Almost three-quarters of mums struggle to refine their stomach postpartum

Over 70% of women found the stomach the most difficult area to shape up after pregnancy, a survey shows. The survey, conducted by body contouring specialists Sculpsure, asked over 1,000 women which areas of their body they found most difficult to get back into shape after pregnancy. Most women who had given birth cited the stomach as the biggest problem area, followed by thighs and flanks, each attracting 8% of the votes. Results also highlighted:

• The chin was the least difficult to shape up receiving only 1% of the votes
• Only 5% expressed that they didn’t find it difficult to shape up any area

New mums can feel the pressure to instantly regain their pre-pregnancy shape, due to the portrayal of celebrities and influencers in the media as having near-perfect bodies within weeks of giving birth. However, this is not realistic.Fiona Comport, marketing communications manager from Sculpsure, says: “There is already so much pressure on new mums without having to worry about having the perfect body just weeks after giving birth. While it is good to be motivated, it is also important not to push yourself too soon.”Working out is often the last thing on a new parent’s mind. Yet gentle exercises present a range of benefits that can help alleviate postnatal issues, such as postnatal depression and loneliness. Exercising can also help new mums relax, feel more energetic and get one step closer to achieving their body goals.

The NHS state postpartum women can start gentle exercise–such as pelvic floor exercises and walking– as soon as they feel up for it. However, it is important to wait until after their six-week postnatal check before doing any high impact exercise.Lianna Bell, buggy fit trainer, said: “Seek expert advice—whether from a women’s health physio or a postnatal personal trainer/fitness coach. There are some really important do’s and don’ts in those early months and you need to be well informed.”In the years following childbirth, once the body has fully recovered, some women still find it difficult to shift areas of stubborn fat.

As a result, an increasing amount of women are taking an alternative approach and turning to non-invasive laser surgery.Another option which may help new mums deal with stubborn fat and changes to their bodies is to adapt their wardrobe and incorporate clothes which distract from problem areas such as the stomach. The change in body shape after giving birth often results in clothes that were favourites pre-pregnancy no longer fitting properly, even after the initial baby weight has been shed.

 Lisa Talbot, award-winning personal stylist, said: “New mums can lose confidence and also don't know how to dress their new body shape. They are also learning how to look after their new baby so dressing themselves does sometimes come secondary.”To find out more expert advice on post-pregnancy style, read this article