Toddler BFing and fat belly?

[papie]

First of all, hi! I'm a regular on ML, used to post a bit on AP too, but it has been a while.

I nursed DD1 for 20 months, and I do remember feeling like my body was "back" a few months after, but I don't remember the details.

Now DD2 is 20 months, I'm trying to wean, but I want it to be without tears as possible, so it is a long process, as she is very attached to nursing and will ask as soon as she is tired or not feeling well.

Anyway, my issue. I've gained a few lbs since last summer, and I just can't get rid of them. I'm working out (mostly running) and watching what I eat, I am active, etc. The worst part is that I have a freaking fat pregnant looking belly. I am not fat, I'm a size 8. But I have had a couple of people asking if I am pregnant recently and I feel so gross.

Does anyone else feel like their body is just holding on to a layer of fat? Or is it just wishful thinking, and it won't come back unless I do a hard core diet or lipo?

[iamgrace]

I do feel like I have a layer of fat that wasn't there before. Not sure if it's because of pregnancy or in just holding onto some fat due to breast-feeding. I am down to below prepreg weight, but still have more tummy than I'd like.

[pepomntpat]

Yes. I have been stuck with ten pounds to go for months and months. I understand it is common for some women to hold onto a few pounds until LO totally weans. I have a long way to go, I think. It's normal and also totally frustrating.

[eav2c]

May 12, 2012 20:59:43 GMT -5 papie said:

First of all, hi! I'm a regular on ML, used to post a bit on AP too, but it has been a while.

I nursed DD1 for 20 months, and I do remember feeling like my body was "back" a few months after, but I don't remember the details.

Now DD2 is 20 months, I'm trying to wean, but I want it to be without tears as possible, so it is a long process, as she is very attached to nursing and will ask as soon as she is tired or not feeling well.

Anyway, my issue. I've gained a few lbs since last summer, and I just can't get rid of them. I'm working out (mostly running) and watching what I eat, I am active, etc. The worst part is that I have a freaking fat pregnant looking belly. I am not fat, I'm a size 8. But I have had a couple of people asking if I am pregnant recently and I feel so gross.

Does anyone else feel like their body is just holding on to a layer of fat? Or is it just wishful thinking, and it won't come back unless I do a hard core diet or lipo?

I'm only 6 weeks out but someone asked me a week or two ago if I was pregnant... while my newborn was WITH me. I nearly slapped a hooch! Uh, yeah, I got KTFU in the hospital.. psf.

With that said, thank you for your comment on the size 8 thing... I think people often lose track of what real women look like... and you my dear, are a skinny minnie in my book

[jennlin]

May 15, 2012 20:04:15 GMT -5 pepomntpat said:

Yes. I have been stuck with ten pounds to go for months and months. I understand it is common for some women to hold onto a few pounds until LO totally weans. I have a long way to go, I think. It's normal and also totally frustrating.

this is what i heard--your body keeps some fat on reserve for as long as you're making milk. hopefully it eventually does go away, because we're all on the same boat

[Chloride Kate]

I can relate to the fat belly and nursing, but I haven't been very good about trying to change the status of my mid-section. I got really discouraged the few times I really tried to watch my diet and be more active with little results. I hope you figure out a way to be happy with your body again.

If you find a good mix of things that work for you, be sure to share!

[Deleted]

I have only had one child but since weaning him about 5 weeks ago I have lost almost 10 pounds and my belly has shrunk. I do think I was holding onto it.