Introduction

New guidelines advising new mothers to engage in at least two hours of exercise per week and to limit screen time before bedtime have ignited fierce backlash from various parenting groups. The recommendations, which include daily pelvic-floor exercises, have been criticized for allegedly underestimating the challenges of postpartum life.

Reactions from Parenting Communities

Mumsnet, a popular social network for parents, expressed disbelief at the suggestions, asserting that they “seem wildly optimistic about what looking after a newborn entails.” Parents have voiced concerns about the practicality of incorporating such advice into their already demanding routines.

Similarly, the National Childbirth Trust (NCT), a prominent parenting charity in the UK, cautioned that these recommendations could potentially harm new mothers, especially if they attempt to follow the suggested physical activities without sufficient recovery time. The NCT also pointed out that the sleep advice could feel “overwhelming” for those still adjusting to the demands of a newborn.

The Guidelines

This guidance was developed by a group of Canadian experts, who compiled insights from an extensive review of 574 studies focused on the health of new mothers. They argue that adherence to these guidelines could lead to significant improvements in physical and mental well-being. The key recommendations propose that new mothers:

1. Engage in at least two hours of moderate to vigorous exercise weekly—options include brisk walking, cycling, or muscle-strengthening activities—spread over four or more days.

2. Practice daily pelvic-floor muscle training to enhance recovery post-birth.

3. Limit screen use before bedtime, fostering a dark and quiet sleep environment to promote better rest.

Concerns from Experts

Despite the well-intentioned nature of these recommendations, British experts have raised concerns that they could become a benchmark for judging new mothers, potentially leading to unnecessary pressure to "perform" in their postpartum recovery.

Justine Roberts, founder and CEO of Mumsnet, highlighted the urgent need for clear, evidence-based guidance on postpartum exercise, while also stressing that the reality of caring for a newborn often complicates the pursuit of a structured routine. "Developing a healthy sleep routine is much easier said than done," she noted.

Katherine Walker from the NCT pointed out that while pelvic-floor exercises are beneficial both during and after pregnancy, the nuances of recovery post-birth demand a more cautious approach. Factors such as birth type—whether it was via tear (affecting 85% of birthing parents), caesarean section, or forceps delivery—play a vital role in how quickly mothers can return to physical activity.

She emphasized that new parents should be encouraged to start slow, with simple activities like daily walks, as carrying a newborn can already serve as a significant physical workout in those first few weeks.

Conclusion

Additionally, Janet Lindsay, CEO of Wellbeing of Women, reinforced the idea that exercise can be beneficial, but it must be approached with a mindset of flexibility and patience. "Exercise should happen when new mums are ready and in ways that feel achievable for them."

As discussions around postpartum recovery continue, many experts advocate for a supportive environment rather than one that places undue pressure on new parents—reminding society that adjusting to a new baby is a demanding journey that requires understanding and compassion.