Exercise is important at any stage of life, so it should come as no surprise that it can help with postpartum health as well.

Getting Ready to Workout

Talk to your doctor about when it is okay for you to start exercising after giving birth. Women who have had a cesarean section may need to wait 6 weeks or longer to do abdominal exercises. They may still be able to do other exercise as long as they do not do too much too fast. Go slowly and listen to your body. Use how you feel and your energy level as a guide.

Pregnancy and delivery cause changes like stretched pelvic floor muscles. Strengthening these muscles can lower the risk of incontinence or even pelvic organ prolapse. Kegel exercises can make these muscles stronger by tightening and relaxing them. They can be done anytime, anywhere—even shortly after giving birth.

Making Time for Workouts

You may be excited to get back into shape, but taking care of a newborn may make it hard to find the time. Here are some tips that will help while also improving your workouts:

• Trade babysitting time with other parents.
• Slowly increase your activity level as you are able.
• Buy a jogging stroller.
• Buy home exercise equipment.
• Find online classes you can do at home.
• Find a gym with a childcare room.