Postpartum Exercise

[Mama1993]

I'm 4 weeks PP and am planning to start some exercise again in a couple of weeks however I wanted to get the all clear from my doctor first.

Just called to make my 6 week PP appointment and have been told it'll be over the phone? How on earth can they check my abdomen over the phone?

I had a vaginal birth with no complications, I'm 28 and was very active pre-pregnancy but didn't do much more than walks when I was pregnant. I feel like I'm ready but not sure if I should wait? But also I'm not sure if they're even offering face to face appointments anyway...

Does anyone have any experience?

From what I remember with my first, there was no physical examination. It was more about how I'm feeling, if I'm still bleeding, am I using contraception/having sex. Gad a chance to express any concerns.

I don't remember physically needing to be there, but this was almost 3 years ago. I definitely didn't have my abdomen checked.

Honestly the NHS ones are a waste of time. They don’t look at anything, maybe a c section scar if there are concerns but otherwise nothing.

I would recommend you read up on how to check for diastasis recti and if you have any concerns see a post natal physio. They will check much more and also help with recommending how to ease yourself back into exercise, particularly if you have any signs of abs separation.

One of my friends had this problem and really wanted to get back into exercise after having her baby. There is a clinical service called Get Pregnancy Fit which has been founded by a GP and Women's Health PT who do all of these checks and make sure your exercise is suitable. Have a look for them on social media.