Exercise after disastrous c-section?

[edeluna]

I had an EMCS seven weeks ago. After the stitches were removed, the wound reopened and it was five more weeks before it had closed up properly. (Apparently, this is rare, so I don't mean to scare anyone who may have to have a CS).

Now I desperately want to get back into an exercise routine but don't want to do anything to slow the healing process any further. The nurse at my GP's surgery suggested walking, but I'd really like to do more -- yoga, maybe some gentle jogging and aerobics.

I'd love to hear from anyone who had a similar c-section experience and managed to resume an exercise routine shortly afterwards. What kinds of things were you able to do and did you experience any set backs?

How about those who had a straightforward CS? When were you able to start real exercise again?

Thanks!

I had a textbook cs, and was told not to exercise for 12 weeks, aside from some gentle walking. After that I felt fine walking briskly pushing the pram, swimming and using the Wii fit. Felt I could have gone back to the gym then too (unfortunately no one around to look after ds!).

In your situation (yowchie btw - are you feelinghealing ok now?) I'd give yourself a good few more weeks before trying too much. Listen to your body when you do start exercising, stop as soon as you feel discomfort - don't wait for pain. And don't assume you'll be back to pre-pg levels too quickly.

There is a nice post natal DVD by Erin O'Brien. It has three stages of exercise you can work your way up to.

Sorry to hear about your wound, that must have been awful. I had a c section with dd2 as she was breach. it was planned so very relaxed and i healed well. I did find bending down type things quite hard, but walks were good and gentle stretches like in the dvd. In fact i can send it to you if you like, am not having any more children! Pm me if you want it. Have a look on amazon at the description see if you like the sound of it

COCKadoodledooo Thanks for sharing your experience. I am feeling much better, thanks. It's just been such a slow process and I'm used to being so much more active, even through my pregnancy. Definitely don't want to do any damage, but I think some brisk walking would be ok at this point. Maybe some very gentle, non-twisty yoga, too.

Cristiane I'm glad your CS went more smoothly and you healed quickly. It's so kind of you to offer me your DVD. I'll definitely take a look at Amazon and then PM you. Thanks so much!

Emcs, wound re-opened. Rode my horse at six weeks... but would not have swam in a public pool.