Yoga after c-section?

[julesf84]

I am 8 weeks PP and am ready to get back into yoga classes at my gym. What kinds of precautions should I be taking when participating? I'm not sure how careful to be with the twists and ab sections of the class. Any tips would be most appreciated. TIA!

[RoryGilmore]

I don't do yoga but I do run and have had 2 c-sections. Have you done all of your post-op appointments with your doctor yet? I got fully cleared at 6 weeks post-partum and begin running again at that point. My only suggestion would be to listen to your body. Some days I knew I needed to scale down, other days I felt fine. I know many others who didn't get cleared so early but my doc was fine with my starting up running again.

[miss1991]

Listen to your body that is it. If you're cleared by your doc than I would say you are good to go.

Just so you know I sometimes get extra sore and tender after doing abs, but you may not.

Have fun!

[kimsy]

Unless you haven't been cleared or are having pain, I don't see why you couldn't ease back into all of the moves. I had a c-section 12 weeks ago and started a pretty intensive weight training program, including core, at 6 weeks with no problems. Maybe go to class early and ask how you could modify if you are uncomfortable?
Good luck!

[vanillahip]

Ditto PP, except I'll add **tell your instructor!!** They'll seriously appreciate the info, and most will give you pose modifications (or different poses altogether) to ease you back into it

GL!

[katinthehat]

tell your instructor, first and foremost! and let her/him know you've been cleared by the OB

then just do what feels good, if it hurts, ease up a little bit

[juangela]

Do you do yoga at a yoga studio? The place I took prenatal yoga had postpartum specific yoga as well as classes for mommies and their newborns. You may want to look for something like that.

[beebeeeater]

Yes, as a yoga teacher, I will echo those who are saying "tell your instructor!" - this is important!

For twists, you can modify by taking high twists or skipping them all together. Listen to your body and if something hurts, back off. I might also avoid backbends that put weight or strain on the belly, like locust, bow, wheel, camel, etc. Either modify or head to child's pose during those postures. If you have any specific questions you can PM me and I can try to help out!