Postpartum Truths I Wasn’t Ready For (But You Could Be)

Hey there, fellow moms! 👋

When I was pregnant, I thought I was prepared. I had the cute onesies folded in rainbow order, a diaper stockpile that looked like I owned a baby supply store, and a Pinterest board titled “Life With Baby: Calm & Cozy.”

And then postpartum hit me like a sippy cup to the forehead.

No one tells you the real stuff. Or maybe they do and we’re all too sleep-deprived to remember. Either way, here are the truths I wasn’t ready for but maybe you can be.

1. The Hair Loss Is Real

I thought “postpartum shedding” meant a few extra strands in the shower. Nope. I have a lot of hair, like a lot, a lot. And I thought I was going to go bald! Ponytails got thinner, the shower drain cried for mercy, and my bathroom looked like a tumbleweed farm. Spoiler: it does grow back (hello, awkward baby hairs).

2. Your Body Feels… Unfamiliar

Nobody told me that even after the baby was out, my body would still feel like it didn’t quite belong to me. Sore, squishy, stretched, leaky, all of it. You can feel proud and grateful for what your body did and still be shocked at how long recovery takes. I had C-sections with all my kids and it was weird to me that all three recoveries were completely different. For some reason I thought they would be similar, but nope!

3. The Mood Swings Deserve Their Own Ride at Disney

One minute, I was weeping over how perfect my baby’s eyelashes were. The next, I was raging because my partner chewed too loudly. Hormones are no joke. Postpartum emotions swing fast and hard, and that’s normal. But also, please know when it’s more than the “baby blues.” Postpartum depression and anxiety are real, and you deserve support. I had postpartum depression with my second kid. I didn't understand why I was so upset all the time. Then one day it just went away. I think I was one of the lucky ones because my depression didn't last very long. If you need someone to talk to, please find someone!

4. Sleep Deprivation Isn’t Just Tiring—It’s Surreal

I thought I knew “tired.” College all-nighters? Early work shifts? Ha. Newborn tired is next-level. It’s dropping your phone in the fridge because you thought it was the milk. It’s nodding off mid-text. It’s a fog that only other moms truly understand. And sad to say, it never really goes away. Even after your kids are older you still worry about them. When they are teenagers you don't sleep until everyone is safely home. But I wouldn't change it!

5. The Mom Guilt Starts Early

I felt guilty for wanting a shower. Guilty for bottle-feeding. Guilty for not being “present” enough. Guilty for being too present. Spoiler: mom guilt is basically part of the package deal. But here’s the truth, your baby doesn’t need a perfect mom. They need a loved, cared-for mom. Take time for yourself and do things you want to do. It is ok to leave your baby for a little time away.

6. It’s Lonely (Even When You’re Never Alone)

No one warned me how isolating postpartum could feel. Friends go back to their lives, your partner may not “get it,” and you can feel trapped in a cycle of diapers and feedings. But leaning on mom groups (online or in person), family, or even quick texts with another mom in the trenches makes a world of difference.

7. The Love Hits Different

Yes, it’s overwhelming, exhausting, and messy. But then there’s that moment, at 3 a.m., baby asleep on your chest, tiny hand gripping your finger, when you realize your heart has stretched in ways you never imagined. That part is just as real as the hair loss, the tears, and the sleepless nights.

Final Truth: You’re Doing Better Than You Think

If you’re about to enter postpartum, I’m not here to scare you. I’m here to say: you’re not alone, it’s okay to be blindsided, and it’s okay to not love every moment. Give yourself the same grace you’d give your best friend.