Background and Introduction-
We all know that exercise reduces significant morbidity and mortality. During pregnancy, women tend to decrease their physical activity. However with proper recommendations, physical activity is a must.
Apart from incorporating physical activity, lifestyle changes should also be incorporated. This includes smoking cessation, consumption of healthy diet, alcohol cessation, etc.
Benefits of exercising-
- Management of gestational diabetes- Although physical activity may not prevent the development of gestational diabetes, it may help manage it, thereby decreasing the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus.
- Pre-eclampsia and hypertension- gestational hypertensive and cardiovascular complications are less likely in women who are physically active before and during pregnancy.
- Labour and delivery- Regular exercise may shorten the duration of labor and reduce the risk of Cesarean section.
- Depression- exercise helps alleviate depression during postpartum delivery and perinatal period.
Guidelines of exercise in pregnancy (for uncomplicated pregnancies)-
- Duration- about 30 minutes
- Intensity- mild to moderate
- Before starting any exercise regimen, it is important to consult your physician and physical therapist to rule out contra indications and if you are at high risk. The exercise parameters differs for every woman.
- AVOID exercising when- Supine position after first trimester , Prolonged standing– (may lead to reduced cardiac output), High risk of falling, or abdominal trauma (may cause injury to mother and fetus)
- STOP exercise in case of these signs symptoms – Vaginal bleeding, Calf pain or swelling, dizziness, chest pain, preterm labour.
Weight gain in pregnancy : How much?
Weight gain should be tracked throughout pregnancy, as it is important to have a healthy weight gain. Excess of weight gain is associated with complications such as gestational DM, pre- eclampsia, etc. As per guidelines, women with normal BMI- should gain upto 25-35 pounds, women with an overweight BMI, should gain 15-25 pounds, and lastly, obese women should gain upto 11-20 pounds
Evidences about safety of exercise and pregnancy-
- A reduced risk of pre-term birth.
- Reduced risk of gestational co-morbidities.
- Maintains a healthy pregnancy weight gain
- Promotes fetal well-being
- For women without contraindications to physical activity, exercise is safe for both the woman and developing fetus.
Conclusion-
In general, women who are physically active prior to pregnancy should be advised to maintain or may increase their exercise levels. The women who have been physically inactive may start with mild physical activity levels and be encouraged to begin exercising.
Also read- https://vcurehealthcare.com/self-care-the-key-to-healthy-well-being/
