As is the case with all surgeries, some risks are involved. Care has to be taken to ensure that pressure is not placed on the site of incision. The first six weeks are extremely crucial, and women who have undergone a C-section need to ensure that they don’t perform any strenuous physical activity that slows down the healing process.

The recovery period for a C-section is longer than a normal birth. More often than not, women wonder if they would be able to lose belly fat after a C-section. Well, it’s possible to get rid of belly fat. However, you need to be patient. Don’t expect instant results.

It is extremely essential to follow a balanced diet. Make sure that your diet includes fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, lean proteins, etc. After all, a good diet is essential for a speedy recovery.

However, cut down on food items with a very high calorie count. Refrain from consuming processed foods that can cause weight gain. Also, drink plenty of water. Increase the intake of fiber in your diet, as it makes you feel satiated. Also, dietary fiber will prevent constipation.

Strenuous exercises must be avoided by women who have an undergone a C-section. In the first six weeks following the delivery, you need to very cautious. You can gradually increase activity, that doesn’t hamper the recovery process.

You could start with a five-minute gentle walk, and increase the duration as you deem fit. With time, as you feel better, you can think about taking brisk walks.

After a couple of months, you can perform pelvic floor exercises. The pelvic floor is a layer of muscles that supports the bladder, vagina, uterus, and the bowel. These are the muscles that are worked when you consciously stop the flow of urine.

Here are the steps that you need to follow for performing pelvic floor exercises:

1. Sit on a chair and place your feet and knees shoulder-width apart. Make sure that your stomach, chest, and leg muscles are relaxed. Breathe normally.

2. Contract these muscles, and slowly lift your pelvic floor and squeeze upwards. Stay in this position for as long as you can, but make sure that you are comfortable while doing so. Thereafter, go back to the normal position.

3. Repeat this exercise as many times as you can, but make sure that the muscles don’t get fatigued.

This exercise will help tone your stomach.

Here are the steps that you need to follow:

1. Lie on your back with your legs placed hip-width apart, and your feet flat on the floor.

2. Straighten your arms at your sides, while placing your palms on the floor.

3. Contract your stomach muscles so as to lift your buttocks, stomach, and middle back off the floor. However, remember not to lift your shoulders.

4. Stay in this position for 10 seconds. Thereafter, go back to the starting position. Repeat this exercise 4-8 times.

Here are the steps that you need to follow:

1. Stand with your feet hip-width apart.

2. Lift your arms overhead and bend your torso forward at your hips.

3. When you bend forward, a 90-degree angle should be created between your legs and torso.

4. Stay in this position for 10 seconds. Thereafter, return to the starting position.

5. Repeat this exercise 4-8 times.

Once the scar has healed, you can perform a few light aerobic exercises that help in burning fat and toning abdominal muscles. You can also consider pilates. Wearing a tummy binder or abdominal belt might also help. Also, breastfeed your baby for at least six months. On a concluding note, follow a balanced diet and stay physically active.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.