WeMoms
2 Apr 2024

Getting Back into Shape During the Postpartum Period

Newborn
Post-delivery time
Getting Back into Shape During the Postpartum Period
Welcoming a new life into the world is a remarkable journey, but it also comes with changes to your body.
As you navigate the postpartum period, the desire to regain your pre-pregnancy shape may be on your mind. While it's important to be patient and prioritize your well-being, there are ways to gradually and healthily get back into shape.
Here's a guide to help you embark on this journey with confidence and self-care.
Embrace Your Body's Timeline
Remember that your body has undergone significant changes to bring your baby into the world. Embrace the natural timeline of your postpartum recovery.
Your body needs time to heal, so don't rush into intense workouts immediately.
Instead, focus on gentle movements and activities that promote healing and overall well-being.
Start with Gentle Movements
When your healthcare provider gives you the green light, start incorporating gentle movements into your routine.
Walking, stretching, and light yoga can help improve circulation, flexibility, and mood.
These activities also provide a perfect opportunity to bond with your baby if you opt for baby-friendly exercises.
Pelvic Floor Exercises
Pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegels, play a crucial role in postpartum recovery.
Strengthening these muscles can aid in bladder control, support your core, and contribute to better posture. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance on performing these exercises correctly.
Gradually Increase Intensity
As your body heals and gains strength, you can gradually increase the intensity of your workouts.
Consider low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, or modified strength training.
Always listen to your body and stop if you experience discomfort or pain.
Focus on Nutrition
Nutrition plays a vital role in postpartum recovery and getting back into shape.
Opt for nutrient-rich foods that provide the energy you need as a new mother.
Stay hydrated, consume a variety of fruits and vegetables, and prioritize lean protein sources.
Prioritize Sleep
Getting enough sleep is crucial for your overall well-being and postpartum recovery.
While sleep patterns may be disrupted by your baby's needs, try to rest whenever you can.
Adequate sleep supports your body's healing process and helps manage stress.
Seek Support
Don't hesitate to seek support from your partner, family, or friends.
Having someone to share responsibilities with can free up time for you to focus on self-care and exercise.
Be Kind to Yourself
Most importantly, be kind to yourself.
Celebrate every step, no matter how small, and acknowledge the amazing journey your body has been through.
Listen to your body's cues and avoid comparing yourself to others.
Self-love and self-care are essential components of your postpartum journey.
Final Thoughts
Getting back into shape during the postpartum period is a personal and unique journey.
It's about honoring your body's needs, setting realistic goals, and prioritizing self-care.
By embracing gradual changes, staying patient, and focusing on your well-being, you'll be on the path to reclaiming your vitality and strength while cherishing the incredible role you play as a new mother.
S
Sheila
28 Oct 2023

This might be tmi but anyone have their postpartum period start? Only 5 weeks pp and I think mine started 😩 can’t catch a break during this c-section recover!

Newborn Post-delivery time
2 comments
D
Diamond
Yes I had mine at 5 weeks pp and it was the worst period ever!!! I also had a C section.
27 Mar 2024

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Roda
6 weeks pp.. not too bad for me
27 Mar 2024

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Marissa
18 Sep 2023

Hello mamas! New mom here about 7 weeks postpartum. Been a struggle. Anyone else felt/feel lonely during their postpartum recovery? and how did you get over the feeling of you did? #allmoms #postpartum #newmoms #struggle #7weeks #opinions #advice

Newborn Post-delivery time
2 comments
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💓MsKoKoChanel 💓
I’m feeling it now 🥺
27 Mar 2024

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Marissa
We can totally talk! I know it’s not the same thing as being there but sometime just to talk to someone can be beneficial ❤️ I’m here if you would ever like to chat ☺️
27 Mar 2024

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Hilda
1 Jul 2023

Ok so it's been a while But im getting closer to my due date and I just want to know what postpartum shape wear do y'all recommend???

Newborn Post-delivery time
1 comments
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Amauri
Idk I wish I knew but let me know if you find out
27 Mar 2024

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Stephanie
22 Apr 2023

1 week & 4 days postpartum and I’m back behind the wheel! Definitely getting back into things and feeling like myself again after my C-section! 🤗😁💕

Newborn Post-delivery time
16 comments
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💙Bennett its a boy💙
You are tuff I’m still over here hurting from my c section 😀
27 Mar 2024

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Stephanie
Thanks girl! I still hurt a little here and there but not as bad. Healing up pretty quickly thank goodness. 🙂
27 Mar 2024

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Quoyah
27 Jan 2023

Sooo 🤔 How will I know when my period comes back after bleeding from postpartum? Like will they run together or will I have a break then period ?…. I can’t tell if I’m on it now or if it’s just postpartum bleeding because I had cramping and then dark red Like my period 🤔. But I think it’s to early for one.

Newborn Post-delivery time
12 comments
H
Heaven
I was wondering the same thing! I’ll be back for the comments
27 Mar 2024

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Triecey
A break and then period kuz baby when that cycle comes 😮‍💨😮‍💨😮‍💨
27 Mar 2024

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Iris
18 Oct 2022

I’m almost 6 weeks postpartum. I’m still bleeding on and off but how do I know when I’m getting back into my cycle? I’ve been getting cramps for the last few days and OMG are they horrible. I swear I didn’t get the memo about cramps being worse after having your tubes removed. These are worse then labor pains ( lol seriously I never felt my contractions when I was having them)

Newborn Post-delivery time
1 comments
K
Kelly
I bleed for about a month and I didn’t get my period for about 9 months after
27 Mar 2024

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Sarah
16 Oct 2022

When did y’all mommies start working out after y’all gave birth? Wanting to start doing something to get back in shape postpartum appointment not till Tuesday

Newborn Post-delivery time
3 comments
A
Adrianna
You can start walking as soon as you feel up to it. There are some good postpartum 'workouts' on YouTube that are good for the first 6 weeks before you are cleared for exercise. You wanna wait until your body is ready for heavy lifting because too much can cause problems with your pelvic floor.
27 Mar 2024

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Sarah
Thank you !!!
27 Mar 2024

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Alexis
25 Sep 2022

My doctor told me it's easier to get back into shape after a baby if you are at your smallest when you conceive, anyone else heard this? I'm not seeing very many articles or facts to back this up . But in theory it kinda makes sense I guess.

Newborn Post-delivery time
2 comments
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Skye
I was at my smallest when I conceived lol breastfeedinghelps a lot, it causes your uterus to shrink back down fairly quickly and burns crazy calories
27 Mar 2024

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Kaitlyn
I dont think that's accurate 😅
27 Mar 2024

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J
Jadaya
23 Jul 2022

Good morning mamas any suggestions for the best Faja, girdle or postpartum binder to use immediately after Labor? I work in a warehouse so I'm trying to have a decent Snapback so I'm not extremely out of shape by the time I return! 😁TIA

Newborn Post-delivery time
1 comments
M
Mahogany
Lol girl that warehouse would have you snapping back. You’re already a warrior than most of us.
27 Mar 2024

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Trennan
16 Nov 2021

I was so anxious about getting my first postpartum period and now it finally here I want it gone lol. I forgot how bad mine are😖🥴

Newborn Post-delivery time
1 comments
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Jamie
I hated my postpartum period. I felt like my uterus was going to fall out
27 Mar 2024

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