Most days, I focus on the miracle of pregnancy and feel amazed by the incredible changes our bodies can go through to grow new life. But negative thoughts about my appearance can still creep in now and then.

When I was pregnant with my Harvey, we were in lockdown during COVID. Back then, I had so much more time to prioritise movement and take care of myself. Fast forward to now, life feels very different. I’m juggling a toddler, dealing with less sleep, navigating work, and keeping everything afloat as best as I can. Comparing my current routine with what I did during my first pregnancy feels silly, but comparison rarely takes reality into account.

I caught myself staring at a video of me from behind. My immediate thought? “I look so much wider. Has my body changed more this time? Will it stay like this?” Internally, I found myself hoping it wouldn’t. When I said this out loud to Josh, his response surprised and grounded me. “Well, what if it doesn’t go back? That’s okay.”

Hearing him say that helped me flip my mindset. I realised that, yes, it’s more than okay. Change is inevitable as we move through the different phases of life – especially pregnancy and postpartum. It’s not about rewriting the narrative of “bouncing back” but rewriting how I speak to myself.

Finding body acceptance isn’t about a magical destination where insecurities disappear forever. It’s a personal journey. A process of mending your relationship with yourself, recognising when self-doubt sneaks in, and refocusing on what matters.

Here are three promises I’m making to myself to show more kindness to my pregnant body:

Taking my time and being kind to my mind

It’s so easy to fall into spirals of self-criticism, especially when we feel like we’re juggling more than we can manage. On those harder days, I commit to acknowledging my feelings without judgement and giving myself time to process them. Feeling vulnerable doesn’t make me weak – it makes me human.

Showing appreciation for what my body can do

This body is nourishing and growing new life! That’s an incredible thing. And it’s bloody hard. It gives me perspective when I remind myself my body deserves gratitude, not criticism.

Remembering I am more than my body

Who I am isn’t defined by my reflection in the mirror. I am a partner, a mum, a friend, a leader, and a person with passions. Pregnancy reminds me daily that my worth is built on far more than how I look. It’s rooted in who I am and the people I love.

I hope sharing this helps remind you that it’s okay to feel both in awe of your body and insecure at times. What matters is how we choose to respond to those doubts, with kindness and encouragement.

Love, Steph xox