Loss of personal confidence can be a big factor for many women post the birth of a child. How you feel about how you look can affect your own self-perception. Getting back in shape may really matter to you.

Please send us your views. Have you got back in shape? Have you found the time?Have you got encouragement to do so from your nearest and dearest, or have you just given up and given your old clothes away to the jumble sale?

A couple of comments may encourage you to share your views with us.

"I was pretty fit before having my daughter and really intended to get back in shape. The problem has been finding the time and the energy. Two years on I still have my wardrobe split pre pregnancy and post pregnancy and I wish I could tone up. My stomach is still in a sad state.

Finding time has been the hardest thing. I manage to take exercise on holiday when my partner is around during the day, but the thought of going to the gym after work, when I want to get back home is a real turn off. Also, I'm often too tired by 7.00pm."

Pat Moores

Pilates has recently got an excellent press for offering pregnant women a good way of exercising in order to regain their figures soon after birth. Ideally, you should start Pilates exercises prior to getting pregnant, but they can be started during pregnancy if properly supervised initially. The link below goes through to a site that lists all approved pilates instructors in UK.

www.bodycontrol.co.uk