It's myth busting time, mamacita, and this time it's about a very ingrained post pregancy myth. Oh, I'm sure you've heard it. You may have even followed it after you were pregnant or if you are pregnant you may be planning to follow it. It's that six-week myth. You know the one I'm talking about? It's about an activity that woman are told they shouldn't do for six weeks after they are pregnant, but obviously the movie stars and models are doing it right after pregnancy. Oh and no, it's not the recommendation that you should wait six weeks before having intercourse. This post-pregnancy myth has nothing to do with sex. So what is it?
Read more ¿Qué más?: 5 Pregnancy fears you should banish from your mind right now
It's the oft given advice that new mommas shouldn't exercise for six weeks after giving birth. Well, that's simply not true, especially if you were exercising during your pregnancy (and if you had natural birth). As a matter of fact, some experts say you can start exercising pretty much immediately after having a child. Of course, we're not talking doing abdominals or running a marathon or anything strenuous like that, but you can get your Kegels on and there are plenty of other forms of exercise that may actually be beneficial to you soon after giving birth.
The longer you wait to exercise after pregnancy, the more your muscles atrophy and the harder it will be to get started. Also, you miss out on so many great benefits. Exercise improves circulation, which helps nutrient flow via breast milk to your baby if you are breastfeeding; it also is very helpful at preventing postpartum depression. Again, we are talking about exercise that is appropriate after pregnancy, nothing intense and you should always seek advice and clearance from your doctor.
Just know that you do not have to wait six weeks to get your body moving. Check out this helpful video for more information.
Image via Thinkstock
