31st July 2023

Written by

Emma Bennett

Gemma Atkinson is marking two weeks since the arrival of her baby son, Thiago.

The star previously updated fans to say that her hopes for a VBAC had not been realised, and that she had a planned c-section instead.

Now, two weeks on from her baby's arrival, the former Hollyoaks actress has revealed how she is recovering from Thiago's birth.

She started with a list of all the things she has right now, and we can totally relate to this! Gemma revealed that she is currently wearing breast pads, and an industrial-sized sanitary pad, while also sporting a swollen tummy.

The actress turned DJ was quick to point out to her followers that this was all completely normal following a c-section.

She wrote: "All the things postpartum we go through. It’s very common for tummy’s to stay swollen after pregnancy and they usually stay swollen longer after a C section due to the inflammation and abdominal swelling from surgery. So don’t worry if you feel you still look pregnant as I do here. ITS NORMAL! [sic]."

Gemma went on to say: "I’m not expecting to look like my old self for months down the line yet. I haven’t even left the house other than pottering about in the garden.

"I’ve been mindful to rest as much as I can to aid recovery down the line. Weather permitting, towards the end of this week I’m going to start some short walks.

"Until I’ve had my mummy MOT that’s all the exercise I’ll be doing. What I’ve been focusing on instead is trying to make myself feel like my old self, and so far it’s worked. Despite broken sleep for 2 weeks I feel really good."

The mum-of-two revealed how she has been supporting her recovery, and shared her methods with her fans. Her recovery routine has included eating healthy snacks such as fruit, dark chocolate, and Greek yogurt to combat the breastfeeding hunger.

The new mum also said that she hasn't re-started his usual ice baths that she had before pregnancy, and has been having cold showers instead.

Gemma shared that she has been using affirmations each day. Warning fans that the affirmations sound cheesy, she said: "Every morning I’ve told myself “I can do this” every night feed I’ve reminded myself “thousands of women are now doing the exact same as me right now” and every time I look at Thiago I thank my body for growing, carrying and birthing him."

Finally, she went on to say: "15 days ago he was in my tummy and that blows my mind completely. The miracle of life and the human body."

Image source: glouiseatkinson/Instagram