Why ‘Bouncing Back’ After Pregnancy Is The Worst Advice You’ve Heard — And What Actually Works
“Bouncing back” after pregnancy? It’s time to rethink everything.
If you’ve been pregnant or followed postpartum advice, you’ve likely heard this phrase a thousand times. But here’s the twist — new insights and personal stories are revealing that this approach isn’t just unhelpful; it might be downright harmful.
Recently, a compelling Business Insider article shared a personal trainer’s journey gaining over 50 pounds during pregnancy and how embracing kindness rather than pressure made getting fit again much easier (source). This story is more than just a feel-good read — it reflects crucial data-backed perspectives on postpartum health that deserve attention.
The Harsh Reality Behind Postpartum ‘Bounce Back’ Culture
The expectation for new mothers to rapidly return to their pre-pregnancy physique is deeply ingrained in social media, advertising, and even some healthcare messaging. Yet, research paints a different picture:
- Postpartum weight retention is common: Studies show that 50-80% of women retain some pregnancy weight a year after delivery.
- Mental health impact: The pressure to