Why ‘Bouncing Back’ After Pregnancy Is The Wrong Mindset — And What You Should Do Instead
Feeling pressured to ‘bounce back’ after pregnancy? You’re not alone, but this might be the one mindset holding you back.
Emily Ricketts, a personal trainer featured in a recent Business Insider story, shared something truly eye-opening: she gained over 50 pounds during her pregnancy and instead of forcing herself to ‘bounce back’ immediately, she embraced being a beginner again. That kindness and acceptance made her postpartum fitness journey not only easier but more sustainable (read the full article here).
This approach is a game-changer, especially for people navigating the emotional rollercoaster of postpartum recovery or even trying to conceive. Why? Because fertility and wellness aren’t just about physical health — emotional wellness plays a massive role.
The Problem With ‘Bouncing Back’ Culture
Society often paints postpartum bodies as something to ‘fix’ fast, pushing new parents to shed weight quickly and return to their pre-pregnancy shape. But this pressure can be overwhelming and discouraging, sometimes even damaging. When you view your body as an enemy or a project to fix in a set timeline, it creates stress and self-judgment — two of the worst things for both mental health and fertility.
- Stress hormones like cortisol can disrupt ovulation and menstrual cycles.
- Feeling discouraged can affect motivation to care for yourself holistically.
- Rushing fitness or diet plans too soon can lead to injury or burnout.
Instead, Emily’s story reminds us: acceptance and kindness are powerful tools. Treating yourself with compassion allows your body the time and space it needs to heal, regain strength, and function optimally.
How Does This Connect to Fertility?
Whether you’re freshly postpartum or actively trying to conceive, emotional wellness directly impacts your chances of success. When you’re kinder to yourself, you reduce stress and create a positive mindset — a crucial part of fertility.
This is where at-home conception methods, like those supported by companies such as MakeAMom, become invaluable.
MakeAMom’s at-home insemination kits are designed with privacy, comfort, and control in mind. They offer:
- Reusable kits tailored for specific fertility challenges,
- Packaging that respects your privacy,
- And a reported average success rate of 67%, which is incredibly encouraging.
By empowering people to take fertility into their own hands at home, these tools align with the mindset of self-kindness and reduce anxiety related to clinical environments.
Embracing the ‘Beginner’ Mindset: What Does That Look Like?
- Set realistic goals: Instead of expecting to ‘bounce back’ in a month, focus on small milestones like gentle movement, nourishing your body, and emotional check-ins.
- Celebrate progress: Whether it’s five extra minutes of walking or just feeling more energetic, celebrate those wins.
- Be patient with setbacks: Some days will be harder. That’s normal, not a failure.
- Seek supportive communities: Whether online or in person, connect with others who share your journey.
- Educate yourself: Learn about your body’s needs postpartum and during TTC (trying to conceive). Knowledge reduces fear.
Why This Matters More Now Than Ever
In 2025, we’re increasingly recognizing mental health’s central role in overall wellness. The old paradigm of “fix it fast” is giving way to holistic approaches that honor physical, mental, and emotional health equally.
Choosing kindness over pressure isn't just good for you—it's a vital part of reproductive health that can improve your odds of conception and postpartum recovery alike.
Final Thoughts
Are you ready to challenge the ‘bounce back’ myth and embrace your body’s natural journey? Remember Emily’s story as a beacon: being kind to yourself is not just easier — it’s smarter.
If you’re exploring ways to support your fertility journey gently, check out resources and innovative at-home insemination options that prioritize your comfort and privacy.
What changes can you make today to be kinder to your body and mind? Share your thoughts or your own stories in the comments below — let’s support each other on this powerful path to wellness and parenthood.