A Nairobi-based mother of three shared insights into postpartum weight retention and recovery, highlighting the physical challenges many women face after childbirth.
The author noted that while pregnancy books often suggest weight loss within nine months, clinical observations show significant weight gain persists after multiple pregnancies. She cited examples of women gaining 5kg after first childbirth, another 5kg after second, and up to 10kg after third births.
Using her own experience as reference, she described how her weight fluctuated from 54kg pre-pregnancy to 75kg after first childbirth, then struggling to maintain 100kg after third. She emphasized that carrying excess weight impacts bodily functions, comparing the strain to carrying a 20kg backpack daily.
Contrary to popular belief, she stressed that she never followed a diet during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Instead, she adhered to nutritional guidelines, consuming 300 additional calories daily in the last trimester and 500 extra calories while breastfeeding.
Her approach focused on balanced eating and breastfeeding, which she explained helps burn calories and reduce postpartum fat. She clarified that eating for two during pregnancy leads to excessive weight gain, advising against this practice.
The author concluded that while rapid weight loss wasn't her goal, the body's natural recovery mechanisms after childbirth and breastfeeding make weight management achievable through healthy habits.
