Setting Realistic Postpartum Weight Loss Expectations: What New Moms Should Know

After having a baby, it's totally normal to wonder when or if your body will ever feel the same again. There's a lot of pressure out there to “bounce back” quickly, but the truth is, postpartum weight loss expectations need to be realistic and gentle. Your body just went through something huge, and recovery is a process, not a race. This article will walk you through what to expect, how to set healthy goals, and ways to be kind to yourself along the way.

Key Takeaways

Postpartum weight loss expectations should be based on patience and self-care, not quick fixes.
Every woman's body heals and changes at its own pace after childbirth—there's no universal timeline.
Focusing on healthy habits like balanced meals, staying hydrated, and gentle movement supports gradual progress.
Getting enough sleep and managing stress are just as important as diet and exercise for weight loss after pregnancy.
Comparing yourself to others (especially on social media) can be discouraging—celebrate your own small wins.

Embracing Postpartum Weight Loss Expectations as a New Mom

After your body has gone through pregnancy and childbirth, it's normal to want things to "go back" quickly. But setting realistic expectations for postpartum weight loss is truly important for your well-being. Your body changed over nine months to create a whole new person, so it's only fair to let it recover on its own timeline. Quick fixes and pressure to slim down fast usually end up making things harder, not easier. Trying to rush the process? That can mess with your energy, your mood, and if you're breastfeeding, your milk supply.

Focus on steady, gradual progress rather than instant results.
Pay attention to how you feel, not just how you look.
Remember, most people’s timelines are a lot longer than the ones you see online or in magazines.

Recovery is different for everyone, and you deserve patience and understanding as you settle into your new role as a mom.

Your body just did something incredible. Pregnancy and giving birth are massive feats that deserve way more praise than just a slim belly or a number on the scale. Instead of criticizing how you look, take a minute to notice all the things your body has accomplished:

You grew and nourished a baby from scratch.
You carried that weight for months, adapted, and found ways to keep going.
You made it through labor, birth, or surgery—no small feat there!

This is the time to give your body some real credit. Even if you don’t love every change you see in the mirror right now, there’s so much to feel proud of.

Everywhere you look—Instagram, celebrity tabloids, even relatives’ comments—there’s pressure on moms to “bounce back” fast after having a baby. But let’s be realistic, that’s not how life works for most people. Letting go of the bounce-back pressure is one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself.

Here are some ways to block out that unrealistic noise:

Unfollow social media accounts that make you feel bad or pressured.
Remind yourself that famous moms often have nannies, chefs, and personal trainers. That’s just not real life for most of us.
Reframe your goals—aim for feeling strong, comfortable, and healthy, not just chasing a smaller size.

It’s okay if you never “bounce back” to exactly how you were before. You’re not less than. Your body is just different now, and that’s perfectly fine.

The bottom line? Be honest, gentle, and patient with yourself. This stage is about healing, learning about your new self, and taking things one small step at a time.

Understanding Your Body’s Natural Timeline After Birth

Right after birth, your body kicks off a whirlwind of changes. Not just on the outside, but internally too. It’s easy to expect things to go back to how they were, but let’s be straight – postpartum recovery is its own unique process for every mom. The postpartum timeline isn’t a race, and your journey truly is one of a kind.

Immediate Changes and Fluid Loss

Okay, let’s talk about what happens first. When your baby is born, there’s an instant drop on the scale. Most people lose around 10 to 15 pounds right away – that’s the baby, the placenta, and some amniotic fluid heading out. Over the next few weeks, you’ll keep losing weight just from your body releasing extra fluids. Here’s what to expect:

Swelling (especially in your legs and feet) goes down as your body flushes out water.
You’ll notice more bathroom trips and night sweats as this fluid leaves your system.
Your uterus slowly shrinks back to its pre-pregnancy size, which can take six weeks or more.

You may feel frustrated seeing your postpartum belly stick around longer than you thought. But remember, your body is simply adjusting back at its own pace.

Why Slow Progress Is the Norm

After the first month, those quick changes start to slow down. This part takes patience. Most postpartum weight loss from here is about one pound a week (sometimes less!) and it happens little by little. Here are the big reasons for that slow pace:

Your metabolism is still shifting after pregnancy and birth.
Hormones need time to settle, impacting hunger and energy levels.
Everyday life with a newborn is unpredictable—hello, missed meals and cat naps!

Trying to speed things up with strict dieting or high-intensity workouts can actually backfire, especially if your body still needs time to heal.

Comparing Yourself to Others Isn’t Helpful

It’s so tempting to scroll through photos of other moms – maybe your neighbor is already in her jeans or a celebrity just posted a beach-body pic. But here’s the thing: every postpartum timeline is different. Factors like genetics, breastfeeding, sleep, stress, and how much help you have at home all play a role. No two bodies shed pregnancy weight in the same way, and that’s totally normal.

Your experience is valid, even if it looks different from others
Celebrate each small win (think: more energy, less swelling, stronger walks), not just the number on the scale
Focus on your progress, not someone else’s finish line

Your body just did something incredible. Show it a little patience and grace as you settle into your own normal. The pace might not be what you expected, but that doesn’t mean you’re not making progress.

Setting Achievable Postpartum Weight Loss Goals

Being a new mom means life is all over the place, so expecting dramatic changes overnight? Not realistic. Setting goals you can actually reach is the trick to feeling successful and not defeated. Try shifting your focus from "I want to lose 30 pounds" to small, doable steps that fit your real day-to-day chaos.

The Value of Small Wins

Nobody loses all the "baby weight" in one week (despite what social media might say). Instead, break it up into pieces and let yourself feel good about progress, even if it's tiny. Small wins add up and help your brain stay motivated.

Here are some examples of "small wins" to celebrate:

Cooking a nutritious meal
Choosing water instead of soda at lunch
Taking a 10-minute walk with your baby
Fitting in a short stretch or gentle exercise
Saying "no" to a crash diet

When the little changes start stacking up, the momentum builds. Suddenly, you're able to see your effort pay off in ways you never expected.

How to Measure Progress Beyond the Scale

The number on the scale is not the only measure of success. In fact, sometimes it can mess with your mood even when you're making great changes. Try looking for progress in:

Your energy levels (can you make it through the afternoon without crashing?)
How your clothes fit (maybe those jeans feel a bit comfier)
Strength and flexibility (can you carry the car seat without as much struggle?)
Mood improvements or less stress
Better sleep (even if it’s still not perfect!)

Choose 1-2 ways to track progress other than your weight. Write them down each week. You'll be amazed by what counts as "success."

Adjusting Your Goals with Life's Realities

Babies are unpredictable, life happens, and sometimes your only goal is "keep everyone fed and alive" (and that TOTALLY counts). Don’t beat yourself up if you miss a workout, eat fast food, or just want a nap.

Revise your goals to fit your changing schedule
Let go of perfection—flexibility is the name of the game
Remind yourself it's about your journey, not anyone else's

Remember, you're juggling a lot! Taking care of yourself alongside a baby is no small task. Go easy on yourself and keep your goals real, gentle, and kind. That’s how you build habits that last long after the newborn chaos fades.

Nourishing Your Body for Healthy Postpartum Weight Loss

It’s easy to forget about your own nutrition when you’re caring for a newborn and running on little sleep, but what you eat right now makes a big difference in how you feel every day. Fueling your body with good food will help you recover, support steady energy, and make healthy weight loss feel realistic—not like another chore. Let’s break it down:

Balanced Meals and Snack Ideas

Balanced eating isn’t about strict rules or cutting out foods you love. Aim for variety and eating to satisfy your hunger, not just the clock. Here’s how to build a plate (or snack) that works for you:

Protein (chicken, eggs, beans, or Greek yogurt) at meals and snacks to keep you full and help recovery.
Colorful veggies and fruits for vitamins and fiber.
Whole grains like oats, brown rice, or whole wheat bread for long-lasting energy.
Healthy fats from avocado, nuts, seeds, or a drizzle of olive oil.

Snack ideas for when you’re short on time:

Apple slices with peanut butter.
Hummus with carrot sticks.
Boiled eggs and whole-grain crackers.
Cottage cheese with blueberries.

You’re probably more tired and hungrier than usual right now. That’s normal! Picking nutrient-dense foods can make a huge difference in your mood and recovery.

Foods to Enjoy and Foods to Limit

Enjoying what you eat is key but being a bit mindful helps. Nobody needs extra guilt right now—just some gentle guidance:

Focus on foods that nourish and keep you feeling well. Fresh fruits, grilled lean meats, whole grains, and leafy greens offer more staying power than processed foods.
Limit foods with lots of added sugar or white flour, like pastries, candy, and sugary drinks—they’ll spike your energy, then leave you dragging.
Prepackaged snacks are handy but can be high in salt and low in nutrients. Add in real food where you can.
Don’t skip meals—this can leave you ravenous later and overeating quick-fix snacks.

Remember: treats are fine sometimes! One cookie won’t derail your progress, but focusing on overall balance makes the biggest difference.

Hydration Strategies for Busy Moms

It’s wild how easy it is to go hours without a sip of water when your whole schedule revolves around your baby. Still, hydration matters for your energy, digestion, and (if you’re breastfeeding) milk supply.

Keep a water bottle nearby wherever you go—bedside, diaper bag, stroller pocket.
Sip something before and after every feeding.
If water is boring, add fruit slices or a splash of lemon juice for flavor.
Unsweetened herbal tea or flavored sparkling water also count toward your intake.

The bottom line: Take the pressure off “perfect eating” and focus on steady fuel, regular hydration, and simple meals that work for your new routine. Every healthy choice counts—even the small ones.

The Role of Breastfeeding in Postpartum Weight Loss Expectations

Breastfeeding is often talked about as nature’s way to help new moms lose some baby weight. But it’s not always so clear-cut. Sure, your body burns extra calories while making milk, but other factors come into play too. Here’s what you need to know about how breastfeeding really fits into your postpartum weight loss journey.

Calorie Needs While Nursing

Your body actually works harder when you’re breastfeeding, burning somewhere between 400 and 500 extra calories per day on average. To keep up with this demand, you’ll probably notice your hunger ramps up a notch, and that’s perfectly normal.

For most nursing moms, this means:

Eating extra snacks or slightly larger meals
Choosing foods rich in nutrients (think: oats, nuts, eggs, veggies)
Not skipping meals, even if your day is jam-packed with baby duties

Staying fueled helps keep your energy up and supports steady milk production. If you’re worried about over-eating, try paying attention to your body’s hunger and fullness signals—it takes some practice, but it works!

Maintaining Milk Supply During Weight Loss

Breastfeeding mothers are often told to wait before cutting calories, and there’s a good reason. Losing weight too fast can drop your milk supply, which isn’t ideal for you or your little one. Gradual is the key word here!

To keep your supply steady while gently losing weight:

Aim for slow, steady weight loss—around 1 pound per week is considered safe
Avoid restrictive or "crash" diets
Don’t cut below about 1800 calories a day, unless your healthcare provider says otherwise

Remember, your body’s main job right now is to make milk for your baby. Fuel yourself well, and let weight loss be a gentle process. There’s no rush!

Tips for Breastfeeding Moms

If you want to support gentle postpartum weight loss while breastfeeding, keep a few things in mind:

Stay hydrated—nursing makes you extra thirsty, and water is your friend
Choose whole, unprocessed foods when you can, but don’t stress about being perfect
Sneak in movement throughout the day, even if structured exercise isn’t on the table yet
Rest when you can—lack of sleep can affect both hunger and cravings
Reach out for support from a lactation consultant or dietitian if you have concerns

Every mom is different, and for some, the pounds come off with nursing, while for others, the weight sticks around until after weaning. Both are completely normal. Remember, you’re nourishing a tiny human—give yourself lots of patience and grace.

Sleep Deprivation and Its Impact on Postpartum Weight Loss

Bringing home a new baby usually means your relationship with sleep is about to change—big time. Most moms find themselves awake at all hours, feeding, changing diapers, or just trying to settle a fussy newborn. And while it's normal, this stage of broken nights and power naps can really throw a wrench into your postpartum weight loss plans. Getting enough rest actually helps your body recover and manage your hunger hormones. For many moms, though, a full night's sleep feels like a distant memory in the early weeks.

How Lack of Sleep Affects Hunger

It's wild, but when you're short on sleep, your body does odd things—like making you hungrier than usual. Here’s what usually happens:

The hormones that manage appetite (ghrelin and leptin) get thrown out of balance, so you crave more snacks.
Tiredness often leads to cravings for sweet or carb-heavy foods, since your body looks for quick energy sources.
Fatigue can zap your willpower, making it feel impossible to say no to that extra cookie or leftover mac and cheese.

Some days, it feels like you’re eating just to stay awake, not even because you’re actually hungry. That’s totally not your fault—your tired brain really is driving you toward comfort food.

Strategies to Squeeze in Rest

You’re not going to be able to control your baby’s sleep schedule, but there are a few things you can do to sneak in a little more rest:

Nap when your baby naps—even if chores pile up, your body will thank you.
If you can manage it, swap off nighttime newborn duty with your partner or another trusted adult, even for a couple of hours.
Keep your phone out of arm’s reach at night; it can actually help you fall back asleep more quickly.
Try to create a simple, calming before-bed routine, even if it’s just washing your face and changing into pajamas.

For more supportive advice on why rest is worth prioritizing, see getting enough sleep after pregnancy.

Prioritizing Sleep Amidst Chaos

You have permission to let some stuff slide. Honestly. The dishes, the laundry, returning all those texts—those things can wait. What matters most is that you and your little one are safe and cared for. If you remember nothing else, keep in mind:

Well-rested moms are more likely to have the energy for gentle activity and healthier food choices.
Sleep is part of recovery, not a luxury. Your body just did a huge thing!
Some nights (or more likely, most), sleep will be in short supply, so show yourself extra patience and grace.

One last thing—consistency with rest, not perfection, helps over time. If you can sneak in a nap or a full night's sleep every once in a while, celebrate it as a win.

Safe Ways to Get Moving Again After Baby

Getting back into movement after having a baby is a whole new experience, and it doesn’t help that everyone’s advice seems to be different. The big thing? Every postpartum body heals at its own pace, so listen to yours!

When and How to Start Exercising

Before doing anything, check in with your healthcare provider to get the green light, especially if you had a c-section or any birth complications.

Once you’re cleared, focus on gentle, low-impact movement. Don’t expect to jump right back to where you were before pregnancy – and honestly, that’s totally fine. Here’s a simple roadmap to ease in:

Start with walks: Even a 10-minute stroll with your baby in a stroller or carrier counts!
Try simple stretches: Focus on loosening tight hips and shoulders.
Start pelvic floor work: Gentle pelvic floor squeezes (like Kegels) build your base back up.

Pay attention to your body. If you feel pain, heaviness, or increased bleeding, take it as a sign to slow down or rest. There’s no shame in going at your own speed.

Fun Activities to Try with Your Baby

Exercise doesn’t need to mean burpees or gym sessions. Find ways to fit in movement while caring for your baby. This makes it easier and (sometimes) more fun:

Dance around your living room with your little one – they’ll probably giggle, and you’ll definitely break a sweat.
Look up “mom and baby” classes (in person or virtual) for yoga or gentle fitness.
Babywearing walks or hikes get you outside, calm your baby, and work your legs and core all at once.

Incorporating baby into your fitness can help you stay consistent, and it's a great bonding trick when naps refuse to happen.

Listening to Your Body’s Cues

Your postpartum body is sending you messages all day, and tuning in matters now more than ever. Things to watch for:

Persistent pain or swelling during or after activity
Heavier vaginal bleeding that returns after being lighter
Leaking urine with movement

If any of this crops up, reach out to your provider. Sometimes, simple tweaks help, or you may need to see a pelvic floor therapist. Never feel silly for asking questions; you know your body best.

Some days, a short walk is all you’ll manage, and that’s enough. Other times, you feel energetic and ready for a bit more. It’s all part of rebuilding strength at a pace that respects everything your body has accomplished.

The bottom line: Be kind to yourself, focus on progress (not perfection), and celebrate each small bit of movement. It all adds up, and you’re doing great.

Coping with Hormonal Changes and Emotional Ups and Downs

Hormones are truly something else after having a baby. One minute you’re on cloud nine staring at your newborn, the next you’re in tears for no clear reason. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Postpartum hormonal shifts can affect your mood, energy, and overall sense of self, often leaving you feeling a bit off-balance.

Understanding Mood Swings

Your body is adjusting after pregnancy and birth, and that means your hormones are, too. All that estrogen and progesterone drops fast, and it’s totally normal to feel moody, irritable, or even weepy in the first weeks. On top of that, sleep deprivation and the stress of figuring out motherhood can amplify everything. Some ways these ups and downs can show up:

Sudden sadness or crying spells
Feeling unusually anxious or on edge
Irritability over little things
A rollercoaster sense of motivation or self-worth

If these feelings don’t start to fade after a couple of weeks—or they get worse—reach out to a healthcare provider. They can help you figure out what’s going on and if you could use some extra support.

Support Systems and Asking for Help

Even if you usually think of yourself as strong and independent, don’t be shy about leaning on others right now. Motherhood isn’t meant to be handled solo. Support can make a real difference:

Ask a partner, family member, or friend to help with baby for an hour, even if it’s just so you can nap or shower
Join a local or online new mom’s group to swap stories and tips
Let others know if you need meals, errands run, or just someone to listen

When you accept help, you’re not showing weakness—you're giving yourself what you need to recover and be there for your baby. Everyone’s learning as they go.

Stress Management Techniques

Managing emotions isn’t about pretending to be happy all the time. It’s about finding simple ways to ride the waves. Some things that might help:

Practice deep breathing when you feel overwhelmed—inhale slowly, hold, and exhale for a few counts
Go for a short walk or get fresh air when possible, even just around the block
Keep a journal to get your thoughts out of your head and onto paper
Sneak in small moments for yourself, like listening to music or enjoying a cup of tea
Remind yourself this phase will pass—even tough days don’t last forever

If you notice you’re consistently feeling hopeless or unable to care for yourself or your baby, reach out to your provider right away. There are resources and people ready to listen and help.

Remember, postpartum emotions can be wild, but you’re stronger than you think—and there’s always help within reach.

Maintaining Motivation and Practicing Self-Compassion

Staying motivated with postpartum weight loss is tough, especially when every day looks a bit different and your energy levels are bouncing all over the place. There are days when getting out of pajamas feels like a win, and that's perfectly fine. The key is to be gentle with yourself and remember that this is a marathon, not a sprint.

Dealing With Setbacks

Nobody's journey is a straight line. There will be weeks when it feels like you’re making no progress—maybe the scale doesn’t budge, or you’re too tired to move. Here’s how to handle those bumps in the road:

Accept that setbacks are part of the process, not the end of it.
Reset your goals if needed—sometimes the plan needs to change, and that’s okay.
Take each day as a fresh start. Just because you had a rough week doesn’t mean you can’t keep moving forward.

Some days will be messy, but consistency over time matters more than a perfect streak.

Celebrating Non-Scale Victories

Progress isn’t just about numbers. There are a bunch of other ways to notice you’re heading in the right direction:

Your stamina improves—you walk a little farther or take the stairs without feeling exhausted.
Clothes start to fit better, even if the scale doesn’t change.
You’re able to lift your baby comfortably or play for longer without needing a break.

Take time to really see these wins. Jot them down in a notes app or celebrate with a cup of good coffee on the porch. Every small victory counts!

Positive Self-Talk for Ongoing Progress

You might catch yourself thinking, "Why bother?" or "I should be further along." This is where positive self-talk becomes your best friend. Here’s what helps:

Replace negative thoughts with gentle affirmations: “I’m making progress at my own pace.”
Focus on what your body has done—grown and birthed a baby!—not just what you want it to look like now.
Remind yourself regularly: you deserve kindness from yourself as much as you do from anyone else.

Block out any harsh self-judgment, and keep cheering yourself on. If you're struggling, reach out to your support circle (even if it’s just texting a friend to tell them you’re frustrated).

With ups and downs, remember: You’re still showing up and trying. That’s the real accomplishment. The compassion and care you show yourself set the stage for real, lasting progress.

Body Image, Social Media, and Postpartum Weight Loss Expectations

Navigating Social Comparisons

Let’s be honest, scrolling through your newsfeed can be rough when you see other moms posting pictures looking like they never even gave birth. It’s easy to start second-guessing yourself or wondering, “Why isn’t my body bouncing back like hers?”

Here’s why comparing yourself to others—especially on social media—isn’t helpful:

Every body heals and loses weight at its own pace.
Social media is a highlight reel, not real life—most folks post their best (and most flattering) moments.
Health and happiness aren’t always visible in photos.

If you find your mood takes a hit after checking social media, it’s okay to take a break or unfollow accounts that make you feel less-than. Focusing on your journey can be a huge relief.

The Truth Behind Celebrity ‘Bounce Back' Stories

Celebrity moms seem to shrink down to their pre-baby size in record time. What you don’t see is their access to personal chefs, nannies, stylists, and trainers. For most of us, the reality is diapers, takeout food, and maybe five minutes alone in the bathroom each day.

Celebrities have a small army helping them behind the scenes.
Many stories you read are carefully planned PR moves or photo shoots with professional retouching.
Extreme measures, like restrictive diets or post-surgical fixes, are sometimes at play, but not openly discussed.

Being gentle with yourself is way more sustainable—and better for your mental health—than chasing something that’s just not real for most new moms.

Embracing Body Positivity

Your body did something amazing, and adapting to the changes is a process that involves both patience and kindness toward yourself.

Appreciate the strength and endurance your body showed during pregnancy and birth.
Set goals that feel rewarding based on how you feel, not just the number on the scale.
Surround yourself with positive influences: friends, accounts, and communities that support body confidence, not perfect images.

Remember, a healthy body looks different on everyone. The way you feel, move, and show up for your new baby matters way more than any photo-ready look. Celebrate what your body has accomplished, and let that be your motivation.

When to Seek Professional Guidance for Postpartum Weight Loss

Let’s be real—some moments in the postpartum journey feel like a guessing game. Weight loss after pregnancy isn’t always straightforward. Sometimes, those little nagging questions or unexpected issues are actually a sign to get a professional involved. There’s absolutely no shame in reaching out for help—in fact, getting support can help you feel more confident and cared for as you adjust to life with your baby.

Working with Healthcare Providers

If something feels off—physically or emotionally—the first stop should be your healthcare provider. They’re the go-to for spotting medical issues and giving advice that fits your situation. Here’s when to reach out:

You notice sudden or dramatic weight loss or gain without explanation
You’re struggling with physical symptoms, like exhaustion that doesn’t get better or severe pain
You suspect a condition like diastasis recti (abdominal separation), pelvic floor problems, or thyroid issues
Your recovery isn’t going as expected (think heavy bleeding, really low energy, or lingering pain)
You’re unsure how to restart exercise or build a postpartum nutrition plan that works for you

Recognizing Red Flags

Listen to your body—sometimes it’s saying, “Hey, can we get some help here?” Be on the lookout for these warning signs:

Changes in mood that make daily life tough (sadness, anxiety, or anger that won’t budge)
Sudden loss of appetite or not being able to keep food down
A total lack of motivation or joy in things that used to make you happy
Trouble bonding with your baby or feelings of guilt and worthlessness
Physical symptoms that worsen or refuse to improve

If any of these crop up, don’t wait. Reaching out sooner prevents small issues from becoming big struggles.

Joining Supportive Communities

Professional support isn’t just about doctors and nutritionists. Sometimes the best advice or comfort comes from other moms who’ve been through it. Consider:

Postpartum groups led by nurses or counselors
Virtual meet-ups or forums for accountability, tips, and laughs
Classes specializing in postpartum fitness with certified trainers

Being a mom doesn’t mean doing it alone, and connecting with others can actually make this whole process feel more manageable.

Even small steps toward getting the right help can make a huge difference in how you feel, day after day. You deserve support during this wild, wonderful (and sometimes overwhelming) chapter!

Wrapping It Up: Give Yourself Grace

Alright, so here's the bottom line: postpartum weight loss is a journey, not a sprint. Your body just did something incredible, and it deserves patience and kindness. Forget about bouncing back overnight or comparing yourself to anyone else—every mom's path looks different. Focus on small, healthy changes, celebrate the little wins, and remember that progress is more important than perfection. Take care of yourself, lean on your support system, and enjoy these moments with your baby. You've got this, one step at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon can I start trying to lose weight after having a baby?

You should give your body time to heal after giving birth. Most doctors suggest waiting until your six-week postpartum checkup before starting any weight loss plan. If you had a C-section or any complications, you might need to wait longer. Always check with your doctor first.

How much weight will I lose right after giving birth?

Most new moms lose about 10 to 15 pounds right after delivery. This is from the baby, placenta, and fluids. After that, weight loss usually slows down and happens gradually over the next few months.

Is it safe to diet while breastfeeding?

You shouldn't go on a strict diet while breastfeeding because your body needs extra calories to make milk. Focus on eating healthy foods and listen to your hunger. Losing weight too quickly can affect your milk supply.

How long does it usually take to lose pregnancy weight?

It took nine months to gain the weight, so it can take at least that long to lose it. Some moms lose weight faster, while others take more time. Be patient and remember that slow and steady is best for your health.

What are some healthy snacks for new moms?

Great snacks include yogurt with fruit, whole grain crackers with cheese, apple slices with peanut butter, or a handful of nuts. Try to pick snacks that give you energy and keep you full.

Can lack of sleep make it harder to lose weight?

Yes, not getting enough sleep can make you hungrier and slow down your weight loss. Try to rest when you can, even if it means taking short naps during the day.

Is it okay to exercise after having a baby?

Gentle movement, like walking, is usually safe soon after birth, but always check with your doctor first. Start slow, listen to your body, and stop if you feel pain or discomfort. As you heal, you can slowly add more activity.

What should I do if I feel sad or stressed about my body after birth?

It's normal to feel emotional after having a baby. Talk to friends, family, or a counselor about how you feel. Remember, your body did something amazing, and it's okay to ask for help if you're having a tough time.

MommyFit: Postpartum Weight Loss Journey