Although pregnancy and childbirth affect each woman differently, there are some common changes and conditions we often observe. If the birth was without complications, you can begin light exercise just a few days after delivery.

Certain conditions, such as a C-section or an episiotomy during birth, require a longer rest and recovery period — but typically no more than three months after a C-section. However, it is recommended to see a physiotherapist specialized in postnatal rehabilitation as early as three weeks after a C-section. This allows you to begin scar rehabilitation in time, helping to prevent complications and speed up recovery.

In any case, during this delicate postpartum period, you should always consult with the doctor who followed your pregnancy before starting any physical activity. Never begin exercising on your own. Instead, seek guidance from a qualified professional — a kinesiologist or physiotherapist specialized in postnatal training — to avoid common mistakes and prevent unnecessary complications (such as worsening of diastasis recti, incontinence, back pain, pelvic organ prolapse, or digestive issues).

Diastasis recti is a condition in which the rectus abdominis muscle (the "six-pack" muscle) becomes overly stretched during pregnancy, most commonly in the third trimester. Specifically, the connective tissue that joins the left and right sides of the muscle along the midline becomes weakened and separates. This usually occurs due to an imbalance between the deep core muscles and the more superficial abdominal muscles.

This condition affects about half of all pregnant women and, if not properly addressed, it can persist long after childbirth.

At Motion Lab, our team successfully treats diastasis recti through targeted kinesitherapy and exercises that focus on strengthening the deeper layers of the abdominal muscles.