Women who regularly exercise or play sports before, during and after pregnancy rarely suffer from postpartum depression. It is known that an active lifestyle keeps the body and mind in excellent condition. According to Canadian experts, it will also protect women from very unpleasant postpartum depression. Finding time for about an hour of light to moderate exercise a week could cut the risk of postpartum depression by nearly half.
It could also help reduce symptoms in new mothers who have depression or anxiety. Scientists from the University of Alberta in Canada found that exercising for at least 80 minutes each week can drastically reduce the risk or relieve symptoms in those who suffer from postpartum depression.
“While in the past it was recommended to wait six weeks before starting moderate-to-vigorous exercise, more recent work suggests that early mobilization and incorporation of light physical activity such as walking can facilitate postpartum recovery. As soon as the mother recovers from childbirth, it is recommended to go for short, moderate walks. “Walking is a great way to exercise, and it’s something you can do with your child,” said lead author Professor Margie Davenport of the University of Alberta.
