What’s Normal?

Now that you’re post-partum, what should you expect from your body after giving birth? 0-8 WEEKS AFTER DELIVERY: You may feel like your bottom is falling out and not know how you should be standing or sitting. You may experience pain in your back, hips or pubic area. You may have difficulty controlling urine, gas or stool. Your neck, arms, back and hips may be sore as you adjust to lifting and feeding your baby. This is an important stage of healing, allow yourself time to adjust and take the time to listen to your body. 8+ WEEKS AFTER DELIVER: Your bleeding should have stopped and any incisions/tear should have healed. You should be pain free. You should have control over your activity level and consider returning to your exercise class/practice. IF YOU STILL HAVE SYMPTOMS: get some advice and help from a pelvic floor physiotherapist.

Marita Dowsett, B.P.T.