Why the Way We Talk About Our Bodies (Especially Post-Baby) Really Matters

This morning, I found myself deep in the comments section of a viral video—one that had been sent to me multiple times by friends and clients. And while I usually just scroll on by, this one really got under my skin.

Not because the coach in the video was out to do harm. Not because the information was completely wrong. But because the language used was casually harmful, and honestly? It sparked fear in so many Mums.

The video was about diastasis recti—the natural, normal, expected separation of the abdominal muscles that occurs in *almost* every pregnancy. But the way it was explained (paired with a dramatic visual) made it seem like something scary and that breaks my heart.

Here’s the thing…

We are not broken after birth. We are not in need of immediate “fixing.” And we certainly don’t deserve to feel fear, shame, or urgency when it comes to our healing.

Words Shape the Way We See Ourselves

I’ve worked with many Mums. And time and time again I hear things like;

"I just feel so foreign in my body" and

"I don't feel confident in my body"

That’s why language matters so much—especially when it comes to the vulnerable seasons of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. The words we hear from professionals, influencers, coaches, and even friends have the power to either build trust in our bodies… or take it away.

When coaches talk about “closing the gap” or “fixing the pooch” or “flattening your tummy” without nuance, they might be trying to motivate—but what they’re really doing is reinforcing the idea that our bodies are problems to be solved.

And that’s just not the truth.

We Deserve More Than Generic Advice

I get it—there’s a market for one-size-fits-all programs. And for some people, that’s a helpful starting point. But when it comes to postpartum care? You deserve more.

You deserve care that sees you. Your unique story. Your birth experience. Your recovery. Your energy levels. Your mental load. Your everything.

Because no app, no influencer, and no catchy reel knows what it’s like to live in your body, in your season of motherhood.

Let’s Change the Conversation

If you’ve ever felt disconnected from your body since becoming a Mum, I want you to know—it’s not your fault. You’re not doing anything wrong.

The system has a long way to go in how we educate and support women through these life-altering transitions. But together, we can start rewriting the narrative.

Let’s choose language that:

• Empowers instead of shames

• Educates without fear

• Honours what your body has done—and is still doing

Because we don’t just deserve to feel informed—we deserve to feel uplifted. And that starts with the words we use, and the ones we allow in.

Sending you strength Mumma, you are more capable than you know.

Coach Jacqui assessing abdominal function on an individual