Generally most women can begin a formal exercise
program within 6 weeks of giving birth, though this time frame might be
slightly longer for some women, including those recovering from a C-section.
Most women recovering from a C-section will be able to exercise after there
incision has healed and their doctor has cleared them for exercise.
Just how soon you begin an exercise program will depend in part
on how you feel. If you had an easy delivery with no tearing and
few interventions and regularly exercised prior to birth, you may
feel up to some light exercise within 2 weeks of giving birth.
If this is the case, your doctor will probably allow you to engage
in some light activities, including walking. Strenuous activity
should generally be avoided however until several weeks after birth.
For some women however, even light exercise in the weeks following
delivery is not possible. If you had an episiotomy or tore severely
while delivering for example, your body may not physically be ready
for a formal exercise program for at least 4-6 weeks after birth
(note… this is also how long most physicians recommend that
women abstain from intercourse!).
How soon you begin exercising thus depends on your body and your
unique situation. Be sure you consult with your physician before
embarking on a new exercise program regardless of your activity
level before and during pregnancy.
Let’s say that one more time because it is important… YOU
MUST CONSULT WITH YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IF YOU WANT TO EMBARK
ON AN EXERCISE PROGRAM. Your body goes through a lot of physical
trauma when you deliver a baby. Starting an exercise program too
soon will delay your recovery and could potentially injure your
body permanently. It may also take you longer than six weeks to
heal fully if you start exercising too soon.
Now, if you feel better and capable of working out before you
hit the six week mark, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare
provider. Most will encourage light exercise including walking,
and some may encourage other types of activity particularly if
you were active before you got pregnant.
Each and every individual is unique and different, thus their
ability to return to a regular exercise routine will vary after
delivery. It is important that you listen to your body.
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About the author:
Article by Beverley Brooke, author of "Ensure a healthy safe
pregnancy for you and your baby", visit http://www.pregnancy-weight-loss.comfor
more on pregnancy weight loss
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