Jennifer Lawrence stated that physical recovery after childbirth leaves lasting changes, telling podcast host Alex Cooper that while a vagina bounces back, a butthole does not. The Toronto Sun reported the remarks from an episode of the Call Her Daddy podcast, where the 36-year-old actress discussed the physical and emotional toll of raising two young children with her husband, art gallery director Cooke Maroney.
Physical Realities Of Childbirth And Recovery
During the podcast appearance, Lawrence listed several anal-related ailments and pelvic strains that women can experience after pregnancy, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and sphincter strain. Cooper, who was expecting her first child with Matt Kaplan at the time of the recording, asked the Oscar winner what to expect during delivery. Lawrence replied that there is no going back once labor begins.
Jennifer Lawrence to ‘Call Her Daddy’ on the most brutal acting feedback she’s received:“At ‘The Hunger Games’ premiere my mom said she could tell in every scene when I had my period…water retention I guess.” pic.twitter.com/5NV3iee63V
Colorectal and gynecologic specialists outlined the physical mechanics behind these postpartum symptoms. Pregnancy and childbirth place extreme pressure on the pelvic floor, which can cause hemorrhoids, fissures, and sphincter weakness, according to Dr. Poppy Addison, a colorectal surgeon at Northwell’s Staten Island University Hospital (reported by the New York Post). Dr. Carmen Fong, a chief medical officer at Bummed, noted that stretched-out skin tags often remain after swelling subsides, while severe pelvic floor strain can occasionally lead to rectal prolapse. Dr. Amir Shay added that roughly one in four to one in three women experience hemorrhoids during or after pregnancy, while about 3% of vaginal deliveries involve more serious tears affecting bowel control muscles.
Motherhood Realities And Second-Child Postpartum Depression
Lawrence and Maroney share two sons: Cy, who is 4 years old, and a second son born in early 2025. Lawrence admitted that she felt entirely unprepared for motherhood and struggled to distinguish between different cries during her early months as a parent. Despite knowing she is a good mother, she acknowledged the daily challenge of avoiding guilt and feeling like she is not doing enough.
When discussing her second child, Lawrence revealed she experienced severe postpartum depression and anxiety. She recounted an encounter in an apartment elevator where another mother in a mom-and-baby class noticed she was not okay, offered a hug, and provided a phone number for support. To manage her schedule and prevent burnout, Lawrence now maintains a structured routine for her time between home life and her acting career.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jennifer Lawrence And Childbirth Recovery
When did Jennifer Lawrence and Cooke Maroney welcome their children?
The couple welcomed their first son, Cy, in 2022, and had their second baby boy in early 2025.
What specific postpartum conditions did medical experts link to childbirth?
Medical specialists cited by the New York Post noted that pregnancy and delivery can cause hemorrhoids, anal fissures, sphincter weakness, residual skin tags, and in severe cases, rectal prolapse or tears affecting bowel control.
How frequent are postpartum hemorrhoids according to medical data?
Studies indicate that approximately 25% to 33% of women experience hemorrhoids during pregnancy or following childbirth, while more severe muscle tears occur in about 3% of vaginal deliveries.
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