Post-partum fitness for breastfeeding mothers

New Delhi, Aug 5 Exercise, along with a balanced diet, is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. Light to moderate physical activity is safe and beneficial for breastfeeding moms, as it does not affect the amount, taste, or composition of your breast milk.

Common issues faced by post-natal moms is back pain, bulging stomach, postural changes, weight gain etc. If you're just starting an exercise program, be sure to start slow.

If you are unsure if an exercise is safe, call your doctor's office. If the delivery was not complicated and as a new mom, you were exercising till the end of your pregnancy, then soon after delivery you can begin light exercises as well as stretches, Ruth Patterson, Chief Lactation Consultant - Cloudnine Group of Hospitals tells life on the occasion of World Breastfeeding Week, marked from August 1-7 every year.

Basic core exercises within the first three days post birth like isometric abdominals, pelvic floor exercises, gradual back exercises along with breathing exercises, ankle movements ease swollen feet and aid in circulation, the expert says.

"Start working out for short periods of time a few days a week, then gradually increase your activity level. Stop exercising if you feel pain or experience palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, or an increase in vaginal bleeding. Breastfeed or pump your breast milk before you begin your work out. Full breasts can make exercising uncomfortable and wear breast pads if you're concerned about leaking."

What you should know about workout and breastfeeding

As you begin your work out journey, there are a few things to keep in mind, Patterson points out:

Always check with your doctor first before you begin an exercise program.

Start working out for short periods of time a few days a week, then gradually increase your activity level.

Stop exercising if you feel pain or experience palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, or an increase in vaginal bleeding.

To prevent injury, spend a few minutes warming up before beginning your routine, and take a few moments afterward to cool down.

You should drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, so have a glass of water before and after your workout. You can even keep a water bottle with you during your workout and have a drink when you take breaks.

Breastfeed or pump your breast milk before you begin your work out. Full breasts can make exercising uncomfortable.

Wear breast pads if you're concerned about leaking breast milk while you're working out.

Wear a supportive bra that fits you properly. A very tight bra or one that does not provide enough support can be uncomfortable and put you at risk for mastitis.

If you tend to develop mastitis, you should limit upper-body exercises, especially lifting weights.

Some babies don't like nursing when mom has been sweating

( With inputs from IANS )