Some actually think that their weight will be back to normal (pre-pregnancy) as soon as they have given birth. Unfortunately, that is not how it works.

When I left the hospital after having given birth, I looked like I was 4-5 months pregnant. It took time and effort to lose all that extra weight. With the help of my doula (and thanks also to breastfeeding), my uterus went back to its normal size after a few weeks.

My problem, though, was the lose skin on my tummy. No muscle tone whatsoever and it looked like a mass of loose skin. That needed help. And the only way to make it look better is to get some abdominal exercises... or, get cosmetic surgery.

I know women who have just given birth are keen to lose weight. But, do not be too hard on yourself. Not all of us can be like the celebrities who can afford to hire a personal trainer (or get an operation!) and look like a million dollar again after just having given birth.

Need help? iVillage has great tips on how to lose that post-pregnancy weight and tone those tummy muscles.

There is no need to look like a frumpy mom. All you need to do is work on it.