A mother-of-two, Alexandra Kilmurray, has posted a brutally honest Instagram image highlighting the challenging realities of parenthood. The woman, from Fort Lauderdale in Florida, posted a photo of her post-pregnancy stomach with an empowering message about becoming a mother.
Alexandra has two sons with husband Bryan. She said it took her “18 months not to cry” when she looked in the mirror. The mum said that she’s endured a “long and rough postpartum ride” and wanted to give other mums who might be having difficulties some encouragement. She wanted to highlight her own struggles in the hope of helping those “who are battling postpartum depression and still getting up every day for their children”.
Alexandra said it’s about understanding that there are “dark sides” of becoming a mother. It’s not always an easy ride.
“Well, I know a lot of you guys are probably thinking ‘why would she post this picture’, but, it took me 18 months to get here, 18 months to not cry when I look in the mirror, 18 months to finally feel beautiful in my own skin again!” brave Alexandra said.
“No one warns you about the dark sides of motherhood and pregnancy.. no one gives you a heads up on how much you change physically and mentally after you become a mother.
“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.”
Alexandra continued:
“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! Cheer to motherhood, cheers to knowing that this too shall pass! And things will get better.”
It’s a really moving and powerful message. Alexandra has been getting lots of support and love from others who have gone through similar experiences.