How to Address my Belly Day 1 After Birth?

By Amalie Malka Flamm on 7/18/2024

Congratulations!! Good Job Mama!!

Are you surprised that you still look pregnant? Yup! That’s because it takes time for your body to return to pre-pregnancy state. Your uterus takes at least six weeks to shrink back to size. This may be overwhelming but you can do this!

Addressing your belly right after giving birth involves focusing on gentle care and gradually reintroducing physical activity. Here are some tips to help you through the early postpartum period:

1. Rest and Recovery: Give your body time to heal! It just went through major stuff! Rest as much as possible. Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting. Create as much support for yourself as you can. If the dishes stay in the sink overnight - so be it!

3. Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Stay hydrated to support healing and breastfeeding. The body needs nutrients and water to heal itself so give it the support it needs to heal!

4. Gentle Movement: If you are feeling up to it, start with light activities like walking to promote circulation and aid recovery. Avoid intense exercise until cleared by your healthcare provider. If something doesn’t feel right than don’t do it. There are gentle exercises that are safe postpartum but day 1 is more just try to relax and recover!

6. Good Posture: As discussed in an earlier post, maintain good posture while sitting, standing, and breastfeeding to support your back and abdominal muscles.

7. Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding can help contract the uterus and reduce belly size gradually. This will feel like contractions all over again. OUCH!!! Try to breathe through it. In through your nose and out through your mouth. This gets easier with time

8. Avoid Pressure: Avoid comparing your recovery to others. Every body is different and heals at its own pace. You are at day one! Just breathe and relax. You don’t have to answer everyone’s congratulation messages today.

10. Stay Positive: Be patient and kind to yourself. Recovery takes time, and gradual progress is normal and enjoy your new bundle of joy!!!

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