How to Support Your Postpartum Belly

undefiningmotherhood.com

Pregnancy is TOUGH on our bodies, and bouncing back immediately isn’t in the cards for the majority of mamas, and that’s OK! Please don’t forget that it’s very important to consult your medical care team before starting any kind of postpartum exercise routine.

What Should You Expect from Your Postpartum Belly?

When looking at your postpartum belly week by week, the continued loss of amniotic fluid during the first week after delivery is responsible for more weight loss.

Belly Wraps During Your Postpartum Period

Postpartum belly wraps are a great way to support your postpartum belly. While there isn’t any clear evidence that they aid with weight loss, the support they provide is really helpful!

When is it Too Late to Wear a Postpartum Belly Wrap?

Here’s the catch about using a postpartum belly wrap – if you wait too long, you won’t reap the amazing benefits they can provide. BUT, belly binding will only offer reliable results within the first six weeks of your postpartum period.

Postpartum Exercise (With Your Doctor’s Clearance)

Sure, it can be tempting to throw yourself into a marathon-style workout straight out of the gate, but you have to keep in mind everything your body has been through during the last nine-plus months.

When is it Safe to Start Postpartum Belly Exercises?

On average, most doctors suggest their patients wait 4 – 8 weeks after delivery before beginning a new workout routine.

Breastfeeding

If you’re looking for ways to get rid of your postpartum belly, studies show women who breastfeed tend to lose more weight than those who don’t. As a general rule, nursing mothers lose around one to two pounds a month.

Can There Be Permanent Changes to Your Postpartum Belly?

As you give yourself grace during the postpartum period, keep in mind that some changes to your body are more permanent.

Don’t Forget to Appreciate Your Postpartum Belly

Here’s the thing about your postpartum belly: while changes in your belly and/or weight gain aren’t always the most comfortable thing to come to terms with, it’s crucial to see the beauty in what your belly has done for you (even if you don’t always appreciate how it looks).

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Daily Self Care Rituals

(3 quick and easy self care ideas for each day of the week with a calendar for tracking, developed to help moms de-stress in a pinch)