As a healthcare worker (I'm a nurse!), I'm really happy to see you giving nothing but the hard cold truth about your body and how you're comfortable sharing with your viewers on how you recovered and what the body does in an education viewpoint. I hope that people don't get freaked out or grossed out about it because that's how the body works! You've truly done your research and I'm glad that you're doing well!
It is absolutely unbelievable that i've started watching Jenn as uni student and now i'm watching her video as a mom. I can't describe this feeling but I can surely say that I'm so glad to watch her transitions in her life🥰
Same. I remember watching her sitting on the floor filming, I was learning how to do make up from her as well as what make up to buy. It’s crazy that she is now telling me what it feels like to become a mother
Me, not pregnant, not planning on starting a family ever, watching this video with snacks because I love you and love everything about you. Sobbing, stitchy pains, fear of pooping, and all!
That advice of focusing on your relationship with your baby rather than on being a perfect parent, is amazing! I'm a firm believer that people show us how to best love them, if we're in our heads too much we miss the signs. Lennon will show you exactly what he needs to feel loved and cared for, I'm sure of it
What you said about being a newb in this made me think of how hard motherhood really is. Because in every period of the child's life, you basically have to start anew. Whether it's a newborn, a baby, a toddler, a teenager, you always have to learn new things and start over in a way. It makes me have a new appreciation for all the mothers out there. Jenn, I think you're doing great so far and we're all proud of you!
Ugh yes!! And then every kid is different. So if you have two, the things that worked with your first don't always work with your second! Motherhood makes you learn how to be flexible and creative!
I love the new level of affirmation you’ve unlocked, like any time something seems impossible you immediately reflect on the birthing experience saying “if I got through contractions and had a freaking baby then this poo shouldn’t be a problem” and I love that for you
I love this video Jenn!!! So real and I completely forgot about the emotional week post delivery! I cried over EVERYTHING too! I was like a vortex to every mom and emotion out there. But we here and our kids are thriving and we’re doing the absolute best ✨🙏🏾
I love that you don't mind talking about how things really are, a raw version of what everyone needs to hear to be honest. I think nobody really understands that giving birth is not just the baby pops out and that's it, but rather a difficult healing process, physically and mentally and it is nice that you can share this. Lots of love and courage! You are doing amazing! :)
I love how real you are about motherhood. I feel like you’re telling part of my story when you talk about your anxiety and your physical healing. Being a mommy is beautiful but it is so fricking hard!
I don't plan on having kids in my lifetime but your vlogs about your entire pregnancy to motherhood journey has deepened appreciation for my mother 🥺 thank you for sharing and being so open about your emotions, frustrations, and joy throughout the process 💕
Hey Jenn 😊 - I love how candid and straightforward you are. The pregnancy, birth and now motherhood videos are insightful and informative. Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge. Babies are fascinating for sure! This experience is probably as terrifying as it is exciting and joyful. It is fulfilling but comes with a lot of work that challenges us in more ways than one. You are doing great Jenn! 🤱🏻💜
The full recovery period for a nose job is about a year (for complete reduction in swelling) but women are expected to go back to work 2 - 6 weeks after they give birth! Like wtf?! Birth is so physically traumatic like literally getting into a massive car accident. Women need more time to recover properly. It's nuts how many American women have long term complications from not healing properly after they give birth. I'm glad you have so many solid resources and support! I hope I can be so lucky in the future.
When I heard that maternity leave in the States was that short I was so shocked and my heart went out to you ladies over there.. In Canada we’re entitled to 18 months and I just told my boss today that “you best believe I’m taking the 18 months” (I’m due in November). I am hoping things can change out there so Moms can get the proper leave and time of recovery they deserve.
@@eb8747 the culture here is that of everyone must work and it's shameful to expect anything but more work in order to survive. Taking time to heal or any government assistance is morally wrong. It's such a twisted and stressed culture to live in.
Echoing the comments here that I really appreciate the honesty, rawness, and vulnerability you bring to every one of your videos. I'm not in a place where I feel ready to have children, but even hearing your experiences helps me with my anxiety around it! I look forward to whenever you post, but also glad that you're still taking the time to be in the moment with Len. Hoping you three are doing well!
To see baby Len in the flesh feels surreal especially having watched the entire process from the very start! I’ve never been more invested in someone’s pregnancy & post-partum process, I swear 😂
I cannot wait to see you continue to grow into your role as a mother. You’re already amazing by how open minded and reflective you are by also being easy on yourself! There’s totally no rule book on parenting, Jenn! & I am so happy you’re just going with the flow! Love the bit on “focusing on your relationship with your child” rather than being a perfect parent. That’s how I know you’re already the best parent you can be 💕
I’m watching this as I’m nursing my 2 week old baby girl and I lost count of how many times I’ve said AMEN. The guilt feeling, the postpartum anxiety, the attachment, Low supply milk, the CRYING….I’m there with you. Despite all the craziness, I am so in love with my baby and as much as the lack of sleep drives me up the wall, I’ll do it all over again the next day 💓 You’re doing great Jen!
I can really relate to your postpartum experience. Physically and mentally I was the same (6 tears, two second degree, lots of pain). Postpartum anxiety and depression is so real. It’s surely grueling especially while dealing with a new baby! As a new mom of 2 I can say adjusting to the first was a LOT harder because you’re acclimating to a whole new identity with this mini human. I remember feeling at my lowest with the first, but I can say it does get better. The challenges just change as they turn into turbulent toddlers. The mom guilt also never ends, but know as long as you’re giving it your all with utmost love and good intentions, you’re golden. Remember when you have downtime that it’s ok to slow down and give yourself some time and that your mental state is much more important than a tidy house (I have to remind myself this when the baby is sleeping). You’re doing great! Much love to your family.
Ahh thank you for sharing! Ughh, I couldn't imagine TWO second degree tears. Regardless this gives me a lot of hope that I'll ease into this role of motherhood and wear it more with confidence. x
From clothesencounters to not mommy Jen. It’s been so amazing to see your change so many roles and be so real about all of them. I’ll be due soon and your pregnancy videos make me feel understood. So thank you for expressing yourself and making so many feel understood and normal in their journeys
Jen, don’t feel bad feeding your son formulas. You’re trying your best!! I fed my twin boys formulas as well because I wasn’t producing enough milk supply. As long as the baby is healthy and happy, that’s all that matter. You’re already a great mom! Don’t be too harsh on yourself. You got this!!!
I’ve got a 2.5 yr old and this video had me holding back tears! Just reminded me so much of how tough recovery was, how tough breastfeeding was, and at the end where you mention about focusing on your relationship with your baby.. wow! That made so much sense. Sadly I suffered PND (and still do) so I really didn’t enjoy my son as a newborn BUT I’m so determined to make my next experience a better one x
Literally can’t believe I’ve been watching you since your clothesencounter days and now you’re a mom!! I literally cry watching your videos now because the love you have for your son and family is so surreal. You are an amazing woman and an amazing mother! Love you!! ❤️
I LOVE how raw and honest you are. I’ve been following you for almost a decade and I’ve known you were like this but hearing about early motherhood with such rawness is so amazing. Congrats to you and Ben on little Lennon!!
I still can't believe you're a mom, I feel like we are growing together and you're showing me this new life that maybe some day not so far I'll have. The honesty is needed. I hope your beautiful family stay safe and healthy 💞
The way you describe becoming a parent is exactly how I've always imagined it. It's terrifying when this little person who has become part of you is now in the big scary world! Thanks for being so honest with us, it's so interesting to learn about what you've dealt with. You are such a strong and awesome woman and mother!
Hang in there! You got this! My kid is almost 18 months and it gets easier. It’s nice to hear someone else’s story bc sometimes it gets a little lonely especially when most of your friends aren’t parents to understand.
I gave birth a week ago and feel all of this SO MUCH. Especially the sunset made me feel some kind of way part! The nights are so harrowing with a newborn. Congrats to both of us and so many of us are right there with ya.
Jenn, mom of 2 here who's been watching you for at least 7 or 8 years. I felt everything you said so much. Thank you for your honesty because so many people go into parenthood having no idea what it's like being a parent, especially mom. You will get used to it and you will love being a mother, but oh boy, that anxiety never really goes away (at least hasn't for me yet and it's been 3.5 years since baby #1). Your whole life really is different. There's life BB (before baby) and life after BB. All your priorities change. You will make different friends. Weekends aren't weekends. It is an incredible, earth shattering experience like no other. Will continue following you on your new journey, strong new mama!
@@samiabamia You go from having to take care of yourself to never having a day go by when you don't have to put another human being's needs before your own, and oh is that human needy. You probably didn't think you had a ton of free time before the child, yet now you have to fit WAY more work in the same amount of time you had before. Your child will not be able to feed itself, clean itself, wipe itself, go to sleep without a literal or figurative song and dance for 4+ years, cannot be left alone in a room for more than a couple minutes for several years, constantly needs to be taught new things, and the buck always stops with you. Just when you think you have it all figured out, something, usual several things pop up because little kids are constantly changing. Even if you have a nanny or daycare, you are the child's primary caregiver, the director, the one who puts the child to bed, wakes them up, solves all the problems. Your marriage/relationship with your SO gets put under different stress tests you never thought about several times daily. Add in balancing a career you've invested years in building, any issues with a child having special needs, health problems, and finances and your world will be completely changed. Nothing rocks your world the same way.
@@saturnprincess88 Thank you Dorothy for letting me into the world of motherhood, you've given me a whole new perspective and understanding of what motherhood entails. I've always had friends and family tell me to make the most of my time before kids, but never fully understood why in depth. The key point I've taken from what you've shared is the incredible amount of appreciation and respect mothers deserve. Quite literally superwomen, doing what you're doing, the best way you know-how.
@@samiabamia You're very welcome. Yes enjoy life before kids and go into motherhood with eyes wide open! I wouldn't change anything, but it's exhausting.
I know this comment is a bit late, but I just discovered your channel a week or two ago. I’ve caught up on the last year or so of videos and I needed to tell you that this was the most relatable video I have ever watched. I found myself nodding along the whole way - I truly could have written every word myself. I think those of us that try to prepare for everything focus so much on the labor. I can’t tell you how many birth videos I’ve watched, but they don’t show the next few hours or weeks or months. The hit by a truck - so real. The crying at everything week 1 - so real. My daughter had to be on a special bed for jaundice for a few days and even though she was just one room away from me I had so much anxiety and felt like she needed to be in the same room as me at all times. Breastfeeding was SO hard. The pumping montage to start was beautiful and painful to watch. Thank you for sharing this. My daughter is just about a year older than your son (10/4/20) and one piece of advice that I think might help you that I found helpful going into months 4, 6, 8+ is “once you get used to something with a baby, it means it’s about to change.” Around 3 months or so I felt like we were starting to see a nap “schedule” and we had a bit of a routine down and suddenly she didn’t want to sleep when she normally did. Apparently it was time to drop a nap (it made the world of difference) but ever since then every couple months she drops another nap or stops liking being held or fed a certain way or just something. As soon as I start to feel comfortable I remind myself ok, this means a change is coming. And I realize that’s really going to be the rest of our lives. A few years fly by as an adult but kids just change so much. It’s so so not my nature and still feels awkward and uncomfortable, but it’s helped just to remember to try to embrace it because our kids teach us that we can’t always decide or control how life happens. I’m so excited to continue following your journey ❤️
Jenn thank you so much for sharing your stories! I really appreciated the honesty surrounding recovery--I feel like there's so much external pressure to just say "oh we're so happy! our baby is perfect and we are perfect and everything's great!" but the raw details about your physical recovery, managing your anxiety, and being honest about what's going on is so appreciated--thank you for being vulnerable with us and for giving other people the courage to share their own stories.
Mama, I feel you SO hard on the breastfeeding struggles. No one understands the full complexity until you are a mom. It's a mindf*ck. We did the same in supplementing with formula (syringe feeding) and I also was so emotional because we carry the burden of trying to provide for our child (not even considering that our hormones are all over the place). Eventually, the breastfeeding became easier as mom + baby learn and then I turned to exclusively pumping after 6 months until my supply ran out around 9 months. She is now 22 months and happy and healthy as a clam. The answer is everything will work itself out and it is okay to have all the feelings about it. All my mama friends had a difficult time breastfeeding and some thought they were done after a few months and turns out, they stuck with it and went well into 18-24 months of BFing. Be kind to yourself. Give yourself grace. You and baby will find the rhythm that works for you. :)
I just started watching this, but may i just say - JENN, YOU LOOK AMAZING! You have that glow and that vibe of being more confident (even if that's not true) that makes me so happy for you. YOU GOT THIS! Wish you a fast recovery and strength both physical and mental to deal with whatever comes your way :)
I appreciate how you’ve always been so real and brutally honest about this whole experience. There were a few things I never heard of or considered before and it was eye opening!
You are me, I am you. When you articulated that you felt “behind” when they were born…wow. I have been frozen with anxiety because you can’t research living life! You hit the ground running, and never stop. Amen girl, amen.
You’re trying your best and that makes you a great mom Jen. I have 7 weeks left…my anxiety is all over the place with labor, but I hope it goes smoothly. I just want my baby boy to be healthy.
This is soooo real!!!!! So much details about being a new mom. But it is so precious. Cherish every moment of it. Newborn just grows so fast. It’s tired and frustrated, but sweet and unforgettable too.
As a first time mom, I can't thank you enough for sharing your postpartum experience. I also felt like the postpartum took my breath out with the increasing exhaustion, constant learning & mom guilt. I love the advice you were given! Being present with your baby does help all the mental load that mom's carry. Thank you for sharing. ❤️
Not many people are brave and honest enough to talk about ALL of the physical&mental recovery details about postpartum, mine was also very rough, it’s the main reason why we never had a second baby, till this day(14 years later)i still struggle with depression(started as postpartum depression), and the mom guilt never left. Thank you Jenn for sharing your experience, and for being so real! ❤️
I’m pregnant and following your journey and hearing your experience has been such a comfort for me. I love how raw and open you are and I’m so so thankful I came across your channel a few months ago!!
Thank you for talking about physical side and not holding back! For every "what I pack in my hospital bag" I wish there was a real video like this too.
Hi Jenn! I've been an active viewer for almost a year now and even though I'm only 22, your videos, including those with pregnancy updates, always bring me a sense of serenity and peace. When you speak it feels like I'm getting life advice from the older sister I've never had and makes me feel like I have my life together (even when I don't). So appreciative of all the content you post and thank you for always being authentically you!
oh my lord. how do you look SO fabulous and elegant and glowy and relaxed while discussing literally THEEEE most hardcore and intimate personal details?!?! you are SO ready to be such a wonderful mom -- you seem so poised and ready to handle challenges and take things in stride. Lenny is so lucky to have you!
I had my son two weeks after you had yours. This experience has been nuts! I’m so happy you’re so open about it all. Thanks for sharing your experience! Glad all of us new mommas are in this together! Best wishes to you and your lil family! 🥰
What I like most about these videos is that... you talking about past - really really INTENSE - emotions in a way that states them as 'that is how I felt' or 'that is how I thought' kind of detaches them from what is actually true. And I know most people learn this in therapy, to separate thoughts and fears from reality. But listening to you talk about it in such a calm and confident manner kind of helps others to know beforehand - oh, this is just a common fear, even sensitive Jenn Im came out of it a confident person, adult, mother, then so can I. Thank you.
I’m almost 4 months pregnant and feeling so many emotions about becoming a mum and all the changes that are coming to both my body and life. Your pregnancy videos are so comforting to me seeing someone go through the same feelings and it’s honestly helped me so much 🥲 thank you for keeping it so real and honest. You are amazing and Lennon is so lucky to have you as his momma ❤️
am not pregnant and am not even married but i ve been enjoying this kind of content so bad especially yours , your authenticity and you being real with us is so beautiful
Jenn, it is sooooo refreshing to hear a very similar post partum experience! Everything from getting hit a truck feeling to breastfeeding issues. It has been 6 months post partum for me and let me tell you, time is the best healer, both the emotional and the physical side of things. I am very happy for you! Keep an awesome job being the best mama for you baby son:))
My due is a little over a month left. Watching you becoming a mom, talking about postpartum stuff(physically AND mentally) helps me a lot. Thanks for sharing your honest story, Jenn! I can see that you're already a great mom since you're constantly thinking about how to be a better mom to your beautiful son. My heart goes out to you
I don't have any plans to be in a marriage and even be a mother, somehow I watched this vlog and started to cry as I listend to your story... you've overcome unbelievably hard time and give us huge energy!!!
Becoming a mom of a (december) baby, this video was really helpful. I am as well doing research on everything, which is oftentimes exhausting and your „last sentence“ instantly calmed me down. Because this is what I strive for in life… „resonance“ and the feeling of living in the present moment and appreciating it, instead of judging every move I do and living in the past and future. ♥️
Okay, I know giving birth is hard but I can’t believe it is THIS difficult. The amount of pain and uneasiness that all women had to bear before, during and after giving birth is unimaginable. This gave me a better insight on what my mom had to experience when giving birth to me. I couldn’t be more grateful for all the sacrifices and hardships my mom had to go through. 🤍 Thanks Jenn for showing everyone this eye-opening yet scary journey of yours.
I just remember how I cried after giving birth. I cried so hard so I can definitely relate to the crying. It’s all the hormones and stuff. The c section traumatized me so badly omg. I’m so happy you’re okay now. It gets easier with time and you definitely get stronger ❤️
The thing is, a lot lot LOT of new mother goes through it but they don’t really talk about it. I went through the same thing and I just thought nobody is going to understand even if i tell them but turns out almost every one of my friends that has given birth has gone through the same thing and they understand the struggle.
Thank you for opening up and sharing so honestly. Rarely do women talk about the hard reality of birth. So thank you for giving an honest real world perspective.
I’m 2 years into being a “new mom” idk if that title even applies to me anymore but holy shit this video has helped me so much especially that last part like WOO thank you so much for being so honest and raw with everything. You’re awesome Jenn!
I really appreciate your frankness and I think it will help people so much who are new parents. I had my son 21 years ago and no one talked to me about any of these things. All the women I knew acted like motherhood was a breeze and they never spoke about the rough parts of having a newborn. It was almost taboo in my family to talk about mental health, the physical pain of childbirth, etc.
Girl do not stress! I know exactly how you feel and almost every other mom does as well. There are so many ‘right’ ways to be a parent and in a month, in a year, you’ll most likely forget how hard this period was. I have 4 kids and every time is different. My first born was so easy to breast feed but my last baby was such a challenge! I struggled during every feeding! I only had milk for about 3 months but i never let it affect me because mom guilt affects your whole family and it takes joy out if the whole situation. Just enjoy every second of the experience!!! Youre doing amazing!!!! My biggest advice( i had twins and had no help other than my husband who worked from 4am-4pm) is to never feel sorry for your self. Take it one day at a time and find ‘me time’ when you can. It can be the most simple thing. Mine was doing my makeup. I just thoroughly enjoyed it and took my time when i knew the twins were taking a longer nap 👍🏼
Stress causes supply of milk. Sleep more with baby when he sleeps, drink more fluids, just enjoy him like you said create relationship. Thinking that my child is hungry also increases the supply. Good luck!
I’m so comforted by how similar your experience and feelings are/were to my own - I’m just over 2 weeks postpartum and I felt exactly the same way with the anxiety and guilt, not feeling good enough, not feeling like I knew what I was doing and feeling so guilty because I just wanted to make sure my son was ok and happy! And breastfeeding - oh my goodness it’s hard! We were topping up with formula for the first few days in hospital because I couldn’t get him to latch properly and was in so much pain when I tried to feed him! I felt that same guilt about not being able to provide, felt like a failure and like he wasn’t going to bond with me because I couldn’t do it.. I’m so thankful for having a great support system around me who reassured me and supported me through everything we did/are doing, I hope you have the same! Thank you so so much for sharing your experience!! I feel so seen and heard and understood 🥰
Drink a ton of water. I’ve been there but even when you’re not thirsty drink a ton of water. Like over over hydrate. You’ll see your milk supply turn around. Trust me, I cried and cried over my milk supply and nothing else worked besides chugging a ton of water. You got this!!!!
I had to power pump and it suuucked. Power pumping is effective but holy crap it's the worst! My supply exploded but I was delirious from lack of sleep.
I love Jenn and my comment is non-judgmental, but I'm a bit surprised that having a doula in labor she doesn't have a lactation consultant. I am not a mother, probably nor should I have an opinion but I had the fortune to meet a consultant some time ago and she specified that unless there is some biological condition (disease) the body is capable of producing the milk that the baby needs, even the milk changes its composition as the baby grows or for example if he falls ill. The key is "the more the baby sucks, the more milk is produced" that is why they recommend breastfeeding on free demand (as long as the baby wants), a correct mouth-nipple grip (breastfeeding should not hurt), stay hydrated (like Well you mention) coconut water is highly recommended to hydrate the mother and extract or breastfeed at night which is when prolactin has the highest peak. Hopefully these tips can serve a mom who is around here. Greetings and I hope no one hates my comment
I wish I watched this video before I gave birth to my son. I was NOT prepared for post partum. There's not enough videos, information, books about post partum recovery and anxiety. Never have I ever felt SO unprepared. Thank you for your honesty, this will be so helpful to new mothers. ❤️
Oh my god, I relate so hard about the recovery. No one talks about the amount of pain you go through after childbirth, which in my situation hurt worse for me than actual delivery. It hurt to lie down, sit up, use the bathroom, walk. I was miserable! And the stool softeners never worked so when I finally had my first bowel movement after, I was crying and almost hyperventilating because (tmi alert) it was a big one and I was so scared I was going to hemorrhage.
We need more videos of your experience with pregnancy, delivery and recovery .. Just seems like can't get enough of them since they are so reassuring and calming .
If I had Made a video about postpartum it would’ve been a replica of this. The hormones, the idenitity shift, the Achiever personality needing to give itself grace… oof. I’m 8mo PP now and there are new challenges but it’s such an amazing journey to see your little one grow up from a little blob on an ultrasound to a living, human baby capable of kisses and hugs. All the best Jen!
Our pregnancy and postpartum journeys could not be more similar. I also struggle with mom guilt around having to supplement with formula due to undersupply. Rowan is now 7 weeks old today and I’ve had to supplement since week 2. I also felt like my body was failing me and I put myself under so much pressure to pump and feed as much as possible to try and bring my supply up. Now I’m just focusing on giving him what I can and supplementing the rest of what he needs. It’s hard not to feel bad about it. 🖤
Thank you for your honesty! It took me a little while to find my mommy groove. I would compare myself to other moms and feel inadequate and that i wasn't as good as them. When i stopped doing that and realized I'm doing what's best for myself and my son that's when i felt better! Everything is so new and we don't have step by step instructions on how to do parenting. I was used to following instructions to the letter so without that i was floundering! You're doing great! You will find that flow.
THANK YOU JENN. Coming from a Type A, Type 3 enneagram (who started watching you when we were both 19 - we’re the same age!) who just gave birth in June and dealt with major postpartum blues, breastfeeding challenges, body healing challenges, etc, THANK YOU for sharing this! So much of social media glamorizes postpartum. I was totally unprepared for it emotionally AND felt guilty that I wasn’t having the beautiful experience that it looked like everyone else was having. Thank you for sharing your honest experience - I 1000% relate to everything you’ve said, and I love the way you’ve analyzed and made sense of things. I wish I had given birth after you because I would’ve been so much better prepared for postpartum after watching this video. You are amazing, you got this!
love this Jenn. I'm 1 year 6 months postpartum already and ALL you said girl---totally true. it's comforting to know that I'm not alone and "abnormal" or a "bad" and unprepared mom for having to struggle with all these things...Anyway take care always and you're right--be present at the moment! the first year really does fly FAST.
i dont want to say youre a completely different person, because you arent, the best way to describe what we are all seeing is just a complete evolution, this is your final form this is an absolute powerhouse of a person, and we are all here for it - you are such a natural mother jenn and the love you have for lennon is so prominent, this is you girl you were meant for this!!
Jen, I love that you are so honest. What you said I have experienced the same thing and resonate to it so well. My daughter is 5 months old and I am loving every moment of it and still learning everyday. You are doing amazing mama!
i had my baby 4 months ago and it’s definitely a lot. But you are not alone! There are so many mothers out here that are going through this. We got this!
Hey Jenn, what you’re feeling/felt is completely valid. I am so happy to see how far you’ve come on your journey. It sounds like you have a really good head on you and no doubt you’ll get through the day, month, year and especially “terrible 2” through 18, hehe
Thank you for sharing your experience. Im 2.5 weeks post partum and your part about anxiety TOTALLY resonates with me...it makes me feel less alone knowing Im not the only one
This really made me laugh, remembering my own post partum period a year ago. Everybody is talking about the labor, but oh my the recovery.. :D Thank you for sharing that experience!
Thank you for being so honest! I just gave birth 3 months ago to my first born son and also struggled with guilt, anxiety and breastfeeding/undersupply. I felt so much guilt for supplementing with formula and felt like such a terrible mom because I couldn’t get him to latch correctly (I was exclusively pumping from the get go because he was preemie) and the formula was making him extremely gassy and fussy/uncomfortable. But honestly, as moms, we just have to take a deep breath and give ourselves grace. Being a parent is not an easy job and it’s not any easier when we beat ourselves up over every little thing. “The days are long but the years are short.” Enjoy every moment, even the late night feedings! Someday he’ll be grown and won’t need you for everything so this phase where he’s dependent on you is so precious! You got this Jen! Love you!
Love how jenn and ben always post at the same time haha. Also, love that intro!! And I was like 😲 when i saw Jenn holding a BABY on the thumbnail although i know she gave birth lol
Jenn the transparency that you’re giving your audience (mostly women) is such a game changer for our own future journeys in motherhood. Thanks momma hen 💜💜
Thanks so much for sharing your experience, Jenn! It's really refreshing to see this perspective on each stage of your pregnancy / giving birth / your road to recovery. You're doing amazing!
“…you’re also giving birth to a new you.” Jenn’s level of grace and self-awareness is incredible. Plus she’s completely truthful and vulnerable about her post partum experience, including all the good and bad. Jenn, I’m like you in that I never held a baby before, nor really strived for motherhood… but watching you grow and learn, and figuring out your new identity so bravely is really inspiring. It gives me hope about being a mom too one day. You prepared hard and are doing your absolute best! I know you are an amazing mom to Lennon!
I love how open and honest you are even with the raw and rough moments. You have no idea how much of a blessing your Vlogs are to new Mothers. Through second doubting yourself with your son remember one thing... NO Mother is ever perfect no matter how hard we strive for perfection. But the one thing that is blatantly obvious with you is... Your son is going to thrive and grow to be a happy and healthy little boy and then later on to a strong Man due to the guidance of your love and respect that flows from your heart to his. You are a wonderful Mother... Remember that when the low moments flow over you. *tight hugs*
As a healthcare worker (I'm a nurse!), I'm really happy to see you giving nothing but the hard cold truth about your body and how you're comfortable sharing with your viewers on how you recovered and what the body does in an education viewpoint. I hope that people don't get freaked out or grossed out about it because that's how the body works! You've truly done your research and I'm glad that you're doing well!
Eep thank you! Yes, I wanted to keep it real for y'all. The road to motherhood and recovery is NO JOKE!
Im soooo freaked out haha maybe a warning at the beginning would help.
@@imjennim d,;,s.
I never doubted that you would give an honest account of your experience!
It is absolutely unbelievable that i've started watching Jenn as uni student and now i'm watching her video as a mom. I can't describe this feeling but I can surely say that I'm so glad to watch her transitions in her life🥰
Same. I remember watching her sitting on the floor filming, I was learning how to do make up from her as well as what make up to buy. It’s crazy that she is now telling me what it feels like to become a mother
Aww thank you for being a part of my journey for so long! x
Me too 😍❤️❤️
Agreed 100% full on growth
Same!!! Look at us mom's conquering life one milestone at a time! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Me, not pregnant, not planning on starting a family ever, watching this video with snacks because I love you and love everything about you. Sobbing, stitchy pains, fear of pooping, and all!
LOLOLOL! I really went into the nitty gritty in this video.
Same hahahaha 😬
same energy just waking up on a sunday in bed and can’t wait to watch this video 🥰
That advice of focusing on your relationship with your baby rather than on being a perfect parent, is amazing! I'm a firm believer that people show us how to best love them, if we're in our heads too much we miss the signs. Lennon will show you exactly what he needs to feel loved and cared for, I'm sure of it
Deeeeeep 🥰
100% Thank you, Ester!
This 1,000%: "people show us how to best love them, if we're in our heads too much we miss the signs."
My little girl is 5 years old. I miss her soooo much being this young. This phase is so special. “The days are longggg but the years are so short.”
Well said
The days are soooo long! Hhaaha, but this month has flown by. I can't even imagine what a year will feel like!
A year will feel like a day when you look back
Any one else’s butt hurting when Jen talked about the stitches and tear 😫 Bless you woman!!
LOLOL!
I even had goosebumps because I had the exact same experience one year ago. Not a good memory :(
I had a c section and my butt hurt so bad after delivery!
What you said about being a newb in this made me think of how hard motherhood really is. Because in every period of the child's life, you basically have to start anew. Whether it's a newborn, a baby, a toddler, a teenager, you always have to learn new things and start over in a way. It makes me have a new appreciation for all the mothers out there. Jenn, I think you're doing great so far and we're all proud of you!
Ugh yes!! And then every kid is different. So if you have two, the things that worked with your first don't always work with your second! Motherhood makes you learn how to be flexible and creative!
I love the new level of affirmation you’ve unlocked, like any time something seems impossible you immediately reflect on the birthing experience saying “if I got through contractions and had a freaking baby then this poo shouldn’t be a problem” and I love that for you
YES! If I pushed a baby out, I can do anything!!!
@@imjennim ❤️❤️❤️❤️
@@imjennim yes 100,000% !!!
I love this video Jenn!!! So real and I completely forgot about the emotional week post delivery! I cried over EVERYTHING too! I was like a vortex to every mom and emotion out there. But we here and our kids are thriving and we’re doing the absolute best ✨🙏🏾
Your birth was amazing!!!! Congratulations!
Thank you, Maya! Yesss, we're out here doing our best! x
Ahhhhh Maya ♥️♥️♥️
I love that you don't mind talking about how things really are, a raw version of what everyone needs to hear to be honest. I think nobody really understands that giving birth is not just the baby pops out and that's it, but rather a difficult healing process, physically and mentally and it is nice that you can share this. Lots of love and courage! You are doing amazing! :)
Totally! The birth is just the beginning!
I love how real you are about motherhood. I feel like you’re telling part of my story when you talk about your anxiety and your physical healing. Being a mommy is beautiful but it is so fricking hard!
It's the most difficult thing I've ever done, but I wouldn't have it any other way! x
I don't plan on having kids in my lifetime but your vlogs about your entire pregnancy to motherhood journey has deepened appreciation for my mother 🥺 thank you for sharing and being so open about your emotions, frustrations, and joy throughout the process 💕
Truly love the woman you are! It’s all said in honesty, no sugar coating but just the truth and we love it !!! 🙌🏾🙏🏾
Hey Jenn 😊 - I love how candid and straightforward you are. The pregnancy, birth and now motherhood videos are insightful and informative. Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge. Babies are fascinating for sure! This experience is probably as terrifying as it is exciting and joyful. It is fulfilling but comes with a lot of work that challenges us in more ways than one. You are doing great Jenn! 🤱🏻💜
Thank you so much, Haseena! This comment is actually making me well up. Always appreciate hearing from you. x
The full recovery period for a nose job is about a year (for complete reduction in swelling) but women are expected to go back to work 2 - 6 weeks after they give birth! Like wtf?! Birth is so physically traumatic like literally getting into a massive car accident. Women need more time to recover properly. It's nuts how many American women have long term complications from not healing properly after they give birth. I'm glad you have so many solid resources and support! I hope I can be so lucky in the future.
The maternity leave is honestly a joke. I'm officially 6 weeks now and barely feeling more like myself! Women need SO much more time to recover!
@@imjennim such a nightmare especially for single moms!
When I heard that maternity leave in the States was that short I was so shocked and my heart went out to you ladies over there.. In Canada we’re entitled to 18 months and I just told my boss today that “you best believe I’m taking the 18 months” (I’m due in November). I am hoping things can change out there so Moms can get the proper leave and time of recovery they deserve.
I cannot believe this is true!! The states is insane, in Europe people get at least a year usually more
@@eb8747 the culture here is that of everyone must work and it's shameful to expect anything but more work in order to survive. Taking time to heal or any government assistance is morally wrong. It's such a twisted and stressed culture to live in.
Echoing the comments here that I really appreciate the honesty, rawness, and vulnerability you bring to every one of your videos. I'm not in a place where I feel ready to have children, but even hearing your experiences helps me with my anxiety around it! I look forward to whenever you post, but also glad that you're still taking the time to be in the moment with Len. Hoping you three are doing well!
Ahh thank you so much! I'm glad my videos are helpful despite us being in different chapters in our lives. Sending you so much love! x
To see baby Len in the flesh feels surreal especially having watched the entire process from the very start! I’ve never been more invested in someone’s pregnancy & post-partum process, I swear 😂
I cannot wait to see you continue to grow into your role as a mother. You’re already amazing by how open minded and reflective you are by also being easy on yourself! There’s totally no rule book on parenting, Jenn! & I am so happy you’re just going with the flow! Love the bit on “focusing on your relationship with your child” rather than being a perfect parent. That’s how I know you’re already the best parent you can be 💕
Thank you so much, Brittany! xx
I’m watching this as I’m nursing my 2 week old baby girl and I lost count of how many times I’ve said AMEN. The guilt feeling, the postpartum anxiety, the attachment, Low supply milk, the CRYING….I’m there with you. Despite all the craziness, I am so in love with my baby and as much as the lack of sleep drives me up the wall, I’ll do it all over again the next day 💓 You’re doing great Jen!
I feeeel you!! We got this! We're doing amazing.
I can really relate to your postpartum experience. Physically and mentally I was the same (6 tears, two second degree, lots of pain). Postpartum anxiety and depression is so real. It’s surely grueling especially while dealing with a new baby! As a new mom of 2 I can say adjusting to the first was a LOT harder because you’re acclimating to a whole new identity with this mini human. I remember feeling at my lowest with the first, but I can say it does get better. The challenges just change as they turn into turbulent toddlers. The mom guilt also never ends, but know as long as you’re giving it your all with utmost love and good intentions, you’re golden. Remember when you have downtime that it’s ok to slow down and give yourself some time and that your mental state is much more important than a tidy house (I have to remind myself this when the baby is sleeping). You’re doing great! Much love to your family.
Ahh thank you for sharing! Ughh, I couldn't imagine TWO second degree tears. Regardless this gives me a lot of hope that I'll ease into this role of motherhood and wear it more with confidence. x
From clothesencounters to not mommy Jen. It’s been so amazing to see your change so many roles and be so real about all of them. I’ll be due soon and your pregnancy videos make me feel understood. So thank you for expressing yourself and making so many feel understood and normal in their journeys
Jen, don’t feel bad feeding your son formulas. You’re trying your best!! I fed my twin boys formulas as well because I wasn’t producing enough milk supply. As long as the baby is healthy and happy, that’s all that matter. You’re already a great mom! Don’t be too harsh on yourself. You got this!!!
I’ve got a 2.5 yr old and this video had me holding back tears! Just reminded me so much of how tough recovery was, how tough breastfeeding was, and at the end where you mention about focusing on your relationship with your baby.. wow! That made so much sense. Sadly I suffered PND (and still do) so I really didn’t enjoy my son as a newborn BUT I’m so determined to make my next experience a better one x
I love how open and raw you are about your experiences!! Baby Lennon is so lucky to have you and Ben as his parents🥺💗
Literally can’t believe I’ve been watching you since your clothesencounter days and now you’re a mom!! I literally cry watching your videos now because the love you have for your son and family is so surreal. You are an amazing woman and an amazing mother! Love you!! ❤️
I LOVE how raw and honest you are. I’ve been following you for almost a decade and I’ve known you were like this but hearing about early motherhood with such rawness is so amazing. Congrats to you and Ben on little Lennon!!
I still can't believe you're a mom, I feel like we are growing together and you're showing me this new life that maybe some day not so far I'll have. The honesty is needed. I hope your beautiful family stay safe and healthy 💞
The way you describe becoming a parent is exactly how I've always imagined it. It's terrifying when this little person who has become part of you is now in the big scary world! Thanks for being so honest with us, it's so interesting to learn about what you've dealt with. You are such a strong and awesome woman and mother!
Hang in there! You got this! My kid is almost 18 months and it gets easier. It’s nice to hear someone else’s story bc sometimes it gets a little lonely especially when most of your friends aren’t parents to understand.
For some reason my tears are coming out for this….. the struggle, the pain, the efforts, the love…. You got this Jenn!
Watching this 3 days postpartum with my first son, and feeling so validated in all these experiences! Thank you, Jenn!
I gave birth a week ago and feel all of this SO MUCH. Especially the sunset made me feel some kind of way part! The nights are so harrowing with a newborn. Congrats to both of us and so many of us are right there with ya.
Congratulations!!! Also hang in there! So glad to be on this journey of parenthood with you! xx
as a new parent listening to this is cathartic. thank you for being so open and vulnerable!
Jenn, mom of 2 here who's been watching you for at least 7 or 8 years. I felt everything you said so much. Thank you for your honesty because so many people go into parenthood having no idea what it's like being a parent, especially mom. You will get used to it and you will love being a mother, but oh boy, that anxiety never really goes away (at least hasn't for me yet and it's been 3.5 years since baby #1). Your whole life really is different. There's life BB (before baby) and life after BB. All your priorities change. You will make different friends. Weekends aren't weekends. It is an incredible, earth shattering experience like no other. Will continue following you on your new journey, strong new mama!
Ahh thank you, Dorothy! You're completely right about life pre-baby and post-baby. Two distinct chapters! Sending you love! xx
In what ways is not the same? Genuinely curious
@@samiabamia You go from having to take care of yourself to never having a day go by when you don't have to put another human being's needs before your own, and oh is that human needy. You probably didn't think you had a ton of free time before the child, yet now you have to fit WAY more work in the same amount of time you had before. Your child will not be able to feed itself, clean itself, wipe itself, go to sleep without a literal or figurative song and dance for 4+ years, cannot be left alone in a room for more than a couple minutes for several years, constantly needs to be taught new things, and the buck always stops with you. Just when you think you have it all figured out, something, usual several things pop up because little kids are constantly changing. Even if you have a nanny or daycare, you are the child's primary caregiver, the director, the one who puts the child to bed, wakes them up, solves all the problems. Your marriage/relationship with your SO gets put under different stress tests you never thought about several times daily. Add in balancing a career you've invested years in building, any issues with a child having special needs, health problems, and finances and your world will be completely changed. Nothing rocks your world the same way.
@@saturnprincess88 Thank you Dorothy for letting me into the world of motherhood, you've given me a whole new perspective and understanding of what motherhood entails. I've always had friends and family tell me to make the most of my time before kids, but never fully understood why in depth. The key point I've taken from what you've shared is the incredible amount of appreciation and respect mothers deserve. Quite literally superwomen, doing what you're doing, the best way you know-how.
@@samiabamia You're very welcome. Yes enjoy life before kids and go into motherhood with eyes wide open! I wouldn't change anything, but it's exhausting.
I know this comment is a bit late, but I just discovered your channel a week or two ago. I’ve caught up on the last year or so of videos and I needed to tell you that this was the most relatable video I have ever watched. I found myself nodding along the whole way - I truly could have written every word myself. I think those of us that try to prepare for everything focus so much on the labor. I can’t tell you how many birth videos I’ve watched, but they don’t show the next few hours or weeks or months. The hit by a truck - so real. The crying at everything week 1 - so real. My daughter had to be on a special bed for jaundice for a few days and even though she was just one room away from me I had so much anxiety and felt like she needed to be in the same room as me at all times. Breastfeeding was SO hard. The pumping montage to start was beautiful and painful to watch. Thank you for sharing this.
My daughter is just about a year older than your son (10/4/20) and one piece of advice that I think might help you that I found helpful going into months 4, 6, 8+ is “once you get used to something with a baby, it means it’s about to change.” Around 3 months or so I felt like we were starting to see a nap “schedule” and we had a bit of a routine down and suddenly she didn’t want to sleep when she normally did. Apparently it was time to drop a nap (it made the world of difference) but ever since then every couple months she drops another nap or stops liking being held or fed a certain way or just something. As soon as I start to feel comfortable I remind myself ok, this means a change is coming. And I realize that’s really going to be the rest of our lives. A few years fly by as an adult but kids just change so much. It’s so so not my nature and still feels awkward and uncomfortable, but it’s helped just to remember to try to embrace it because our kids teach us that we can’t always decide or control how life happens.
I’m so excited to continue following your journey ❤️
Jenn thank you so much for sharing your stories! I really appreciated the honesty surrounding recovery--I feel like there's so much external pressure to just say "oh we're so happy! our baby is perfect and we are perfect and everything's great!" but the raw details about your physical recovery, managing your anxiety, and being honest about what's going on is so appreciated--thank you for being vulnerable with us and for giving other people the courage to share their own stories.
Mama, I feel you SO hard on the breastfeeding struggles. No one understands the full complexity until you are a mom. It's a mindf*ck. We did the same in supplementing with formula (syringe feeding) and I also was so emotional because we carry the burden of trying to provide for our child (not even considering that our hormones are all over the place). Eventually, the breastfeeding became easier as mom + baby learn and then I turned to exclusively pumping after 6 months until my supply ran out around 9 months. She is now 22 months and happy and healthy as a clam. The answer is everything will work itself out and it is okay to have all the feelings about it. All my mama friends had a difficult time breastfeeding and some thought they were done after a few months and turns out, they stuck with it and went well into 18-24 months of BFing. Be kind to yourself. Give yourself grace. You and baby will find the rhythm that works for you. :)
I just started watching this, but may i just say - JENN, YOU LOOK AMAZING! You have that glow and that vibe of being more confident (even if that's not true) that makes me so happy for you. YOU GOT THIS! Wish you a fast recovery and strength both physical and mental to deal with whatever comes your way :)
Thank you, Veronika! x
It's amazing how strong and resilient our bodies are after giving birth!
I appreciate how you’ve always been so real and brutally honest about this whole experience. There were a few things I never heard of or considered before and it was eye opening!
You are me, I am you. When you articulated that you felt “behind” when they were born…wow. I have been frozen with anxiety because you can’t research living life! You hit the ground running, and never stop. Amen girl, amen.
You’re trying your best and that makes you a great mom Jen. I have 7 weeks left…my anxiety is all over the place with labor, but I hope it goes smoothly. I just want my baby boy to be healthy.
This is soooo real!!!!! So much details about being a new mom. But it is so precious. Cherish every moment of it. Newborn just grows so fast. It’s tired and frustrated, but sweet and unforgettable too.
As a first time mom, I can't thank you enough for sharing your postpartum experience. I also felt like the postpartum took my breath out with the increasing exhaustion, constant learning & mom guilt. I love the advice you were given! Being present with your baby does help all the mental load that mom's carry. Thank you for sharing. ❤️
Not many people are brave and honest enough to talk about ALL of the physical&mental recovery details about postpartum, mine was also very rough, it’s the main reason why we never had a second baby, till this day(14 years later)i still struggle with depression(started as postpartum depression), and the mom guilt never left. Thank you Jenn for sharing your experience, and for being so real! ❤️
I’m pregnant and following your journey and hearing your experience has been such a comfort for me. I love how raw and open you are and I’m so so thankful I came across your channel a few months ago!!
Thank you for talking about physical side and not holding back! For every "what I pack in my hospital bag" I wish there was a real video like this too.
Hi Jenn! I've been an active viewer for almost a year now and even though I'm only 22, your videos, including those with pregnancy updates, always bring me a sense of serenity and peace. When you speak it feels like I'm getting life advice from the older sister I've never had and makes me feel like I have my life together (even when I don't). So appreciative of all the content you post and thank you for always being authentically you!
oh my lord. how do you look SO fabulous and elegant and glowy and relaxed while discussing literally THEEEE most hardcore and intimate personal details?!?! you are SO ready to be such a wonderful mom -- you seem so poised and ready to handle challenges and take things in stride. Lenny is so lucky to have you!
I admire you Jenn, you’re such an inspiration and always put things so eloquently and raw at the same time
I literally screamed after seeing the baby on the thumbnail 😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍
Jenn's transparency is so refreshing.
I had my son two weeks after you had yours. This experience has been nuts! I’m so happy you’re so open about it all. Thanks for sharing your experience! Glad all of us new mommas are in this together! Best wishes to you and your lil family! 🥰
What I like most about these videos is that... you talking about past - really really INTENSE - emotions in a way that states them as 'that is how I felt' or 'that is how I thought' kind of detaches them from what is actually true. And I know most people learn this in therapy, to separate thoughts and fears from reality. But listening to you talk about it in such a calm and confident manner kind of helps others to know beforehand - oh, this is just a common fear, even sensitive Jenn Im came out of it a confident person, adult, mother, then so can I. Thank you.
I’m almost 4 months pregnant and feeling so many emotions about becoming a mum and all the changes that are coming to both my body and life. Your pregnancy videos are so comforting to me seeing someone go through the same feelings and it’s honestly helped me so much 🥲 thank you for keeping it so real and honest. You are amazing and Lennon is so lucky to have you as his momma ❤️
am not pregnant and am not even married but i ve been enjoying this kind of content so bad especially yours , your authenticity and you being real with us is so beautiful
Jenn, it is sooooo refreshing to hear a very similar post partum experience! Everything from getting hit a truck feeling to breastfeeding issues. It has been 6 months post partum for me and let me tell you, time is the best healer, both the emotional and the physical side of things. I am very happy for you! Keep an awesome job being the best mama for you baby son:))
Such a beautiful perspective. Mom of four here. You are doing an amazing job! Well said my friend
My due is a little over a month left. Watching you becoming a mom, talking about postpartum stuff(physically AND mentally) helps me a lot. Thanks for sharing your honest story, Jenn! I can see that you're already a great mom since you're constantly thinking about how to be a better mom to your beautiful son. My heart goes out to you
Good luck!!
I don't have any plans to be in a marriage and even be a mother, somehow I watched this vlog and started to cry as I listend to your story... you've overcome unbelievably hard time and give us huge energy!!!
Becoming a mom of a (december) baby, this video was really helpful. I am as well doing research on everything, which is oftentimes exhausting and your „last sentence“ instantly calmed me down. Because this is what I strive for in life… „resonance“ and the feeling of living in the present moment and appreciating it, instead of judging every move I do and living in the past and future. ♥️
Okay, I know giving birth is hard but I can’t believe it is THIS difficult. The amount of pain and uneasiness that all women had to bear before, during and after giving birth is unimaginable. This gave me a better insight on what my mom had to experience when giving birth to me. I couldn’t be more grateful for all the sacrifices and hardships my mom had to go through. 🤍 Thanks Jenn for showing everyone this eye-opening yet scary journey of yours.
I just remember how I cried after giving birth. I cried so hard so I can definitely relate to the crying. It’s all the hormones and stuff. The c section traumatized me so badly omg. I’m so happy you’re okay now. It gets easier with time and you definitely get stronger ❤️
And most women get hemorrhoids.
@@mekaalice8668 v NV bvvbbbbvbnmxnm hlnmnn. Bnbbvbbbbbbbbbbnbbnbnbbbbn
The thing is, a lot lot LOT of new mother goes through it but they don’t really talk about it. I went through the same thing and I just thought nobody is going to understand even if i tell them but turns out almost every one of my friends that has given birth has gone through the same thing and they understand the struggle.
And there’s still a lot of men saying women have it easier
Thank you for opening up and sharing so honestly. Rarely do women talk about the hard reality of birth. So thank you for giving an honest real world perspective.
I’m 2 years into being a “new mom” idk if that title even applies to me anymore but holy shit this video has helped me so much especially that last part like WOO thank you so much for being so honest and raw with everything. You’re awesome Jenn!
I really appreciate your frankness and I think it will help people so much who are new parents. I had my son 21 years ago and no one talked to me about any of these things. All the women I knew acted like motherhood was a breeze and they never spoke about the rough parts of having a newborn. It was almost taboo in my family to talk about mental health, the physical pain of childbirth, etc.
You have this special glow in your face now, it's so beautiful to watch when you talk 😊 every mum knows what I mean ❤️
Girl do not stress! I know exactly how you feel and almost every other mom does as well. There are so many ‘right’ ways to be a parent and in a month, in a year, you’ll most likely forget how hard this period was. I have 4 kids and every time is different. My first born was so easy to breast feed but my last baby was such a challenge! I struggled during every feeding! I only had milk for about 3 months but i never let it affect me because mom guilt affects your whole family and it takes joy out if the whole situation. Just enjoy every second of the experience!!! Youre doing amazing!!!! My biggest advice( i had twins and had no help other than my husband who worked from 4am-4pm) is to never feel sorry for your self. Take it one day at a time and find ‘me time’ when you can. It can be the most simple thing. Mine was doing my makeup. I just thoroughly enjoyed it and took my time when i knew the twins were taking a longer nap 👍🏼
Stress causes supply of milk. Sleep more with baby when he sleeps, drink more fluids, just enjoy him like you said create relationship. Thinking that my child is hungry also increases the supply. Good luck!
I’m so comforted by how similar your experience and feelings are/were to my own - I’m just over 2 weeks postpartum and I felt exactly the same way with the anxiety and guilt, not feeling good enough, not feeling like I knew what I was doing and feeling so guilty because I just wanted to make sure my son was ok and happy! And breastfeeding - oh my goodness it’s hard! We were topping up with formula for the first few days in hospital because I couldn’t get him to latch properly and was in so much pain when I tried to feed him! I felt that same guilt about not being able to provide, felt like a failure and like he wasn’t going to bond with me because I couldn’t do it.. I’m so thankful for having a great support system around me who reassured me and supported me through everything we did/are doing, I hope you have the same!
Thank you so so much for sharing your experience!! I feel so seen and heard and understood 🥰
Drink a ton of water. I’ve been there but even when you’re not thirsty drink a ton of water. Like over over hydrate. You’ll see your milk supply turn around. Trust me, I cried and cried over my milk supply and nothing else worked besides chugging a ton of water. You got this!!!!
I had to power pump and it suuucked. Power pumping is effective but holy crap it's the worst! My supply exploded but I was delirious from lack of sleep.
I love Jenn and my comment is non-judgmental, but I'm a bit surprised that having a doula in labor she doesn't have a lactation consultant. I am not a mother, probably nor should I have an opinion but I had the fortune to meet a consultant some time ago and she specified that unless there is some biological condition (disease) the body is capable of producing the milk that the baby needs, even the milk changes its composition as the baby grows or for example if he falls ill. The key is "the more the baby sucks, the more milk is produced" that is why they recommend breastfeeding on free demand (as long as the baby wants), a correct mouth-nipple grip (breastfeeding should not hurt), stay hydrated (like Well you mention) coconut water is highly recommended to hydrate the mother and extract or breastfeed at night which is when prolactin has the highest peak. Hopefully these tips can serve a mom who is around here. Greetings and I hope no one hates my comment
I wish I watched this video before I gave birth to my son. I was NOT prepared for post partum. There's not enough videos, information, books about post partum recovery and anxiety. Never have I ever felt SO unprepared. Thank you for your honesty, this will be so helpful to new mothers. ❤️
I love how real you are. Breast feeding is no joke, I cried the first week of breastfeeding lol! I understand.
It's SOOO difficult!!!
What an enormous gift that you're aware of being present with your child. You will both benefit from that.
Oh my god, I relate so hard about the recovery. No one talks about the amount of pain you go through after childbirth, which in my situation hurt worse for me than actual delivery. It hurt to lie down, sit up, use the bathroom, walk. I was miserable! And the stool softeners never worked so when I finally had my first bowel movement after, I was crying and almost hyperventilating because (tmi alert) it was a big one and I was so scared I was going to hemorrhage.
We need more videos of your experience with pregnancy, delivery and recovery .. Just seems like can't get enough of them since they are so reassuring and calming .
If I had Made a video about postpartum it would’ve been a replica of this. The hormones, the idenitity shift, the Achiever personality needing to give itself grace… oof. I’m 8mo PP now and there are new challenges but it’s such an amazing journey to see your little one grow up from a little blob on an ultrasound to a living, human baby capable of kisses and hugs. All the best Jen!
Our pregnancy and postpartum journeys could not be more similar. I also struggle with mom guilt around having to supplement with formula due to undersupply. Rowan is now 7 weeks old today and I’ve had to supplement since week 2. I also felt like my body was failing me and I put myself under so much pressure to pump and feed as much as possible to try and bring my supply up. Now I’m just focusing on giving him what I can and supplementing the rest of what he needs. It’s hard not to feel bad about it. 🖤
Thank you for your honesty! It took me a little while to find my mommy groove. I would compare myself to other moms and feel inadequate and that i wasn't as good as them. When i stopped doing that and realized I'm doing what's best for myself and my son that's when i felt better! Everything is so new and we don't have step by step instructions on how to do parenting. I was used to following instructions to the letter so without that i was floundering! You're doing great! You will find that flow.
THANK YOU JENN. Coming from a Type A, Type 3 enneagram (who started watching you when we were both 19 - we’re the same age!) who just gave birth in June and dealt with major postpartum blues, breastfeeding challenges, body healing challenges, etc, THANK YOU for sharing this! So much of social media glamorizes postpartum. I was totally unprepared for it emotionally AND felt guilty that I wasn’t having the beautiful experience that it looked like everyone else was having. Thank you for sharing your honest experience - I 1000% relate to everything you’ve said, and I love the way you’ve analyzed and made sense of things. I wish I had given birth after you because I would’ve been so much better prepared for postpartum after watching this video.
You are amazing, you got this!
You’re doing it great Jenn❤️Lennon is blessed to have you and Ben as his parents.❤️❤️❤️❤️
love this Jenn. I'm 1 year 6 months postpartum already and ALL you said girl---totally true. it's comforting to know that I'm not alone and "abnormal" or a "bad" and unprepared mom for having to struggle with all these things...Anyway take care always and you're right--be present at the moment! the first year really does fly FAST.
You’re so beautiful, so strong. I’m so proud of you! Thank you for sharing your journey with us
i dont want to say youre a completely different person, because you arent, the best way to describe what we are all seeing is just a complete evolution, this is your final form this is an absolute powerhouse of a person, and we are all here for it - you are such a natural mother jenn and the love you have for lennon is so prominent, this is you girl you were meant for this!!
I've got so much respect for new mothers ●__● it takes such a mental & physical toll *wow*
Jen, I love that you are so honest. What you said I have experienced the same thing and resonate to it so well. My daughter is 5 months old and I am loving every moment of it and still learning everyday. You are doing amazing mama!
Jenn so happy you popped up in my feed :')
so happy to catch up with you ✨🦋
Aww thanks Natalie! x
JENN!! You are amazing and this video is just.. LIFE? You are helping so many moms and future moms. THANK YOU!
jenn, whenever you come out with a book i cannot wait to read it
i had my baby 4 months ago and it’s definitely a lot. But you are not alone! There are so many mothers out here that are going through this. We got this!
When you get used to one phase, they're going into another. Its crazy ya'll. Time goes by faster after you have kids.
If you’re loving him and keeping him alive you’re killing it! 💪🏽
Hey Jenn, what you’re feeling/felt is completely valid. I am so happy to see how far you’ve come on your journey.
It sounds like you have a really good head on you and no doubt you’ll get through the day, month, year and especially “terrible 2” through 18, hehe
Thank you for sharing your experience. Im 2.5 weeks post partum and your part about anxiety TOTALLY resonates with me...it makes me feel less alone knowing Im not the only one
Congratulations 🥰
This really made me laugh, remembering my own post partum period a year ago. Everybody is talking about the labor, but oh my the recovery.. :D
Thank you for sharing that experience!
Thank you for being so honest! I just gave birth 3 months ago to my first born son and also struggled with guilt, anxiety and breastfeeding/undersupply. I felt so much guilt for supplementing with formula and felt like such a terrible mom because I couldn’t get him to latch correctly (I was exclusively pumping from the get go because he was preemie) and the formula was making him extremely gassy and fussy/uncomfortable. But honestly, as moms, we just have to take a deep breath and give ourselves grace. Being a parent is not an easy job and it’s not any easier when we beat ourselves up over every little thing. “The days are long but the years are short.” Enjoy every moment, even the late night feedings! Someday he’ll be grown and won’t need you for everything so this phase where he’s dependent on you is so precious! You got this Jen! Love you!
Love how jenn and ben always post at the same time haha. Also, love that intro!! And I was like 😲 when i saw Jenn holding a BABY on the thumbnail although i know she gave birth lol
Jenn the transparency that you’re giving your audience (mostly women) is such a game changer for our own future journeys in motherhood. Thanks momma hen 💜💜
Thanks so much for sharing your experience, Jenn! It's really refreshing to see this perspective on each stage of your pregnancy / giving birth / your road to recovery. You're doing amazing!
Thank you, Celeste! My sweater is from Alexander Wang. x
“…you’re also giving birth to a new you.” Jenn’s level of grace and self-awareness is incredible. Plus she’s completely truthful and vulnerable about her post partum experience, including all the good and bad. Jenn, I’m like you in that I never held a baby before, nor really strived for motherhood… but watching you grow and learn, and figuring out your new identity so bravely is really inspiring. It gives me hope about being a mom too one day. You prepared hard and are doing your absolute best! I know you are an amazing mom to Lennon!
YES THE BUTT!!!! oh my gosh my butt hurt for literally weeks after birth!!!
Months!!! I’m currently 7 month postpartum and still struggling with anal fissure that came with the baby 😫
I love how open and honest you are even with the raw and rough moments. You have no idea how much of a blessing your Vlogs are to new Mothers. Through second doubting yourself with your son remember one thing... NO Mother is ever perfect no matter how hard we strive for perfection. But the one thing that is blatantly obvious with you is... Your son is going to thrive and grow to be a happy and healthy little boy and then later on to a strong Man due to the guidance of your love and respect that flows from your heart to his. You are a wonderful Mother... Remember that when the low moments flow over you. *tight hugs*