Exercising during pregnancy can provide a variety of benefits, including better sleep, reduced constipation and backache relief. Unfortunately, it can also pose dangers. Certain exercises and movements can cause spotting or bleeding to occur after exercise. Because this can be a serious sign of trouble, it is important to understand what can cause it and how it can be avoided.
Symptoms
The spotting after exercising while pregnant can vary from a very tiny amount of blood or fluid, to a large gush. According to the KidsHealth website, this spotting can be accompanied by other symptoms. These can include dizziness, pain, an increased heart rate, shortness of breath and contractions in the uterus. You might also notice back pain or tenderness in the uterine area.
Causes
Small amounts of spotting during pregnancy are normal, but BabyCenter's website says that bleeding after exercising can indicate that something is very wrong. In early stages of pregnancy, this symptom can signal a miscarriage. During the second and third trimester of pregnancy, this could mean that there are placenta complications, such as placenta previa or placenta abruption, where the placenta comes detached from the uterus. This can be extremely dangerous because it can stop the flow of nutrients and oxygen to the baby.
Treatments
Contact a doctor immediately if you notice bleeding after exercise. If you cannot get a hold of your obstetrician, go to the emergency room right away. If the bleeding is the cause of a complete abruption, a doctor will need to perform an emergency C-section. If the bleeding or separation is minor, a doctor may request close monitoring and bed rest. Because bleeding can signal a premature birth, a doctor may also give you corticosteroids to help improve the development of the unborn baby's lungs.
Prevention
Begin an exercise routine slowly and gradually. Avoid exercises that require you to bounce, leap, change directions suddenly or jar your body. After the first trimester, you must stay away from exercises that require you to lie flat on your back. In addition, you should avoid or limit participation in contact sports, horseback riding, skiing and scuba diving.
Tips
You can participate in many activities, such as bike riding, yoga, dancing or water aerobics while pregnant. Swimming may be especially beneficial because of the weightlessness that accompanies the activity --- which can be welcoming if you have a heavy, bulging, pregnant belly. Although most exercises are fine, it is important to listen to your body. If you grow dizzy or become uncomfortable during any exercise, you must discontinue.
