Gentle exercises for postpartum recovery

In the early days and weeks postpartum a new mama and her family should be focusing on adjusting to new sleeping patterns (sleeping when the baby is sleeping), spending time skin to skin to establish breastfeeding and learning and responding to a new infants cues.  

Taking these steps helps to boost confidence in parenting, promotes rest which is essential to recovery after birth and allows for natural attachment and bonding to take place between a new baby and her parents.

If you have had an uncomplicated vaginal delivery, most women are usually able to resume low-impact exercises by 6 weeks postpartum.  Cesarean birth or a more complicated vaginal birth often requires more time to heal, typically women are able to resume exercising by  8-10 weeks postpartum.  

It is recommended that your Care Provider clear you for exercise prior to resuming a structured fitness program.  Keep in mind that every woman recovers differently, it's important to listen to your body. Start slow and gradually increase time and intensity.

Gentle stretching and isolated abdominal exercises are usually safe to resume soon after giving birth. As you continue to recover, you can gradually resume exercise, especially if you were exercising regularly prior to delivery. It's best to take it day by day and only do what you can, being mindful not to push yourself too hard.  

Looking after a baby is hard work!  Be kind and gentle to yourself as you adjust to the new responsibilities and the demands that parenting requires.