Exercise In Pregnancy

We strongly recommend exercise during your pregnancy. Not only does it help control your weight gain, it helps reduce the aches and pains of pregnancy, and also makes your delivery easier. Women who exercise have a shorter pushing stage of labor, and also require less pain medication.

Any form of exercise is acceptable, EXCEPT- abdominal wall exercises like sit ups or leg lifts (unless you have a trainer who can show you how to protect your tummy muscles). During exercise, you should maintain a heart rate under 140 beats per minute and avoid overheating. It is very important to drink lots of water. Most of our patients utilize walking, water aerobics and yoga as their main forms of exercise. We can give you information about Prenatal Exercise Programs in the area.

You may notice that you have some cramping during walking or immediately afterwards. This is usually normal, but please check with your doctor at your next visit. DON'T FORGET THE WATER!

PRECAUTIONS:

WOMEN WHO SHOULDN'T EXERCISE (check with your doctor first): Preterm labor, placenta previa, undiagnosed bleeding, cardiac problems.

Keep your heart rate under 140 beats per minute.

Drink lots of water.

Don't get overheated.

As your pregnancy progresses, you should avoid exercises that can cause direct abdominal trauma (like cycling or skiing where you can fall).