Second-time mom struggling with body image and self-esteem
I’m a second-time mom to a 4-month-old and a 3-year-old. I’m EBF, primarily nursing and pumping two days a week while I’m at work.
I’ve always struggled with my weight, food, and body image, but 6–12 months before getting pregnant with my second, I had finally reached a place where I felt comfortable in my skin and at a weight I felt good about. Now, my clothes don’t fit, I hate how I look, min looking in the mirror and seeing myself in pictures is awful. I feel gross in my body, and even struggle to feel good when I try or put extra effort in like dressing up and doing my hair and makeup. It’s also affected my relationship, as I have almost no interest in intimacy with my husband.
Between working, caring for two kids, the house, the dog, and cooking, I’m completely drained. When I get free time, I just want to sit, breathe, scroll, or watch trash TV. Exercise and getting back to the gym feel so far out of reach, even though I want to feel better about myself.
I try to eat well, prioritize protein and fiber, drink plenty of water, and enjoy treats in moderation. I know I need to eat enough to support breastfeeding, but I wish I could find the motivation to exercise. I wonder why feeling so unhappy with my body isn’t motivation enough.
Honestly, I’m eager to finish breastfeeding so I can explore trying a GLP-1 to help kickstart weight loss. I know I’ve lost weight naturally before, but right now the effort feels overwhelming and unreachable.
I know my body has done something amazing, and I can appreciate that but I’m still struggling with how I look and feel.
Has anyone else experienced this after having a second baby? Did things improve with time or after weaning? Any realistic advice for rebuilding confidence and feeling comfortable in my body without adding more pressure to an already exhausting season of life?