The Time I Thought My Core Was Healed 4 Years After Having My Last Child

…Spoiler alert: It wasn’t.

I’ve had two kids, both via C-section. One was unplanned and urgent, and the second was totally scheduled. But this isn’t a birth story—or even a postpartum healing story. This takes place four years after my last baby, at a time when I assumed I was totally healed and good to go.

Me during my 2nd C-section

We had just moved to a new town, and I was trying to branch out, meet people, and get back into working out—like really working out. A new friend invited me to try a bootcamp-style workout class. AND it had childcare! My kids could play with hers in the next room while I got my sweat on. I was so excited!

The Workout That Took Me Out

I’ll never forget how I felt that day. I expected to feel tired and sweaty. Instead, I went through a full-on rollercoaster of emotions.

At first, I was just a little nervous. I hadn’t done consistent exercise in a while, aside from an occasional dance class or stroller walk. Plus, I was navigating a new friendship, which always has its own awkwardness.

Then, the class started. It was intense. Honestly, I pushed myself too hard, too fast. I’m a recovering people pleaser and have a really hard time modifying exercises—especially when I think someone is “expecting” me to go full out. But I also genuinely thought I could push myself. After all, I was four years postpartum. That’s plenty of time to heal… right?

A woman killing it at planking (NOT me!)

Then came the exercise that completely wrecked me.

We were doing this move where we had to slide across the floor in a sort of plank position, using paper plates under our hands and feet. It was like a moving inchworm—up into a V, then down into a plank. I got into position, attempted one rep, and collapsed onto my stomach.

The coach (a super nice guy, but one who didn’t quite get it) came over and encouraged me. “If you keep coming, your core will get stronger,” he said.

I started crying. And I couldn’t stop.

Frustration, Confusion, and the Truth About My Core

I was so frustrated with my body.

Why couldn’t I do this? Why was my body still failing me FOUR years after my last baby?

I thought my abs should’ve gone back into place by now. I thought my core should be able to do its job. But what I didn’t realize at the time was that healing isn’t just about time passing.

Yes, my abs may have regained some strength. But that wasn’t the full picture.

I had never actually re-trained my core muscles to work together. I had never addressed how they coordinated with my pelvic floor. I had no idea I had a lingering diastasis recti.

I assumed time alone would be enough. It wasn’t.

No one had ever told me that I needed to intentionally reconnect with my core. No one told me there were steps I could take—not just to rebuild strength, but to protect myself before jumping into high-intensity workouts.

It wasn’t until I finally dug into the research and took courses to become a pelvic floor therapist that I learned the truth. And once I did, I knew I had to help other women who, like me, deserve to understand their bodies better.

What I Wish I Had Known Sooner

I had no idea that I could have done things during pregnancy to set myself up for a better postpartum recovery.

I had no idea that four years later, my core still needed attention.

I had no idea how many other women were walking around feeling frustrated, confused, and disconnected from their bodies—just like I was.

But now? I know better. And I want you to know better, too.

If you’ve ever felt like your body is failing you after pregnancy… you’re not alone. If you’ve ever tried a workout and felt like something just wasn’t right… you’re not crazy. And if you’re ready to finally understand your core and pelvic floor, I’ve got you.

Are you expecting? Check out our incredible all-in-one signature program made by a mom (and pelvic-perinatal-period wellness OT) for moms for more expert guidance on preparing for your baby’s arrival! There are hours of self-paced videos, weekly live video chats (think group coaching meets Q+A meets women supporting women), a 24/7 chat board where you can ask who else is awake at 3am, post a gif or meme, or find support, and a comprehensive toolkit for even more ideas and support. Go here!

If you're not quite sure that this program is the best fit (we just met - I get it!) consider checking out some of our free resources first: find out your postpartum prep style with a quick and fun quiz here.

Or, check out our free recorded workshop. You'll see what my vibe is like and get some pointers on pelvic floor and core prep, protecting your mental health, and packing a hospital bag from the perspective of a pelvic-perinatal-period OT! Plus, we usually give away discount codes or freebies for those who grab this free recorded workshop:) Here's that link!

Disclaimer: Content provided by mighty mOThers, LLC is informational in intent, and is not meant to replace or contradict guidance provided by your personal doctor, therapist, or other healthcare practitioner. Please contact your healthcare provider or schedule a 1:1 evaluation with an OT with specific concerns, and call 911 if you are having a physical or mental health emergency.