Why these mums are showing their REAL postpartum bodies on social media

Having a child is a wonderful experience for many mums – watching your child grow and become its own person, experiencing many firsts and loving someone more than you ever thought possible.

But what about the toll childbirth takes on your body? As many mums know, your body doesn’t just magically snap back into place postpartum – at least not for the majority of mums.

With the power of social media, it’s often easy to think that you’re alone in your struggle to accept your new body, especially if you’re scrolling through constant images of new celebrity mums back in their pre-pregnancy jeans just a few weeks after childbirth.

But thanks to Instagram account @takebackpostpartum, mums are sharing what life is really like post-baby, giving inspiration and comfort to mums all over the world who no longer have to feel alone in their daily struggle.

Run by January Harshe, the account features mums sharing real images of their bodies after pregnancy, and it’s powerful!

One image shared by January says: ‘Self-Care Tip: Unfollow every account on Instagram that makes you feel like you need to be someone else’.

The caption beside it reads: ‘Everyday. Be mindful. Approach social media with mental health and self care in mind!’

Another mum shared an image of her stomach and stretch marks, with a child’s feet resting on her belly, she wrote: ‘I may be a little softer but ultimately I am stronger and these marks just remind me of where I once tightly held and grew Emilia Ren. This body, ME, I may not be the same but if she can find so much comfort and safety in this body, I will as well.’

Take a look at some of the inspirational women sharing honest accounts of their postpartum bodies below - and remember you're not alone.

This mum is in no hurry to 'snap back'

'Squishy belly, big sore boobs'

'Bleeding cracked nips'

'Society does not define me'

Who can relate?