Will I get my figure back after pregnancy? | Expert Q/A

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Expert Q&A

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Question:

I am very concerned about the changes my body is going through during pregnancy. What I am really concerned about is the lasting affects pregnancy has on my body. Will my body be able to return to it's pre-pregnancy shape after baby with my usual workout or will my hips remain larger regardless of what I do? I have been told that your breasts sag after childbirth. Can that be helped by exercise and do you actually lose a bra size after birth? I am having some problems with pregnancy so am very limited to what I can do, but intend to return to more exercise after delivery. I have been told by so many mothers that you can never regain you figure due to the changes your body goes through during pregnancy. Please tell me these women are just looking for an excuse as to why they haven't gotten back in shape after the baby."

Answer:

Return to your pre-pregnant shape is dependent upon two things: weight loss and exercise. I advise my patients to be reasonable about their expectations of return to pre-pregnant body. It takes nine months of weight gain to grow a healthy baby. You should give yourself and your infant at least nine months to lose all your pregnancy weight. If you diet too soon, it can compromise the nutritional adequacy of your breastmilk.

Resumption of exercise should also be gradual. If you over-exercise too soon after giving birth, this can also compromise the quality of your breast milk. It is important to set realistic goals for yourself. Once you have stopped breastfeeding you can resume a rigorous exercise and diet program that will help you get back to your pre-pregnant shape.

Some changes may be permanent. Many women find that the shape and contour of the breasts change, not only with pregnancy, but also with age. This does not mean you lose a cup size. Some women actually increase a cup size after pregnancy. All of these changes are individual and vary from one person to the next. Commitment and motivation make the difference in your success.

By Shirley Moore
Certified Nurse Midwife
Women's Health Specialists, Chicago

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