Every new mom understands that their body undergoes a lot of changes after giving birth—emotionally and physically. It’s a normal occurrence that can be overcome just by taking better care of oneself, eating healthily, having uninterrupted “Me Time,” and getting help from people you love. But of course, going back to normal doesn’t just happen overnight.
To Janella Salvador, who had just given birth to her son Jude with partner Markus Paterson, getting any ounce of self-care was a struggle. She opened up about her experience to friends and followers on Instagram through a post where she wrote:
“When I was pregnant with Jude, I promised myself that I would never forget self-care. I said I would take the time to do things that I love. Happy mum, happy family, right? But like many things in this world… it’s easier said than done. I lost all the remaining ‘vanity’ that I had in me the moment Jude came into my life. My life revolved around him. Even just a trip to the grocery made me feel guilty because I felt like I could be spending time with him instead. I felt like I had to be with him 24/7.”
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And although she “enjoyed every moment,” she admitted that the stress made her fall into unhealthy habits such as snacking when she couldn’t get any sleep and just hiding her body in large clothing.
“I’m not gonna lie, I enjoyed every moment and I still do. But in those first few months, I physically did not feel like myself. I hid behind big coats, robes and loose clothing. The lack of sleep made me overeat so I was 40 POUNDS heavier than my ideal weight. I did not like what I saw in the mirror but paid no attention to that,” she said.
“Of course, gaining weight is totally normal after giving birth… but there comes a time where you want to be healthy and regain your strength. My goal has always been to be strong enough to take care of the household so I did not want to resort to unhealthy crash diets. Working in a physical industry that relies so much on looks didn’t help with the pressure either. I knew that eventually, I needed to start working again.”
The pressure of knowing that she had to slim back down in order to return to work in the showbiz industry led her to make the decision to undergo liposuction which she was initially hesitant towards but eventually became grateful for.
“Fast forward to the day Dr. [Vicky Belo] suggested liposuction — I initially said no. I was afraid. But after many talks and getting assurance from her, I gave in. Best decision ever. I can’t thank her and [Dr. Hayden Kho] enough for helping me jumpstart my journey back to sexy and for giving me back my confidence,” she shared.
“I am finally starting to see the woman I want to see in the mirror once again. I also want to give myself a pat on the back for taking initiative to exercise as well.”
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She then left the following message to all the women who are struggling with their own body changes postpartum: “To all the mamas out there, enjoy every part of your journey and don’t pressure yourself. At the end of the day, what matters most is the health and happiness of your baby. But don’t forget to take steps towards your own happiness. ♡”
(ALSO READ: Markus Paterson and Janella Salvador Speak Out After Netizens Make Fun of Baby’s Looks)
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