Exercise after pregnancy

Abstract

Background Exercise is a critical protective factor for most chronic medical conditions and is strongly recommended during pregnancy and the postpartum period. The preventive health effect of exercise status (versus non-exercise) is similar to the effect of being a non-smoker (versus smoker). This makes lifelong exercise habits for the population critical for public health. Childbirth is a traumatic process (whether vaginal or by Caesarean section) that temporarily prevents usual exercise postpartum.