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Pregnant and Active – What is Considered Safe?

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The idea of having an excuse to eat whatever you want and lay around afterwards sounds great. This is especially true if no one would say anything or even think it’s what you’re supposed to do as well! What could that be you ask and sign you up! In a word, pregnancy.

However, according to the Mayo Clinic, pregnancy can be a good time to get started exercising or continue exercising. Regular exercise can ease or prevent back pain, boost your energy, prevent extra weight gain, lower your risk of pregnancy-related diseases (gestational diabetes, pregnancy-related high blood pressure and postpartum depression), and finally, increase stamina and muscle strength.

Precautions

There are precautions, however. For instance, for those who have serious complications, exercise would not be advisable. For that reason, even those without previous health issues, before you start any exercise program, it is best to consult your physician. If you have poorly controlled diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, placental previa, you will be advised to proceed with caution. Once again, it is strongly advised to consult with your physician.

There are activities that are best to avoid in general – whether you have medical conditions or not – due to dangers and risks involved. The Mayo Clinic states that exercises that force you to lie flat on your back, scuba diving, hiking at high altitudes and skiing (water or downhill) should be discontinued or avoided altogether during this time. Just remember to start small – a few minutes at a time. Try to find a partner and if that’s not possible, wear a headset for motivation. There are even classes for pregnant women. Look for one in your area. But one of the most important things to remember is to rest when you are tired. If you start having any danger signs such as shortness of breath or vaginal bleeding, stop. If you continue to have problems after the workout, contact your doctor immediately.

Most women can do 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Keep it creative and fun. You will find that you will have a better labor and delivery and an easier time getting back into your exercise routine after your pregnancy.

Best in Health!

Resource: Mayo Clinic

Dita Faulkner is a freelance writer and poet. Go Titans!

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Anonymous

Firstly, please find out if you are pregnant. Prenatal care is of the utmost importance. Then, under a doctor's supervision, you can make the determination of what is too much exercise for you or not. Your doctor will caution you that moderation is the key.

September 7, 2010 - 6:40am

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Abbi

Well I’m only 15 , and I’m not sure if I’m pregnant or not . and I’m in the ROTC program which means I exercise big ! every friday . And I have to run a mile tomorrow . Will that hurt my baby if I am pregnant ? South Beach Smoke

September 6, 2010 - 10:25pm

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Dita Faulkner
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We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.