Your recovery at home: Your activity and rest schedule

During the first 1 to 2 weeks after birth

• Limit your activity to caring for yourself and your baby.
• If you had an exercise routine before the birth of your baby, ask your health care provider when you can begin again.
• Ask your health care provider if and when you can drive a car. You may ride in a car at any time.

If you had a Cesarean birth:

• Try not to lift anything heavier than your baby.
• If you have other children who want to be held, sit down first and have them climb into your lap (rather than lifting them).
• Limit your trips up and down stairs, and take the stairs slowly.

From 3 to 6 weeks after birth

• Gradually return to normal activities as you feel able to do so. If something feels like it's too much to do, don't do it.
• Bend your knees whenever you lift anything, including older children, to help prevent injury to your back muscles.
• Sleep when your baby sleeps.
• Avoid heavy lifting, vacuuming, or exercises like running, sit-ups, or leg lifts for at least 6 weeks (unless your health care provider tells you it's safe). See Exercises -- postpartum.

First published: 10/04/2002
Last updated: 06/19/2003

Reviewed by: Allina Patient Education experts