I have just had a baby. Do I need to see an Exercise Physiologist?
​​
Congratulations! Motherhood is a wonderful and exciting time; however it is often filled with a lot of questions about how and when you can do your usual things. When you feel ready to return to exercise it can be difficult to know where to start. Are sit ups okay? How long after birth do I have to wait until I can get back on the field for a game of soccer?
​
Unfortunately, there is no single answer to these questions, however our Exercise Physiologist can help you through many of the challenges faced when returning to exercise after childbirth. These include:
​
-
Diastasis Recti. This is the separation of the abdominal muscles which often occurs during the third trimester of pregnancy. With correct, progressive loading this can be corrected leaving your abs feeling stronger than ever
​
-
Pelvic pain or incontinence: Regardless of how you gave birth it is common to experience some pelvic floor symptoms following pregnancy. Whether this is leaking when you cough or jump, or a feeling of pain or discomfort when picking up your baby, building strength, coordination and awareness will help with these symptoms
​
-
Postural pain. Whether it be the sore back from the fifth time you rocked your baby back to sleep for the night, or sore shoulder and neck from staring at you baby’s beautiful face while they sleep in your arms, our Exercise Physiologist can provide you with a program to strengthen your body and stretch your tight muscles to keep you feeling well.
​​
-
Return to exercise. Your baby must walk before they can run, this applies to you too! It is important to build the foundational strength and control before progressing to higher level exercises including weight lifting, running, jumping and sports.
​
-
Post natal depression and anxiety. 1 in 7 women experience post-natal depression, while 1 in 5 experience post-natal anxiety. Exercise is the first line of treatment recommended for either condition, however it can be hard to get started while experiencing these conditions. Our Exercise Physiologist can help you find realistic ways to increase your exercise to improve your mood and get you feeling better.
​​
Regardless of your goals, current exercise or symptoms, our Exercise Physiologist will be able to help you with a personalised exercise program getting you back to what you love. If you want to know more, make an appointment with our Exercise Physiologist today!
​