Eight weeks and beyond...

Congratulations! You survived the first few weeks with your new baby and gradually trying to piece together what your new life should look like.  And, more good news, your body will continue to change over the next few months after having a baby - so what can you expect to feel like eight weeks after having a baby...and beyond?

• Your postnatal bleeding should have stopped or the flow reduced considerably and the colour of your discharge become very light. If this isn’t the case, please seek advice from your GP.
• You should be generally pain free but your caesarean scar might be tender or be painful if you over exert yourself. The area around the scar might also be numb.
• Your bowel movements should be easier and have returned to a normal rhythm, if not take a few teaspoons of Linseeds soaked in hot water before bed to help re-establish a good rhythm.
• Your pelvis may still be feeling very unstable and loose or conversely you might feel a general tightness in your pelvic region.
• You may still be experiencing some degree of incontinence – urinary, gas and possibly faecal.
• You may still have difficulty connecting to your Pelvic Floor muscles.
• If you are still feeling tired, check with your GP whether you need to take an Iron Supplement.

And what else can you do to help speed up your recovery?

• Ensure you include a high quality vitamin and mineral supplement in your diet and also supplement with Omega Fish Oils.
• Apply the principles of high level optimum nutrition to replenish your postnatal body after pregnancy.
• Keep well hydrated with water and fruit teas.
• Include a regular stretching program
• Take advantage of ANY opportunity to be still, quiet and rest.
• Prioritise your self-care and the care of your baby - housework and the rest of life can wait until you get your energy and strength back!
• When given the go-ahead start exercising according to your level of recovery.

Come along and try one of our 'pram camps' - where you strengthen those 'Mummy Muscles' - back, tummy, pelvic floor, and arms - and re-gain your fitness with other Mums just like you AND you can bring along your baby and toddler. Check the website for more details on where and when or you can contact me directly.

Acknowledgements: Jenny Burrell, burrelleducation.com.au