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As having a baby can affect an individual’s physical activity beliefs and behaviours, focusing on this can be a useful way to introduce the topic.
Using a non-judgemental and respectful way to get a conversation about physical activity started can keep the individual actively engaged in the conversation and decision making.
If done successfully, a 1-minute conversation can plant the seed for successful behaviour change.
Start pelvic floor exercises as soon as you can and continue daily
Every conversation you have with people about physical activity is important in supporting behavioural change over the life course
This infographic shows the CMO guidelines for physical activity after childbirth
“I found going for a short walk everyday really helped break up the day”
“Staying active kept me sane”
“Keeping active isn’t easy, don’t pressurise yourself too much, just be active in your own way”
Physical activity is a key part of optimising and maintaining health for patients who have had a baby. Common benefits reported include:
Asking a question such as ‘what do you make of this’ allows some space for people to talk and explore the information rather than asking ‘do you understand?’ which can shut things down. They may already have a good understanding of the benefits of physical activity, so if you’re pressed for time you can ask it like this without patronising them and also offer the opportunity for them to tell you that they know it already.
Start pelvic floor exercises as soon as you can and continue daily
Every conversation you have with people about physical activity is important in supporting behavioural change over the life course
This infographic shows the CMO guidelines for physical activity after childbirth
“I found going for a short walk everyday really helped break up the day”
“Staying active kept me sane”
“Keeping active isn’t easy, don’t pressurise yourself too much, just be active in your own way”
Arranging follow up is important after a positively received 1-minute conversation. Offer a follow up opportunity with you or a colleague appropriate to the environment you work in and resources available.
Signpost the patient information section.
Follow up may be with you, a colleague or another service, but try to capitalise on the opportunity provided and book the next step before they leave.
If they decline a follow up appointment offer them a patient information leaflet, thank them for taking the time to talk with you about physical activity and reassure them help is available when they feel ready for change.
Start pelvic floor exercises as soon as you can and continue daily
Every conversation you have with people about physical activity is important in supporting behavioural change over the life course
This infographic shows the CMO guidelines for physical activity after childbirth
“I found going for a short walk everyday really helped break up the day”
“Staying active kept me sane”
“Keeping active isn’t easy, don’t pressurise yourself too much, just be active in your own way”
If you’d like to hear more about Moving Medicine and receive notifications on updates, please sign up below.