Just A Phase: Breastfeeding weight gain, postpartum muscle loss, 18-week pregnancy prep.
This week, we’re breaking down why postpartum mommas hold onto arm fat, bouncing "forward" after baby not back, and checking off pregnancy to do lists.
We’re the three Balanced Beyars sisters and every week, we’ll share 3 real-life tips from where we’re at and what’s helping us right now—whether it’s a postpartum hack, pregnancy symptom fix, or something helping us navigate our cycles, motherhood, or everyday life.
Alaina — 4-Months Postpartum
“Some women lose weight while breastfeeding. Others — like Carly and I — hold onto it. Right now, my body feels softer everywhere and gaining muscle is damn near impossible. And honestly? I’m mostly okay with that. Of course, there are days where I don’t feel like “myself” or I get annoyed that I don’t fit into the majority of my clothes. But for the most part, I have accepted that this is the temporary state my body needs to be in to produce milk and nourish my baby.
I came across a post that really stuck with me — it shared how our milk channels extend beyond our breasts, from our armpits to our upper arms and even lower back. Cool, right?! And that extra softness? It’s our body storing hydration and nutrients to support milk flow and help us provide in moments of stress or survival.
Our postpartum bodies are doing something incredible!!!! It’s a functional, temporary phase of womanhood. So I’ve made a conscious effort to stop tearing myself down in the mirror, and instead, be in awe of my body for its wisdom.
There will be another phase to chase aesthetic goals — let’s leave that for later. Right now, I’m intentionally choosing (even on the low body image days) to soak in this fleeting season with my baby."
Carly — 7-Weeks Postpartum
”I’m officially back to lifting weights… and WOW. It’s been humbling. Pre-pregnancy, I was using 25, 30, even 40 lb dumbbells. Now? I picked up 5s and 10s and wondered if I can even finish my 12 min workout?! 😂 I feel like I’m really starting from square one. But honestly I’m excited to start my rebuilding chapter. Strength is my top priority this season.
I’ve learned that when my focus is on losing “the baby weight”, I start to feel restricted, stressed, and disconnected from my body. But when I shift my mindset to gaining strength, everything changes. I feel grounded. Motivated. More in tune with myself. And funnily enough? The physical results follow without the pressure or obsession. That one mindset shift—from shrinking to strengthening—has changed everything for me!!!
Women also naturally lose muscle in their 30s. During postpartum, that loss can speed up if we’re not careful. Strength training doesn’t just help with daily life (helloooo car seats + toddlers). It supports metabolism, bone health, AND hormones. Muscle helps regulate blood sugar, insulin, and estrogen—essential for getting your cycle back on track and feeling like you again.
That said, I’m really trying to NOT rush it (as much as I want to.) I may have my 6-week clearance, but I’m skipping high-impact stuff until I see my pelvic floor therapist. Because honestly, that standard checkup isn’t enough. A pelvic floor PT can make sure everything’s healing properly and create a safe return to high intensity movement plan. I wish this was standard care for all moms but until then, we advocate for ourselves.
So let this be your reminder: rebuilding strength postpartum takes time. There’s no rush. We’re playing the long game—strong, steady, and sustainable.
This season isn’t about “bouncing back,” because the truth is… we’re not meant to go back. Motherhood transforms us —mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically.
It’s not about reclaiming who we were before. It’s about bouncing forward into who we’re becoming. Stronger. Softer. Wiser. More powerful than ever!!!”
Julie — 18-Weeks Pregnant
”18 weeks pregnant… how?! Time is flying, and I can’t believe I’m almost halfway there. A little update:
Cervical mucus — no one warned me how much there’d be during pregnancy! I especially notice it after walks. Turns out, it’s totally normal and even important. It protects the uterus and helps prevent infections. So cool, honestly.
Pregnancy pillow = life-changing. I finally caved and got one and wow… game-changer. I miss sleeping on my back, but it’s helping so much with side sleeping. Still finding my perfect setup, but I’m into it. (Trying to get a discount code for you too - hang tight!)
Baby shower invites are finalized! Eeeek. I never had a real wedding with invites, a bachelorette party, or bridal shower, so this feels extra special (and a little nerve-wracking). I’m so excited to finally be celebrated—me and baby Starburst both 💛
Registry mode: ON. Fun, but a lot! Still deciding on big items like stroller, crib, and car seat. Carly and Alaina have been amazing with tons of trusted recs, but if you have must-haves, please drop them below!!
Need more photos! We’ve been slacking, but we’re planning a beach shoot soon with our friend Jeanette. We also got a film camera and have started snapping Polaroids—wanting to soak up and document this sweet season more.
Is anyone else in this phase of life right now!? Comment and tell me how many weeks you are!”
We’ll be back next week with more of the honest, in-between moments that define this wild ride through womanhood.
Whether you're easing back into movement, navigating the shifts of pregnancy, or just learning to listen to your body in a deeper way—we hope these stories remind you that you’re seen, supported, and never in it alone.
Until next week 💛
Alaina, Carly & Julie
BALANCED BEYARS HEALTH
Which wearable pump are you using?? Baby number two is arriving soon and definitely need one to use while chasing my toddler!
Curious what infant car seats Alaina and Carly used/recommend? We got a nuna stroller