‘Samajh nahi aaya': Renuka Shahane reveals doctor's shocking weight comment day after childbirth; how it can affect a new mom
In a candid conversation with Gauahar Khan on her podcast show MaaNoranjan, Shahane reflected on the emotional and physical toll of becoming a new mother, and the jarring comment she received just a day after giving birth to her son in 2002. 'My first child was born in 2002. Despite all my hopes, it wasn't easy. Many things go unspoken,' she said.
Shahane added, 'When the doctor and his wife visited me in the hospital, his very first words were, 'Now you must lose weight.' It felt so strange,' Shahane revealed. She then recalled her reaction to the doctor's comment: 'Just yesterday I delivered my firstborn and I was like yeh kaunsa pressure hai, samajh nahi aaya (what is this pressure, I don't understand). That was a first for me and I was completely shocked. So many things were happening to me, so I was just like a spectator, and it's his prerogative only. It actually prepares you for societal pressure. A mother doesn't only have the pressure to be a naturally fabulous mother, but also to bounce back as if nothing has happened.'
Dr Shaily Sharma, consultant gynaecologist at Cloudnine Hospital, Faridabad, tells indianexpress.com, 'It can be weird…receiving weight-related comments right after childbirth. It can be extremely harmful for a new mother, both emotionally and physically. After delivery, a woman's body is healing from a major physical event. Her hormones are shifting, sleep is disturbed, and she may already feel overwhelmed or vulnerable. Being told to focus on weight loss during this delicate time can lead to guilt, shame, or anxiety. It may affect her self-esteem, discourage breastfeeding, or even contribute to postpartum depression. Mothers need empathy and support, not pressure or judgement.'
Dr Sharma notes that recovery after childbirth should be gentle and paced according to each mother's needs. Emotionally, seeking support from family, friends, or a counsellor can be beneficial. Practicing self-kindness, accepting one's body, and connecting with other new mothers can ease the emotional load.
'Physically, focus should be on rest, balanced nutrition, hydration, and gradual movement like light walking or postnatal yoga. Any weight changes should come naturally over time, not through rushed diets or intense workouts. Healing, bonding with the baby, and mental wellness should be the true priorities in this phase,' suggests the doctor.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
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