Pregnancy can be a smooth process for some women while for others it can be filled with complications.

But, no matter the problems, or lack thereof, a woman faces, she cannot escape the post-partum period. This is the time in which the body starts the recovery process after childbirth.

After giving birth, there are certain concerns about what activities mothers can be involved in. If the body has not properly healed, some activities can cause discomfort and pain.

According to gynaecologist Dr Keisha Buchannan, the activities that recent mothers can engage in are dependent on how the child was delivered; whether by vaginal or Caesarean cut.

How long to wait

Many women are normally curious about sex after childbirth and are eager to find out how soon after they can resume their sex life. Dr Buchannan explained that, on average, it is good for new mothers to wait at least four weeks if it was a natural delivery and longer for a Caesarean cut.

"For a Caesarean cut, which is like a major surgery, the recommended waiting period is between four to six weeks to allow the wound to heal so as to avoid discomfort. For vaginal delivery, women can usually wait at least four weeks after birth."

The gynaecologist, however, pointed out that there is no general time period for women to resume sex as it is dependent on the particular woman and her body. She notes that during vaginal delivery, women may experience tears or cuts or have to receive an episiotomy, an incision made during delivery to make room for the baby's head. If this isn't properly healed, explained Dr Buchannan, sex can possibly be very painful.

Exercise

Soon after giving birth, some women may be anxious to shed the pounds they may have gained while pregnant. Again, Dr Buchannan noted that if a surgery was done, exercise will have to be postponed for at least four weeks after delivery.

"After that period has passed, just like persons who have had a normal delivery, floor exercises, stretches and pilates can be done as basic exercises. These exercises are to be done, though, based on the medical condition of the mother," she emphasised.

Getting pregnant just after a recent delivery is not normally planned but, due to ignorance or carelessness, many women fall 'victim' to this. Dr Buchannan stressed that outside the post-partum period of six weeks after delivery, women are able to conceive. However, she does not recommend getting pregnant shortly after a recent delivery.

"I would say two years after (the delivery) will give the mother's body time to recover. Remember that the baby takes nutrients from the mother and the mother will need to recuperate from that."

latoya.grindley@gleanerjm.com