The Pressure of Postpartum Body: Shay Mitchell Opens Up About 'Snapping Back' After Giving Birth
Shay Mitchell opens up about the intense pressure she faced to quickly regain her pre-baby body, shedding light on the unrealistic expectations placed on new mothers Find out how the Pretty Little Liars star tackled this challenge and her honest insights on the postpartum journey
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Shay Mitchell spoke candidly about the societal pressure for mothers to bounce to their pre-baby weight back after having children.
The 36-year-old actress from Pretty Little Liars, credits her experience as a mother for prompting her to think more critically about the societal standards imposed on women before and after becoming mothers. She shares daughters Atlas, 4, and Rome, 1, with partner Matte Babel.
Mitchell expressed in a recent Byrdie cover story on December 12th, "As a woman in today's world, it's challenging. I'd be dishonest if I said I didn't feel that pressure. Nonetheless, I always maintained that I couldn't snap back, only snap forward. When I found out I was pregnant, I set the old version of myself aside, and a new chapter began."
Mitchell's new focus is on instilling determination in her two daughters and teaching them that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. "I want them to look at me and understand that it's possible to be independent while still relying on others for support," said Mitchell. "I want to teach them the value of hard work. My parents always told me that if you earn something on your own, no one can take it away from you. I want my daughters to believe that they can achieve anything they set their minds to."
Mitchell acknowledges Babel, 43, for helping to raise their daughters in a multicultural environment that encourages them to explore their identities. "There are so many questions that come with being a parent, like 'Am I doing this right?' or 'Is this the best way to teach her that?'" Mitchell shared. "Having someone to bounce ideas off of is incredibly valuable. We share the same values, and I am forever grateful to be in a happy, healthy relationship."
Courtesy of Shay Mitchell/Instagram
Mitchell and Babel started their relationship in January 2017, despite having known each other for years as Toronto natives. Although the couple typically kept their romance out of the spotlight, Mitchell shared glimpses of their time together during her pregnancy with Atlas in her 2019 documentary series, Almost Ready.
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Mitchell has previously discussed motherhood in a candid manner. In October 2019, after announcing the birth of Atlas, she received criticism for attending Drake's birthday party. This led her to join Ashley Graham's podcast, "Pretty Big Deal," where she spoke out against mom-shaming, emphasizing the importance of celebrating a mother's ability to live her life both before and after having a child.
