exercising after birth

[lesliefu]

Hi

I was wondering what kinds of exercises I can do after having just given birth - with my first I was told not to do anything until at least 3 mths, but my doctor this time as asked me to start exercising ASAP...and of course, I forgot to ask him what kinds of exercise! Any advise would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Gataloca]

Probably you can go to a public library, and check the books there. I borrowed a maternity fitness book before that included exercises that can be done before and after birth.

And if you haven't given birth yet, I think the hospital would teach you some basic exercises that you can do right after birth, like Kegel exercises, etc.

 

[PurpleFlower]

You can start doing pelvic floor exercises pretty much straight away. Doesn't take long. If you've done pilates before, you can start with the breathing exercises and try to reconnect with your core again and then progress gradually to slightly more challenging moves etc etc.

As for the more intense/stronger exercises, it pretty much depends on whether you had a c-section or natural delivery. Recovery from a natural delivery will be much quicker and you can probably start with a few gentle walks etc. With c-sections, you should wait at least 6 weeks before doing anything intense and should get the ok from your doctor first.

 

[Sleuth]

Also depends on what, if anything, you were doing before giving birth.

 

[lesliefu]

I was doing yoga and pilates before having my baby, which was a natural birth...so I guess I should slowly get back into the routine before I get lazy! Thanks alot guys!

 

[Frenchy]

You should avoid any sit-ups before to get your pelvic floor and perineas muscles back to normal.

 

[lesliefu]

Thanks Frenchy! Will bear that in mind!