How To Flatten The Stomach After A C-section

Cesarean sections are on the rise in the United States. According to the Childbirth Connection, about 3 in 10 women give birth by C-section, which is a major abdominal surgery. After nine months of having a baby belly, most women are anxious to get their flat tummy back but may not know how to accomplish that task in a safe way. By following a few simple tips, you can begin to flatten your stomach after a C-section.

Attaining a Flat Tummy After a C-section

Step 1

Wear a splint after your C-section scar has healed. Julie Tupin, author of " Lose your Mummy Tummy," teaches, "The mummy tummy is caused by the separation of the outermost abdominal muscles during pregnancy." This separation of the outer muscles, sometimes caused by pregnancy and cesarean section, leaves an opening for your internal organs to pop out, causing the stomach "pooch" that many women seek to get rid of. The splint helps to pull together separated abdominal muscles.

Step 2

Tighten your abdominal muscles throughout the day. Do this by exhaling as you contract your stomach muscles inward toward your spine. Do not suck in; simply tighten the muscles for five to 10 seconds and release. The more you remember to do this, the stronger your abdominal muscles will be after a C-section.

Step 3

Do the pelvic tilt to strengthen your lower abdominal muscles after a C-section. Lie on your back on a mat with your knees bent and hip-distance apart. Flatten your lower back against the mat by contracting your abdominal muscles and tilting your pelvis up. Hold for five to 10 seconds and repeat.

Step 4

Do bridge lifts to strengthen your core muscles and flatten your tummy. Lie on your back on a mat with your knees bent and hip-distance apart. Contract your abdominal muscles as you raise your hips up off the mat until your hips are in line with your knees. Hold for five to 10 seconds, slowly lower down, and repeat.

Step 5

Walk, run or hike with your baby in a stroller or baby carrier for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. This type of exercise helps you to lose the layer of fat that can keep your tummy from looking toned. Remember, you are recovering from major surgery, so take it easy and build up your endurance over time.