Postnatal Hormones — Time Is A Healer

I was recently chatting with a postnatal client who was praising exercise for helping her feel “like herself” again. She admitted that it had taken far longer to feel “normal” after having her daughter than she had expected, and she struggled to come to terms with that.

It got me thinking about why so many women experience these emotions — and about the common, yet completely unrealistic, expectation that once the baby is born, you’ll feel “like your old self” again almost immediately.

While it’s widely known and discussed that a woman goes through major hormonal changes during pregnancy, it’s far less acknowledged how long it can take for those hormones to regulate after birth.

In fact, it can take up to two years for hormone levels to fully return to their pre-pregnancy state.

In those first few months after giving birth, a new mum can experience a huge range of emotions. Some are beautifully positive — an overwhelming sense of joy and love for the new baby — but there can also be moments of sadness, anxiety, or feeling completely overwhelmed. Alongside these emotions often comes guilt:

Guilt for not feeling happy enough.

Guilt for not being grateful every moment.

Guilt for thinking she’s not doing a good enough job.

And this guilt is something I really want to address.

So many new mums neglect their own needs out of fear that prioritising themselves means not putting their baby first. But in reality, taking care of yourself is one of the best things you can do for your baby. Exercise, for example, releases endorphins that can help lift your mood on those tougher days.

Joining a group exercise class can also be a wonderful way to connect with other new mums who are likely feeling many of the same ups and downs. Even something as simple as a daily walk — fresh air, gentle movement, and a change of scenery — can make a meaningful difference for both you and your baby.

The bottom line is: be kind to yourself.

Try not to overanalyse your emotions, and certainly don’t punish yourself for them. The fact that you’re feeling so much is a sign that your body and hormones are working hard to find their balance. You’ve just grown an entire human from scratch. As incredible as this new little person is, it’s equally important not to neglect the one who’s been working overtime for the past nine months — you.

Of course you’ll feel overwhelmed at times. That’s normal. But you’re also setting an example for your baby. Make movement, self-care, and healthy habits something they grow up seeing — but most importantly, do it for yourself.

Self-care is not selfish.