Updated: August 2, 2016
Originally Published: May 16, 2013
As stress has a way of affecting our appetite, I’ve found an unexpected silver lining: I’ve managed to lose about 7.5 of the 10 pounds I aimed to shed. I often joke with my friends that if this stress continues, I’ll reach my goal weight in no time. And honestly, my clothes do fit me better now—some are even too loose—and I’ve even slipped back into my “skinny jeans.” And by that, I mean the jeans I bought just two days before my wedding when I was at my lightest weight, which, let’s be real, came with a lot of pre-wedding jitters. When I shared my excitement with a close friend, saying, “I just bought a pair of jeans in a size 26!” she happily responded, “Wow, that’s something to celebrate!”
Fast forward almost a decade, and I’m staring at a different body in the mirror. At 37, after two C-sections spaced 16 months apart and a hysterectomy, my midsection is not what it used to be. My children were both healthy sizes, but my body carried an unusually high amount of amniotic fluid, leaving my stomach looking less than taut.
To remain positive about my midsection, I’ve affectionately dubbed that area between my bra strap and the waistband of my underwear as my “bonus features.” It’s a little like discovering a second DVD filled with extras after purchasing a film you love. You didn’t ask for it, you didn’t expect it, but it’s included nonetheless.
But shouldn’t losing the extra weight mean that those features would diminish? Shouldn’t there be some reduction in the love handles? Or at the very least, shouldn’t my belly button area look less like I’m trying to hide a pastry? Apparently not. During our conversation this morning, my husband, Tom, remarked on how he noticed a significant change, suggesting my weight might just be “distributed differently” now. He assured me that I looked beautiful—though, let’s be honest, he’s kind of obligated to say that.
All I could focus on was my middle-aged midsection. I’ve made half-hearted attempts over the years to tone that part of my body, even trying a Tracy Anderson DVD that promised miraculous post-pregnancy results. My husband was within earshot when I heard Tracy say, “You can start this workout after you’ve been cleared by your doctor at around six weeks.” I couldn’t help but snort; our youngest was already over three years old at that point!
Maybe this is my new normal. The days of flaunting a bikini are behind me, and I might have to resign myself to the idea that my midriff, as it stands, is here to stay. It’s frustrating, to be honest. I feel somewhat shortchanged. However, those “bonus features” come with some wonderful perks—like my 5 and 6-year-olds, who are worth every sagging inch of skin.
At least I can still say my backside looks pretty good! If you’re navigating similar challenges, be sure to check out this insightful post on Cervical Insemination for more tips and resources. And for those considering at-home insemination options, Make a Mom offers reliable syringe kits. For a comprehensive understanding of different pregnancy treatments, WebMD is an excellent resource.
In summary, while my body has changed in ways I didn’t expect, it’s also given me a new perspective on motherhood and self-acceptance. Embracing these “bonus features” is part of the journey, and the love of my children makes it all worthwhile.
Leave a Reply