A "mommy belly," often referred to as "mummy tummy," is the soft, bulging belly that commonly appears after pregnancy. It's a persistent physical change many women experience after childbirth.
Characteristics of a Mommy Belly
- Soft and Squishy: It typically lacks muscle tone.
- Bulging Appearance: The abdomen protrudes more than before pregnancy.
- Postpartum Persistence: It can linger long after giving birth.
Contributing Factors
While the reference provided focuses on the appearance of a mommy belly, understanding why it happens is useful. Common causes include:
- Diastasis Recti: Separation of the abdominal muscles.
- Weakened Abdominal Muscles: Pregnancy stretches and weakens these muscles.
- Excess Skin: The skin stretches to accommodate the growing baby and may not fully retract.
- Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy hormones can affect fat distribution.
