There are many health benefits of exercise during pregnancy. Though pregnancy is not the time to start running, you should be able to continue as long as you take some precautions and get approval from your doctor. If you feel dizzy during or after a run, this is an exercise warning sign that you need to bring to the attention of our doctor.
Benefits of Pregnancy Exercise
Exercise helps you battle fatigue and weight gain. According to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, you should exercise 30 minutes on all or most days of the week even during pregnancy. In addition to helping you battle fatigue, exercise helps to reduce the occurrence of backaches, constipation and swelling, may help prevent the development of gestational diabetes, increases your strength, improves your mood and helps you sleep better.
Running During Pregnancy
Continuing a running regimen during pregnancy is usually fine, but don't take up running as a new form of exercise while you are pregnant and always obtain permission from your doctor. Running faster or a further distance than you are used to, not getting enough fluids when you run and overheating are things that can cause your body to feel out of sorts after or even during a run, possibly causing your dizziness. Overheating is not only bad for you, but your fetus also overheats. Finally, wear a good pair of running shoes to reduce stress on your joints, run on a smooth surface to prevent falls, listen to your body and don't run on days when you don't feel well.
Dizziness
Dizziness is an exercise warning sign. If you become dizzy during a run, stop the activity immediately, sit down and call your doctor if the feeling doesn't pass in a few minutes. Feeling dizzy following a run may mean that you pushed your body too hard and you're dehydrated and too hot. Dizziness may also be caused by anemia or another health condition that warrants medical evaluation. After you rehydrate and cool off, call your doctor to report the symptom.
Risks
Continuing a running program is usually fine during pregnancy, though your doctor may say you shouldn't run if you have pregnancy-induced hypertension -- high blood pressure -- gestational diabetes or a history of miscarriage or preterm labor, according to PregnancyToday.com. If you have a history of becoming dizzy after running, your doctor may want you to refrain from the exercise.
