In the pursuit of responsible family planning, many women turn to birth control as a reliable and effective option. While it serves its purpose of preventing unwanted pregnancies, some individuals, including myself, experience unexpected side effects.
One such side effect, weight gain, became a reality for me, leading to an increase of over 20 pounds. Despite the physical changes, I've chosen to embrace my body with love and acceptance rather than succumb to societal pressures.
The Unforeseen Journey
My decision to start birth control was driven by a desire for reproductive autonomy and the convenience it offered. Little did I know that the hormonal changes associated with contraceptives would manifest physically, impacting my weight.
Gaining over 20 pounds over a few months was a challenging adjustment, both mentally and emotionally. I have noticed an increase in my appetite and bigger fuller boobs.
When I went through my separation and divorce I lost so much weight postpartum from stress and depression. I learned to embrace my rapid weight loss, but also understand that it was still okay to eat and enjoy food.
Body Image Struggles
As the numbers on the scale climbed, I couldn't help but feel a tinge of disappointment in my reflection. When I started birth control I didn't expect to start retaining so much water in my legs and feet.
My blood pressure was balanced and good, but my weight caused me to go up about three sizes within a few months. The societal expectation of an 'ideal' body weight played on my mind, creating moments of self-doubt. However, I needed to differentiate between societal norms and my well-being.
Cultivating Self-Love
Rather than dwelling on the number on the scale, I decided to focus on how my body felt and functioned. Regular exercise and a balanced diet became integral parts of my routine, not to conform to societal standards, but to ensure my body was healthy and strong. Alongside physical activities, I delved into mindfulness practices, fostering a positive mindset and self-love.
Rejecting External Judgments
In a world where appearances often dictate self-worth, it's essential to remember that everyone's journey is unique. Instead of succumbing to external judgments, I found strength in rejecting societal expectations and embracing the diversity of body shapes and sizes. My journey taught me that health and happiness should be the ultimate goals, not fitting into a predetermined mold.
Empowering Others
Sharing my experience serves as a reminder that weight gain is not a reflection of personal failure. It's By openly discussing the impact of birth control on my body and self-image, I hope to empower others to embrace their unique journeys and challenge societal norms.
Conclusion
While the journey with birth control and its associated weight gain may have initially felt like an unexpected detour, it ultimately led me to a place of self-love and acceptance.
Through cultivating a positive mindset, rejecting external judgments, and prioritizing my well-being, I've emerged from this experience stronger and more empowered than ever. My story stands as a testament to the importance of embracing one's body with love and resilience in the face of unexpected challenges.
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