The recent fetish of physically fit pregnant women posting pictures of themselves next to average pregnant women has me stupefied. And angry.
Is this the new craze in the continued obsession of some women pitting themselves against one another?
What is your point, ladies?
To show average women how they should be ashamed of themselves for not being more like you? To be the guiding light in the dim underbelly of the average pregnant women's world? How truly helpful.
The encouraging words that accompany these pictures are simply the best at boosting any pregnant women's spirit.
Here's one of my personal favourites;
"This is one pregnant lady you won't see laying around the house giving into her sugar cravings.”
Doesn't it just make you feel all tingly and motivated inside? Here let me wipe the donut crumbs off my chin while I attempt to lift my lazy gluteus maximus off the couch to thank you for your inspiration!
Of course, these pictures and articles are all under the pretense of helping women see just how different our bodies are when pregnant. Oh yes, of course! You are just so excited to meet and take pictures with an average pregnant woman so you can familiarize yourself with all their unique shapes and sizes. Awe....
Seriously?!
Oh, but it doesn't end there, let's follow up those same pictures with post-pregnancy photos (4 to 5 weeks post) of flat six pack abs, baby on the hip and caption that one;
"I've got a kid, six-pack abs, and no excuse.”
You know what I say? Blow it out your ass!
These women are shaming, body shaming pregnant women. There is no intent to encourage fellow women by showing them just how it can be done. It’s being done for attention. That's it, that's all and nothing more.
Now one might say that my opinion stems from jealousy and I have considered that. But, after careful thought, I would have to disagree. I am by no means a supermodel or health nut but I am content with my pregnancy and post-pregnancy body. Some days I'm thrilled with it and some days I'm not. I work out as regularly as I can and believe that all foods can be consumed in moderation. Some days more moderation than not but, oh well.
What I'd like to know though, is how much time these women spend daily on their workouts (with travel), food preparation and total thought processes devoted to their health ahem.……body? Now, take out the time they need for sleep.
Hummmm.….I wonder if they would find this balanced with other "priorities" in their life? New baby, marriage, work, possibly other children, connections with friends/family or possible spiritual connections, upkeep of the home? (No order intended)
My guess is that they're not.
So please stop posting pictures under the pretense of love for all...just post them for the real reason they are being posted...HEY look at me!
Pregnancy is an individual journey that should be embraced without shame. You're creating a life that will join yours and beautifully turn it on its ear! Embrace every moment! Surround yourself with people that support you.
I say: if you workout, awesome. If you don’t, awesome. If you'd like to start but don't know where to begin, ask for guidance. But NEVER EVER be ashamed of your body!
It is and will remain my opinion that these pictures and articles are not realistic in any way, shape or form. Certainly, not without having to give up on part of the very reason the pregnancy happened in the first place. Family.
