Gemma Atkinson, well-known for her roles in TV shows like Hollyoaks, Emmerdale, and Casualty, as well as her appearance on Strictly Come Dancing in 2017, has opened up about her unfiltered experience of welcoming her newborn son.
In the midst of baggy T-shirts, unwashed hair, and the realities of postpartum life, Gemma’s joy and relief are palpable.
In a three-part documentary series titled “Gemma And Gorka: Life Behind The Lens,” she and her fiancé Gorka Marquez, a professional dancer, provide an unvarnished look at their second pregnancy journey after a traumatic first birth.
The documentary not only showcases the chaos of juggling work, their four-year-old daughter Mia, and two dogs, but it also highlights the less glamorous aspects of pregnancy – from haemorrhoids to profuse sweating and even partner-assisted perineal massages.
Gemma and Gorka aimed to depict the realities of pregnancy and motherhood, shedding light on topics that are often overlooked.
Gemma reflects, “We’ve not gone full-on Kardashian, but you see life as it is during and after pregnancy.”
The couple’s journey is marked by both reality and informative insights.
They speak to midwives, pelvic floor muscle specialists, and GPs, emphasizing the challenges of growing and birthing a human.
Gemma wishes there had been such a show available during her first pregnancy, as she believes knowledge is crucial.
Their journey has been far from conventional.
Gemma and Gorka first met during Strictly Come Dancing in 2017, and their relationship blossomed over the years.
They welcomed their daughter Mia in 2019, followed by their son Thiago in July 2023.
However, Mia’s traumatic birth experience left its mark, prompting anxieties during Gemma’s second pregnancy.
She recalls the fear and uncertainty that arose during Mia’s birth due to a postpartum haemorrhage.
Reflecting on her first birth, Gemma shares, “My first birth was a traumatic one.
They gave me a form about blood transfusions that asked if one of us had to be saved, which one would it be.”
This harrowing experience propelled her to seek answers and educate herself about the process.
For her second pregnancy, she was given aspirin to improve blood flow and mitigate risks.
The documentary delves into various aspects of pregnancy and birth, including the role of partners.
Gorka emphasizes the importance of partners being actively involved and emotionally connected during this journey.
He believes that partners should prioritize understanding and support for their loved ones, especially during a period that can be overwhelming and challenging.
Gemma’s positive outlook shines through, even in the face of adversity.
Despite facing challenges during both pregnancies, she expresses gratitude for her growing family.
The series also covers Gemma’s experiences with body changes, the realities of public opinion, and her resilience in embracing her evolving physique.
Gemma and Gorka’s journey is an inspiration to many, showcasing the realities of parenthood – the highs, the lows, and the transformative power of unconditional love.
The documentary, “Gemma And Gorka: Life Behind The Lens,” is set to premiere on Wednesday, August 30th, offering an unfiltered view into the lives of this dynamic couple as they navigate the beautiful chaos of family and parenthood.
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