Gemma Atkinson has taken to Instagram to share a rather painful ordeal she encountered as she continues to recover from giving birth last month.
The former Emmerdale and Hollyoaks star gave birth to son Thiago Thomas on July 17 via a C-section.
Atkinson has been candid and open about how plans for a natural birth went out the window when she went into labour but nevertheless has remained upbeat as she heals at home with her newborn and daughter Mia.
However, on Thursday morning, three weeks after welcoming her son, Atkinson revealed her plans to get back on her feet and walking prolonged distances have suffered a setback.
In a clip posted on her stories, Atkinson revealed: "As you can see I'm sweating. Mia has been wanting to take Thiago into pre-school and I said I'd do it today.
"So we popped him in the car and mum's drove us but I've carried him in in his car seat.
Gemma Atkinson revealed her plans to head out on walks have hindered her recovery
INSTAGRAM/GEMMA ATKINSON
"And then after that we walked for about 15 minutes, got him back in the car and just that on its own has set my scar off throbbing a bit.
"I feel a bit - not sick, but a bit 'ooof'. And it's just a reminder, a constant reminder of what your body is going through if you've had a C-section and just to slow down."
However, Atkinson remained positive as she added: "So yeah, first one, I didn't expect it to be like, "Yay! Plain sailing,' but we've done it.
"(Went) to pre-school and had a walk. Now I'm gonna sit down and put my feet up."
Atkinson added an "Ouch!" gif to the clip before adding on in the clip's caption: "First outing done.
"Defo won't be doing long walks as planned yet. I'm gonna wait another week.
"My body has told me it's not quite yet ready and that's ok," she penned. (sic)
Atkinson's candor when it comes to her recovery had led to floods of praise from her followers in recent weeks, including after she showed off her post-birth torso.
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Gemma Atkinson gave birth to son Thiago Thomas last month
INSTAGRAM/GEMMA ATKINSON
The actor shared a clip of her parading in front of a mirror with her stomach on show as she updated fans on how her body is reacting after giving birth.
She assured fans: " It’s very common for tummy’s to stay swollen after pregnancy and they usually stay swollen longer after a C section due to the inflammation and abdominal swelling from surgery.
"So don’t worry if you feel you still look pregnant as I do here. ITS NORMAL!"
Atkinson and fiancé Gorka Marquez also share four-year-old daughter Mia together.
The pair's romance began after they met on the set of Strictly Come Dancing back in 2017.
