Safe Abdominal Exercises After C-Section: 17 Weeks Postpartum

Question
Hi,

I had a c-section 17 wks ago and now interested in trying to get my post baby shape back.  I have quite a few fat rolls this time after the section.  (first baby born naturally with Ventouse).

I am not sure what is safe or not for me to do at this stage.

You help and advice is greatly appreciated.

Answer
At 17 weeks pp, your stitches are completely healed, so this means you can safely start basic postpartum abdominal rehab.

Start with exercises that strengthen your deepest abdominal muscle, your Transverse Abdominis (TvA), then progress to exercises that incorporate the TvA with the external abdominals using lower spine flexion. Focus on the redevelopment of dynamic stability. You should also test to see if you have diastasis recti (abdominal separation).

Do not perform exercises that lift/roll the upper body off the floor or against the force of gravity as these types of exercises are not appropriate in the initial post-pregnancy period.

Details on how to recondition after pregnancy can be found at:
http://befitmom.com/abdominal_reconditioning.html

To find out more about diastasis recti go to:
http://befitmom.com/abdominal_separation.html