Post C-Section Exercise Phase 3
June 26, 2017
Begin Phase 3 exercises when you are comfortable and no longer need your pain medication, usually the third week after surgery.
Head Lifts
Purpose:
Strengthens and tones abdominal muscles, and stimulates intestinal activity
Position:
Lie on your back with your knees bent
Exercise:
- Slowly lift your head up and forward toward your chest
- Return head to floor
- Repeat five times
Bridge and Twist
Purpose:
Strengthens buttock and abdominal muscles and stimulates intestinal activity
Position:
Lie on your back with your knees bent and one pillow under your head
Exercise:
- Tighten abdominal and buttock muscles and raise hips a few inches off the bed
- In this position, twist your hips to the right and then to the left
- Lower buttocks back to the bed and relax
- Repeat
Modified Curl-Up
Purpose:
Strengthens and tones abdominal muscles and stimulates intestinal activity
Position:
Lie on your back with your knees bent, while your head and shoulders are supported by several pillows
Exercise:
- Take a deep breath
- Tuck your chin and lean forward
- Let your breath out slowly as you reach toward your knees with your hands
- Return to pillows and relax