After Cesarean Time Interval for Exercise (ACTIVE) Trial

After Cesarean Time Interval for Exercise (ACTIVE) Trial

The purpose of this study is to test whether or not activity restrictions after a cesarean section are warranted and if exercise can improve postpartum wellness. This research study is being done because there is no science-based evidence to support postpartum activity restrictions after cesarean sections.

Participants will be randomly placed into one of the following study groups:

• Standard postpartum and post-operative instructions group: activity restrictions, including no strenuous exercise, sexual intercourse, or lifting objects greater than 25 pounds for 6 weeks or until evaluation at the 6 week postpartum visit
• Study group: Structured 10 week exercise protocol consisting of core strengthening exercises (concentrating on the abdominal, gluteal, and pelvic areas), breathing exercises, and diaphragm exercises.

Inclusion Criteria:

• pregnant woman at least 18 years of age
• carrying only one baby at time of delivery
• delivery planned by scheduled cesarean section
• baby of gestational age of > 37 weeks
• no known restrictions to exercise.

Exclusion Criteria:

• woman with pre-existing post operative complications
• medical history with exercise limitations/disabilities
• carrying more than one baby at time of delivery
• delivery (planned by scheduled or emergent) cesarean section with fetal concerns (anomaly, growth restriction, NICU admission, etc)