Uncomfortable truths about postpartum that no one talks about

Because it’s not all baby snuggles and soft blankets. We talk a lot about preparing for birth but way less about what happens after.

The truth? Postpartum can be raw, messy, emotional, and sometimes even a little shocking.

Here are some of the uncomfortable (but totally normal) realities that no one prepares you for…but we think you deserve to know.

1. You might smell funny.

Yep. One of the less glamorous side effects of postpartum is body odor. Between hormone shifts, night sweats, leaking milk, and not exactly prioritizing showers. You may notice that you don’t smell like your usual self. And that’s okay.

Belovia tip: change your shirt more than your standards. This is temporary.

2. Your hormones will throw wild parties in your brain.

One moment you are in love with your baby and weeping at how tiny their toes are, and the next you’re convinced something terrible is going to happen. The hormonal rollercoaster is real and it can trigger everything from rage, to sadness, to irrational fears (like being sure you’ll drop the baby, or never sleep again).

It doesn’t mean you’re broken! It means your body is recovering from the most intense transformation of your life.

3. You will still look pregnant for a while.

Your belly won’t magically disappear after giving birth. In fact, you might look 5–6 months pregnant for weeks or even months. Your uterus, organs, and skin all need time to recover. It’s normal. It’s human. It doesn’t mean anything is wrong.

4. Your belly will feel weird.

Soft, empty, maybe even a bit disconnected. Many people describe touching their postpartum belly as strange or emotional. Give yourself grace. Your body just did something extraordinary.

5. If you’re breastfeeding, you’ll be ravenous and constantly thirsty.

Like, next-level hungry. Breastfeeding burns calories and shifts your body’s needs fast. You might suddenly crave carbs like never before, and feel like you can’t get enough water. Keep snacks and a water bottle close and honor your hunger without guilt. This is not the moment to count calories, your body needs you to listen and act consequently.

6. You might not feel “in love” with your baby right away.

Bonding isn’t always instant. You’re healing, you’re exhausted, and everything is new. If you don’t feel an immediate wave of connection, you’re not alone and it doesn’t make you a bad parent. Attachment grows. Give it time.

7. Everyone will want to hold the baby, but forget about you.

You just gave birth, you’re bleeding, you’re sore, you’re navigating feeding and healing and yet, most people will ask about the baby, not about you. It can feel incredibly lonely.

This is why postpartum care is just as important as birth prep. You need care, too.

8. You might mourn your “old life” — and that’s not selfish.

Even when you wanted this baby with all your heart, it is normal to grieve your old freedom, your old body, your old rhythm. There’s space for both love and loss. Let yourself feel both.

And remember…

Postpartum is not picture-perfect — it’s messy, miraculous, and often misunderstood. Talking about these truths doesn’t make us negative. It makes us honest. It makes us strong. It helps us feel less alone.

If you are in this chapter and craving support, space to feel, and someone to walk with you: we see you.

Belovia Care offers gentle, realistic support for postpartum planning and recovery. Not just for your baby but specially for you.

You don’t have to do this alone.