with Molly but I don’t remember), and when I got home from the hospital I got on the scale just because I was so curious how much weight I would instantly drop after giving birth. Well I went into the hospital at 185 lbs and when I got home from delivering an almost 9 lbs baby, I was still 179lbs! I couldn’t believe my eyes! After delivering Riley at almost 9 lbs, plus a placenta and all the extra amniotic fluid I was carrying, how did I only lose 6 lbs? Wouldn’t that mean I actually gained weight?! I know they pump you full of a ton of fluid at the hospital, but I was still very surprised by the number and a bit confused. Since then, I am now down to 159lbs so I dropped 20 lbs very quickly (it must have been fluid from the IV’s at the hospital!) but I still have 20 lbs to loose to get back to my pre-pregnancy weight. I am in no rush to get there, I know it will take time and I’m giving myself the time and grace to get there when it’s right for me.

I guess I just wanted to talk about it with you guys because it’s on my mind right now. And when I went shopping the other day (there is a Gap by our house and Kevin, Molly, Riley and I all walked over there together) I was pretty defeated to see that I couldn’t find anything I liked because nothing fit me right! And when we took family photos the other day, I couldn’t help but notice my big belly. My loose fitting dress hid it when standing, but it was obvious when sitting.

MY DRESS

I think what is keeping me positive even when I start to get down on myself it my beautiful son. I look at him and know that would carry this weight for the rest of my life if it’s what needed to happen for me to get to have him in my life. Our bodies are incredible. We GROW human beings! When you really stop and think about that it’s nothing short of magic! I’ll sit and stare at all his fingers and toes and every little hair on his tiny body and think “wow, my body MADE you” It’s those moments that keep me positive and help me look in the mirror and instead of seeing the extra 20 lbs I’m carrying, I see a miracle. I see a strong woman that sacrifices for her children. I see beauty and love. I hope you all see the same when you look in the mirror each day.

So if any of you out there just had a baby and are feeling the same way, I just wanted to let you know that you’re not alone! Especially if it’s baby #2! Anyone else out there lose the weight (and belly) super fast with their first baby but then it came off way slower with your second? With Molly, I think my tummy was at least 80% back to normal 7 days in. But with Riley, I still look 5 months pregnant 10 days in. Would love to hear all your stories. Even if you lost the weight fast for all your babies! Or maybe you never lost the weight. We are all different and have unique stories and that’s ok! Let’s discuss in the comments below.

212 Thoughts

212 thoughts on “Body After Baby #2

    1. Omg! I have a 2 year old boy and just gave birth to a little girl, Polly, on May 21st. I think I gained 50 pounds from my
      pre baby weight of 130 lbs. I love your post because I feel the same way! I just wanna lose the weight, but know it’s more important to pay attention to my kids and give them all the love they deserve. My 2 year old is definitely adjusting and I’ve been feeling the “baby blues” because I haven’t been able to connect with him in the same way. Hang in there and don’t worry about the weight! It will shed with all you do and taking care of 2!!❤️

    2. I gave birth to my second the day after you and after reading this is made me feel like I wasn’t the only one at there that this is happening to.

    3. My kids are older but I was almost exactly the same age for both except a 31-month age difference. The first one, I barely showed, lost weight quickly. Second one – omg – I looked 6 mos pregnant at 3 mos, was huge in the end – he was 8lbs9oz – and had one heck of a time losing that weight. Don’t fall prey to the wealthy celebs who go the gym almost full-time pp which also means they aren’t with their children. We have a culturally unhealthy focus on image in general and just remember it’s wrong. Taking care of yourself, having Kevin help to take care of you so you can care for the baby and I’ll keep repeating myself – and TIME – for all of the above including Molly and Owen – is all that’s inportant. You are such a good mom in all that you share so congratulate yourself on that! We are human and life is imperfect and in all that we find the beauty. Thanks for bringing this topic up for discussion!

      1. I love this. We are way to focused on body image and need more focus on character: kindness, tolerance, honesty, openness, boundaries, work ethic, and more.

    4. Girl! I have an 11-year old boy and an 8-year old girl. My body has been through hell since having my miracles. You are right about sacrifice. I was so focused on my weight and to be honest, I still feel the effects of childbirth even after a hysterectomy and a tummy tuck (I had to have one due to a hernia). Give it time. It really is different after the 2nd baby. You’re balancing a newborn AND a toddler. It’s a whole new ballgame. I wish I had the ability to be kind to myself back then the way you do now. I hope you continue to be kind to yourself and just enjoy these days. I cannot believe my baby girl is 8.5 years old now. I would give anything to have one day back with her as a baby. Y’all have beautiful kids!!

  1. Baby #1 the weight and belly was gone so quickly. Baby #2 was tough! Even though I ate better I gained more weight through out my pregnancy and the weight and belly did not go back to my pre pregnancy weight for a very long time. My stomach muscles are still not the same.

    You want to feel comfortable in your body and clothes. I get it!

  2. Hi Ali, I loved reading your post, since it is a topic that I am sure every woman after birth thinking about at some point! I’ve also felt the difference to how my body reacted to pregnancy #2, and remember looking 5 months pregnant for a couple of months after delivery, but slowly the belly naturally returned to my previous shape, even without me doing any exercise (I was too tired nursing :)). Creating life is such an amazing experience, so I feel like our bodies deserve to be appreciated and loved 🙂

  3. Baby 2 was easier for me than baby 1 but we are all so different! In time, especially with breast feeding and a return to exercise 😁

  4. Thank you for this post! I am 33 weeks pregnant with my second (boy) and I am so fixated on losing the weight as soon as possible after I give birth. I need to remind myself that it probably isn’t going to just fall off in the first week or even month! I gained 49 pounds with my first and lost it all (plus some) within about 12 weeks after having him. I have gained 35 pounds so far with this pregnancy and this post is a great reminder to give myself grace after giving birth and allow my body to heal, recover and eventually the weight WILL come off 🙂

    P.s. Riley is absolutely adorable (as is Molly) and your family is beautiful! I love reading your blog each and every day. KEEP IT UP! 🙂

  5. I have policistic ovarian syndrome and while I was pregnant and breast feeding it was like all the symptoms went away I had lost almost 50 pounds. So I was on my way to my healthy weight now two years later I have gained all back and my symptoms are worse than ever. With this condition is like a catch 22 you need to loose the weight to control symptoms but it’s realky difficult to loose it because of the insulin resistance. I have learned to love my body as it is right now, but I have decided to be healthy and enjoy my toddler. It will be a long while to loose all the weight but I choose to be happy and love my self while I do it and it is awesome to know that we are all toghether in this. Thanks for the post Ali!

    1. look at 2B mindset – my daughter has PCOS and has started this program and she is losing weight. it is AMAZING as it is not a diet but a way of life!

        1. Hi,

          I also have PCOS and do 2B mindset. It has been amazing. If you want to sign up for it let me know and I can help you. 💖

    2. Check out Anthony Williams Medical Medium. There isn’t better information out there.. I promise you!

  6. Hi Ali! I could have written this exact blog post myself! I am down 25 right away with 20 more to go…I am 8 weeks post partum and have been diet and exercising for the past 2 weeks I would say and the weight loss has been SO slow this time around! I try to stay in the moment and remind myself that there is “no rush” but the reality is that I feel my “best self” when I am healthier and leaner so I am working hard! You will bounce back quickly and you already look amazing! Love following you and your family! Welcome to the world of 2 kids! It’s finally getting easier at the two month mark! Xoxo

  7. I understand how you feel….I think you look beautiful just the way you are.
    Time is your friend &
    You’re going to be back to your pre-preggie weight before long because you take such good care of yourself. ✔
    Sending a hug
    P.s. drink lots of water

  8. I can’t begin to tell you how much I appreciate you writing this post. I am 1 month out from having my 1st baby and am tracking to a 40-50 lb weight gain. I’m trying not to focus on the numbers, but your honesty and transparency make me feel so much better knowing that it is normal!!!

    Please continue to post updates and your progress, this was so refreshing to read!

  9. Thank YOU for posting on this! I am 26 weeks and up 22 lbs w/baby number 2…. all I am thinking about lately is how I can’t wait to lose the weigh after baby (well this, plus how I will satisfy my next chocolate craving ;)) so this is a good reminder to give myself some grace while I am growing a miracle. Thanks for sharing your actual numbers too! Love your honesty so much 🙂 xoxo

  10. I think you look great but I also get those feelings, I was the same way after my 2nd & I wondered if I would lose all the weight. I had someone tell me remember it took 9 months for you to create a human so it’s going to take some time to feel like normal again. It took a little longer & my body hasn’t ever been the same but I’m very comfortable with how I look. Hang in there, you will get more active.

  11. Hi Ali!

    I’m pregnant with baby #2 right now, so I don’t have any comparison yet, but I want to thank you for your openness and vulnerability! You have a voice and a platform and it’s great you’re using it to be an encouragement to people who may be in the same spot as you. I know it is hard to be in the in between stage, but you’re beautiful and your family adores you no matter what. I’m sure as a fashion blogger though you can’t wait to get back to shopping! You’ll get there soon enough 🙂

    -Kimmy

  12. Weight melted off fast with the first and I even lost an additional 6 pounds past my prebirth weight! Different story with the second…baby is 10 months old and I’m still struggling to lose the last 5 pounds…and I even ran a marathon a month ago! You’re not alone.

  13. I need help. My baby is 2 years old and I am still 20 lbs overweight. I hate it. I don’t feel good about myself at all. I don’t have time to exercise. Iwork full time and then once I get home I’m with my baby. At the end of the day I’m exhausted. I don’t know what to do. I don’t eat junk food. It’s impossible for me. And I hate when I see celebrity back to the pre pregnancy weight within a week. Like really?? I guess it helps when you have lots of money to spend on surgery.
    Anyways thanks for sharing.

    1. Just wanted to let you know you’re not alone! I’m a full time working mom to an almost two year old and it is hard to find the time or energy to work out. Even when I am eating well, it is hard to lose the weight because I know I am not active enough. My best advice is to do the best you can to be healthy and feel good about yourself and don’t look at the scale too much!
      You also don’t want to compare to big time celebrities. A lot of them have expensive personal trainers, people cooking for them, and people watching their kids so they have the time for this. I try and remind myself that comparison is the thief of joy!

  14. I had a nearly identical experience with baby #2. Took me almost 9 months to get back to my pre-baby weight. But I just didn’t stress about it and let my body get their in its own time. One day, I just went into my closet and realized all my pre-baby clothes were fitting again, but I totally get how frustrating it can be in the interim period. I let myself wear my maternity clothes for quite a while post-baby. 🙂

  15. First of all, you look amazing!

    I’m in a similar boat, a little further out to sea. I’m 4 months pp after my second pregnancy. I lost 20lb in the first week also, and only about another 10 since then and have a “15 week-ish” belly hanging out now. I’m eating clean, breastfeeding a ton, and need to just start working out again, but it’s hard to get into the habit when I have to choose crunches over sleep. There is no other time!

    My first pregnancy was twins, and it was a similar experience pp. I lost a ton initially, then another 15. Then I coasted until I weaned at 1 yr. But I didn’t have a noticeable belly for the most part. I couldn’t exercise without my milk reducing and that was much more important to me than my figure.

  16. I’ve only been through one pregnancy and I’m still about 10 lbs over weight and it’s been nearly 2 years. I think it all depends on how active you were and how fit you were before pregnancy. I can’t speak to having a second pregnancy though. I’m more focused on family and spending as much time as I can with my hubby and son. It’s hard to get motivated enough to exercise after working all day and then being with your family. I’ll get back to it one, I’m just not in a hurry right now. I’m just enjoying our little family. 🙂

  17. It is totally normal with baby #2! I told my Mom when my son (my second) was 7 weeks that I wanted to go on weight watchers and she looked at me like I was insane. And I knew I was insane, because I was nursing full time and had just had a baby, but I felt so foreign in my own body and was so frustrated. Anyway, I took her advice and did not do weight watchers. I caved and went to The Gap and bought some jeans and tops in larger sizes so that I could wear normal clothes. That really helped me feel more human – just being able to pull on a pair of jeans with a normal waistband and non-maternity top.

    After my son turned one and I weaned him I focused on me again – I did sign up for weight watchers and lost the rest of the weight (I had about 12 pounds to lose at that point) and then after I lost the weight I started running and going to Orange Theory. He is now 2.5 years old and I’m actually in better shape than I was before I had kids. I look back and am so glad I listened to my Mom and took that first year to get used to life with two kids, bond with my son, nurse him and eat lots of pasta and cheese. When the time came to eat right and work out I sincerely wanted to and was motivated. I wouldn’t have had the right focus if I had done it sooner.

    You are doing so awesome and this is all still so early! Thanks for being brave and writing about this because it is so normal and I am sure you are helping women not feel alone.

  18. It doesn’t matter whether it’s your first, second, fifth baby…your body will respond different to all of them.
    I bounced back way faster and lost the weight faster with my second.
    There’s no “norm”
    Just embrace it. Take your own advice and stop worrying about it.

  19. It takes time to gain the weight so naturally it takes time to lose it. It’s taken me close to a year to get it all off with my pregnancies. I’m expecting baby 5 right now and even before I got pregnant, I had a pooch thanks to diastasis recti. I love the stance that you took on how our bodies are incredible in what they can do. In a day and age where it seems like everyone is so worried about their body image, it’s something we need to hear. Thank you!

  20. I so needed this. I’m feeling horrible about myself lately, three months after birth. My son actually passed away on April 3rd, three and a half weeks after he was born. So even worse than just feeling big after a baby, I don’t have my baby to remind me of everything this body has gone through. I just was chatting about how I felt with my husband last night, so this post really hit home. It’s something I need to remember. I created that beautiful life, and even if he’s not here now, it was still a miracle. I need to cut myself some slack. Thank you again for this. xo

    1. I’m so sorry for your loss Rachel. Sending much love as I’ve been there and know the pain. My 1st daughter died just 6 days after she was born. She never came home w/us. When my milk came in that was just another brutal reminder that I lost my baby. Know you aren’t alone. Lean on your loved ones. And yes, give your body time to heal…emotionally & physically ❤

    2. Pamela and Rachel, I am an RN for almost thirty years now and am in tears reading about weight and about losing newborns for both of you ladies. My deepest sympathy and heartfelt love around you both and all women who have lost children. I have no words to express how hard that has to be. I read Ali’s post about weight gain, as I cruise her blog and lovely pics often, and at almost age fifty I think it is sad that women spend so much energy during their lives pondering weight. Even at this later age in life, one of the best compliments I can get is “you look skinny, have you lost weight”. Skinny is relative though. The truth is the weight numbers are never “right” for us. I have seen so much suffering throughout my career and seen how life changes in seconds. I know TV world and being in the spotlight makes women want to lose weight and look what they think is their best. All of my life I was told by mom, “no man will love you if you are heavy”, that I had “such a pretty face, if only you would lose weight”, “you are big boned”. All of these things are so shaming. As I read the posts above from some, “if only I could lose thse last 5-10 pounds”. I would encourage women to move more, walk daily for ten reasons, just to be outside, not to just be fit. I used to bundle the kids up in the double jogging stroller and daily I felt that if we got our two mile, hilly loop in that if nothing else went right, at least the loop was a gift to self as a busy mom. The kids loved the stroller loop too. The outdoors and the stroller saved me as an older mom of two babies, living on opposite coast from my native west coast home, and husband traveling seven on seven off flying. I wish I could tell all husbands/partners, give your mate even just 15 minuts to shower and shave your legs to recharge and feel empowered again. Even at my older age, I read what you younger new moms are posting and my heart goes out to you. Women have so much to do every day, constantly juggling, being interrupted by new messes and unforeseen life events big or small. Women just rock. Embrace yourselves, eat healthy, eat to satisfy, move, walk, get outside and love those babies. Those tiny years seem like forever and so overwhelming when you are in them. I look at video footage from when my now 12 and 14 year olds were young and with regret wish I had been happier at that time. I did my best though with what I had. Dearest Ali and Kevin, so happy your babies are healthy and all of you are living such a tiring, but rich time right now. Nothing is like the love we have for our children. For whatever all of you are going through out there tonight, hugs and love to every one of you reading this. Forever learning, Marsha

    3. I’m so sorry. This is so sad. I’m glad you have your husband to talk to. This happened to my friend too. Peace be with your family

  21. Hi Ali,

    First off, you look great! But I can totally relate! I had baby #3 the day before you had Riley so I am right there with you! With my first two I gained 40 pounds and did this time as well. It’s hard being in that in between phase just feeling kind of blah! I was just telling my husband this and he reminded me (ha) that I had a baby two weeks ago! We will get there! Just need to let it happen. I would agree though, I felt skinnier when I was pregnant! Hope everything is going well with Riley and you are getting a little sleep! 😉

    Ashley

  22. Yep, the weight just melted off after my first, but here I am 5 months postpartum with my second and I’m still carrying an extra 20lbs! Granted I haven’t been trying to lose it…but it was so effortless with my first!

  23. Yes!! This exact same thing happened to me, with my first I lost the weight pretty quickly but with baby number 2 it’s been a lot harder. He’s 8 months now and I am finally starting to feel normal, it took a lot more work to lose the weight this time. Plus my body just looks different thank it did with my first, my belly is a lot smooshier (sp?? Is that even a word🙄) Yes of course it’s worth it but don’t get discouraged, I felt the same way i felt awful about myself especially going into summer I wanted to look and feel cute. (Post prego white jeans I mean come on!) It will happen just give it time!! Congrats to you and your family!! Xo

  24. I think all women need to remember that it takes 9 months to gain the weight and it’s not gonna come off overnight (or within a month). Give yourself time, there’s no hurry!

    My second is 11 months and I still have 10 pounds to lose to be at my pre pregnancy weight (from before my first). I know with more exercise, I could do it pretty easily, but I’ll get there!

  25. Just had my second baby (a little boy) 6 weeks ago. First go around had zero stretch marks and lost the weight fairly quickly. This time I gained more weight (also delivered an almost 9 lb baby, he was 2 lbs heavier than his big sister!), he gave me stretch marks, and currently I’m still about 15-20 lbs away from my pre-pregnancy weight. Pretty hard not to be discouraged, but like you put it our bodies go through so much! Hoping I can eventually get back into a good workout routine, but between breastfeeding and chasing a 2 year old around I’m lucky to get in a good walk every day. Hoping with time we can find a little more balance with managing two kids and finding time to take care of myself! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on such a sensitive but important topic. Congratulations to you and your beautiful family!

  26. Almost 2 years pp and currently actively trying to lose baby weight! We want to try for baby number 2 within the next year. But, I want to get healthy again before starting over with pregnancy weight. I lost 15-20 pounds right away but once I stopped breastfeeding I gained it back pretty quick. Hang in there, you look great!

  27. Love love this topic and your thoughts! There is so much pressure to get our “pre-baby body” back but let’s be real we made a human our body will never be the same! I think it’s important to take care of our bodies first ( physically, mentally and emotionally) and foremost and remember our little ones don’t care what we look like!

  28. Hi Ali
    I’m glad you decided to explore this topic. I am 9 months PP with baby #2 and it’s been a very sloooooow road. I have had to muster all my patience with my body I could find. I wish I could share some PP photos with you to make you feel a sense of community with this subject. But you most certainly are going through what so many other are as well, myself included. I too had some different expectations with pregnancy #2 AND second time around being Post Pardum and was pretty surprised with both. I did wear a lot of tummy control products at first this time, that helped a bit at social gatherings. I can’t predict what this PP journey will be for you or compare to mine, as we are all so different. But if you want to get there, whatever “there” is for you, you certainly will!! We have to just keep trying to “get there” and focus on staying positive for our bodies. XO! Much love!

  29. I just had my first baby 3.5 months ago. Iv always been super tiny so I lost the belly days after I delivered. Before/during pregnancy I was always focused on returning to my normal weight. I’m still 11 pounds above my pre pregnancy weight and I could care less. My tummy and everything else is back to normal and I feel better post pregnancy. I’ll gladly keep the 11 pounds for my sweet boy! Thank you for sharing! I feel like so many moms (especially first time moms) aren’t sure if what they are feeling is normal. It’s so helpful to read your blog and know I’m not alone and other people are going through the same thing!

  30. Thank you for this sincere and genuine post Ali. I have become a “regular” to your blogs since I’ve been promoted with a new title of “mom.” I look forward to your posts and absolutely adore you and your beautiful family!

    I couldn’t relate more to you and all the women who have posted. I am almost 16 weeks PP and still have a solid 15-20 lbs to lose. I gained 49lbs during my pregnancy and I was super sick the first 23 week, so I know that this extra 20lbs is a result of only being able to stomach carbs for that time period and being so inactive while pregnancy. I just couldn’t muster the energy to do much. I have started to do home work out videos and hardly see any results and get so down on myself. My engagement ring and wedding band have not fit me since month 4 of pregnancy and that hurts so much too. I refuse to size them. I try to take each day as it comes, knowing how much our daughter has changed our worlds and how my heart melts every single solitary time I look at her. I know I will get back to my pre-pregnancy clothes…one day! Just have to stay motivated and positive!!

  31. First and foremost you look incredible! Second, I needed this today. I also am in a similar situation as you. First baby, weight fell off. Second, not so much. Here I am 9 weeks post baby working my butt off only to have little results. This was a great reminder that I am not alone and that truly, all that matters is that sweet baby boy in my arms. Congratulations!

  32. Thank you, for this post! I think so many of us have that expectation of losing weight immediately after the baby comes, and for most, that’s not the case. It took a while, and a lot of hard work after I had my son two years ago. I’m 32 weeks with my second, and trying so hard to keep a positive mindset about the postpartum weight this time around. I appreciate your honestly, and you’re absolutely right, it’s amazing what our bodies can do. Growing a human is incredible. We need to be patient with ourselves.

  33. Totally agree! It’s much harder to lose weight the second time around. Gained 55lbs with both of my pregnancies and after the second my body just isn’t the same. And that’s okay! I bounced back so quickly with my first and was at my thinnest! Now, it’s been 20 months since my second was born and I am about 6lbs heavier and my tummy is much softer. Nothing a little Spanx can’t fix! Ha!

  34. Love this post!
    Baby #1 (boy) was tough getting the weight off
    Baby #2 (girl) was much easier getting the weight off.
    Baby #3 (boy) was born on May 23rd and I’m totally feeling ya…11 pp and I’m still feeling giant!

  35. Slower weight loss is healthier for the mother…you need those extra fat stores for nursing…I think that American culture promotes a “Back to normal” mindset that is detrimental to women’s health both physically and mentallly. Similar to pregnancy weight gain, postpartum weight loss is individual…the most important idea is to nourish your body for yourself and baby and know that this is most likely temporary and if not learn to love your new body that has the ability to grow/birth/nourish an infant.

  36. Thank you for writing about this and being so open! I am 11 weeks postpartum with my first pregnancy with my little boy and I’ve been stuggling with all the pictures I see of women with flat stomachs and back in their pre pregnancy clothes. I gained what you gained and weigh what you weigh now and still can’t button my pre pregnancy jeans! I’m trying to be easy on myself but I think hearing “real life” stories from other moms helps so much! I have 20lbs to lose and some extra stretch marks, (that I hope one day will be easier to accept) but there’s nothing I would change about the perfect baby boy my body grew which is the only important matter to me!

  37. Ali:
    Don’t beat yourself up about your weight. You just delivered your baby 10 days ago. Give yourself time and be patient…Rome wasn’t built in a day. You need to let your body make the changes, get those hormones back in sync and the weight will come off.

    It takes time.

    You are truly beautiful inside and out.

  38. Thank you for sharing something so personal Ali. Love your mindset! You’re so right….creating a beautiful baby is quite incredible. After 3 c-sections and breast feeding, my body is certainly not what it used to be. No more bikinis for me, but I try to feel confident in my tankini! 😉 Some days I feel more confident than others. Sure I wish I could lose 10 lbs. My weight fluctuates. But what’s important is we’re healthy so we can be the best moms to our beautiful children. God’s best gift is a child! Congrats on your family of four (5 with Owen). You look beautiful!

  39. First off, you look beautiful!
    My stomach did not go down after my second baby (it did with my first). I didn’t think that much of it until 12 days postpartum when I spiked a crazy fever and had a massive hemorrhage. I had retained placenta in my uterus that had become infected…and that’s what was preventing my stomach from going down. It was very scary.
    If you are feeling any postpartum cramping that feels different than with your first baby, tell your doc.

  40. Thank you for this post, Ali. I welcomed my third beautiful daughter to the world on the same day as Riley! I have been looking at myself in the mirror since giving birth and wondering if I’ll get my pre-pregnancy body back after having my third child! But your post reminded me that I created a LIFE, and my body IS amazing and who cares if I still look 6 months pregnant 11 days after giving birth!? I know I will get there eventually, and if I don’t – that’s ok too! Thank you for being honest about your feelings – you are not alone!!

    Much love to you and your beautiful family! ❤️

  41. Ali, I could have written this post! I just had my second baby this past Wednesday and gained about 50 pounds this pregnancy (closer to 35-40 with #1). I also weighed myself when I got home from the hospital because I was curious to see how much had already come off and I was disappointed to see I only lost 7 pounds! What?! I said the same thing to my husband. How is that even possible? I’m hoping that like you some of it is still excess fluid but with my first it took a good 7 months to drop all the weight, so we’ll see. I’m trying not to stress about it but we’re all human and of course it’s something women think about. Thanks for keeping it real ☺️.

  42. I am 8.5 months pp with #3 (first boy). I gained 45lbs with him. Dropped 20 lbs within the first two weeks. I still have about 5 lbs to my pre-pregnancy weight. None of my pre-baby clothes fit well on top or bottom. I don’t think they ever will and it’s sad. I have a closet full of clothes that no longer fit right. I only have a handful of things I hat I wear and don’t even feel great in them. People say I look the same, but it’s definitely not the same shape. I grew three humans. It’s ok. I just wish I didn’t have to spend money on clothes when I have a closet full.

  43. It’s a process. Don’t let this bring you down! You are beautiful and have a beautiful family. The weight it’s just weight. Our bodies respond diffently as we get older and have babies. You will be back at a weight that makes YOU comfortable in no time! Stay positive. 🌞💞

  44. I SO get this! I’m 3 1/2 weeks postpartum with my 2nd. I actually dropped weight quicker this time, but I’m battling the bulge that is the result of a C-section. This is my second C-section, and the overhang that some women talk about is real! What’s crazy to me is that I’m actually below my prepregnancy weight (I credit successful breastfeeding this time around), but everything has shifted and clothes all fit differently. I’m self-conscious about sitting certain ways and having my new rolls show, but like you, I know that’s just part of the deal. I need to be kind to myself and give my body time to heal. Seriously… it has only been a little bit over three weeks since having major abdominal surgery. I think I can cut myself some slack!

  45. Glad to hear I’m not the only one that struggled! Thank you for writing this post. The same exact thing happened to me 2 months ago after my second baby girl. I Only lost the initial pounds at first and was very discouraged. Now I seem to be losing 1/2 – 1 pound a week. It’s a slow process but I know it will all go by quickly .. especially looking back someday! I love your positive outlook. Thank you for sharing such relatable topics! ❤️

  46. Ali,

    You look beautiful 10 days post partum! I was overweight when I got pregnant with my daughter (232lbs) and during my pregnancy I didn’t have an appetite so I constantly had to supplement my meals with ensure shakes to get the calories and nutrition I needed. So during my pregnancy I lost 17lbs, never gained any! After I gave birth, at my 6 weeks post partum follow up I was 198lbs! I hadn’t felt that good in a long time! Well a year after having my daughter, I’m now back to my 232lbs! 😢 I joked with my husband, that I shouldn’t gotten pregnant a lot sooner to lose weight! 😉 But seriously I wish I was 198 again! Ugh

  47. I think this topic is sooooo important! Especially being a first time mom, everyone prepares you for pregnantcy and childbirth and taking care of baby, but very rarely are we told about our bodies afterwards, maybe minus our boobs and down there business haha. It’s so great to hear and see you being so positive about what our bodies go through to create life! I love this blog and thank you so much for sharing!!

  48. Hey Ali,

    I’m actually so glad you posted this. As I was reading it I was crying just thinking about how I feel the exact same way you do and I only had one baby so far, she’s now 10 months. I had lost 20 pounds before even getting pregnant from r my wedding and it killed me to gain 25-30 pounds with her. I went back to my normal weight several months later but it bothered me I was back to the way I used to be and not a lot skinnier which I worked so hard at. I was obsessed with wanting to lose weight 2 months PP, wanting to go workout at the gym (I know crazy right?!?) and I’m still trying hard and working at it. I’ve lost a few more pounds but still trying to do it the healthy way. But when I look at my daughter I know it was all worth it but makes me scared to think how much I could gain again when we’re ready for #2. But then I have to remember everyone is different and it does take time but it is quite remarkable what our bodies can do, it is the most coolest and talented skill ever and I’m so glad we as women can do that and no man could take that away from us haha!

  49. Awesome post, appreciate you being so candid (and putting the numbers on your blog). I think every mom can relate. I have 3 boys, all 18 months apart and gained more weight within each pregnancy (all my babies were around 7lbs). Gained probably 45 with my last. Each baby it took longer to get the weight off, slow and steady. And I agree I felt “slimmer/I looked better” at 9 months pregnant than I did 2 most post-partum. I didn’t start to feel like I was making progress until 6 month pp (that was even with consistent gym and diet). I constantly had to remind myself what my body had been through in 4 short years. Thank you for being so honest, your family is beautiful.

  50. I love reading your blog and following along. I am 39 weeks pregnant this week with my 2nd boy. With my first the weight came off pretty quickly despite gaining a lot more weight. With my 2nd overall I have gained less weight overall and was just kind of expecting things to be about the same. Every pregnancy is different so I will definitely wait and see how it goes. No pressure though— I’m just excited to enjoy my summer with my 2 boys.

  51. I had my little guy on the 19th. My sister (who doesn’t have kids) keeps asking when my belly will go away. I have to keep reminding her that it took 9 months to get big and it will take a while for it to shrink back down.
    Love reading your stuff since we are so close in our journeys.
    Thanks for keeping it real!

  52. You look absolutely beautiful!! Don’t get down on yourself, Ali. You’re amazing! I’m 32 weeks pregnant and I tend to get down on myself that my arms and legs are holding onto more fat than normal, but then I remind myself that it’s storing extra fat for baby for breastfeeding! What a gift that is! Our bodies are very intelligent, let’s trust them💙🙏 before you know it you’ll be at a comfortable weight and clothing will fit you perfectly. Cherish the moments you’re in right now.

  53. Ali, good for you for being honest and sharing this with the world! I too got up there during my pregnancy, to 183 pounds and my pre-pregnancy weight was 138, so very similar weight for the both of us. I bet you’ll notice after you get back to your pre-pregnancy weight you may even be thinner size-wise, just because our bodies do change shapes when we have babies! Good luck and God bless! 😊

  54. My second will be 2 in one month and I still haven’t lost the weight!! So I would say you are good! lol I think u look amazing!

  55. Thank you for writing this post. I just got back from a bachelorette party this weekend hanging out pool side, and my third child is 15 weeks old and I was feeling so terrible about my body looking at pics from the weekend. We need to give ourselves a break because we did make a beautiful baby. I would do it over and over again for my babies. Thank for sharing and putting this in perspective.

  56. I just had baby #3 10 weeks ago and I’m struggling so much with body image!! With my first I was in my jeans within 2 weeks! I had a miscarriage right before this pregnancy and put on an extra 15lbs, then got pregnant with my precious rainbow baby. I’ve lost 27lbs so far, but have 20 more to go!! It’s hard especially while breastfeeding! I don’t want to make my supply go down.

  57. Hi Ali!

    You and I were on the pregnancy ride together – even delivering our second babies on the same day! I came home from the hospital and did the exact same thing – weighed myself and discovered I’d lost 4 lbs and thought “what on earth?” I was so disappointed, and really struggled that night feeling like I was doing something wrong. You’re not alone!! We were probably feeling the same way at the same time. I’m glad you posted this. It’s hard not to compare my two pregnancies and recoveries. We’re only 11 days into this recovery – it’s funny how quick I think to tell you “have grace on the process” but don’t apply that to myself. So, you tell me – and I’ll tell you. 😉
    Have grace. You’re beautiful. You’re healthy. You’re awesome.

  58. It to 9 months to stretch your uterus have patience it will go back
    Enjoy this mommy time ! Eat healthy , relax , breathe , sleep and walk walk walk. 💗

  59. We welcomed our second baby (a girl this time) 5 days ago 🙂 I so needed to read this post today! Thank you for being so body positive and sharing your pictures with us!
    Our bodies stretch and grow for 9 months to create life. I think it’s fair to give ourselves that much time to get back to “normal.”
    In reality… “normal” may now look different for us.. more skin, a few stretch marks, wider hips… and that’s okay too.
    I don’t live in the spotlight but we all have to look in the mirror every day. It’s all about perspective and being proud of the miracles our bodies have made.

    You have two beautiful babies to worry about and love and kiss and cuddle now. If only every woman who wanted children could be so lucky!
    I say, eat ALL the carbs and give ALL the cuddles and worry about the rest later.

    Love from another mom of 2 kiddos.

  60. I had my second daughter 2 weeks ago, my first is 3. With my first I gained a ton (57 pounds) but had lost 30 by the time I left the hospital and breastfeeding was my friend, the weight just fell off. This time I feel huge. I have no idea how much had come off because I am afraid to get on the scale and have a meltdown. I like you still look pregnant and also feel bigger now. I don’t think I noticed my arms and such which the 9 month belly but now I am looking at it all and thinking my god what happened?! I am 34 this time and I do think being older isn’t helping….

    Thanks for being real and honest! I needed to see this today.

    Xo

  61. Your honesty is so refreshing !! I’ve already gained 35 pounds and I’m 27 weeks with my first child. I’ve been super thin my whole life so I never thought I’d be anything but a girl with a bump during pregnancy. Boy was I wrong! I’ve gained all over, hips thighs, arms, the works. Cellulite in places I didn’t know existed. Went from a size 2 to a maternity 8. It’s been liberating to realize that I’m lovable regardless of how I look. I think the weight gain during pregnant is helping me to make peace with any body images I have. Reading articles like this help me to feel less alone. I felt ashamed for caring about my size bc I have a healthy baby growing in me but it’s completely normal and having people like you in the public sharing their stories is just what we need:)

  62. Congrats on your beautiful baby boy who is your very own mini Molly !!! Thank you so much for this post. I am almost 5 Months post pardum and I still have not lost all my baby weight. I swear I thought I looked skinner pregnant than I do now. I gained 33 lbs went down 22 pounds first two weeks ( mostly because of nursing) but has to stop nursing and since I stopped that I stopped loosing all together and actually gained back some. Been feeling so awful and not comfy in my own skin. I will get there but reading your post does make me feel better knowing others feel the same way!! So thank you for being so open and honest it really does help othere.

  63. Hi Ali – congrats on your beautiful boy!! So worth it isn’t it? I’m so happy you posted this. When I have had my baby girl (first time mom) ppl didn’t talk abt what happens after birth and all of the healing that takes place. Being a first time mom, and healing the last thing on my mind was my weight. However my mother in law decided to make a comment to me two weeks after I gave birth !! She said to me “ do you have another baby in there?? What am I going to tell ppl when they ask me why is my daughter in law so fat? “. I just abt died there and then. I suffered from post partum depression and anxiety and I didn’t need that. Needless to say I lost the weight quickly. But you are right. We should all embrace each and every moment of pregnancy and after. Our bodies create this miracle!! And our bodies after remind us of this. I’m glad that I have my “battle wounds” ❤️

  64. You look great! Birthing/growing a human is hard work and we don’t get to control what happens to us physically. Stretch marks or no stretch marks, loose skin or tight, diastasis or normal abs, extra weight, it’s all a toss up! It’s hard to accept the changes we do end up with sometimes, but they’re beyond worth the gorgeous babies we get to raise.

    I’m pregnant with my second right now, and I’m sure things will be so different after birth, the pregnancy alone has been so different.

  65. Thank You thank You thank you for this !! I am 10 weeks postpartum with my second and I’m having the same issue. I feel like I lost a lot faster with my first and having a repeat C-section has delayed my ability to get up and get going. I literally stopped being sore only about two weeks ago. I have totally struggled with not feeling comfortable in clothes — not to mention my boobs are a lot bigger this time around.

    But thank you for the reminder that building humans is not an easy job and the weight will eventually come off..

  66. I just had my first baby 3 weeks ago, I gained close to 50 pounds and still have 25 pounds to go. I thought I looked decent but then I saw pictures of myself and boy do I look big and swollen. I also got a lot of stretch marks so that just adds to it. I know that the weight will go away, at least most of it, but it is hard to not be able to wear any of my old clothes and feeling flabby. She is definitely worth all of it.

  67. A topic very rarely talked about is Dastis Recti. Basically your stomach muscles split. I have an 18 month old ( was supposed to have twins, but lost one at 8 months) and still look 4 months pregnant while the rest of my body is completely ( actually even slimmer) than pre pregnancy. It totally sucks. Can’t wear dresses with a waste line or bikinis . Then you see people walking around who just had a baby with a flat stomach and it’s depressing. I work out regularly and worked with a post pardum trainer with no luck. I think I’ll have to have surgery to fix it which stinks. So my point is as long as your healthy and your belly does go down, be thankful. I try and remind myself it’s not a big deal, but it’s tough.

  68. Hi Ali! Love this post, and you truly look amazing! My first son was 9lb 4oz and I’ll never forget the day after having him I was walking through the hospital and a woman asked me if was “having my baby soon”. 😓 such a bummer! Thankfully after about 5-6 weeks I was suddenly almost back to my pre pregnancy size. I’m now about 5 months pregnant with my second son and I’m curious to see how I recover from this pregnancy. I have a feeling it will take even more time to lose the weight. But I totally agree that I’m not in any rush and know that my body will get ther when it gets there! Good luck with your beautiful babies and thank you for all of the awesome, relatable posts!

    Holly

  69. Ali,
    Thank you for writing this!
    With my first baby, I went into the pregnancy super healthy and in shape. I gained 60! pounds with her and the weight had finally started to come off when I got pregnant with my son. I was training for (and completed) the Portland Marathon when I was 6 weeks pregnant with him. During pregnancy #2 I gained 30 pounds and bounced back really quickly (though still nowhere near my first pre-baby weight). With kiddo #3 I only gained 8 pounds (my Dr told me NOT to gain any weight bc I went in to it 20lbs. heavier than I should have been).
    My recovery from #3 was weird…I kept gaining weight instead of losing it.
    Now my youngest is 7 and I weigh WAY more than I’m comfortable with.
    I’ve got to reign in my eating and amp up my exercise.
    I want to be healthy, not skinny. Right now I don’t feel healthy so I’ll keep working at it!

  70. First of all, you look fantastic and those babies are beautiful!!!! Thank you for being so real and transparent as a woman and mom. I think that helps us all!

    I just had #3 – he is 5 weeks old today. I had all 3 via c-section. First one, super easy. Ran a half marathon 11 weeks after he was born 😯 (I don’t recommend that to anyone though 😂). Second one was even easier if you can imagine that, not sure how or why?! They’re only 17 months apart, I started at same pre-pregnancy weight with both and gained 32lbs with each. I wore pre-pregnancy clothes home from the hospital with number 2, it was pretty crazy.

    Number 3 has really been different though. Not sure why but I’m not complaining either because like you said, I’ve made 3 little boys with my body in 4 years!! I think it’s pretty incredible what our bodies can endure as women. I have set goals to start going after once I have my 6 week check-up, but giving myself grace and time to enjoy these little humans too 😍

  71. Thank you so much for this post! I needed it:) I’ve always loved you and followed your page, but since finding out we were due a day apart I’ve taken an even more special interest in your pregnancy journey. I ended up having my third boy on 5/25. When I got home from the hospital I had the same feeling about the scale. I was just curious to see how much I lost in a few short days. Well the number wasn’t quite what I expected. I went into the hospital at 178 and four days later after delivering a 7 lb. 13 oz. little guy weighed 169. I knew it was excess fluid from all the bags they pump you with, but I was expecting a slightly lower number. I got on the scale this morning and I’m down to 154 so at least the number is heading in the right direction. Honestly though, my children are my world and every pound I gained was worth it! We took 9 months to grow that baby so if it takes 9 months to lose that weight I am okay with that! Thank you for your honest posts. I love how ‘real’ you are. Your babies are adorable, I hope you’re getting some sleep!

    From a fellow Mass. girl,
    Paige

  72. This is such a great post! I needed this reminder. 2 years out from giving birth to my 3rd child and I’ve been less than pleased when I look in the mirror. Let’s be honest, even though I weigh what I did before pregnancy, everything is just squishy! Ha! A good reminder to remember what our bodies have done! I lost quickly with my first and struggled with my 2nd and 3rd. You’re not alone!

  73. Ali, thanks for writing this! I’m 36 weeks with my 1st and not really loving how I’m looking these days. In my mid-30s as a FTM, I know the weight will not just “fall off”. Thanks for the reminder to give yourself grace and to be thankful for the miracles that are happening! I needed that!

  74. It’s sad that the universe gives us 9months to grow another human being (or in our case two) but society expects that same body to bounce back in 9 days. We should all love our healing bodies as much after as we do when we respect it’s ability to grown people before 💕

  75. Ali,
    I just had a baby boy on May 30th – he’s 5 days old today. I had to be induced and the labor ended up being a nightmare ending in a c section and a baby in the NICU. I know in the weeks to come I will struggle with the post partum belly and the incision scars but this post came at just the right time for me.
    Especially with all the post partum hormones. I wanted to say thank you for putting it out there. People feel like they have to comment on how you look or how quickly you bounce back but that’s such a difficult message because it puts so much pressure on your appearance and not healing your body and nourishing your baby. I don’t care how quickly I “bounce” back and I wish people would stop commenting on my body. Sending much love to you and your family, I can’t imagine doing all this with a toddler. I’ve enjoyed following your blog through your pregnancy especially since I was right there with you, (my due date was actually May 20th).

  76. Women are programmed to be self critical and judgemental👎 . What man ever worried about his belly? Remember it took 9 months to put on the weight so it should take more than just weeks to take it off. Your body is recovering from childbirth and nourishing your beautiful boy… that is enough! Added humor …. I recently asked a 93 yo woman her favorite color? She responded, my eyes are blue but I mostly wear black because it is so slimming! Further proof that our body obsession is a lifelong habit. 😍

  77. Thank you so much for writing this! It’s so important for us moms to feel positive in our post baby bodies. I had my son a year and a half ago and I still hadn’t lost all the baby weight. Even with eating healthy and exercising, it was so slow to come off. I was 10 pounds away from my pre-pregnancy weight when I found out I am pregnant with Baby #2. I couldn’t help but be discouraged at how much work it will be after having this baby. But like you said, our bodies do amazing things and to look at our children and say “wow, I made you!”
    So thank you for starting the conversation and helping me to remember to stay positive and not get down on myself!!

  78. Thanks for posting this! It’s refreshing and I can totally relate! I just had my first 11 days ago. I’m definitely smaller and less swollen than I was when I was pregnant, but my belly is still sticking out quite a bit and I’m trying to be strategic with what I wear. I don’t feel cute in any of my clothes yet, but, like you said, it’s so worth it! Thanks again for sharing. You look beautiful! Congratulations!

  79. I was opposite. With my first I lost the weight so slowly after and with my second I lost it super fast (but was sick with that pregnancy with complications and only gained 14 Ibs total) Baby number 3 came and was super healthy and I lost the weight fairly quickly. A surprise number 4 came and I was very athletic pre baby and during pregnancy so my labor was amazing and 3 pushes she was out! Now surpirse number 5 (or i lime to call it “fifth and final”) has been completely different from all my other pregnancies. Maybe because he’s a boy? I’m not sure. But my weight gain was been so drastic and I’ve had no energy to workout during this pregnancy. My body just aches. I’ve gained 25 Ibs in total so far and I’m currently 24 weeks. So pretty much a pound a week I’ve gained! I’m worried about my labor and delivery with this one as well and hoping for the best. But I know when your physically active during pregnancy your more than likely going to have a much easier labor, delivery and post baby body. Hearing your story and following your pregnancy with your son makes me feel not alone with the already low body I have on myself. I know it’s baby number five and I should be a lot easier on myself but we are indeed women and are very picky and hard on ourselves as we are our worst critics! But I appreciated your blog and read every word today. Thank you for the reminder that we are strong we grow humans we are amazing 😊

  80. Yes! I so understand. With my2 pregnancies 2 years apart, I gained about the same (which was only about 25 pounds.) But with my first, the belly was gone within days. I was even surprised. So two years later after I had my daughter, I thought the same would happen. But no. A few days after I had her, I took a trip out to get her some more clothes (she was smaller than I expected) and put on a dress I wore when pregnant. And I still looked pregnant. I was shocked. It did go away though. Much more slowly. I didn’t do anything differently. I wasn’t upset. It just wasn’t the same.
    Glad you’re talking about it, because I think it’s true for so many women, and it’s always nice to have a heads up from other women about their experiences and what’s possible.
    Good luck with your two beautiful babies!!

  81. After each of my three babies it was a bit harder to lose the baby weight and tighten back up. If you breastfeed, then that area gets a little loose too. Then as you enter your 40s, all kinds of little things change. But I guarantee we always look much better to our kids and everyone else than we think. Now I still take care of myself and dress up, where make up, but peace of mind, relaxing with friends and family, etc…other important things in life rise in priority and value in your life. Good for you for realizing this at a young age!! God bless and enjoy all those little blessings in your life!! ❤️

  82. Baby #1 weight took me about 6 months to loose weight. I nursed and was Blessed with family leave after my disability so a total of 6 months off. Baby #2 weight came off in about 3 weeks. I gained about 30 lbs with each. Baby 2 was 5 yrs later and I was older with a better work out & walking routine. I just love following and watching you and Kevin grow from dating to 2 kids and a house! 🌅🦋

  83. Yes! To all of this! I got sooo tiny after my first baby. My 2nd baby is now 7 months old and I still have 10 lbs to lose. It’s so hard sometimes. I really dislike shopping now because of it. I also have a hard time not noticing how big my belly looks at certain times. The struggle is so real. 😩. You are not alone girl!

  84. I had my first baby on March 15. From my first OB appt to my last (2 days before Theo was born) I gained 10 pounds. I thought it was insane. I ate worse when I was pregnant than not and didn’t change anything to my non existent exercise routine. I packed my maternity clothes for the hospital and didn’t need to wear them. My belly seemed to have deflated immediately after labor (Theo was 6lb 14oz) and at my 6 week post partum appt I was down 22 pounds. I’m still super shocked about it but not complaining. I am simply thankful for one less battle to fight myself on.
    And you look amazing!

  85. Congrats Ali! I had baby #3 a year ago 5/16 and was 162 pounds. Weight fell off right away. But I literally felt like I couldn’t stand up. Back pain. Those pp pregnancy wraps help ton!! They also help abs come together. You probably have diastasis recti too after big baby. Mine were 7.3, 8.4, 7.11 and I had it post baby 3. PT and core strengthening (transverse abdominal to heal DR) has been incredibly needed and helpful. Wrap your belly with a pp wrap! It will help :). Congrats!

  86. Thank you for sharing this! I had my baby #2 (a boy!) on Memorial Day. And I keep getting asked when I’m having my baby 🙄 I find myself trying to cover up my belly and getting frustrated. But I’m trying to be positive about it and grateful that I was able to carry a healthy baby boy to full term. It’s so refreshing to read your post about this! I needed it!

  87. I can only speak of “medical term” (becasie my babies are in Heaven waiting for me), but Ive always read (learned from school) that it takes at minimum 6 weeks alone for the uterus to retract. It took your body 40 weeks to create life, if it takes that (or more) to fully heal I say let.your body heal. Your children will love you regardless. I think your husband also will (Kevin is so sweet!). You have a wonderful mindset. Relax and just follow doctors orders!

  88. Both my pregnancies were almost identical in every way. My second son was a pound heavier than his brother. My first pregnancy all the weight melted away. At 5 months postpartum I was even 10lbs less than my pre pregnancy weight . I wasn’t even dieting or exercising, just breastfeeding. Now I am 6 months postpartum with my second son. I still have 10 lbs to lose to be at my weight I was before I had my first son. It is so bizarre. I felt like every pound is holding on for dear life. My body is definitely shaped differently now having 2 kids so that has been an adjustment. I just look at my babies and see how fast they change and grow, only to remind myself I that I don’t want to waste this precious time worried about getting my body back. I am just grateful that I’ve been able to carry two healthy babies and nourish them through breastfeeding. Learning to applaud my body for the good it has done, instead of trying to pick it apart. You are doing great Ali, and are simply glowing.

  89. Thank you…thank you for being so real and for being so honest! I had my 3rd baby in four years almost 6 months ago and I still have 15 pounds to go! I was truly defeated that I did not bounce back as quick especially since I worked out throughout my entire pregnancy and ate really healthy! I also started working out after the doctor gave me the go ahead to do so! I totally felt skinnier when I was pregnant than after. I am still struggling with that same mentality! I just keep reminding myself that it takes 9 months to gain the weight, so just give it time! Also, I remind myself that I am so beyond blessed to have three beautiful kids and that should trump over any body issues / weight issues I am feeling!

    Thank you again for being so honest!! All of us mommy’s are applauding your willingness to share your feelings as some of us can definitely relate to a majority if not all what you just said in your blog!

  90. Thank you for this! About 3 weeks after delivering my baby I went out to have my car serviced and as I was walking out of my car towards my mechanic (who we’ve known for years) he yells out “you’re still pregnant!? I thought you had the baby?” 😑 I know he didn’t mean it in a malicious way but I was so embarrassed and traumatized that I didn’t step out of my house for like a week after that. And when I did go out, I was so self conscious…I can laugh about it now but I wish someone would’ve told me it was totally normal to still have a bump a few weeks after giving birth! So thank you for being real!

  91. I really struggle with this! With my first, I lost my baby weight with no problem, and actually ended up weighing less than I did before she was born. My second is 18 months old and I’m still holding on to 20 pounds. It’s so frustrating!! I eat healthy and workout, but it feels like it does nothing. I’m trying to just accept myself as I am, and my ‘new me’. But it’s very difficult for me to do that.

  92. Ali you look stunning. Definitely have that new mama glow. I have two and it definitely takes time to get back to a previous weight but nothing beats quality time with your babies.

  93. Thanks for taking about something so vulnerable. We mothers have all felt this….it’s so enlightening to know we all feel this way and guess what??? It’s ok to be patient with our bodies as it heals. Your thoughts are so right on! Our bodies are amazing and especially these days with social media we have to keep telling that negative voice in our head to GO AWAY! Thanks for your blog post! Even to a mom that didn’t just have a baby this post made me proud for my body and the two kids I have birthed! Xoxoxoxo

    Ashton

  94. Thank you so much for being so transparent! It’s so nice to relate to other moms and realize we all have similar struggles and self image. I have never gotten back to my pre-pregnancy weight, despite taking care of myself better now more than ever. I’ve chalked the extra pounds up to metabolism and a thyroid issue I got as a pregnancy souvenir 😉 It’s more about being healthy now so I can be a good example to my girls – and not teaching them to care all about having the perfect body. Some days that’s easier said than done – especially when you compare yourself to your “previous self” or other moms. It’s a daily struggle! Congrats to your family and continue to have that positive, realistic attitude – it’s so nice to see!! Xo

  95. Hi Ali,

    I just had my second baby 3 months ago and am so happy to hear that you’ve been going through the same thing as me when it comes to shedding the #2 baby weight. I lost the weight quickly after my first baby, who was also born in July 2016 like Molly 🙂 we put a lot of pressure on ourselves and it’s unfair. You’re totally right when you say that our bodies do amazing things and we should love ours unconditionally. Thank you for this post and helping me feel confident in my post baby body!

  96. I am very petite 4’9 100#. My children are 21 and 19 respectively. With my first daughter I gained 25# and lost the weight within 10 days. I gained the exact same amount with my second who was 9#. I did Weight Watchers for the last 10#. It would not go away. It will all work out. Allow your body to rest and enjoy those babies. I can attest it goes by quickly. Too quickly.

  97. I know having a second one doesn’t come easy to everyone (Like me. My first little one is Molly’s age and we’ve been trying for a second for 10 months.). If I were you, I’d enjoy every single pound and every single minute. ❤️❤️❤️Women put way too much pressure on each other. I weighed about 10 lbs less when I came home. I also had a 28 hour labor, 20 hours of which I had an epidural. It causes so much water weight gain. At week 4 post partum I started peeing like crazy. Next thing I knew I was only 5 lbs shy of my pre pregnancy weight (about a solid week of peeing like mad…tmi, I know!). Also, breastfeeding made me gain weight but I also wasn’t producing enough milk so I was trying too hard to keep up with calories (thank God for formula because I gave up at 12 weeks and have zero regrets about it!). Go easy on yourself. Enjoy your sweet baby!! ❤️❤️❤️

  98. First of all, you look gorgeous. Second, thank you for being real. This is reality. I know when I deliver in 7 weeks I too will face this with my second and I appreciate knowing I’m. It the only one. So enjoy that sweet new boy of yours and in time at all you’ll wonder where the weight went.

  99. Thank you for sharing Ali!! You are so right!! Baby #1 it took 7 months to lose the baby weight. With baby #2 it was so much harder and it took a year to lose!! You look amazing!! Both of your children are so adorable!!

  100. With baby #1 (who weighed 4 lbs), I had a lot of complications and was in the hospital for a week. By the time I got home and stepped on a scale, I had lost about 20 pounds.

    With baby #2 (who weighed 8 lbs), everything went perfectly and I was out of the hospital after two days. I was so anxious to get home and step on the scale. I thought surely I had dropped at least 10 lbs, since I had an 8 lb baby. I stepped on the scale weighed EXACTLY what I weighed the morning I went into the hospital to have him. I started crying and didn’t understand how I didn’t even lose one darn pound! My husband reminded me that we had a healthy boy and healthy momma and that’s what really mattered. Over the next couple weeks, the weight came off really fast though.

    Fast forward 8 months to today, I’m back to baby #2 pre-pregnancy weight, but still have about 15 lbs to lose to get to baby #1 pre-pregnancy weight. We are considering having one more, so that 15 pounds might just have to wait haha 🙂

    Your babies are absolutely precious and you are beautiful! Love how real you are!

  101. Hey Ali,
    It was definitely harder for me to loose weight after my second child. With my first I bounced back quick! It was a shock to see how slowly my body recovered. After I felt well enough and rested enough I started the 21 day fix and after 3 rounds of eating clean and working out I felt like I was getting back to myself! Funny enough even though my daughter was up 2-3 times a night still, I had more energy after doing these work outs!
    We grow humans! We are amazing! 9 months to put it on and 9 months to take it off! That’s what I was always told. 🙂
    Take care!

  102. Hey ali! I think you look beautiful and I think the perspective you share about celebrating everything your body went through for your baby is so wonderful!! I appreciate all of your positivity. I am in the beginning of my second trimester with my first and struggling to think about putting on so much weight during pregnancy. Do you mind sharing how your weight progressed between your two pregnancies?! It always good to have mamas to relate to! xoxo

  103. It’s way too early to be worrying about this! Enjoy your baby and Molly- take care of yourself- drink water, eat well, rest. There will be plenty of time later to drop the pounds. Every birth is different and a “life changer”. We all deserve time to adapt to this new “life.” Give yourself a break. You’ll get back to where you want to be.

    1. Agree!!! Wayyyyy to early! I never lost any weight until I stopped nursing at 12 months post baby with body kids. My body grasped on to every piece of extra fat on my body to make the milk my baby needed. I gained close to 40/45 pounds as well. I just lost the last of baby #2 and it’s nine months after I stopped nursing. I agree with the other person….9 months to put on 9 months to lose. I also had to increase the intensity of my exercise this time around.

  104. When I had my first baby (boy) 10lbs 7oz, I gained a bunch of weight but it came off super fast!!! My second baby (girl) 9lbs 14oz, I gained even more weight and it has taken a long time to get the rest of the weight off. She’s almost 3 and I have at least 10lbs to lose!!! I found it hard to take care of myself with two kids and so I’m just starting to do that now!!! It’s been a hard time looking at myself as a failure. What’s wrong with me? Why couldn’t I lose this last bit of weight like I did with my first? But I’m starting to realize that it’s ok. I’ve carried a human being inside of me for 9 months and if it takes me another 10 years to lose the last bit of weight and using my time that’d I’d be using obsessing over myself to spend with my incrediable miracles, that’s ok!!!!! Who cares what the world calls as “in shape, or beautiful”. We are all beautiful and I want my kids to grow up seeing that and not seeing me hate my body due to giving them life.

  105. With my first nearly 20 years ago, I gained 30-35 lbs (prepregnancy weight/ppw I was 110lbs and delivery day/dd I was 142) and lost it all right after birth (1 wk post pregnancy/pp I weighed 115). Son was 5lb 14 oz

    5 years later with my second child I only gained about 20lbs (ppw=115 lbs, dd=140 and one week pp= 135ish. Daughter weighed 5lbs 12oz and I have struggled with this post pregnancy weight (belly) for almost 15 years… I have tried every diet, cardio workout, eathing healthy, sit ups-you name it and can not lose the belly. I have not gained or loss any weight, still hovering at 150….. But this belly…. I look 5 months pregnant and have been asked numerous times if I was expecting…

    I too, struggle with “looking pregnant” and still get the “but you have that pregnancy walk”…

    I wish I was more proportioned and had a flatter tummy but giving birth two two healthy children was and is still worth the waddle….

  106. Ali,
    I gave birth to my first child May 4. I too gained just under 40 pounds and within the first week I dropped 20! I couldn’t believe it. It has slowed down drastically and I still have a long way to go to be back to pre baby weight. When I look down at my distended stomach and purple stretch marks I often I have to remind myself of the beautiful life this body created. I am glad I’m not alone in having these mixed emotions with body image post baby! Thanks for sharing

  107. Oh, you give me so so much hope! I’ve been stressing this whole pregnancy about gaining too much weight, because first pregnancy I never got it all off! I have 13 weeks to go and so ready lol! Thank you for keeping it real!!

  108. Same exact thing happened to me! With baby #1, I gained about 35 lbs and lost a ton of weight initially. Within a month, I was only about 15 lbs above original weight. With baby #2, I gained about 40 lbs, and 6 weeks later I am only down 15 lbs! And almost 8 of that was the baby! Makes no sense. You’re not alone! 🙂

  109. I had 4 babies in less than 3 years (I know it’s crazy here). With my first, I started pretty heavy for me. I actually lost a bunch of weight at the beginning of my pregnacy with him and only gained 30lbs during that pregnacy. I lost the weight instantly. Weighed less walking out of the hospital than when I got pregnant. Second pregnacy, gained 35lbs while pregnant with her. I never lost that last 10lbs. Third pregnacy, lost those last ten lbs in the first 14 weeks with my third pregnacy but I didn’t know at the time I was pregnant with twins and still nursing my second child so my body was being depleted. I couldn’t eat enough to keep up feeding myself and 3 other people. I’m the end I gained 45lbs with them. I retained so much water with this last pregnacy that my feet and legs looked like I weighed 500lbs. Now they are 4.5 months old and I’ve lost all the weight but my skin while never recover. I never understood why tummy tucks are such a popular procedure but after my twins if I ever got to get one I totally would! My skin will likely never go back. The amount of excess skin I carry is crazy but honestly I don’t mind. I made 4 humans in less than 3 years. That is pretty awesome in my opinion. And don’t get my started on my boobs haha. They will never recover either but I’m totally fine with that. I’ve pregnant and/or breastfeeding for over 4 years!

  110. This is so normal after #2! After having my son, the weight just fell off and I actually weighed less than pre-pregnancy. I nursed him for a year and thought that was the reason. So, after number 2 I thought the same thing would happened and I was wrong! I nursed her as well and nothing happened. I am not a healthy eater and rarely work out but the weight eventually came off, it just took a little longer! Give yourself time, it will happen. And in the end, it is all worth it!

  111. Thank you for sharing this. I just gave birth to my first baby, a boy 9 days ago and I still have a belly that looks like I’m 5 months pregnant too. I told my husband today my belly feels like jell-o. We went to run errands today without the baby and I asked him does my belly look like I just had a baby or does it look like I’m fat. He told me to stop and that I look beautiful.

    I have struggled with my weight my whole life but I was lucky during pregnancy and only gained 10 pounds due to my thyroid being messed up and started on medication during pregnancy. Saying that I would put on the weigh again to have my beautiful and healthy baby boy but it’s still hard to feel comfortable in my body.

  112. Thanks for posting. I’m 3 days postpartum and have the same concerns/insecurities you’re speaking about in your post. It takes a conscious effort to NOT compare myself to others. It’s comforting to see others post real photos and experiences.

  113. Great post! I think there is so much “pressure” both ways-taking too long to lose the lbs or losing it too fast.
    I gave birth to #2 7 months ago. With both kids all the weight fell off within 2 weeks. And I was mocked for it but it was entirely out of my control!
    Every one is different. And there is no right or wrong way to get back to a desired weight. 🙌🏻

  114. I am exactly where you are! I had my little girl 3 weeks ago, went into the hospital at 185, and got down to 157ish pretty quickly. I want to get back to 130. Getting dressed to leave the house is brutallll- everything seems to highlight the extra weight! Giving yourself grace is so hard, but it really does help to know I’m not alone in it!

  115. You are so right. Everyone is different body wise. After my first two babies I went back down to pre-preg weight. I was 115 before my first, I went to 152 with her then back down to 115. With my second I went from 115 to 194 and then back to 115. But with my third I went from 115 up to 168 and stayed there for over fours years . No matter what I did the weight wouldn’t come off. So I cut things out and went on a non diet diet and exercise. I went down to 118. So it’s all about how your body is going to react after the birth. You a beautiful woman and I love your blog.

  116. I love this! After three kids, I’m still struggling to get back to my happy/healthy body. It’s hard – my youngest is just shy of two so I’ve had some time…but then again, I have three kids so I haven’t. Just recently, I’ve started making me more of a priority. But then the Mom guilt slips in. Ahhhhh! Your blog is refreshing and makes me feel that my feelings and struggles are validated. As understanding as my husband is, men will never completely “get it.” It seems isolating at times. But mom’s lifting up other moms is a beautiful thing! From one Alli to another, you do you! It totally helps me do me! Hugs!!!

  117. Loved reading this post and the comments! I’m pregnant with my second and a little nervous about the post baby body. I gained only 22 lbs my first pregnancy and was so disappointed with how hard it was to lose that! I started this pregnancy 10lbs heavier then my last so I’m terrified thinking I’ll forever be 20lbs heavier after after children and it’ll never be gone.
    We are our own worst critics.

  118. You look so beautiful!

    I am so glad you wrote about this topic. I am currently 20 weeks pregnant with my first baby and watching my body change hasn’t been as easy as I thought it would be. This makes me nervous about a post-baby body, but seeing strong, beautiful women like you help.

    Congrats to your new addition!

  119. Ali my youngest is 9! And I weight more than I did when I was full term pregnant with her. I have done well with what I eat and exercising when I can but my kids completely changed my metabolism. Being a woman is so tough but being a mom is the best thing in the world. Hang in there and cut yourself a break.

  120. Ali-

    I am in tears reading your post. Thank you for sharing this. As a new mother, I get so caught up comparing my recovery and post baby body to women who are nothing like me. It’s been really hard to accept this new normal. I gained about 60 pounds and still have 30 to lose. On top of that, I got stretch marks AFTER I delivered my son. But you’re so right. Every mark, dimple, pound and eye bag is so worth it. My son is the best thing to happen to me!! It is just so refreshing for a public figure to share what it is like after baby.

    Makenna

  121. Thank you for sharing this open post about your post baby bod. Being a first time Momma at 5 months pregnant, it’s nice to see other Moms open up about the realness of making humans. It’s incredible what our bodies are built for!

  122. I just had baby #1 on May 17th. I quickly lost 27lbs but still have 13lbs to go. My stomach is definitely different looking and has the squishy look right now. But I wouldn’t change it for the world because I have my little man, Hunter, to show from it. You are looking great!!!

    Also, wanted to know your thoughts on the red dress in your photos. I had my eye on it on Nordstrom.com but I read a lot of reviews saying it’s completely see thru. Thoughts?

  123. Hi Ali!
    Your post resonates so much with me. I have two beautiful children, 4 years and almost 2. When I had my first, I had a very traumatic labour and birth ending in a c-section. Needless to say, they pumped the IV fluids into me. When I was in the hospital, none of my clothes that I actually brought with me fit, including my slippers. In addition to that, my boots I wore into the hospital also did not fit me when I left. When I got home, I too was curious and jumped on the scale. I had GAINED 7 lbs.. my baby was 6lbs 10 oz… talk about a slap in the face. I felt AWFUL, and had never felt so far from my goal weight after baby then I did in that moment, knowing I was at least 6 weeks away from exercise, and couldn’t even fathom the thought 3 days after having major surgery. Fast forward 6 months and I was UNDER my pre-baby weight. I never imagined I would get there, and had to work super hard to be where I was at. Had you asked me 6 months prior, I was never going to get my body back.
    Almost 3 years later I gave birth via section again to my second. The day I had her, I did not even look the slightest bit pregnant. I was so impressed with the fact that I didn’t look “pregnant” anymore.. I actually had somewhat of a waistline? It was weird.. very weird. When I got home I didn’t dare step on the scale.. and when I finally did I was still pretty far from my pre-pregnancy weight. This time though, I knew that with some hard work I would get there again. My body will never be the same, but it carried two beautiful, healthy humans.
    Two completely different births, two different recoveries, similar size babies, and gained the exact same amount of weight. Go figure eh?? Anyways, I totally know where you are coming from and how it felt stepping on that scale! It’s hard not to beat yourself up over it!

  124. The ONLY thing you have gained…. is an angel!!
    And that is the ONLY thing you need to think about.
    You have GAINED a blessing.
    Please do not for a second feel defeated… YOU created , YOU birthed! You are a miracle yourself….
    God, we are truly amazing 😍

  125. I love this post. Here I am 12 weeks post baby boy #2 and struggling with my body image every day! I have 20 lbs to lose to feel “comfortable” in my skin. I am a size larger than I was after baby #1 at this point in time which has been kind of difficult. But I know from going through this once that our bodies will change! That’s ok! Thank you for posting!

  126. I’ve enjoyed reading your blog for the past few years now and follow you on on Instagram you are an open book and completely honest, something which is hard and admirable these days!
    Your positivity is something that first drew me in, don’t let the numbers on a scale sway you, be kind you just had a beautiful baby boy!!
    Let’s be honest I had a baby three years ago and I’m still working on the body!
    Enjoy this time and forget About the silly things.

  127. I had two daughters 17 months apart 18 & 17 years ago. With my first I gained 80 lbs – previously was 120. I didn’t quite top the scales at 200lbs but close! I lost all but 10 of that by the time I was pregnant with my second. I didn’t try – just eat well & we’ll never stopped still! I didn’t gain as much with my second – 60lbs or so – but I lost it so easily. Within months I was never thinner – – size 4/5 unheard of for me. I wasn’t trying to lose either. I have NEVER had better abs than when my daughters were a year and 2 plus old. I took them everywhere- and two car seats or kids or carrying one belly front and the other on the arm – like two 10lb bags of potatoes multiple times daily – irs no wonder. The wee one is the “easiest” with a second (except the no sleep). I adopted a schedule that catered to my toddlers busy needs – around a newborn. This meant gym classes for the oldest with my wee one in the front carrying smuggler – and getting up early despite being tired to take my eldest to playschool 1/2 days – then run home get supper on – feed – and go pick the oldest up with wee one napping in car seat. YOU CAN DO THIS. Just do what you love and try to get out of the house. Best to you love your posts!

  128. Thank you so much for writing about this! I just had twins 3 weeks ago via c-section since one of their sacs started leaking but my body didn’t into labor after a week of bed rest. It’s hard for me not to be hard on myself when I look in the mirror and I still have a little “mommy pooch” but you are so right – growing babies is such a miracle and I am so blessed to have both my babies home and healthy even though they were teeny tiny and born at 35 weeks. You are such a wonderful mother and you look fabulous too!

  129. I am 3 months post partum with baby #1. I only gained 23 pounds during the pregnancy, but my body just isn’t the same! I get really hard on myself, especially because I feel like the extra pounds should all be gone by now. Thank you so much for sharing this ❤️

  130. You look fabulous! My first babes (twin boys) were born 9 weeks early in May 2017. I had an emergency c-section and then spent the first 6 weeks of their life in the NICU. At the recommendation of one of my nurses, I used a binder to help support my belly and hold everything in. The one from the hospital wasn’t very comfortable so I bought a belly bandit (the organic bamboo one) and it was like a miracle for my recovery. Having all all the extra that was hanging over my incision pulled in and held up was like instant relief. I hadn’t gained any weight during my pregnancy (since I delivered at only 31 weeks) and lost about 20 lbs by the time I was discharged then another 20 while they were still in the NICU (thanks to pumping). Once I went back to work after maternity leave, I ended up gaining about 12 lbs back and now I’m still working on losing them. I really only think about it when I go to buy new stuff, otherwise I’m completely wrapped up in our boys and have been really trying hard to give myself some grace and kindness. I’ll get back to where I want to be eventually but my boys will only be as little as they are for so long

  131. Wow I can’t say thank you enough! I am about 6 months pregnant with my second starting weight was same as you and I’m already feeling huge. I know with my first I gained same amount as I have now and am headed down same path. I delivered my first at 8lbs 10 oz and always said I don’t want to gain that much again but here I am baby number 2 at the same spot I was before. I was worried how I would feel after and I’m so glad you shared your story. I feel so much better about where I am and agree I would do it all over again to have either of my kids.

  132. Do not get down or worry…it will come off with breastfeeding. My first baby is 21 months old. I was shocked when I still looked 6 months pregnant for 2 weeks Post delivery. Then it just melted off slowly with exclusively pumping and no exercise and eating whatever I wanted. I had gained 40 pounds. Within 3 months I looked the same as pre pregnancy. Everyone told me how great i looked and I did no exercise those 12 weeks. Second baby is now 11 weeks old (they are 18 months apart). I gained about 40 again with second baby. Once again Post delivery my stomach was huge and I looked 6 months pregnant. Once again I’m pumping and not exercising and almost all but 8 pounds has come off. Your uterus is much larger after second baby and takes time to shrink back down. Plus you are retaining a lot of fluid still. It will all shrink down over the coming weeks, I promise! Nursing does it and shrinks uterus.

  133. 3 weeks out from delivering my second and I feel the same way! You are not alone. First time around weight just fell off, this time not so much. I loved this post it reminded me we are not alone. Women can do amazing things and these babies are sooo worth it!!!

  134. I’m having the opposite, with my first it took forever to lose the weight and I had a belly for a while..this time around with my second my belly went down pretty quick its not totally gone yet and I still have about 20lbs to go but my belly is flatter then it was with my first at this stage.

  135. I am in the same boat and so needed to hear that someone else is too! It’s been so frustrating this time around. With my first I felt so great about my body immediately. I’m 8 weeks PP and still have a lot of weight to lose. I just keep comparing to my first and I know that I need to look at them separately because they were entirely different pregnancies! Thanks for blogging about this topic. It’s so important and like you said, we created life!! We all need to be a little easier on ourselves. 😊

    Congratulations on the birth of Riley! He and Molly are absolutely adorable!

  136. What an awesome post Ali! I am 10 weeks post partum and it is so difficult to lose the weight. I also feel like I’m much hungrier while breastfeeding 🤱 it makes it that much harder. This is my second and I’m trying to pop back to pre pregnancy weight but it feels like it’s taking forever- we do need to be kinder to ourselves and know it took 9 months for our bodies to prepare and grow A child so it should take about the same to get it back fully to where it was before that 🙂

  137. Ali, thank you SO much for keeping it real and showing what an actual post pregnancy body looks like!! I struggled so much with being comfortable in my own skin after having my daughter a year ago. I had 2 friends have babies around the same time and both bounced back so quickly and I felt so defeated. Looking back now I wish I was able to embrace my body and admire it for what it was able to do and not focus on what it looked like. We’re going to start trying for #2 soon and I’ll definitely be looking back at this blog post as a reminder to not be so hard on myself. Also, you look beautiful and so happy! Congrats on your gorgeous family 🙂

  138. I also just gave birth to a beautiful baby boy. I gained 50 pounds with him. He also weighed almost 9 pounds and was 21 inches. It has been almost four weeks and I still have not lost my belly and things are not back to normal. You’re not alone! My first week my stomach was still pretty big and everything felt loose. My clothes also still don’t fit me right now. Thank you for sharing your story! Every pregnancy is different but their all beautiful !! Because your right we made and brought life into this world! So it’s okay if it takes a little bit more time than others .. don’t compare to other women or pregnancies.

    Our bodies can come back.. and it’s all worth it !!!

  139. I love this post! I had 4 babies super young (15,17,19,21) and gained 50lbs with my first. I went from 122lbs to 172lbs. 😳 I’m 5’2 so that’s a lot for my tiny frame! There were a lot of factors that went into it, but man it was hard! I didn’t ever get back to my “pre-pregnancy weight till baby #4 was 2. It was so depressing to me and I became bulimic while my babies were little. Things going on in my life didn’t help the situation and it got pretty bad. I never gained 50lbs again so I was only between 10-20lbs overweight for 6 years. When my 4th was 2 I started eating healthy and managed to lose 15lbs. But I looked awful. I was now down to my first baby pre pregnancy weight (which wasn’t healthy because who stays the same weight since they were 14?) by the time my baby was 3 I had gotten divorced, remarried and went into remission from my eating disorder. I went from 123lbs to 132. I looked better than ever and was actually healthy. I had my 5th baby in October. I gained 28lbs and I’ve lost 21lbs but man those last few pounds are proving very difficult to lose. I’m exclusively breastfeeding so I feel that’s playing a part. It’s been really hard going from the best shape of my life to feeling fat again.

    Gosh that was long 😳 anyways. Thank you for this amazing post ❤️ We did create some amazing tiny humans and we all need to be kinder to ourselves!

    Much love and congratulations on your handsome little man!

  140. Ha, my baby is 28, and I weigh 160, and I look like I just had her. In the years between her birth and now I did get down to 112 for about 2 years, and then it just krept back on slowly, and this is the heaviest I have been since she was born. I weighed 163 9 months pregnant with her. Age has a way sometimes of wanting to hold onto fat for some reason.

  141. Ali! Can you tell me the name of the company you used to order the prints that you hung up on the wall? The one that had the easy mounting? Trying to get my Father’s Day gift in order…

  142. I didn’t just have a baby but body image is such an important issue to all of us. Having a baby is the most impactful thing a woman does that affects her body. Our body goes through such a transition for 9 months that it is unrealistic to expect it to change back in just a matter of weeks and with it being your second baby it will probably take longer. You live a healthy lifestyle and your body will respond over the next few months. Just enjoy being the amazing woman you are and the love of your wonderful husband and two adoring babies. Love yourself as much as we 😍

  143. Thank you for posting about this!! You make
    Me feel like I am more normal
    For feeling this way too! You look great and keep it up! I look forward to reading your Riley birth story!! I need advice on delivery of a big baby!!!!

    Thank you for being you!!!

  144. Love your post! Everyone is SO different. I gained 38lbs with each pregnancy, and it literally took 9 months for me to lose all the weight both times. It’s incredibly hard to not compare our bodies to others’, especially those who lose the baby weight super fast. Or even to compare it to previous versions of ourselves! You look fantastic!

  145. Thank you so much for being open and honest about this journey! I’m five months postpartum and still trying to get the last 15 pounds off. Growing a baby and then nursing a baby is hard work. Thanks for making us fellow mommas not feel alone. You are beautiful and real!

  146. It took you 9 months ( really almost 10) to make a baby….give your body at least that time to get back to where it was! It will happen:)

  147. Awesome post. I love the transparency! I am 8 weeks PP with my third baby in 4 years.. and I found myself body shaming myself less than a month after delivering. I had to continue to remind myself “you just had your third baby!!” Even tho I have lost all of my pregnancy weight, I still see the stretch marks and c section scars! Such a good reminder of what really matters. Our bodies are miracle workers. You are a beautiful mom with gorgeous babies! Xo

  148. Ali, your belly is that size because your uterus is still large enough to carry a germ fetus. It takes 12 weeks for your uterus to shrink back to its original size. In terms of the weight, I am sure you are still bleeding and getting rid of fluid, and your breasts are engorged with breast milk. If you gained 45 lbs you may have put on around 15 lbs of adipose tissue. I’m sure that you will lose it soon enough!!

  149. Just love yourself and all you have created with your beautiful, amazing body! The shape will come back if you want it to, give it time…lots of time. I have three beautiful girls, 19,16 & 13, my body will never be what it was in my 20’s, but I don’t need it to be! My main focus is on eating right, healthy exercising & positive a attitude – they are looking to me for a positive role model.

  150. I had my first baby 20 years ago when I was only 17. I gained a lot of weight and being so young my body wasn’t ready to be pregnant. I started at 110 pounds and was almost 200 pounds when I finally delivered. I did go overdue and my baby was 9lbs 9 1/2oz. I was covered in stretch marks and I absolutely hated my body.
    My family wasn’t all supportive of my teen pregnant and they wouldn’t hold back about it. My grandmother was the most vocal and would always comment about my weight.
    I remember over the holidays she served everyone dessert but me and when someone told her she skipped me she said “oh I know, she doesn’t need any dessert she is too F-A-T already.” She would spell it out as if it were less hurtful or rude, but it still hurt and made me dweel that much more on my weight and body issues.
    The day I delivered my baby girl, who was almost 10 pounds I might add, I walked from Labor & Delivery to OB Admitting so I could weigh myself. I knew that I had to have lost some weight and could tell my grandma as soon as I saw her. Well, I stepped on the scale and I had only lost 5 pounds. Like how is that possible was all I could think. I walked back to my room pushing my baby and crying. That night I stayed in the hospital alone, I was 17, scared and alone but I had my daughter. I promised myself that night I would never focus on my weight, my body imagine and would never let my daughter either.
    Growing up she did struggled with have a bigger body type, she went through what I saw as an awkward stage with her weight being on the heavier side. I spoke to her doctor privately and any changes I made she never knew, I made them for all of us. When she was in high school we were going through her little kid pictures and she got so mad at me and was like “Mom, I was so fat, why didn’t you lock up our fridge?”
    I stopped her and told her my story of being pregnant with her and because of what I went through I wouldn’t allow that for her and that beauty isn’t about what you look like on the outside but who you are on the inside.
    My daughter turned 20 in January and while I know I may be a little bit bias, she is the most incredibly beautiful young woman, she is beautiful on the outside and on the inside and she knows her worth isn’t based off what she looks like or how much she weighs.
    So looking back at my painful moments, while they hurt, they made me the mother I was able to be. So today I proudly wear my stretch marks, my shaggy boobs and baby weight, even 20 years later and if I had to do it all over again I would in heartbeat and I would eat my dessert first.

    Congrats on your son Ali, your family is so precious and we all feel so blessed that you share it with us and we are able to share apart in it with you.

  151. Thank you for sharing. I just had a beautiful daughter almost 8 months ago and what I’m really struggling with is I didn’t gain much weight at all when I was pregnant, everyone kept telling me I was going to have a 4 pound baby and even the day before I and her people thought I had just entered my third trimester and we’re shocked I was over due. I ended up having a beautiful almost 9 pound baby but a really rough delivery. I had an episotomy with a 3rd degree tear. So when I finally got to come home, my plan of going for a walk everyday did not happen. 40 stitches prevent that. But for some reason my thighs and saddle bags expanded. My stomach is now almost back to what it was before my daughter, and like I said I didn’t gain that much weight when I was pregnant but now my butt and thighs are HUGE. Like I can fit the waist of my old shorts but I can’t get them past my thighs. And I’ve been struggling with it. But after reading this blog you’ve given me a new way to look at things thank you.

  152. Can I just say you’re the best for posting this and being vunerable. I love how both you and Catherine Lowe have been honest instead of trying to hide real life. I don’t know anymore else (celebrity wise) who would do that, even though probably most everyone struggles with post baby body. You make women feel real and normal. I SERIOUSLY couldn’t love you more and how genuine you are. I have no doubt you will lose that weight, but even if you didn’t ur so gorgeous and you are my favorite current role model (currently 4 weeks post partum with my second as well and I feel like even though I’ve lost most of my weight per the scale, my baby pooch will FOREVER be there and I will always be an extra skin blob in the tummy area 😜!) Thanks for being the best!!

  153. I love this ! Such a positive message ! I’ve had 3 boys and all pregnancies were all different ! I gained a lot more with my second then I did with first / 3rd ! Whenever I have kids I end up losing weight right after but gain in within the year all back and I’m at square one 🤦🏻‍♀️ Not sure how or what I don’t eat bad !! Definitely the third baby I had a stomach for longer and harder to lose but in reality our body goes through so much change I think the one year thing is not enough to fully recover xo

  154. Thank you for this post!I had my twins 1 month ago and although i have lost pregnancy weight I still have huge belly and look pregnant,i struggle every day when i look in the mirror but this post and all the comments helped me to calm down.I hope i will loose the belly someday but it is really hard to stay focused on good diet when you have newborn twins and no extra help :/ 🙂 maybe you have some suggestions how to fight with stretch marks?

  155. Such a wonderful post and topic and honestly great to hear you talk about it. I had twin boys (our first kids) on February 2 and when I looked in the mirror when I got home I just cried. I didn’t recognize myself. I’d had preeclampsia and the swelling was insane. Like you, I ended up dropping a good bit quickly but my belly still remains. I also had a C-section. Even almost two months after their birth, I had a woman in the grocery store ask me when I was due. Depressing! But you have the right attitude and my husband has been reminding me of that when he sees me looking at myself. He says it’s the belly that grew his sons and he loves it. I just try to remember that and that I’ll get it down eventually, whether it happens on its own or I work for it a bit. Thanks for being so open about your struggle! It’s encouraging to someone like myself who did actually feel a little alone in the belly struggle.

  156. Really great post and so very true! 2nd baby is so, so hard to lose the baby weight and it was def WAY easier after my first baby. You are right in that I would keep this last 10 pounds or whatever on forever, worth it to have this little one! Thank you for sharing and being an inspiration for other mommas out there 🙂

  157. God bless you for sharing this because there is SUCH a common misconception on this. I was so guilty of this misconception when I had my baby 8 months ago. After going into labor naturally, laboring for 10 hours, having to get an emergency c-section, delivering almost a 10 lb baby, when I got home I weighed MORE than I did when I walked into the hospital. I looked like the Michelin man and felt absolutely disgusting. It took me 14 days to lose about 22 lbs of what I believe was pure water weight. I still have about 8 lbs total to lose. I have tried to have your same mindset and give myself grace and have just recently started trying to work out to lose my remaining few pounds.

    We grew HUMANS!! How amazing is that? Cheers to celebrating the miracles we endured, and to taking care of ourselves on the inside as well as the outside so that we can be who our babies need us to be: happy.

    Your children are beautiful and so are you! Thank you for being so open and sharing your story with us!

  158. Thank you so much for writing this! I have been feeling the exact same way. I gained about the same weight with my first and second but carried my first much differently, whether it was just my body adjusting to a first pregnancy or what, i just looked bigger (he was also almost 9lbs though too.) So many people told me how small i looked throughout my second pregnancy compared to my first and i felt way smaller. But post-birth i am definitely losing the weight much slower than with my first. My stomach still looks 4 months pregnant to me even though I’m 4 months post partum. It’s been discouraging and frustrating to me. This post was so encouraging to me to at least know I’m not alone in the first vs second. I know i need to give myself a break and remember i just gave birth to a beautiful baby boy and like you said I’ll keep my body exactly the way it is now if i had to knowing it brought me him… or both my sweet baby boys.

    1. Aw, Christa, your body just did an AMAZING thing… made a human! Is it then ALSO supposed to magically dispel all the fat and fluid required to do so? Go easy on yourself–and be proud of what your body is clearly capable of! It will happen in the right time!

  159. I’m grateful you chose to write about this topic, Ali. First, you look GREAT, and I’m glad you are focusing on the miracle of your son vs. the pressure of the “body bounce-back”. I’m 32 weeks pregnant with my first, and people CONSTANTLY tell me, “Oh, don’t worry. You’ll fit back into your normal clothes before you even leave the hospital.” I recognize that their intention is to be comforting, but honestly, I’m starting to feel pressure from the constant insisting about what my body “should” do. Why does it matter if I go home in a maternity dress or in my skinny jeans? If my son and I are both healthy, isn’t that all that “should” matter? Your blog has been a great place to turn for insight during this crazy journey!

  160. Thank you thank you! Number one: you look absolutely amazing! Such a beautiful wife and mother, and radiating happiness! Number two: I think it’s so important that we as women love our bodies because of the amazing things they do for us. The pressure our society puts on women (especially mothers) to maintain “beautiful bodies” is insane, and frankly very twisted. Number three: I applaud you for taking this very common “struggle” (though it pains me that this is considered a struggle) public for the world to see. It’s important that people understand that this is normal and totally ok!

  161. I had my first son at 40, and am pregnant again at 42. I know the weight will be harder to shift this time, and I’m ok with that.
    I gained 10lbs in the 14 months it took us to get pregnant the first time, then 40 while I was pregnant. I was over 190lbs when I delivered 3.5 weeks early. I lost 12 lbs in the hospital, and went home and continued to lose slowly. I was always told that weight loss was an extra benefit to nursing, however what they don’t tell you is that is only in the beginning. As your a baby grows and needs more milk, you have to keep your nutrition up to sustain your milk supply. Cut calories, milk drops; exercise, milk drops; low carb, milk drops. I gave myself the entire first year to not be concerned about weight, but rather about my health and my babies health. I lost 30 of the 40 I had gained.
    That means I’ve started pregnancy #2 20lbs overweight already. And being over 40, I have an uphill climb to lose it. But I will not allow myself to stress over it. Making sure my child is healthy is a higher priority for me.
    When this 2nd one is weaned from the breast, I will then see what I can do to find time to exercise. I will be a working mom with a 3yr old and infant, it will be hard, but I’m not going to stress over it. My pant size does not define me, my body was capable of growing two fully functioning and healthy human beings. That’s pretty bad-ass, if it means I’m a little softer in the middle, that’s perfectly ok with me…my doctor…and my husband.

  162. This is refreshingly honest! I have followed a very different trend with both of my babies – coming home from the hospital at my pre-pregnancy weight and THEN gaining a lot post-partum. I naturally carry small and also had gestational diabetes both times so I ate very healthy and gained only 8 and 15 lbs respectively. I delivered around the holidays both times and had 2 babies with digestive issues that essentially didn’t sleep for 2 months. Sleep deprivation + being surrounded by sugar, treats and excessive amount of large celebratory meals = dangerous combination. I’m now 6 months post baby #2 and weigh a little more than what I came home at. I’ve decided to stop looking at the numbers and start focusing on being healthy for my kids (which is going to be extra challenging since I broke my leg last week – ugh). It’s hard to feel like you’re existing in someone else’s body, but bravo for being kind and forgiving to yourself.

  163. I’m 7 months PP with my 2nd (also had a pregnancy right before this one that went to 20 weeks but didn’t end well) and also have a 4 year old. Still have 20 lbs to go. I’m scared as I approach her first birthday if I don’t lose it then it will be forever weight! Running has helped!

  164. I am in the same boat! After first I lost the weight quickly but still had 10 pounds to lose before I got pregnant, then I got pregnant again with 2nd and now I’m 5 months pp and still have about 10-15 pounds to lose. One thing you also want to be aware of is that you might have diastasis recti aka “mommy pooch” which you’ll have to do exercises to close back up and also modify the way you exercise! Thanks for your post..

  165. This is really hitting home today. I had my sixth delivery back in September (3 living children, one preterm baby girl, one miscarriage, and now our rainbow baby boy) and am still hanging onto most of my baby weight. I go back and forth between feeling self-conscious/frustrated with how I look and knowing that my body is doing what it needs to do and being content. I’ll be totally honest here and admit that most days I tend to be more on the self-conscious side. It’s not a good feeling but I’m struggling with staying away from sugar. I wish I could give myself some more grace but I’ve been struggling to do so.
    Congratulations again on your baby boy! He’s such a sweetheart and Molly is so cute with him!!

  166. Congrats on the little munchkin!

    When I had my first, who weighed in at 8 lbs 8 oz and was born 2 weeks early, I lost 22 pounds within a week of giving birth, and I had gained about 35 pounds in total. I looked thinner than I expected. Then the weight just kept coming off and I lost another 25lbs in addition to the baby weight.

    My second was also born 2 weeks early, and he weighed just under 10 lbs. I had gained 45 lbs this time, and I never lost those last 10. I tried and tried but my body just did not want to cooperate. So I said to hell with this! And I got pregnant again. Baby 3 is set to be induced on Saturday. I’ve only gained 30 lbs this time, but it’s all belly. Guess we’ll see what happens after, but I plan to just enjoy every moment with my new baby. It took 9 months to gain this weight, so if it takes long to take it off, so be it. Now, tike for some ice cream!

  167. Your body changes as you age! Don’t sweat it. I finally lost my last 15 pounds with weight watchers. Enjoy this moment instead!

  168. First time commenter (though I read your posts all the time). Thanks so much for being so open! At 94lbs (I’m short) I weigh 10lbs LESS than I did before getting pregnant. But I have diastiais recti (ab separation) which means I LOOK about 4 months pregnant at the end of every day. My stomach looks weird and floppy and poochy. It has been a hard adjustment to seeing what’s in the mirror now. I thought losing weight (gained 40 while pregnant) would mean I’d get my body back. But I’m slowly realizing that that might not ever happen. #rollingwiththemombod

  169. I am petite (5’0”) and gained 45 lbs durinh my second pregnancy. I gave birth on May 15 and I ask myself daily why I still look so big? I have 20lbs to go but just seemed like I lost the weight quicker with my first. Thanks for the article! It’s a great reminder that no matter what, I have this beautiful child that I created!
    I’m working on trying not to obsess over my body shape – luckily my husband reminds me daily I look beautiful.
    Any suggestions on back-to-work, professional attire for my temporary, post-partum body?

  170. Hi Ali! You are likely swollen from fluids. When possible, take a leisurely stroll outside and crazy as it sounds, drink lots of water. Gentle yoga poses will also help, as will eating lots of protein (no sugar – boo). I loved having an occasional massage and sauna time once ok’d by doctor. For me, my body responded well to increasing my circulation in a variety of natural, healing and gentle ways. It seems like your metabolism is already fast so I bet the weight will melt off once it gets going. You look great and Congrats on Riley. : )

  171. Hi Ali.
    I have to say that little belly you have left. Don’t worry it will be gone soon. You look beautiful in those adorable pics of your family.
    Congratulations on Owen. He’s perfect. As you said everyone’s body is different. I have 2 kiddos. I gained 22-23 lbs with each babe. I had my daughter at 25 yrs old.
    I had to be induced. They gave me pain meds that made me sick. Then about 20 hrs later I have birth to my daughter. The min she came out my belly completely dropped. My 1st delivery wasn’t as I hoped. Many…many hrs. Being induced having to have help with suction cup on her head to get her out. 6 lbs 10 oz. 19 inches long.
    She graduates this month!!
    Then Life happens….I got pregnant in 2014. And was a little scared with my age and all. My docs were shocked by my numbers for the tests. I would normally have a rate of defects and DS of less than 1-100 for my age. But my numbers came back like I was 30 not 40. It was the easiest pregnancy. I Didn’t start showing until 22 weeks. In Aug of 2015 my little man came into our lives.
    I had no induction. I progressed on my own and about 8 hrs later my son was born. 6 lbs 11 oz. 20 inches long.
    Same thing with him my belly just got sucked back down the min he came out. I still have a bit of a pooch. But nothing I can’t handle.
    Our bodies are amazing!! The stuff we put it through. But it’s all worth it in the end.
    I’ve been following you since the bachelor. Love you and your family.
    If Owen is your last baby as my son was. Take every moment and just soak it in. Time goes way to fast!! I would love nothing more to have my son in my arms as a newborn again. The newborn stage is my fav.
    Congratulations again!! 👶🏻💙

  172. I cannot tell you how much I love this post. I have a 6 week old little girl so I have loved following your pregnancy alongside my own but this is my fave post of all. I have a similar weight loss experience. Lea is my first baby. I gained about 40 lb too. I was in great shape pre pregnancy. I lost 20 by the end of the first week she was born but still have another 15 to go. My belly did go down really quick but I look completely different than I did before. I have cellulite everywhere- it’s pretty severe, my breasts have dropped at least an inch and my arms are all flab.
    I bounce between feeling frustrated and sad to overwhelmed by how perfect my daughter is- I think it’s OK to feel both as long as you don’t allow yourself to dwell too long on the former. We really are amazing. There’s a reason God chose women to carry babies: we are miraculous and no one is stronger. 🙂

    Also- follow EmilySkyeFitness on instagram! She posted fantastic and realistic before and afters of her pregnancy. She looked completely and dramatically different after her baby was born. She’s also bubbly and inspirational! Congrats on beautiful Riley and you are beautiful and glowing!!! 🙂 Enjoy these newborn days. They fly by so quickly.

  173. Sweet Ali,

    Give yourself grace and be kind to yourself. It hasn’t even been a month since you gave birth! They usually say it takes up to 3 months to get back to your pre-pregnancy weight. Riley is a beautiful baby, and Molly is a doll!!

    If you’re still having an issue with extra weight in another month or so, check into Weight Watchers, as they have a program for nursing moms. My daughter lost the rest of her “baby” weight doing that, was never deprived, her breast milk was not affected, and she dropped 20lbs in a few months without even being one bit hungry. Just a suggestion if you hit that wall. You’re gorgeous as you are, and remember to love yourself and be kind to you. And get as much rest as you can!!

  174. You have me in tears right now Ali. I gave birth to my first on May 11th. I have ALWAYS been fit and active. I had a difficult pregnancy which had me on bed rest for most of mine and with that came massive food cravings and weight gain. I have felt so alone with these feelings about my body not instantly bouncing back. I literally broke down in tears a few nights ago in a Lululemon store (my poor sweet husband was with me and bless him). Thank you for being so honest and bringing us women together to share and support. You’ve touched and helped me more than you’ll ever know.

    (Lastly, I’ve never commented on someone’s blog I don’t know before. Just saying, your post moved me so much, I had to reply).

  175. Ali. You are absolutely beautiful! And without you saying anything I would have never noticed the belly in the pictures. But, I also feel ya. My body after baby 2 feels like Jell-O hanging off of bones. It can be very depressing at times. My youngest is a year old and I still feel that way. Honestly look that way too. LOL. I hope you are enjoying motherhood and not letting it defeat you too much. You’re still absolutely stunning.

  176. Ali,

    I have two girls who are 16 months apart. I was my pre-pregnancy weight when I got pregnant with my 2nd. My 2nd is now 6 months and I can say it has taken much longer to shed my pregnancy body than it was with my first. My diet and exercise have been the same. I have also experienced some pelvic floor issues this time around. This has caused me a lot of grief and frustration because I am young and in decent shape. I have decided to be open about these struggles with my community when appropriate because like you said it is important to talk about and support each other. Giving birth is no joke. I am trying to focus on being the healthy version of myself in this moment rather than looking for an end result. It’s my daily choices that I focus on at this moment. You will get where you want to be, stay encouraged!

    1. This is such a great perspective! Sometimes it’s so good to just focus on the process instead of always working to be happy or satisfied only once you achieve the end result.

      Thanks for sharing!

  177. Hi Ali,

    You look beautiful! I had the same exact experiences with my 2 kids. For the first, the weight just fell right off! By my son’s bris – I was wearing my pre-pregnancy clothes! For my second, I did not lose 1 pound for the first 2 months after baby. It took a ton of hard work, excersize and diet and I am still note 100% there 18 months later!! Good luck!

    1. It’s so good to hear these stories, so I can be prepared with my second baby and maybe learn to have a little more patience with myself.

      Thanks for sharing, girl!

  178. I can totally relate! I think I weighed less two weeks after having my son than I do now a year later. And I felt WAY skinnier pregnant than I do now. Recovering from a c section (breech baby) was rough, but I struggled with an autoimmune disease and felt way better pregnant. My immune system just works better when I’m pregnant…. but our bodies are so amazing and learning to love our bodies post pregnancy is a work in progress. I like to focus on how strong and capable my body is for growing my happy, healthy son! And feeding him too! It’s so amazing when you really sit back and think about it!

    Thanks for sharing your story, Ali!

  179. Hi Ali,

    Thank you for this post! I’ve been struggling with my body image since my son was born 11 months ago. I still looked 5 months pregnant up until recently where I look more like 4 months ;p. I had set myself up for certain expectations for such a long time, even before my pregnancy, that if I took care of myself and exercised, my body would bounce back to it’s pre-pregnancy weight and shape within the first few months, and that my baby weight would melt away with breast feeding. None of that happened. I learned 5 months post partum that I have Diastasis Recti. It’s very common and it the culprit of the infamous “mummy tummy” as well as embarrassing incontinence. I’ve been working with a Pelvic Floor Physio Therapist for a few months now and don’t know why more OBGYN’s don’t recommend working with one of these practitioners during and after pregnancy. It’s SO important!

    If you’d like to read more about my story, I’ve posted it on my own blog.

    I’m slowly becoming comfortable with my current body and learning to love myself as a whole and not be so hard on the physical part. You have added to this process through your blog post – Thank you!

  180. Hey there my blog friend!
    I’m sure each day Smiley Riley is changing and growing as will his sister Jolly Molly!

    Like you said, enjoy that time looking at his little fingers , and counting the hair on his little head. His little fingers in time will be grasping a baseball playing with his dad!

    You look great! I know how you feel don’t be hard on yourself as we can be.! When you start feeling up to yourself and running around after Jolly Molly you’ll be surprised what weight you will loose.
    And that’s why we have Spankes in our world today! Ha!

    I hope you get the chance to read my post. Always checking your blog and looking on instagram.

    Keep smiling and enjoying your family that you were blessed to have!
    Hope to hear from ya! Be blessed!

    😘🤗 to Jolly Molly, Smiley Riley, Devin Kevin and Fuzzy Owen.🐕

    😘🤔💙💕 too you also!

    di

  181. Ali-
    I cried reading this because I just had my second and the weight didn’t come off as quickly with this one and I had a lot of the same thoughts! Thank you for sharing your positive outlook. I’m still 5 lbs away from my baby weight and trying to accept my body as I take care of this precious babe.

    One thing I always wished for was a blogger to share ways to dress your post partum body and feel pretty (like for your first night out) I hope you’ll share flattering and nursing/pumping looks over the next few months to help us gals in these temporary (🤞🏻) bodies some ideas!

  182. You look so great!! After baby #1 it took a while to loose the weight, baby #2 it came off really fast, and I just had baby #3 4 months and I think this is going to be a slower process as well. I think we have to tell ourselves that like every baby and pregnancy is different our body is going to react differently as well. And even after the weight is gone we might not look exactly how we did before! I was lucky enough not to get any stretch marks, but I know things won’t ever completely go back to the way they were. And that’s ok, I made 3 amazing little people!!

  183. Your story sounds almost identical to mine! Thankful to have read this today.. I have been feeling super down lately about my post 2nd baby body. I’m not “bouncing back” like I did with my first! Helps to know it isn’t only me!

    1. Me Too! With my 1st baby I was back in shape within weeks it seemed like. By the time my baby was 2 month old I was wearing my pre-pregnancy clothes again.

      But not my 2nd. I looked 5 months pregnant for a couple months after. That tummy just wouldn’t go away! For some reason #2 treats the body different. He’s 13 months now and all is good again, but it just took some time.

  184. Thank you for posting I’m in exact same boat. First daughter 21 months just had 2nd daughter last week. I gained 45lbs with my first and 40 with this one…agree I still look 5 months pregnant. I try to stay positive but I have to go to a wedding end of June and I dont know what to wear! And it’s very discouraging! Any dress advice would be great…its semi formal in the berkshires. Congrats on your baby and thanks for posting!

  185. With my first it took me a year to get to pre pregnancy weight, the last 5lbs were hard to lose. With my second I managed to lose all the weight, and a couple extra pounds again but it again took a year. With my 3rd who is now two I can’t seem to lose the last 5lbs. My body shape is different, I’m a runner and my go-to favorite clothing pieces are no longer comfortable, and not just because of the few extra pounds but also my shape, my muscles have changed as well as my weight distribution. I continue to work on it, but I have also accepted that I’ve had three children and it’s no longer important to me to have the body I once did, a little proof that they are all mine is okay with me : )

  186. Where do you get your nursing tanks?? I’m going to be a first time mom in August and definitely need some!

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