Pregnancy and Exercise

Pregnancy is the process of childbearing and can be divided into three stages: preconception (before pregnancy), prenatal (during pregnancy), and postpartum (after pregnancy). There are specific exercise guidelines for woman at each of these stages of pregnancy.

What is the information for this topic?

Preconception

Ideally, it is good for any woman to follow a regular exercise routine throughout her life. For women who are considering pregnancy, being in good physical condition before becoming pregnant is important. Being fit helps a woman's body meet the increasing physical demands of carrying a baby. A well-rounded exercise program should consist of aerobic exercise to strengthen the heart and lungs, and muscle toning exercises such as using weights, sit-ups, and push-ups.

Prenatal

Moderate physical activity is considered safe and extremely helpful for expectant mothers and their babies. During pregnancy, changes occur to a woman's body. These changes include: an increased heart rate at rest, increased circulation and blood volume, decreased blood pressure, increased laxity of joints, a shift in center of gravity, and others. Exercise during pregnancy helps keep the heart and lungs working well and also strengthens the muscles and joints to make supporting the baby easier and more comfortable.

Prenatal Exercise Precautions

It is important for a woman to discuss physical activity at regular visits with her healthcare provider. Pregnant women who are at high risk may need to limit physical activity. A high risk pregnancy is one in which the expectant mother has a medical problem, such as diabetes or high blood pressure; has any genetic problem; or is under 20 or over 35. In general, a pregnant woman should not get overheated and should not exercise to exhaustion. A woman should STOP exercising and call her healthcare provider if any of the following occur during exercise:

Types of Prenatal Exercise

The following four kinds of exercise can be useful during pregnancy:

1. Pregnancy-specific aerobics. Rhythmic and repetitive activities such as walking, bicycling, and swimming are strenuous enough to demand increased oxygen to the muscles, but not so strenuous that oxygen demand exceeds supply.

Pregnancy-specific aerobics:

2. Pregnancy calisthenics, or exercises designed especially for pregnancy. These exercises are rhythmic, light gymnastic movements that tone and develop muscles and can improve posture.

Pregnancy calisthenics:

3. Relaxation techniques.

Relaxation techniques:

4. Kegel exercises. To do these exercises, contract the vaginal muscles hard, as if to stop the flow of urine. This should be done 10 to 15 times at least 3 times a day.

Kegel exercises strengthen the muscles that surround the openings of the urethra, vagina, and anus which can become weak because of the constant pressure of pregnancy.

Do's and Don'ts

A good pregnancy exercise program that is built into a woman's daily lifestyle has many benefits.

These general exercise guidelines are adapted from the recommendations of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). These guidelines are conservative and may not fit the needs of women who are conditioned athletes. Pregnancy and sports guidelines should be discussed between the woman and her healthcare provider.

Do:

Don't:

Postpartum

Daily exercise can help restore muscle tone and return a woman's body to the condition it was before pregnancy, or to an improved condition. Exercise programs should be designed to meet individual needs. Although exercise may seem like an effort, it can actually help new mothers feel less tired. Exercise raises energy level and boosts a woman's general sense of wellbeing. Always check with your healthcare provider before starting an exercise program.

Author:Dr. Karen Wolfe, MBBS, MA
Date Written:
Editor:Wendel, Sandra J., BA
Edit Date:07/06/00
Reviewer:Gail Hendrickson, RN, BS
Date Reviewed:07/05/01

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