Ready to instantly feel less alone by reading pregnancy confessions?
The growing social media trend of “Listening and not judging” is so powerful—it creates an opportunity for people to share their thoughts without fear of criticism.
Concerns about being judged or misunderstood often hold back thoughts, even though they are valid and absolutely they deserve recognition.
We’ve rounded up candid plus-size pregnancy confessions parents have shared, along with reminders that your feelings are valid and your journey deserves respect.
Plus Size Pregnancy Common Airways
Repeat after me, “We listen and we don’t judge!”
“I know it can take longer to feel movement when you’re older, so sometimes I pretend to feel kicks even when I know it’s not real.”
Waiting to feel those first kicks can be endless for anyone, but it can be even more difficult when you know it may take longer to notice them.
Pretending can be a way to bridge the gap—a way to connect with your baby while waiting for those flutters that, for most, are undeniable.
If you’re in this phase, you can try other ways to feel connected, such as talking or singing to your baby, gently placing your hands on your belly, or focusing on his heartbeat during play dates.
Every pregnancy is different. those real kicks will come in their own time.
“I love that people can’t tell I’m pregnant – it means I don’t have to deal with strangers touching my body.”
People often assume that everyone wants to notice and celebrate their pregnancy bumps, but for some, not having a visible bump can be a relief. Avoiding unwanted belly rubs and intrusive questions is a surprising benefit of flying under the radar.
While some find comfort in not showing up right away, others want their pregnancy to be recognized.
Both experiences apply!
For many who enter pregnancy with a visible belly, it’s common for a bump to take longer to appear than the timelines shared in traditional weekly pregnancy updates.
Understanding the variety of pregnancy belly shapes and sizes can help you set realistic expectations for what you may or may not experience.
Explore resources tailored to your body, like our weekly pregnancy breakdown, so you can feel informed and supported — no matter when your bump comes.
“It bothers me how limited the plus size maternity clothing options are, but honestly, I’m a little relieved that I’m saving money because my clothes still fit.”
The lack of plus size maternity clothing options is beyond disappointing. It’s totally valid to want that classic stretchy maternity band!
However, the high price tag on maternity clothes can make you miss out on a bit of a silver lining. Many find that their regular clothes, such as leggings and tank tops, last well into pregnancy, saving them money and hassle.
With that being said, if you’re still wanting that big belly band or gorgeous maternity dress, we’ve got you covered—literally. Check out our top maternity picks to find styles that fit your body.
“I’m so tired of trying to find a provider who won’t judge me that I’m thinking of sticking with my ‘okay’ OB.”
The truth? Settling for an “okay” provider is often a survival strategy when finding someone better feels overwhelming.
But you deserve more than “good enough.”
You deserve care that is respectful, compassionate and size-inclusive.
We understand how difficult it can be to find a provider that looks beyond your weight. So we’ve created a resource with tips and key questions to guide you in finding a size-friendly care provider.
As long as we listen and don’t judge, we understand if you decide to stay with your current provider. If you are dealing with lipophobia in your care, we also have helpful resources to support patients.
“Seeing the number climb the scale gives me the creeps, even though I know it’s part of pregnancy.”
Society’s obsession with weight loss can make this time even more difficult. Especially when weight gain is a natural and expected part of pregnancy!
There is also so much pressure to “not gain too much,” especially for those with a BMI over 30. Pregnancy weight gain guidelines can be confusing, even challenging.
It’s okay to feel uncomfortable when the scales go up, but remember—you are doing everything your body needs to grow your baby and that is incredible.
Now is the perfect time to examine your relationship with your body and the scale. It can be encouraging to connect with a Health at every size© focused nutritionist to help you address any dieting history, especially if you’ve had an eating disorder.
And as we’ve shared, connecting with a sizeable care provider is essential.
“I’m skipping prenatal yoga classes because I’m afraid I’ll be the only plus size woman there.”
It’s hard to enter a space where you feel like you might not belong, especially when your body isn’t always represented in those spaces. But you should feel welcome and supported, and there are inclusive yoga classes!
Finding a class that celebrates all bodies can make a huge difference—not only for your physical health but also for your mental well-being.
The Plus Mommy Podcast Episode Fitness for All: How to find joy in movement offers great tips for discovering size-friendly gyms.
That being said, we’re all here for non-judgmental support. If staying home feels better for your mental health, that’s totally fine. There are tons of prenatal videos on YouTube that you can watch in your living room.
“I’ve always shied away from cameras, so the idea of maternity photos makes me uncomfortable.”
Not wanting to take pregnancy photos is a common pregnancy confession. Many parents feel self-conscious about documenting this special moment, and that’s completely understandable.
That being said, your pregnancy deserves to be celebrated in a way you like — whether it’s a whimsical photo shoot, something unique for you and your partner, or even a simple bathroom selfie.
Read it again: whatever feels authentic to you is what matters most.
For inspiration, check out these motherhood stories and tips.
Also, consider following the #plussizepregnancy hashtag on Instagram for more real-life examples. And while you’re there, follow us Birth in large size account for great photos and useful educational content!
“I’m embarrassed to admit that none of the postpartum recovery kits I’ve seen would really fit me and it makes me feel like my needs don’t matter.”
It’s upsetting how many postpartum products are marketed as unique when they clearly aren’t designed with plus size bodies in mind.
You deserve supplies that fit and support you because your recovery is just as important as anyone else’s.
Fortunately, there are great postpartum resources available, and most medical facilities have what you’ll need. To feel prepared, consider asking your care provider ahead of time about the equipment and supplies they offer — and support anything extra you might need from labor and birth to delivery.
“I know my size doesn’t define my upbringing, but I worry that others don’t see it that way.”
It’s hard not to feel the weight of other people’s affairs when society often associates size with ability. These crises can feel isolating and overwhelming.
Parents come in all shapes, sizes and abilities, and being a great parent isn’t about how easily you can pick yourself up off the floor – it’s about the love, care and attention you give your child you.
You know your heart, your strength, and your ability to show up for your baby in the ways that really matter.
Learning to set healthy boundaries with those who make you question your magnificence can help you protect your peace and embrace your power as a parent.
Let’s build a judgment-free zone
Every pregnancy and postpartum experience is unique and your thoughts and feelings are valid.
By sharing these oversized pregnancy confessions, we’re creating a world where we listen, support, and lift each other up—without judgment.
Have you had a pregnancy or postpartum thought you felt too critical to share? Let us know in the comments or join our community Instagram. You are not alone!
