Episode 18: The Myth of “Bouncing Back" - Real Talk on Your Postpartum Body, Identity, and Relationships

Your pelvic floor can stretch up to 250 times its normal length during birth. Your brain undergoes a literal metamorphosis. Your hormones shift for as long as you’re lactating. So why are we expected to be “back to normal” by twelve weeks?? This week, Dr. Alex and Dr. Rebecca (both moms themselves) dive into “bounce-back” culture. We talk about the pressure to have a “good baby,” the quiet strain relationships feel in the “do no harm” phase, and how to protect your mental health in a society that profits from your insecurity. Because none of us ever really go back to who we were before baby — we learn to move forward differently.What you'll learn:How long it actually takes to feel “normal” again after birth (hint: it’s nowhere near 6 weeks).Why unrealistic expectations (about sleep, breastfeeding, your body, and your relationship) often cause more suffering than the changes themselves.What really determines whether your baby sleeps (it’s not just your parenting skills).Why strong couples don’t “bounce back” — they relearn the dance.Tune in if you’ve ever thought:“Everyone else seems to be handling this better than I am.”“Why does her baby sleep and mine doesn’t? I’m following the plan.”“If this is supposed to be natural, why do I need so much help?”“Will I ever feel like myself again?”ResourcesParents in Love: A Guide to Great Sex After Kids by Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy The Postpartum Essentials Virtual courseSex After Baby Mini-Course Find a pelvic floor PT near you: pelvicrehab.com or Pelvic Global DirectoryConnect with us:Dr. Rebecca Howard EudyWebsite: rebeccaeudy.comInstagram: @rebeccahowardeudyNewsletter: Parents in Love SubstackDr. Alexandra DiGradoWebsite: bostonpelvicpt.comInstagram: @bostonpelvicptNewsletter: Under the HoodUnder the Hood PodcastInstagram: @underthehooddocsWebsite: underthehoodpod.com**What topic should we cover next? Who should we have on as a special guest? We'd love to hear your ideas! Reach out at https://www.underthehoodpod.com/contact. **