Swimming After C-Section: When and How to Start

A C-section can take a toll on many mothers. Moms who underwent a major surgery like a cesarean will need extra rest and care to heal. While it’s nice to take time off from doing heavy chores and working out, people will inevitably seek physical activities outside their comfort zone.

 

Doctors don’t recommend patients immediately hop into their running shoes after pregnancy. But for mothers who had a cesarean, the waiting time might be a little longer. Simply put, a C-section takes longer to heal compared to vaginal birth.

 

But healing will come eventually. And once you’ve recovered, you can get back to moving your body like you used to.

 

But what exercise should you start with? Considering you’re fresh out of surgery and your body is a bit out of shape, you might want to try something more low impact. And out of the many workouts available out there, nothing is as fun and as easy as swimming.

 

When Can I Start Swimming After a C-Section?

A C-section is a major procedure that requires rest to heal. Sudden and intense movement can lead to complications, such as infections and re-opening.

 

While healing time varies from person to person, it takes around 6 weeks until an incision completely closes.

 

But don’t get excited yet! You will still need your doctor’s approval before you take a dip. They first need to determine if your wound has healed and your stitches have dissolved. They also need to make sure that the incision doesn’t cause pain.

 

Submerging your incision before healing can put you at risk of infection. You will need to be surgically open to drain excess water. So better think twice before you put on that swimsuit.

 

What are the Benefits of Swimming?

Swimming doesn’t only help you beat the heat. This low-impact cardio can help you stay fit and gently work on your muscles and joints.

 

Besides physical health, swimming is also a relaxing activity that won’t make you sweat. You can also choose how fast or slow you want to go.

 

Swimming will require the use of your whole body, specifically the lower and upper body muscles. Your core, limbs, glutes, and back all need to move in synchronization to propel you forward in the water.

 

If you have other health conditions, such as heart disease or arthritis, you can choose swimming as one of your exercises. Make sure you have your doctor’s approval before you hop into a pool.

 

How Do I Stay Safe While Swimming?

Swimming is a pleasurable sport for new mothers. But like many workouts, you will need a good idea of the different safety precautions to avoid injuries. 

 

Here are some tips and ideas on how you can safely swim and enjoy your postpartum workout:

 

Before Swimming

• Find a safe place where you can go swimming. Public pools can be infested with bacteria, and outdoor bodies of water have risky currents. Instead, swim in a pool regularly maintained and has a limited number of guests.
• Take swimming lessons if you don’t know how to swim or need a refresher. Have a basic idea of the different strokes and techniques in swimming to better enjoy your workout session.
• Don’t drink alcohol before going swimming. Alcohol can impair your cognitive abilities and will make it harder to swim.
• Don’t forget what you learn from your first-aid class. You’ll never know when you or someone you know is in trouble.

During Swimming

• Stretch before entering the body. Stretching can help you avoid muscle pains and accidents.
• Know your limits. Pools can get deeper without you noticing. Pay attention to signs and markings around the vicinity.
• Slowly submerge yourself into the water by going down a ladder or stairs. Jumping into the pool can cause a shock in your body’s temperature.
• Go slow with your workout. Take your time getting accustomed to the water before you do strokes and paddles.
• Avoid hitting or bumping into anything and anyone in the pool. It can leave you feeling dizzy and even with a bump on your head.

After Swimming

• Climb out of the pool slowly through a ladder or the stairs. Once you’re out of the water, immediately dry yourself with a towel.
• Shower your body thoroughly to get rid of any chlorine and disease-causing bacteria. Showering can also be a form of relaxation after moving all day.
• Have a healthy snack to replenish your body. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated. 

 

To get the most out of your workout, try to hit at least 150 minutes a week of physical activity. 150 minutes seem like a lot, but you can cut your workout into different sessions, such as 30 minutes of exercise within 5 days.

 

You should also consider other forms of workout in combination with swimming. Doing other low-impact cardio exercises like walking, yoga, cycling, and more can keep your whole body healthy. Not only can this benefit you, but it can benefit your infant too! 

 

And here’s a bonus tip: Bring your friends along to make swimming more exciting! Exercising together and playing with pool toys can make you look and feel young and rejuvenated.

 

There is no right or wrong way to get healthy after a C-section. All that matters is that you are doing things safely and under the guidance of your GP. And, of course, don’t forget to have fun!

 

Conclusion

Swimming has plenty of benefits to the human body. It is a simple but effective workout that helps keep people strong, healthy, and fit. For mothers recovering from a C-section, swimming is a great starting choice.

 

Mothers must watch out before doing any exercise to avoid injuries. Moms usually have to wait around 6 weeks or until their incisions heal before jumping into any pool. Once your surgical wound has closed, you can hang out in the pool all day!

 

Swimming is a fantastic workout on its own. But you can combine it with other low-impact activities like yoga or walking. It’s also highly recommended to have a balanced diet and enough rest while active.

 

So don’t spend your summer just in the shade. Get out there and enjoy the water!