Last Updated on January 19, 2026 by Lila Sjöberg
They tell you the baby will be worth it. They don’t tell you that six weeks postpartum, you’ll still be wearing mesh underwear and wondering why your body feels like it belongs to a stranger. They don’t tell you about the hair loss, the sweating, the weird numb patches, or the fact that “bouncing back” is a myth.
This is the stuff nobody mentions — what actually happens to your body after delivery, and how long recovery really takes. Spoiler: longer than six weeks.
Key Takeaways
Full postpartum recovery takes 6-12 months minimum, not the 6 weeks we’re told. Physical changes like diastasis recti and pelvic floor weakness are normal but often treatable. “Bouncing back” is unrealistic messaging — your body grew a human, it’s allowed to be different. Seeking help for physical issues is important; many postpartum problems are fixable.
The Short Answer: Postpartum body recovery is a months-long process involving healing from delivery, hormonal shifts, and adjusting to your new body. Many changes are normal; some require professional help. Be gentle with yourself and remember your body did something extraordinary. 🥰
The First Six Weeks: Survival Mode
The six-week mark gets hyped as some kind of finish line. It’s not. Your uterus is shrinking back down, bleeding continues for weeks, and any tears or incisions are healing. Everything feels unfamiliar.
Our postpartum healing essentials guide covers helpful products for this phase.
The Belly Situation
Your stomach won’t look “normal” for a long time — if ever. Diastasis recti (separation of abdominal muscles) is incredibly common and can often be improved with specific exercises. A pelvic floor physical therapist can assess you and teach safe core rehabilitation.
The Pelvic Floor Reality
Your pelvic floor went through a lot. This can show up as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, or pain during sex. These issues are common but treatable with pelvic floor physical therapy. Don’t suffer in silence.
Hormonal Rollercoaster
Estrogen and progesterone plummet after birth. This causes night sweats, hair loss around 3-4 months, skin changes, and mood fluctuations. If you’re breastfeeding, prolactin stays elevated, affecting other hormones.
The Weight Thing
Some women lose pregnancy weight quickly. Some don’t. Both are normal. The pressure to “get your body back” is toxic and unrealistic. Our energy-boosting essentials might help when you’re ready for movement.
Things That Might Need Professional Help
Pelvic floor problems, persistent diastasis recti, ongoing pain, mental health symptoms, and thyroid issues all warrant professional attention. Our piece on burnout signs is worth reading too.
What Actually Helps
Be patient — full recovery takes 6-12 months minimum. Prioritize nutrition and hydration. Move gently when cleared. Ask for help when something doesn’t feel right. Treat yourself kindly.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will my body feel normal again?
Many women say 9-12 months, and “normal” might look different than before. Be patient.
Will I ever stop peeing when I sneeze?
Most likely, yes — with pelvic floor physical therapy. Don’t accept this as permanent.
Your Body Deserves Respect
“Bouncing back” needs to die. This IS your real body — the one that grew and birthed a human. Recovery takes time. Changes may be permanent. That’s okay.
You’re doing great, mama. Even on the days when it doesn’t feel like it.
Lila.
