Should You Exercise After C Section – An Essential Part Of Post Natal Recovery?

Generally speaking exercise after c section will be the furthest thing on a new mothers mind.

After the trauma of a Caesarian section you might have regrets about not being able to give birth vaginally, or events leading up to birth may have been so stressful that you feel depressed and emotional.  Most women however are just grateful that their baby has survived.

A Caesarian section is a major operation which will leave you feeling in discomfort for many weeks. To begin with the thought of simply walking will fill you with dread.

At this time you may not be considering any form of exercise after c section.  However it is vital to start moving around a little as this will help to aid circulation and so reduce recovery times.

After you have managed to get out of bed the first time following the operation you will find it gets easier. 

Usually you can expect to stay in hospital for about three days after a caesarian and full recovery may take up to six months. This doesn’t mean you should wait until this time to start exercising.

Simple exercises such as ankle circles and calf raises done throughout the day can help to improve circulation to your lower legs helping prevent blood clots.

Any twisting and turning movements may cause discomfort for up to six weeks after the operation. It is important not to lift heavy items during this time and even after this you should be very cautious in the things you do attempt.

You can start doing specific postpartum pelvic tilting and pelvic floor strengthening exercises the day after your operation.  

Move around slowly. Regularly walking (every hour) around the house will promote healing and prevent constipation and blood clots.

Over the following weeks you should attempt to increase your activity levels gently and sensibly but be very cautious in the type of exercise you do.  It is important to follow a specific post pregnancy exercise programme to avoid any long term complications.

Click here to find out more about a superb 8 week programme designed to guide new mothers around the pitfalls and problems of post pregnancy weight loss and recovery.

Above all, don’t be impatient, add exercise after c section gradually back in to your life.