Growth spikes in babies: how do you recognize them?

“No swimming before ...”, you're told immediately after giving birth. And yet, after the marathon that childbirth represents, you dream of a nice warm bath. And then summer arrives, and you're eager to enjoy the first dip in the sea of the year, or in the pool at your vacation resort.
So when can you start swimming after giving birth? Why should you wait? What about Caesarean sections and the return from childbirth? We decipher all these questions for you.

What Are the Official Medical Recommendations?

Medical guidelines, regardless of delivery method (vaginal or C-section), recommend waiting six weeks after childbirth before taking a bath. Some healthcare professionals even advise waiting until the postnatal check-up and cervical examination before bathing.

For swimming in the sea or pool, due to the presence of chemicals, salt, or less hygienic water, midwives and gynecologists generally recommend waiting two months. But why such a long wait?

Why These Recommendations?

To prevent infections, it's essential to wait until the cervix has fully closed, which takes time.

If you had an episiotomy, tear, or C-section, wounds must be completely healed before entering the water.

Even after a C-section, your cervix may have been affected during pregnancy and labor, so the same precautions apply—your cervix must be fully closed.

Postpartum bleeding also needs to stop before swimming. This bleeding is natural and indicates the uterus is healing. It should not be confused with the return of menstruation.

What About Postpartum Menstruation?

Menstruation returns 6 weeks to 3 months after birth (especially if breastfeeding). Once your cervix is closed and any wounds have fully healed, you can swim.

When You Get Your Doctor’s Approval

Take precautions when exposing your body to the sun after childbirth, as your skin is still sensitive. Stay in the shade, use high-SPF sunscreen, and avoid exposing scars, especially if you had a C-section.