Most people know that exercise improves blood pressure and circulation, maintains a healthy weight, and keeps the heart and lungs healthy. During pregnancy, however, women may receive mixed messages about the effect activity has on their babies. In the overwhelming majority of pregnancies, moderate exercise is safe and even beneficial. If your obstetrician has advised you to avoid exercise, heed her advice. If you're unsure about the appropriate level of exercise during pregnancy, talk to your doctor.
Maternal Health Benefits
In addition to the normal benefits women receive from exercise, it might make pregnancy easier. Women who continue exercising during pregnancy tend to have easier labors in which they become less exhausted and panicked, according to pediatrician William Sears. Exercise helps keep women in the habit of daily activity, which can make it easier to continue exercising and lose baby weight after the baby is born.
Fetal Health Benefits
"The New York Times" reported on April 13, 2011 that a 2011 study conducted by the Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences found that fetal heart health is improved when mothers exercise. Fetuses, for example, had lower heart rates if their mothers engaged in moderate exercise several times a week. Additionally, women who exercise during pregnancy are more likely to continue exercising after pregnancy. This, according to Dr. Sears, encourages children to develop healthy exercise habits.
Health Risks
Neurologist Lise Eliot explains that the primary concern about women exercising during pregnancy involves fetal oxygen deprivation. Very intense exercise may reduce the amount of oxygen available to the placenta and can cause periods of fetal hypoxia. In some cases, this causes fetal brain damage and other developmental abnormalities. Women with difficult or high-risk pregnancies who are on bed rest may develop serious complications caused by exercise.
How to Exercise
Pregnant women should engage in moderate aerobic exercise a few times a week. Dr. Sears suggests brisk walks, light weightlifting and other exercise that is unlikely to result in muscular stress or oxygen deprivation. Talk to your obstetrician about an appropriate exercise plan for your pregnancy.
References
- "The Pregnancy Book"; William Sears, M.D., et al.; 1997
- "What's Going on In There?" Lise Eliot; 2000
- "Health, Safety and Nutrition for the Young Child"; Lynn R. Marotz; 2011
- "The New York Times"; Exercising for Two; Gretchen Reynolds; April 2011
- Science Daily: Effects of Maternal Exercise on Fetal Breathing Movements; April 2009
