Obstetrics and Gynecology - A.M. Gromova 2000

Clinical Course and Management of the Postpartum Period
Management of the Postpartum Period
Therapeutic Exercises

Healthy women who have had a normal delivery are prescribed gymnastics starting on the 2nd postpartum day. Postnatal exercises are divided into early (1–10 days postpartum) and late (up to the end of the 2nd month) periods. The early period gymnastics is usefully divided into two phases: the first 3 days, and from the 4th to the 10th day. The objectives of the exercises are to boost the overall body tone and reduce Blood flow to the pelvic region (first phase); to improve Lymph and Blood Circulation in the pelvic Organs, facilitate the retraction of the stretched abdominal wall, and prevent abnormal uterine positions (second phase).

During the first phase, exercises for the arms (flexion, circular motions) and diaphragmatic breathing are performed. These are carried out 4–5 times a day for 10–20 minutes while lying on the back, and from the 2nd day onward, lying on The Stomach to improve lochia drainage and prevent uterine retroflexion.

In the second phase, In addition to the previous exercises, movements for the pelvic floor Muscles, Abdominal muscles, and legs are introduced (alternating leg raises, circular leg rotations, bicycle maneuvers, and lifting the torso and pelvis with crossed legs). All exercises are performed lying on the back, on the stomach, and in the knee-elbow position. It is recommended to perform the gymnastics twice a day for 30 minutes.