You'll Be Rocking Maternity Jeans for Months (or Even Years) After Baby Arrives

As I cradled my newborn while my toddler napped, a wave of weakness washed over me. I barely managed to set her down in the crib, feeling dizzy and craving peanut butter and crackers like it was an emergency. My period was late, and despite two negative pregnancy tests, something in me urged to take another one—after all, I hadn’t felt this way since I was pregnant with my first child. If I wasn’t expecting again, I’d need to check my blood sugar; a mom of two little ones can’t afford to feel this way.

I rummaged through my stash (you know you’ve got one too) and, lo and behold, that little stick confirmed my suspicions. Thankfully, I still had my trusty maternity jeans from my last pregnancy. Not because we planned for another baby, but because six months postpartum, they were the only comfortable option that fit my new shape.

Did I feel like I was settling for less because I was still wearing maternity gear? Was I embarrassed that my belly hadn’t returned to its pre-pregnancy size? Absolutely not. I had two kids in two years (soon to be three), and those jeans made me feel fantastic.

The reality is that many of us find ourselves in maternity clothes long after childbirth. After my first baby, I smugly packed up my pre-baby jeans, only to realize they were a distant memory the moment I tried to wear them again. Nobody warns you that you might not fit into your old wardrobe for months—or even years. This uncertainty can lead to feelings of inadequacy. But take a deep breath; you’re definitely not alone.

Here are some truths that aren’t often discussed about the journey of motherhood:

Your Nipples Might Bleed
Breastfeeding can be brutal. You might experience dryness, cracks, and pain that feels like you’re getting a titty twister every time your baby latches on. I certainly faced this with my first child, and no one warned me. After a week of applying copious amounts of nipple cream, I finally toughened up, but those first two weeks were a real struggle.
Resentment is Normal
You will love your child, but there will be days when it feels like you’re carrying the entire load. If family or your partner aren’t stepping up, you might feel like a servant to your baby’s needs, yearning for your old life. It’s confusing to love someone so much while also feeling overwhelmed and exhausted.
You Might Feel Frustrated with Your Partner
I was blindsided by this reality. A friend warned me I’d “hate” my husband after the baby arrived, and I thought she was crazy. But when he invited friends over the day after our son was born, I wanted to scream. Sleep-deprived and overwhelmed, my patience was thin, and his friends didn’t seem to care about anything but cracking open a beer.
Hemorrhoids are a Real Pain
The first post-baby poop can be terrifying, especially if you’ve developed hemorrhoids from pushing. If you find yourself avoiding the bathroom due to discomfort, it’s time to reach out for help. Soaking and over-the-counter treatments can alleviate the pain, but don’t hesitate to consult your doctor if needed.
You Might Have Accidents
After childbirth, your bladder control can take a hit. You might find yourself forgetting to go to the bathroom because you’re too busy managing your new normal. I once soaked the kitchen floor while washing dishes because I thought I could wait it out. Spoiler alert: you might not be able to.
Infections Can Occur
Postpartum bleeding can last for weeks, and if you had a vaginal birth, nothing should go into your vagina for six weeks. This can lead to yeast infections or rashes. I experienced this firsthand and thought it was just part of the healing process until I finally sought help.

It’s essential to talk about these experiences, even if they’re messy or uncomfortable. Knowing you’re not alone in dealing with maternity pants and postpartum challenges can make a huge difference.

For more information on pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource on female infertility. And if you’re considering your own journey into motherhood, visit this guide for all the details on getting started.

Summary

Navigating postpartum life is full of surprises, including the extended wear of maternity jeans and unexpected challenges like nipple pain, resentment, and even bladder control issues. These experiences are common and often unspoken, but sharing them can help ease the journey into motherhood. Remember, you’re not alone in this!