Getting back into shape

As soon as your doctor tells you are ready, start to take some exercise to restore your strength, lose baby weight, increase your energy levels and wellbeing, and avoid constipation. Discuss any exercise regime with your healthcare professional as not all sports or activities are recommended after the birth. However there is one fitness regime all doctors agree on: pelvic floor exercises. Many mums forget to do these internal exercises as they are so busy with everything else going on, but they can prevent incontinence now and in later age.

Walking and swimming are great choices – when your baby is old enough, you can take them swimming with you, but you can push them for some fresh air in their pram as soon as you can walk!

Playing energetic game with your older children counts too – a football game, running in the park or jumping on a trampoline are both fun and fitness activities. Take it easy in the first weeks, though, especially if you had a C-section or healing stitches.

You can also borrow or buy an exercise video suitable for new mums. If you don’t feel motivated or don’t like exercising on your own, join a postnatal fitness class such as pilates and yoga.

If you exercise regularly, you will feel good as a chemical called serotonin is released in your brain, which will make you feel happier and less stressed.