Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Teddi Mellencamp and her husband Edwin Arroyave welcomed their new daughter, Dove, on February 25. But in between sharing photos of the oh so adorable newest member of their family, Teddi took to Instagram to offer a down-to-earth take on the less glamorous side of being a new mom.
The selfie shows Teddi standing in front of a mirror and wearing a black bra and black compression panties, proudly showing off her stomach. In the caption, titled "My Day 3 postpartum reality," the RHOBH cast member gives a detailed look at what her life the past three days has been like, including her joy at watching Edwin with their new daughter, her anxiety while she waits for her body's systems (yes, including her digestive) to be regular again, and her emotional ups and downs. She writes of her postpartum experience:
"It is doing your best to not compare your journey to anyone elses. It is overwhelming gratitude for each friend and family member who shows up without judgement, only to bring you love & food. It is a constant roller coaster & I wouldnt change it for the world. My baby girl is here and I love her more than words can say. We each have our own journey and this is mine."
Fans are loving her open and frank descriptions of new motherhood.
"Love this and love you so much sis. I still looked 8 months pregs day PP. So glad you shared this picture of your BEAUTIFUL body. (I honestly cant remember ever seeing a more gorgeous picture of you, and I mean that with all my heart). Love you guys!! " wrote Jamie Hess, founder of NYCFitFam.
"Beautiful! Look at the gift your body gave you! Women are miracle workers! Embrace all of yourself!" wrote another fan.
As Teddi pointed out in her caption, her son Cruz asked why her "stomach hasn't deflated." According to What to Expect , it can take months for a woman's uterus, abdominal muscles and skin to decrease to its original size.
Kudos to Teddi for being totally candid about postpartum life.