Do your hips get wider after birth?

Yes, it’s common for the pelvis to widen during pregnancy and childbirth. This is due to the hormone relaxin, which softens ligaments to allow the pelvic outlet to expand. For many women, this change is temporary, and the pelvis returns to its pre-pregnancy width within several months ( 19 ). However, for some, a slight permanent widening of the bony pelvis can occur.

How much rest is needed postpartum?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer, but the need for rest is significant. In the first 6 weeks, rest should be prioritized above all else. This means aiming for as much sleep as possible (you should nap when the baby naps) and limiting physical activity to gentle walking and foundational exercises. Beyond 12 weeks, aiming for 7-9 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period (even if broken) is ideal for hormonal regulation and tissue repair.

How do you know if you're overdoing it postpartum?

Your body provides clear signals. You’re likely overdoing it if you experience ( 20 ): An increase or new onset of pelvic pain, back pain, or incision pain Leakage of urine or stool A feeling of heaviness or bulging in your vagina Abdominal doming or coning during exercise Exhaustion that feels deeper than typical new-parent fatigue An increase in lochia (postpartum bleeding) or a change in its color back to bright red

Why am I not losing weight at 12 weeks postpartum?

Several factors can contribute to a plateau in weight loss at the 12-week mark. These include chronic sleep deprivation, high stress levels (which elevate cortisol), inadequate caloric intake (particularly if breastfeeding, which can cause the body to hold onto fat stores), or underlying hormonal issues ( 21 , 22 ). You should focus on nutrient-dense food, hydration, stress management, and consistent, gentle movement rather than caloric restriction.