When you've finally had your baby and are adjusting at home, losing weight may be next on your to-do list. Women typically gain between 25 and 35 lb. during pregnancy. Much of your weight came off when you birthed your baby, but you may still have a few leftover pounds. The trick to losing weight at six weeks postpartum is to enter the fitness world slowly and heed the instructions of your obstetrician to ensure a safe and effective experience with postpartum weight loss.
Step 1
Schedule your six-week postpartum checkup with your obstetrician. Whether you gave birth vaginally or you had a c-section, your doctor needs to ensure that the healing process is going well before you're cleared to exercise. Your body needs time to heal after birth, so it's important to rest and perform only mild physical activity for the first six weeks after you have your baby.
Step 2
Begin light exercise if your doc has cleared you to resume regular physical activity. You may find that it's difficult to schedule exercise when you have a baby to feed, change and entertain. Instead of trying to work around your baby's schedule, try bringing your baby with you as you exercise. Go for a walk pushing your baby in a stroller or do a few sets of crunches while your baby has tummy time on the floor. Visit a library to borrow a baby yoga DVD and find other ways to incorporate your baby into daily exercise.
Step 3
Eat a healthy diet. Avoid going on a strict diet so soon after birth. Your body need optimum nutrition to help you heal, notes Babycenter.com. Instead of cutting out entire food groups, eat a well-balanced diet based on fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein. If eating seems to be low on your list of priorities, keep fruits and vegetables, single-serving yogurt and string cheese in the refrigerator for easy snacking.
Step 4
Breastfeed your baby. "Fit Pregnancy" magazine notes that you burn an additional 600 to 800 calories per day if you nurse your baby. If breastfeeding has been difficult, try visiting a lactation consultant or rent a medical-grade pump from the hospital. Breastfeeding can also help contract your uterus, so you'll see an improvement in your postpartum belly, making breastfeeding a rewarding experience for both you and your baby.
Step 5
Sleep between seven and nine hours each day. Dealing with a baby throughout the night can leave you feeling tired, which in turn can have you gobbling candy and caffeine to stay alert throughout the day. Take of the old advice of sleeping when your baby sleeps. If you were up late the previous night, make an effort to take naps throughout the day.
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