exercising after c-section....

[tostaky]

it has been only 4 weeks and it is still very sore but im already wondering what type of exercise i can do that won't interfer with the healing process..
I take it that running is off-limit for a good six months ?

Advice? experience?

ps: i walked for 1hour last week, in the park, pushing the pram and it took me two days to recover from the walk.. my scar was really painful after the walk (on one side only)

after my c section I tried to do 15minute walks everyday from about 2 weeks after opp then increase it to maybe one 15min walk in morning and another in afternoon, I think its more important to keep nice and mobile rather than pushing yourself. definately don't push yourself to hard or it will hinder your recovery and yes running definately out for a while!!

After my c-section I took up pilates (not as soon as 4 weeks, although some places do post-natal pilates), and it was the best thing ever. Great for pelvic floor muscles and for aligning everything back in place. Also I used to try to walk a little bit every day, and you will find it gradually gets easier.

It did take a long time for me to get back into exercise (I don't know if this is the norm), and my scar did hurt when I did things. As for running, I wasn't able to do that for about 10 months (but I know others who went back before them). I really missed being able to go out for a run.

Maybe try swimming if you can't run. You get the exercise without the impact. Good luck. It will improve.

Walking at a gentle pace for 15-20 mins is about the most you should be doing for at least 6-8 weeks post partum (certainly until after your 6 week check) - no matter how good you feel. After that, pilates or yoga are terrific for post-section (or any postnatal) women, but you should start very gently. Many teachers won't take you until 10 or 12 weeks post section, actually.

Be gentle on yourself. The better you are able to heal in the early days, the fitter and stronger you will eventually be.

it's hard for me to stay inactive but today again i walked too much... i need to learn my lessons!!! Damn csection!
I'm trying to integrate the fact that im not going to run anytime soon... Cant wait to feel better!

I've had 2 c-sections and found that I was pretty robust after 8 weeks. Back at the gym at 12 weeks both times. I took it so easy though, there were old ladies working harder than me .

If you ran before you should be fine trying a gentle run in a couple of months. Just take it very very easy and stop if it feels uncomfortable.