At Savara Intimates, we celebrate the power and beauty of every woman. As part of our True Beauty, True Comfort campaign, we talk to inspiring women who share their personal journey toward self-love and body acceptance. This time, we’re honoured to share the story of Lavinia – a woman who has learnt to embrace her body through all of life’s highs and lows.
A Journey Through PCOS
For years, Lavinia had a love-hate relationship with her body. In 2013, she was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal condition that affects ovulation and can cause irregular or absent periods. But the effects weren’t just physical – her self-image took a hit too.
“I had a lot of insecurities about my body,” Lavinia shares honestly.
Looking back now, when she sees old photos, she often thinks: “I was stunning!”
Though she always had a bit of a belly, she later realised this was due to PCOS. When her hormones are balanced, her body shifts, her mood lifts, and she feels more at ease – in both body and mind.
“It took me years to realise my body wasn’t working against me – it was simply doing its best.”
(from lavinia_fertilitycoach)
Pregnancy: A Newfound Respect
Pregnancy shifted Lavinia’s view on her body. For the first time, she felt proud of what her body could do.
“I actually loved my body during pregnancy,” she says.
Despite stretch marks and other visible changes, she felt a deep sense of admiration for her body’s capabilities.
“So many women dislike their bodies during pregnancy, but I think pregnant women are absolutely radiant. I did then, and I still do.”
One of her most powerful posts reads:
“My belly stretched, my skin changed, but my heart? It expanded too.”
Postpartum: Challenges and Growth
After giving birth, Lavinia faced new challenges: diastasis recti and a sluggish thyroid. Diastasis is a condition where the abdominal muscles separate during pregnancy, often leaving the core weak and a noticeable belly bulge.
These changes triggered old insecurities.
After breastfeeding for 20 months, she made the decision to stop – to give her body the chance to recover and rebalance.
“Yes, I still have a tummy, but I’ve made peace with it. After my first child, I knew I’d have a second, so I didn’t push myself with intense workouts. But I do notice I’m more critical when I don’t exercise.”
During her second pregnancy, Lavinia resumed movement – but with a new intention.
“I didn’t start exercising to look better. I started to feel stronger. I wanted to support my body, not fight it.”
“Exercise is my happy hormone fix,” she smiles.
Self-Care and Movement: A Lifeline
Self-care became essential in Lavinia’s path to acceptance.
“Even as a mother, taking time for yourself isn’t selfish. It’s survival.”
Her advice?
“Choose yourself, even if it’s just three hours a week.”
Movement gave her back not only strength, but joy.
She doesn't strive for a perfect body – just one that feels good, functional, and alive.
“Movement is medicine. It’s not about being ‘fit’ – it’s about being kind to your body.”
(caption from @laviniamama)
Perfectly Normal Beauty: Her Photoshoot Moment
Lavinia decided to take part in our Perfectly Normal Beauty photoshoot as a celebration of her body – just as it is.
“I didn’t need to be toned or ‘ready’. I wanted to show up as I am. First, accept your body. Only then decide if you want to change something.”
Her photos radiate softness and strength – a reflection of a woman who has chosen self-compassion over self-criticism.
A Message to Other Women
Lavinia hopes her story inspires other women to embrace themselves.
“You have to face the uncomfortable parts before you can truly grow. Ask yourself: where does my discomfort come from?”
Her message is crystal clear:
True beauty starts from within – and it begins with self-love.
🌿 Curious to learn more about PCOS and Diastasis?
Check out our previous blogs where we dive deeper into these topics and share gentle, holistic tips to support your body through every phase.
💖 Ready to take a step toward body love?
Explore our collection of sustainable, comfort-first lingerie, thoughtfully designed to embrace your natural beauty – just the way it is.