Ask the Expert Series

Do only begin your exercise regime after you have checked in with your gynae. The types of exercise that will be good for mummies at this time are, for example, walking, core restoration, and bodyweight exercises. Avoid high-impact movements which will cause strain to your pelvic floor, and abdominal exercises such as crunches are a no-no.

Yoga and Pilates are low-impact exercises, and they are known to be beneficial for mummies during and after pregnancy. If you are pregnant and have not done yoga/ pilates before, you can start prenatal classes during the second trimester (upon getting your gynae's approval of course)! After childbirth, you can also ease into yoga/ pilates from 4 to 8 weeks postpartum, depending on how you delivered your baby, and if your gynae has assessed that you are fit to start exercising.

If your gynae has already given you the green light to exercise again, then this really depends on how you feel. For uncomplicated natural deliveries, mummies tend to feel better much more quickly. Taking off for a run for your first exercise session is a little ambitious though. :) Perhaps you can try brisk walking for a start, and assess how your pelvic floor holds up. If you might feel any pain or discomfort, then it might not be the right time to begin your workouts this early.

During pregnancy, your linea alba (the connective tissue that runs vertically, separating your six-pack) and internal organs part to make way for the growing uterus. For some women, the gap does not close fully after that, resulting in a condition called diastasis recti. Diastasis recti usually sets in by the third trimester, and you can get your gynaecologist to do a check for you during your postpartum check-up. A self-check is also possible with professional guidance.

You can try the Dale Abdominal Binder: http://rehabshop.com.sg/dale-abdominal-binder?tracking=5df9eb7d473ed

I'm an advocate of applying a stretchmark cream or oil religiously, both during and after pregnancy. Immediately after you give birth, your uterus will begin shrinking gradually over the next couple of weeks, and using a cream daily will help increase your skin's elasticity as it shrinks back down.