Pregnancy and Exercise

Yes, it's true. Believe it or not, physically active, healthy women do get pregnant!  Should this mean you have to give up sports and exercise? Probably not. Studies show a fit mom can have easier pregnancy and labor as well as a healthier baby.

There are three questions every mom-to-be needs to consider regarding choice of specific activities and exercises:

1. What does your doctor say regarding this activity?
2. Have you done this activity lately?
3. How does it feel when you do this activity now?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states in their Committee Opinion, January 2002, "In the absence of contraindications, pregnant women should be encouraged to engage in regular, moderate intensity physical activity to continue to derive the same associated health benefits during their pregnancy as they did prior to pregnancy".

While ACOG's guidelines are somewhat vague as to what is the "correct" amount or type of exercise, the 3 questions at the top of the page should point you in the right direction. The main consideration is to protect the life developing inside the uterus. Sports and activities with a greater chance of falling or impact
(abdominal trauma) should be avoided, such as hockey, soccer, basketball, horseback riding, etc.

If in doubt, ask your doctor. You may even consider working with a fitness professional experienced with training during pregnancy.

ACOG also offers these warning signs to terminate exercise while pregnant:

Vaginal Bleeding
Dyspnea prior to exertion
Dizziness
Headache
Chest pain
Muscle weakness
Calf pain or swelling (need to rule out thrombophlebitis)
Preterm labor
Decreased fetal movement
Amniotic fluid leakage

Good luck and have a healthy and fit pregnancy!