Will the postpartum belly after a vaginal delivery return to normal on its own?

After a vaginal delivery, the enlarged abdomen usually gradually recovers, although the rate of recovery varies from person to person. Following childbirth, the abdominal muscles and skin stretched during pregnancy due to the enlarged uterus, resulting in abdominal laxity and protrusion, which is a normal phenomenon. Over time, the uterus will gradually return to its normal size, and the abdominal muscles and skin will also progressively tighten.

Abdominal recovery after vaginal delivery is a progressive process involving uterine involution, the natural recovery of abdominal muscle and skin elasticity, and individual lifestyle factors. To promote postpartum abdominal recovery, new mothers can maintain a balanced diet by consuming more protein-, vitamin-, and mineral-rich foods such as eggs, shrimp, vegetables, and fruits, while avoiding high-sugar and high-fat foods like cakes and fried chicken. Engaging in moderate exercise, such as sit-ups, jogging, aerobics, and postnatal yoga, can also help strengthen abdominal muscles and promote fat burning and metabolism. In addition, using an abdominal binder may help stabilize the pubic joint, alleviate pain, and reduce the likelihood of abdominal muscle sagging.