KC Phan (36) and Lex (3)
KC shares -
How has parenthood impacted your body image?
“Motherhood has made me proud of my body and all that it can accomplish. I got pregnant easily and while breastfeeding was a difficult journey, I was able to nourish my daughter 3 years and still counting. I learned that it's a lot harder to breastfeed with a large chest and that many babies have undiagnosed tongue/lip ties. The more I learned about the barriers women face, the more determined I was to become a "lactivist" to educate people and help them overcome challenges. “
What was your postpartum experience?
“I was diagnosed with preeclampsia a week before my due date and was told I needed to be induced ASAP. I was determined not to have a c-section unless it was an absolute emergency and kept telling myself my body could make it. I diffused essential oils, played hypnobirthing CDs, had my loving father by my side, and hired a doula to help me get through 3 days of labor without a cesarean. The hospital was worried because it was really risky so they insisted on having a huge team of OB’s and surgeons in the room just in case, but they let my midwife take the lead and let me do it as naturally as possible. I surprised everyone by avoiding a cesarean by meditating through the bouts of extremely high blood pressure and my unwavering belief that somehow, some way, my baby and I were going to power through. And so we did.”
Why did you choose to participate in this movement and share your story?
“I chose to participate in this movement because I want to honor my post-baby body and be a part of a movement to show the raw reality and beauty of motherhood. Hopefully, I can inspire my daughter to have the confidence and courage that I am continually working towards. You are capable. You are resourceful. You are incredible. You be you--everyone else is taken. “