Hannah Polites is many things. She's a fitness model, a fashion addict, a foodie, and an author. Most important of all, she's an expecting mother.
Polites, 24, may be young but she has already amassed 1.2 million followers on Instagram. As a result, the Australian model is susceptible to the good, the bad, and the ugly that the internet has to offer.
Polites' name has been making headlines as of late because she's the most recent social media star to be targeted by ruthless, body shaming online bullies.
As you can see, Polites' baby bump doesn't exactly fit the mold typically associated with expecting mothers' tummies. But, does that give anyone the right to assume the worst for her child, or for Polites herself? Not at all.
It certainly doesn't merit comments like the following:
"You are killing your baby," and "That's 6 months pregnant? Is it a gerbil?"
Like social media stars Sarah Stage and Emily Breeze Ross Watson before her, Hannah Polites is being accused of "starving her baby" simply because her baby bump appears "unhealthy" to some. However, Polites isn't the type of expecting mummy to sit back and take the harsh and shocking criticism.
In fact, Polites (who expects to give birth this September) fired back at haters and bullies by saying that her baby is "actually 20 percent bigger than the average at this gestation." She added that her belly is smaller than most because she continues to maintain a healthy lifestyle during her pregnancy.
"It's truly shocking to read some of the comments regarding my health and that of my unborn baby, especially at a time where women are particularly vulnerable and can be more sensitive to bullying," Polites said in an interview with Australia's "Gold Coast Bulletin".
Senior lifestyle editor for Fit Pregnancy and Baby Magazine, Jessica Hartshorn, says that women and other netizens should develop a broader perspective when they see expectant mothers on social media or otherwise.
"I think some people look at a pregnant person and compare it to themselves which is natural," Hartshorn told TODAY in a recent interview. "We all compare our bodies to everybody else, but it is important to remember that every single pregnancy is different."
There's nothing wrong with Polites' approach to caring for her unborn baby. Though she may not be the stereotypical pregnant woman, she's still doing what she can to promote her child's health. In spite of this, the internet remains relentless in their comments and criticism.
But does this negativity stop Hannah from representing herself as a positive role model across social media? Of course not! She has the willpower, strength, and courage of a mother!
"I do not take the negative comments to heart, especially when I know I am making informed decisions when it comes to nutrition and exercise in pregnancy and motherhood. For the record, doctors have told me bub is healthy," Polites said.
What do you think about the harsh criticism this expecting mum has received? Do you support her strong response to these online bullies? Let us know, mums!
If you have any insights, questions or comments regarding the topic, please share them with us!
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