As Natasha Vermaak figures out the balance between the tears and the "superhero" strength it takes to raise a child, she stands as a beacon for other moms in the thick of it.
Image: Instagram
For years, we’ve seen Natasha Vermaak radiate confidence on stages, but her latest crowning moment is far more raw, honest and relatable than any pageant title.
Just days after welcoming her first daughter with husband Enrico Vermaak, the former Miss South Africa took to Instagram to pull back the curtain on the fourth trimester: postpartum.
While the world saw a glowing announcement, Vermaak revealed that behind the scenes, she was navigating an emotional rollercoaster she never saw coming.
Vermaak described the initial days at home as a blur of adrenaline and motivation. However, the high didn't last. By the fifth day, the "hormone drop" hit, and it hit hard.
"The one that completely caught me off guard…The first four days at home, my adrenaline was at an all-time high. Healing didn’t feel difficult at all. I was excited, motivated, and ready to do anything. And then… day 5. Joh. Joh. Joh, I cried for two days NON-STOP. (never knew so many tears could be cried😂 I could do my salt-sits in them, hahahaha) Enrico was so concerned," she wrote.
The beauty queen admitted that while her midwife had been checking in constantly, the intensity of the baby blues caught her completely off guard.
It’s a sentiment that resonated with thousands of followers, sparking a wave of DMs from fellow mothers who felt the exact same way but rarely saw it reflected on social media.
For Vermaak, the vulnerability is layered. Having a history of depression and seeing a psychologist since 2021, she spoke openly about the fear of Postpartum Depression (PPD) and the daunting task of rediscovering her identity.
"I have a history of depression. I still see my psychologist actively, since 2021, and I am scared of postpartum depression, losing who I am, and finding the new normal. I know the old version of myself will never be there again, but I would love to keep parts of her."
The post wasn't a plea for pity; Vermaak was quick to reassure fans that she is currently feeling great, but rather a mission to normalise the struggle. By sharing photos of her tears alongside the joy of holding her bundle of joy, she is challenging the curated perfection of Instagram.
"I’m sharing this to help normalise postpartum. Speaking to a few people close to me made me realise, we’re all going through it, just not always out loud. What you see on my feed is real… but it’s not the full reality. ❤️And I know a post like this would have made me feel less alone. Like, okay cool… Is it not just me? 😂The tears have been there the past few days…but so has the joy. We’re still figuring it out 🤍And wow… I finally understand why they say moms are superheroes ❤️."
She added, "This post isn't for pity! Promise, I'm feeling great now! But wanted to share for any other momma going to experience this or is going through it!❤️."
Former Miss Universe 1978 Margaret Gardiner took to the comments to offer some advice: "Natasha, be kind to yourself, the hormones will have their way. The exhaustion, and you are feeding another human from your body."
“You are AMAZING!!!! Although this will pass, share the experience because it’s important for people to know so they can help. Hugs. Feel what you feel, and if it persists. Get help. You are allowed."
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