Exercise Found To Be Beneficial During Pregnancy

May 25, 2009 by tanya
Filed under: Baby Health, News, Pregnancy

Studies have found that an approved exercise program is beneficial for mother and baby during pregnancy.

Dr. Raul Artal, from the Saint Louis University School of Medicine said “We know that women who exercise during pregnancy have less chance of developing certain conditions like gestational diabetes,”

“Not only that, exercise maintains musculoskeletal fitness. Women can cope with the anatomical and physiological changes of pregnancy better when they’re in good shape. They also tolerate labor better and recover more quickly from delivery.”

“Women should be encouraged to continue living an active lifestyle.”

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has recommended that women aim to do at least half an hour of moderate exercise every day during pregnancy.

They reminded expectant mothers to consult with a doctor before starting any exercise program.

Benefits include lower fetal heart rates

Family practitioner, Dr. Thomas Wang in San Diego said “A lot of things depend on the level of fitness they had before,”

Certain activities should be avoided during pregnancy, such as scuba diving, skiing, horseback riding, gymnastics, and high impact sports. Weights should not be lifted above their heads, and there should be no strain to the lower back.

Pregnant women should avoid lying flat on their backs during the second and third trimesters, as this reduces the blood circulation to the fetus.

“Anything that involves impact or the chance of abdominal trauma, they should try to avoid,” Wang commented.

Approved exercises include Kegels, yoga, light dancing, swimming, walking, cycling and aerobics, as long as the woman takes care not to fall.

It is important that when exercising during pregnancy, avoid breathlessness or exhaustion. This may reduce the amount of oxygen the fetus receives.

Also, avoid exercising during hot weather or overheating, as this may affect the development of the baby.