You Can Actually Start Working Out a Lot Sooner Than You Think After Giving Birth

Some new moms are ready to jump back into their exercise routines the minute they are done with delivery, and while we're all about taking time for self-care as soon as you can postpartum, there's a right answer to the question of when it's safe to work out after bringing that beautiful baby into this world.

Personally, I was on the opposite camp. I definitely waited too long to glide back into the habit of working out after having both of my children, so it took me much longer to get back into any kind of physical and cardiovascular shape. In hindsight, I wish I would have listened to the advice of Brandi Jordan, doula and lactation consultant, who told POPSUGAR that women only need to wait six weeks after birth — the standard time frame for sex and other physical activities.

Many doctors suggest that you don't even have to wait that long if you had a complication-free vaginal delivery. In fact, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) says that women can slowly get back into exercising even a few days after giving birth. Of course, women should always listen to their body and wait until their obstetrician or midwife has officially cleared them to workout. If you had a C-section, you need your doctor's go-ahead to start any physical activity.

The ACOG suggests you aim for "150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week." But remember to do things at a gradual pace. Let's say, for example, you used to run three miles before pregnancy and even throughout, you may want to start with a lower mileage until you work back up to that three miles on the trail. If you experience any pain or discomfort, stop and reach out to your doctor.