This is the one thing all pregnant women share: that fleeting thought of whether or not they will get their post baby body back after the pregnancy is over. Although you will feel so skinny after you deliver that bundle of joy do not – I repeat – do not try to put on your skinny jeans. Your body is full of liquids from the delivery (remember those IVs?) and your body has taken a beating. Trying to squeeze that body into your favorite jeans is definitely the worst thing you can do for your self esteem! So, what can you do to get back into those post baby clothes?
The most important thing you can do is to take care of yourself BEFORE the baby is born. Although you will be tempted to eat everything that is not nailed down, try your best to eat healthily and within reason. Some women think this is the time to eat anything and everything and large amounts of it! While you shouldn’t deprive yourself, try to keep in mind that everything you put in your body your baby is getting too. So, instead of eating a whole carton of ice cream because you can, have a single serving of ice cream and if you’re still hungry try some healthier options. Variety is important too! While weight gain will vary from woman to woman depending on your weight and condition before pregnancy (talk to your doctor/OBGYN for more accurate weight gain) most average women should gain 25 to 35 pounds for optimal growth of your baby.
Next, once the baby is here, give yourself – and your body – a break! You just had a baby for goodness sake! And, although you might be tempted to start that old diet again, don’t do it! Now is not the time to starve yourself, especially if you are nursing. Make sure you are eating good food, not junk food. Eating right and getting plenty of rest will help your body heal itself quicker. The quicker you body recovers the sooner you’ll be on your way back to your post baby body.
More good news, nursing your baby will also help you return to your post baby body! That’s right, you’ll loose weight and your uterus will shrink just by nursing your baby! So, even if you only do it for a limited time, every little bit helps you and your baby.
Once you’ve been given the green light by your healthcare provider to resume all normal activities (around 6 to 12 weeks) you can start thinking about exercise. However, if you’re like me you won’t be ready to hit the gym. Instead, take your baby out for short 30 minute walks with your stroller for a breath of fresh air and to stretch your legs. Another great workout that Judah and I are enjoying right now is
Chicks n Chickens Lullabye Exercises. This is a short workout video that you can do while holding your new little one! This is kind of like having your cake and eating it to! You can spend time bonding with your baby and get a little exercise in at the same time. There’s another benefit too, this routine will put baby to sleep! I put it on JUST to get Judah to sleep. He is out like a light before we’ve finished the first set! It isn’t to strenuous, but I’m sure after doing it daily you’d definitely begin to see a difference, and it is fun!