Rebuilding the Core after Pregnancy

Pregnancy and delivery puts a lot of stress on the body. Physical therapists explain how moms can safely reactivate their muscles after pregnancy.

Nora Bridge, physical therapist with Lee Health, says deep breathing and slow core movements are all part of a new Pilates class for moms after pregnancy. “We teach the moms about activation of their core and activation of their pelvic muscles. It’s really important after you have a baby to wake up those muscles,” said Bridge.

There’s no question that pregnancy changes the body but after the baby is born, Bridge says it’s important to begin reactivating the core. “It’s really important so that you can avoid back pain, you can improve your posture, and a lot of times the breathing is really good for emotional wellbeing to avoid depression.”

Physical therapists recommend 10 minute gentle Pilates and breathing exercises every day. This will help moms reactivate their core and pelvic floor muscles after pregnancy. “Laying on your back and just breathing and trying to draw in your belly muscles, it’s a great way to start and it’s gentle and easy,” said Bridge.

The program, which is taught at the Fourth Trimester Club at the Healthy Life Center in Coconut Point, also educates moms on the changes of their bodies. “A stretched muscle is a weak muscle so we just have to take the time to wake those muscles back up and bring them back to their pre pregnancy capabilities,” said Bridge.

Typically moms can start the exercises six to eight weeks after delivery, but it’s important to check with your doctor first.


View More Health Matters video segments at LeeHealth.org/Healthmatters/

Lee Health in Fort Myers, FL is the largest network of health care facilities in Southwest Florida and is highly respected for its expertise, innovation and quality of care. For more than 100 years, we’ve been providing our community with personalized preventative health services and primary care to highly specialized care services and robotic assisted surgeries. Lee Health - Caring People. Inspiring Care.

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