When can you walk after C-section?

Returning to Physical Activities After a C-Section
It's important to get out of bed and walk around within 24 hours after surgery. This can help ease gas pains, help you have a bowel movement, and prevent blood clots.

Generally, you can start easing back into exercise six to eight weeks after having a c-section. It’s important to note that you may not have the same c-section recovery experiences and timelines as other people you know who have had caesarean deliveries, so it’s key to listen to your own body and your healthcare provider's recommendations.

There are some very light exercises and movements you can do prior to your six-week postpartum checkup, including light pelvic floor exercises (such as Kegels), gently tightening your abdominal muscles in a sitting or lying position to activate them, and – the holy grail of post c-section exercises – walking.

In most cases, there are no restrictions on walking at a casual pace, but it's best to avoid any power walking until you get that all clear from your ob-gyn or midwife. Many healthcare providers recommend that you start with short, slow-placed walks once you’re no longer experiencing any post-birthing bright red vaginal bleeding.