pain in my abdomen

i had my first child 10 weeks ago via c-section and am desperate to lose some belly fat.  i wasn't able to do any ab workouts for the first 6 weeks due to the surgery but have been ever sense.  recently, my lower abdomen has been hurting me again, though, but it hasn't been directly on or under the incision but rather a bit more to the left and just slightly higher.  i don't want to do any damage to my healing wound but i really need to get back into shape.  i'm also concerned because the pain isn't necessarily at the point of incision.  does anyone have any suggestions as to why i've been hurting in this particular place and how i can continue to work my abs without causing any further harm?  also, what's the best way to work my lower abs (once the pain goes away, of course)?

I think you need to talk to your doctor about this pain - if it is related to the c-section, that's something s/he should know about.

Also, remember that you can't spot burn, so ab exercises are pretty much ineffective to combat belly fat - diet primarily, and then general exercise (weights and cardio) are going to do a lot more for you than any amount crunches.  I'd lay off the crunches, and work on decreasing body fat overall - the stomach will catch up.

*waves hand*

Hi, I've had 7 abdominal surgeries, and two were c-sections. From your description, you may have developed adhesions (scar tissue) from doing too much, too soon.

I completely agree with Amethystgirl, please go see your doctor. Getting back into shape comes after you are fully healed from your c-section. That is major surgery you've had, plus you also had a baby. So there's a double-whammy for your body right there.

When you are fully cleared to resume exercising, you need to find a good place to work out that will help you with modifications until your abdominals get stronger.

I'm really happy to say that after taking the time to fully heal AND taking the time to let my muscles get back into shape slowly and safely, my abs are much stronger than they ever were before. You can do this too.