Return to Sport and Exercise

Often women can be tired in the first months after having a baby. This can be due to interrupted sleep, the extra demands of motherhood and also breastfeeding. There is the chance that due to fatigue, you are more likely to become injured if you push yourself too much during exercise. It is important to listen to your body and how you are feeling. Be aware of any 'warning signs' of pain or discomfort and take care, slowing down if necessary to let them subside, rather than pushing through at this time.

While you are learning to breast feed (if you breast feed) and look after your baby, you may not have the desire to exercise in the first few weeks or months. During this time you can still be strengthening your abdominal and pelvic floor muscles in preparation for when you do feel ready to return to exercise. You may still find that walking is an exercise that will get you out of the house, and one that you can do with your baby and maybe your partner or a friend.