As if the pregnancy alone and actual day of birth wasn't enough for us women to go through, the aftermath certainly doesn't seem all that easy or enjoyable either. This isn't saying that bringing a new life into the world is unfavorable, because it is quite an amazing and fulfilling experience. But, the aftereffects of pregnancy, that solely targeted our once sleek womanly images, have assuredly taken the hardest hit.

Post-pregnancy appearance for our womanly bodies is almost always too much to handle. Puns a side, the extra baggage that follows birthing our little bundles of joy is quite unwanted, and even worse, troublesome to get rid of. Baby pouches, extra inches and stretch marks are all that remain, leaving a damper on our spirits and making our physiqued outlooks bleak.

Throwing gloom to the side, part through those dark post-pregnancy clouds and let the light in. Appreciate the gift given to you in all his or her little-sized glory. But also, take comfort in knowing you're not alone in this struggle. Women everywhere have difficulty shedding their baby weight, as it's been a constant battle for years. However, there are maneuvers us women can take to release ourselves from those all too heavy post-pregnancy shackles.

Be Patient, New Mommies:

The worst thing you can do as a new mother is jump into losing weight too quickly. For your body and overall health, rushing into activity is highly detrimental. Heavy exercising and light eating is not on your to do list and is highly inadvisable, both medically and logically.

As a glowing newcomer in the realm of motherhood, your body is out of commission, in a sense. Body parts and bodily functions are not normal for us women within at least 6 months after birth. So, to jump right into a diet, exercise or combined routine of the two is asking for serious health issues and complications.

But, if you're overly anxious to drop your postpartum pounds, in the least, give yourself 8-14 weeks to allow your body to recover. Step back and analyze the situation. You just birthed a child. Your body is no where near ready for vigorous exercise. If anything, partake in some extra, yet easy work while at the office or at home, just to slowly kick start your body's old ways.

Don't Forget You'll Need Energy, So Eat!

Taking post-pregnancy living gingerly and meekly is suggested for new mothers. But more importantly, eating well and regularly after birth is essential. Let's get real. Giving birth itself has left you and your body screaming with exhaustion and now it's time for you to take care of your infant, day and night. Now, more than ever, you need to eat, even more than you normally would. Especially if you're going through the process of breastfeeding, you must eat more calories than usual. Many nonstop days and busy nights are ahead, so prepare your body; eat plenty and eat well.

Exercise When It's Time:

Before you fully recover, try to keep busy between taking care of your newborn. Don't stay sedentary (as if you would with an infant anyway). After giving your body ample time to regain it's pre-pregnant health status - 2 to 3 months, or so - consider more energetic exercise.

But, make sure your body is completely ready and back on a regular menstrual cycle. First and foremost, consult your doctor about initiating an exercise routine as a new mother. He or she will be able to tell if you're physically able to exert yourself and just exactly what you'd be able to handle during an exercise session.

The Pounds Will Leave:

Depending on your individual metabolic rate and body condition after pregnancy, those extra pounds will vary in how fast they come off. On average, pregnant women will gain 30-40 pounds – which differs greatly - while carrying their child. The rate in which this weight is lost will be significantly varied from woman to woman, but usually losing baby weight is a gradual and slow process.

Per week, 1-3 pounds lost is standard. So, factoring in initial weight loss on the day of birth, us women have a decent, yet feasible amount of weight to lose. And realistically, this baby weight loss will take about the amount of time the pregnancy took, 8-9 months. This is all pending on differing pregnancy weight gains, as each individual woman can have a shorter or prolonged baby weight loss period.

Losing this weight as new mothers will take diligence and patience, so hang in there ladies, or should I say, Mommies. Essentially, the pay off is already there; your glorious new born. But, if you stick with staying patient, eating well and exercising when able, you will have your original figure once again.