'Fake pregnancy' claims remind me of my biggest regret while expecting

Coco Austin hit the headlines recently when she uploaded a snap of herself to social media.

The model and gym bunny, who is due her first child before the end of the year, stunned fans and followers this week when she appeared to have next to no bump while hanging backstage at her husband Ice-T's gig.

Seeing Coco accused of faking her pregnancy and reading the comments and remarks made by members of the public reminded me of my own pregnancy almost eight years ago.

While no one accused me of faking my pregnancy because I don't tend to surround myself with absolute lunatics, I was, however, on the receiving end of some seriously pointed jibes.

A fitness enthusiast, I attempted to maintain my normal exercise routine throughout my pregnancy, but it wasn't for reasons of vanity, I can assure you.

As a teen, exercise helped me to overcome an eating disorder and deal with low moods.

Exercise became an outlet for me, and with a lot of guidance and even more self-evaluation I soon realised that I could keep my eating disorder under control if I maintained a regular fitness regime.

By discovering an affinity for sport and certain forms of exercise, I finally realised how important food was to my body.

Without food, I wouldn't have the energy to partake in my classes.

Without properly nourishing myself, I wouldn't have the stamina to endure a three-mile jog.

And without taking care of my body, I wouldn't live long enough to pass my newfound love of sport and fitness onto my children.

As a result of my continued interest in sport and fitness, my body underwent few drastic changes while carrying Ella.

In addition to remaining toned and lithe, my bump was neat and compact – something which appeared to irk those around me.

I was accused of putting my vanity before my child's needs – an accusation which can still bring me to tears.

I was ridiculed for splashing out on maternity pants - a jibe which still hurts as I recall my delight in making the novel purchase.

And I was derided for not succumbing to the 'eating for two' mentality – something I tried my hardest to avoid because I knew the path it could lead me down.

What these people didn't know was that without exercise, I was likely to career blindly towards a black hole of depression.

Without exercise, I would begin binge eating and filling my body with rubbish – none of which would benefit my unborn child.

I didn't want my child to be carried by a woman who struggled to get out of bed in the morning and panicked over having to conceal the re-emergence of an eating disorder.

I ate well, exercised regularly, rested more than I normally would and tried my best to provide my child with a safe and secure home until she made her grand entrance.

Yes, my bump was “smaller than yours after Christmas dinner”, yes you wouldn't know I was expecting if you saw me from behind and yes, maybe my shape is somewhat of a disappointment to you, but you know what?

My pregnancy was none of your business.

If only I'd had the confidence to say that back then.