This Instagram shows you how pregnancy takes a toll on you mentally and physically

Being able to bring life into the world is one of many beautiful aspects about being a woman. Because there are so many pros that seem to outweigh any cons of having a baby (at least on the surface, and in TV shows and movies), “the dark sides of motherhood and pregnancy” often get swept under the rug.

That phrase was coined by Alexandra Kilmurray, a mother of two who posted a photo on Instagram six days ago that is gaining a lot of positive traction. Kilmurray shared a picture of her stretch marks in celebration of reaching a point in her postpartum journey where she finally feels beautiful again in her own skin.

"No one warns you about the dark sides of motherhood and pregnancy," Kilmurray writes in her caption. "No one gives you a heads up on how much you change physically and mentally after you become a mother."

https://www.instagram.com/p/BPLpQeJA2ph

Kilmurray tells her followers that it’s been 18 months to reach this point of regained self confidence. She writes:

"It's been a long and hard postpartum ride for me..18 months after my first son and 5 months after my second son I feel like I can finally see the light and it genuinely feels amazing. Cheers to you mamas who are battling postpartum depression and still getting up everyday for your children! Cheers to you mamas who still cry about the marks on your skin from birthing your perfect babies! Cheers to motherhood, cheers to knowing that this too shall pass!"

https://www.instagram.com/p/BPXopWCgFbn

Through her Instagram, Kilmurray is inspiring other mothers to open up about their postpartum depression, body confidence issues, and struggles/gains in breastfeeding their babies.

And the feedback this mom has received is downright inspiring.

Sparked by the feedback from her stretch marks Instagram post, Kilmurray recently launched a blog called “Mother by Nature” where she aims to talk about breastfeeding and postpartum depression, while also creating a platform for others to share their experiences as well.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BPWmfwfgJm2

Postpartum depression and issues with body image after birthing a child is a completely normal phase that should be brought into light. According to American Psychological Association, up to 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression, so we’re glad that women like Kilmurray is speaking up about it. And forming a supportive community of those who are experiencing the same thing is a great way to get through “the dark sides.” (Side note: If you or someone you love is experiencing postpartum depression, look to your/their doctor for resources and information.)

Cheers to Kilmurray for spearheading that community with her transparency and her bravery!