Gemma Atkinson shows her postpartum bump
Gemma Atkinson has been praised for honestly and authentically portraying the “realities” of childbirth, after she chose to share a photo of her “swollen” post-birth stomach almost two weeks after her son was born.
The former Hollyoaks star also uploaded footage of herself rejecting beau Gorka Marquez’s advances, giving him a reality check by telling him: “At least another five weeks, Gorks – at least!”
Meanwhile, the 38-year-old assured her 1.9 million followers that it was “normal” to have a swollen stomach weeks after pregnancy, as she showed solidarity for other mums.
“It’s very common for a tummy to stay swollen after pregnancy and they usually stay swollen after a C section due to the inflammation… from surgery,” she revealed, adding that she is still two stone heavier than her pre-pregnancy weight.
“So don’t worry if you feel you still look pregnant as I do here, it’s NORMAL!”
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What’s more, Gemma has revealed she’s been reciting daily affirmations, reminding her of her good fortune.
“I’ve reminded myself thousands of women are now doing the exact same thing as me,” the star, who was lifting small weights up until the late stages of pregnancy, explained.
“Every time I look at Thiago I thank my body for growing, carrying and birthing him. 15 days ago he was in my belly and that just blows my mind completely. The miracle of life and the human body.”
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Meanwhile, she’s made it clear she isn’t putting herself under pressure to regain her washboard stomach, revealing she isn’t expecting to “look like my old self for months”.
Fans flocked to congratulate her on the post, as well as to thank her for “keeping it real” and normalising the physical effects of childbirth.
“I’m 3 days post c section with my first baby and this has just reassured me like you don’t know. Thank you for the honesty and wanting to build others up, not knock them down!” @alicehinchliffe enthused.
@louise_0112 chimed in: “Showing other mums it’s normal to look the way they do after having a baby and not ‘springing’ back into shape, exercise and normal life because that’s not reality. Myself and many other women look up to you for this very reason so never ever change.”
“Thank you for showing the normal side of having a baby. I love how real you are. Our bodies are incredible,” added @ashleywade.
Meanwhile, Gemma has also normalised a lack of desire for sex during recovery from childbirth, sharing footage of Gorka getting a little too close for comfort.
Though he nuzzled into her neck and squeezed her chest, she made it clear she’s not up for anything physical, warning: “Nope. At least another five weeks Gorks. At least!”
Strictly pro Gorka is soon to leave for rehearsals, but currently he is with Gemma enjoying life as a family of four.
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