Cardi B kicks off postpartum workout just eight days after giving birth, sparks debate

Cardi B recently made headlines after sharing that she started her postpartum workout routine eight days after giving birth. 

According to Page Six, the 31-year-old rapper posted an Instagram story on Sunday last week, mentioning that she was “dying” as she did a 30-minute exercise on a StairMaster.

“Since I’m off tonight I’m doing a late night gym session. No heavy lifting, no weight. Just straight stair master until next week,” she captioned the video. 

While many applauded her determination, the move has sparked debate about whether it’s safe to return to exercise so soon after delivery. One fan’s comment even went viral. They commented, “It’s barely been a week. Yoh, the pressure women in the industry are under? Insane.” To which the singer responded, “This is my third baby and postpartum is a little different from my first two… I’m not doing heavy lifting, no muscle straining, squatting, none of that… just cardio. “

She added, “Sometimes to avoid postpartum depression you gotta keep your mind busy and for me that’s work and staying active…”

This is my third baby and postpartum is a little different from my first two… I’m not doing heaving lifting, no muscle straining, squatting none of that… just cardio. Sometimes to avoid postpartum depression you gotta keep your mind busy and for me that’s work and staying… https://t.co/I6VFBsAxGO

— Cardi B (@iamcardib) September 16, 2024

With the body undergoing significant changes during pregnancy and childbirth, the timing and intensity of postpartum workouts can have long-term implications on recovery and health.

Potential risks of starting a workout routine just eight days after giving birth

Dr Nancy Nagpal, consultant gynaecologist, Salubritas Medcentre, says, “For both vaginal and C-section deliveries, starting a workout just eight days after birth is risky. In a vaginal delivery, early exercise can lead to rupture of the episiotomy stitches, causing renewed bleeding and delayed healing.” 

For a C-section, she continues, while the outer scar may heal in 7-10 days, the internal uterine stitches take at least 3 months to fully heal. Early exercise, especially heavy lifting or abdominal pressure, could lead to uterine scar rupture. 

Additionally, both delivery types can result in weakened pelvic floor muscles, increasing the risk of uterine prolapse if exercise is resumed too soon. “In case of a normal delivery, if your pelvic floor or muscles become weak, then there is a risk of uterine prolapse. The starting 40 days are very important for you. Because in those 40 days, the body recovers itself to the maximum,” she adds. 

How important is it for new mothers to prioritise rest and recovery before resuming physical exercise?

Prioritising rest and recovery is crucial for new mothers, asserts Dr Nagpal. The first 40 days postpartum are vital as the body is recovering and healing. “Adequate rest supports the healing of stitches and body tissues and replenishes depleted iron stores from blood loss. It’s recommended to allow at least 12 weeks of recovery time before resuming more strenuous physical exercise.”

 

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Signs women should look out for that indicate they may be pushing their bodies too soon postpartum

“Signs that indicate you may be pushing your body too soon include excessive bleeding, feeling very weak, decreased breast milk production due to stress, persistent fatigue, irritability, and mood swings. These symptoms signal that your body may not yet be ready for physical activity,” warns Dr Nagpal.

What types of exercises are safe for new mothers to begin with?

Dr Nagpal recommends starting with gentle activities like “walking at a moderate pace for 30 minutes. Begin slowly and monitor how your body responds before gradually increasing the duration and intensity of exercise.” 

After the initial period, yoga and abdominal exercises can be introduced, tailored to whether you had a vaginal or C-section delivery, she says. Always consult with your gynaecologist to determine the best approach for your recovery and fitness level.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.

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