Kaiser Permanente
Kaiser PermanenteMy Doctor Online

Exercise after Childbirth

Being physically active after childbirth can help you feel better and stay healthy. When you feel ready to exercise, you might try walking. Even 10 to 15 minutes of walking is good for you mentally and physically.

Make sure to listen to your body, and don't push yourself to do too much too soon. If you’ve had a C-section or complications during childbirth, check with your doctor about when it's safe to resume more strenuous activity.

In addition, follow these exercise safety tips:

  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Warm up before physical activity.
  • Increase activity gradually.
  • Avoid full sit-ups, double leg lifts, squats, knee-to-chest exercises, or any other movement that puts strain on your incision or perineum (area between the rectum and vagina) for the first 6 weeks.

Here are some ways to make exercise more enjoyable:

  • Meet a friend for a walk around the neighborhood or mall.
  • Join an exercise class for moms and babies.
  • Walk with your partner and baby to de-stress at the end of the day.

Disclaimer

If you have an emergency medical condition, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital. An emergency medical condition is any of the following: (1) a medical condition that manifests itself by acute symptoms of sufficient severity (including severe pain) such that you could reasonably expect the absence of immediate medical attention to result in serious jeopardy to your health or body functions or organs; (2) active labor when there isn't enough time for safe transfer to a Plan hospital (or designated hospital) before delivery, or if transfer poses a threat to your (or your unborn child's) health and safety, or (3) a mental disorder that manifests itself by acute symptoms of sufficient severity such that either you are an immediate danger to yourself or others, or you are not immediately able to provide for, or use, food, shelter, or clothing, due to the mental disorder.

This information is not intended to diagnose health problems or to take the place of specific medical advice or care you receive from your physician or other health care professional. If you have persistent health problems, or if you have additional questions, please consult with your doctor. If you have questions or need more information about your medication, please speak to your pharmacist. Kaiser Permanente does not endorse the medications or products mentioned. Any trade names listed are for easy identification only.