One of the most common questions our Women’s Health Physiotherapists are asked is “When can I get back to running postnatally?”

The reality is this may differ for each new Mum. In this post, Niamh Clerkin – Women’s Health Team Leader at Freedom Health gives you some guidelines and advise to help you along the way.

After having a baby , the pelvic floor is weakened and may have sustained further injuries. It is for this reason that a Post-Natal assessment with a Women’s Health Physio is recommended for all new Mums prior to getting back into exercise.

Factors that need to be considered prior to commencement of return to running programme include:

1. Fitness – pre-baby and pregnancy level of fitness
2. Breathing control
3. Weight/BMI
4. Sleep/well being status
5. Abdominal separation
6. Scar /wound healing
7. Breastfeeding
8. Supportive garments 

That being said, and as a general guideline low impact exercise can often be commenced around 6 weeks post-partum, where as return to running for most women can be considered at 12 weeks post-partum.

Pelvic floor dysfunction, wound healing, prolapse/heaviness in the vagina, abdominal separation, urinary or faecal incontinence or pain with sexual intercourse may impact on this timeline

Running with or without buggy?

• It is advised that buggy running only commences at 6 months postpartum once an appropriate buggy is used. This is based on safety of baby and their head control not around Mum

We feel every Mum should have access to a pelvic health assessment and we love helping new Mums achieve their healthy mind healthy body goals. Book a Post Natal Assessment with one of our team today so you can continue to do the things you love – with confidence.