According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over one million babies are born through C-sections yearly. A caesarean delivery or C-section is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby. It is done through incisions in the abdomen and uterus.
C-sections may be planned ahead of time, unlike the normal deliveries. This is essential if you develop pregnancy complications. All women who have had a C-section would have a scar.
The good news is that C-section scars are commonly small and below the bikini line. Once the scar heals, it can fade into a faint line that is barely noticeable.
Model mum shows C-section scar in Sports Illustrated
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A recent Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue features a model mum showing her C-section scar — a first in the magazine’s 58-year history.
The feature is a collaboration between Sports Illustrated Swimsuit and Frida Mom founder Chelsea Hirschhorn, and is intended to celebrate all mums who bear a C-section scar.
Furthermore, they are also aiming to show the beauty of motherhood authentically. Through this magazine issue, they want to help women who have undergone C-sections feel proud of themselves, as well as normalise conversations about all postpartum recoveries and bodies.
Kelly Hughes: A C-section mum
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The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue features Kelly Hughes, a C-section mum working with the brand Frida Mom.
Aside from the feature, the magazine has also launched the Pay With Change initiative, a gender equity advertising initiative which aims to positively shift the mainstream cultural narratives associated with women’s bodies.
Kelly Hughes said: “We’re thrilled that Sports Illustrated Swimsuit appreciates the importance of highlighting these women authentically — C-section scars and all — and welcome the progress we will make together as a result of this shared commitment.”
What is a caesarean section?
A caesarean section is a surgical procedure performed to deliver a baby through the birthing person’s abdomen instead of her vagina. Additionally, a C-section is a procedure that, in some cases, can be planned.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ACOG), C-sections are used more urgently when labour is not progressing. Medical health providers also use C-sections if the health of the mother or the baby is at risk.
8 tips on dealing with postpartum body image issues
Embracing the New You: Why Post‑Birth Body Changes Aren’t a Curse
After giving birth, a woman’s body can look and feel again‑so‑different. That’s a fact nobody can deny. But instead of letting the “get-your‑body‑back” comments scare you, think of it as a fresh chapter in your personal story.
Why the Change Happens (And It’s Totally Normal)
- Pregnancy adds extra weight, stretching muscles and skin.
- Hormones shift, causing water retention and skin tone changes.
- Baby‑time can mean irregular sleep and new diet habits.
All of these are part of the beautiful, albeit sometimes chaotic, postpartum journey.
Quick Ways to Stop Negative Thinking and Start Loving the Result
- Reframe the “Problem” – Instead of seeing your belly as a problem, picture it as a badge of survival and love.
- Celebrate Small Wins – One step, one stretch, one lace‑up. Every little victory deserves a cheer.
- Track Your Progress, not Just Your Scale – Take photos, measure how your clothes fit – it’s about how you feel, not the digits on a screen.
- Stand In Front of Yourself, Literally – Put on a mirror, talk to yourself like you’d talk to a friend, and make an agreement: “I’m worthy, I’m strong.”
- Laugh At the Oddities – That sudden urge to spit out a piece of cake? Treat it as a quirky reminder you’re back in human form, not an alien body.
Simple Self‑Care Fuel Packs
- Hydration: Aim for 2–3 litres of water per day. Or, if you’re a coffee person, splash in coffee too.
- Wearing comfy clothes: Stretchy leggings, wardrobe that accommodates the new shape.
- Mindful exercise: Gentle yoga or a slow stroll. Remember: It’s about moving, not flinging.
Every body’s story is unique, and postpartum transformations are just another part of the journey. Keep the focus on feeling good, staying healthy, and giving yourself a pat on the back—because you’re already amazing, no matter where you find yourself on the scale.
1. Stop body checking
Avoiding this habit can go a long way toward taking your attention off of your appearance.
2. Centre on body neutrality rather than body positivity
It is not easy to shift from not liking to love your body. Aiming for neutrality can be more manageable than positivity.
3. Fix your negative body thoughts when they occur
Find the strength to change your negative thoughts into something neutral and appreciative.
4. Listen to and trust your body
Do things without feeling guilty and trust that your body works for you.
5. Focus on everything your body has done and is doing for you and your baby
Your body gives birth to a cute little one. It will be helpful to look on the brighter side of life than on the negative ones.
6. Don’t force yourself into your pre-pregnancy clothing
Dress Up and Celebrate Your Body
Think of your wardrobe as a love letter to yourself. When you slide into clothes that fit like a second skin—neither too clingy nor too floppy—you’re actually giving your body a thumbs‑up. It’s a simple act of self‑respect that makes every day feel a little more like a victory lap.
- Comfort is king – If you can move, breathe, and smile without a wardrobe snag, you’re already ahead of the game.
- Confidence boost – A well-fitting outfit lifts your mood faster than a cup of coffee. It’s the instant confidence boost the universe sends you.
- Respect vibes – Honoring your body means acknowledging its limits and strengths, and comfortable clothes do just that.
- Fashion forward – When you feel good in your clothes, you wear them with swagger, turning the runway of everyday life into your personal catwalk.
So next time you aim for a new style, remember: the best choice is the one that lets your body do its thing—flowing, stretching, and keeping you looking effortlessly fabulous. Your body will thank you; so will the rest of your life.
7. Honour your body by eating food and moving in a way that makes you feel good
Treating your body with love and kindness will make you feel good about yourself.
8. Remember that you are so much more than a number on a scale
Mind the Scale, Not Your Self‑Worth
Ever glance at the bathroom mirror and see a number on the scale that feels like a verdict? The truth is, that figure isn’t a measure of who you are, how great a partner you are, or the amazing parent you’re growing to become.
What the Scale Won’t Tell You
- Emotional Resilience: Your ability to bounce back after a tough night of sleep (or a workout) is priceless.
- Love: Nothing tells the world how you make your partner laugh or how you teach your kids that curiosity is a gift.
- Strength: Whether you’re lifting a stroller or dragging a pile of laundry, you’re stronger than the number suggests.
Why You’re Still Awesome
Here’s the scoop: The number is just a fleeting snapshot. It’s not a verdict. Below are some everyday moments that prove you’re already on track.
- Moments of Joy: That giggle when you flip pancakes, the way you tuck your little ones in, or the thoughtful note you leave behind to your partner.
- Everyday Heroics: Preparing a nutritious dinner in under 30 minutes or staying calm when the heat of a tantrum erupts.
- Unstoppable Curiosity: Reading about a My Little Pony episode while troubleshooting a diaper bag fiasco.
How to Keep the Scale Low‑key
If you find it tempting to obsess over the number, keep these playful lures in your arsenal:
- Playful Challenges: Compete with your spouse over who can do the most 30‑second planks before the coffee kicks in (yes, this is the sort of “baby‑friendly” fitness that’s surprisingly effective).
- Incorporate Kids: Turn your workout into a dance party with the little ones. The count? 15 minutes of goofy moves—no scale involved.
- Let the Baby Rise: Count smiling, completed chores, or watched bedtime stories. These are the real numbers that will make your heart dance.
Remember
You’re a person of value, a partner who knows how to keep things spontaneous, and a parent ready to show that learning is the best gift. The scale is just a number. A glass of water, a quick stretch, or an extra cuddle will do far more for your spirits—there’s no such thing as a perfect number, only amazing moments.
— The style is based on the original content, reworked here with a casual approach, emotional warmth, and a sprinkle of humor to keep it light and engaging. This piece was originally shared by “theAsianparent” (motherscarModels pregnancy).
