‘I peed and did not even realise it’: Chhavi Hussein reveals the surprising consequence of postpartum overexertion

Despite her body’s exhaustion and the need for recovery, Hussein, eager to get back to her fitness routine, decided to hit the gym soon after delivering her baby. “Aur main chali gayi gym aur maine skipping karna shuru kar dia. Toh meri mummy horrified… baaki sab thik hai, skipping mat karna (she said).” Her mother had warned her that her body was still in a fragile state, but Hussein was resolute. She decided to go skipping at the gym again and her decision led to an unexpected and challenging experience. “As embarrassing as it is, I had an incontinence episode where I peed and I did not even realise it.”

Many women, eager to return to pre-pregnancy routines, may unknowingly strain their bodies and encounter complications. This raises essential questions about safe postpartum practices and how women can balance fitness with recovery.

Common physical changes in the body after a normal delivery

Dr Nancy Nagpal, consultant gynaecologist at Salubritas Medcentre, tells indianexpress.com, “After a normal delivery, common physical changes include vaginal discharge (lochia), which can be dark red, pink, or brown, and may have a foul smell if concerning; breast changes, such as soreness, engorgement, and size/colour alterations; perineal pain due to stretching; temporary hair loss; stretch marks on the hips, thighs, and abdomen; weight loss; uterine involution, where the uterus returns to its normal size; and irregular bleeding.”

These changes typically take three to four months to recover, though some may persist for up to eight months. If symptoms are prolonged or accompanied by heavy bleeding or other issues, it’s important to consult a gynaecologist.

Why is overexertion potentially harmful during postpartum recovery?

Overexertion, Dr Nagpal notes, especially intense physical activity soon after delivery, can be harmful because the body is still in a healing phase. After childbirth, there is hormonal imbalance, and bleeding may vary depending on physical activity. Engaging in aggressive physical activities can increase bleeding and strain the body.

“The body undergoes both internal and external changes, and pushing it too hard too soon can hinder the healing process. Only after the body has healed fully should one consider resuming physical activity,” the doctor stresses. 

Types of exercises or activities are recommended for women in the early postpartum period

Some recommended exercises by Dr Nagpal include:

• Yoga and stretching exercises: These should be done under supervision, and they can help promote flexibility and gentle strengthening of the body.
• Walking: A daily walk for about 20 minutes is a great way to stay active and improve circulation without overstraining the body.
• Mild stretching: Light stretching exercises for about 20 minutes each day are beneficial for regaining flexibility and strength.

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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