Pregnancy A to Z - Activity

Right after your baby is born, it's great if you can actively get involved in your own recovery. Getting out of bed and moving around soon after delivery is very important, whether you've had a vaginal or cesarean birth. Moving around helps to prevent blood clots from forming in your legs and pelvis. Very light exercise, such as gentle leg lifts or abdominal tightening is a good way to stimulate healing and get you on the way to regaining muscle tone. But remember, check with your provider before you begin any exercise program.

You'll need extra energy to care for yourself and your baby. Although it can be difficult, try to schedule some rest periods throughout your day. Napping when your baby naps will help you fight the fatigue. Being tired is the number one complaint of moms after they give birth. Here are some helpful strategies for fatigue.

• Decrease noise and distractions; turn off the phone ringer during rest periods.
• If you are having trouble resting, take a warm bath, listen to music, or read a novel.
• Your feeding time with your baby can be very relaxing when you are able to feed in a restful and calm environment.
• Ask your husband or another family member to handle a feeding, diaper change, or dinner preparation while you rest.

Driving a car should be avoided for 7- 10 days after you give birth. This will help you avoid driving with perineal discomfort, periods of dizziness, or becoming weak while you're at the wheel.

During the first 7 to 10 days after you have your baby, there's a greater risk of complication for both of you. It's important not to travel during this time, so that you can remain close to your provider. Long trips should be delayed for 3-6 weeks after your baby is born. This gives you and your baby a chance to be examined by your provider before you travel.

Some providers routinely suggest that new moms wait at least 6 weeks before resuming sexual activity. Other providers base the waiting time on the kind of labor and delivery that the mom experienced.

It’s safe to return to sexual activity when your cervix and perineum are completely healed and your lochia has stopped. If you feel that you’re up to resuming your sex life sooner than 6 weeks after your delivery, please check with your provider first.

If you are a working mom, the decision of when to go back to work may be influenced by several factors. Whether or not you’re breastfeeding may play a role in that decision, along with the amount of time that your employer allows for maternity leave.

Be sure to discuss your plans about going back to work with your provider.