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Healthy pregnant women without exercise contraindications are encouraged to exercise while pregnant.
Regular exercise while pregnant may help control gestational weight gain, improve wellbeing and mood, and may play a role in the prevention of pregnancy-related complications. Prior to starting an exercise program, all pregnant women are advised to talk with their health care provider.
The PARmed-X for PREGNANCY was developed as a screening tool for pregnant women who wish to exercise.
Exercise and Pregnancy
Benefits of Exercise During Pregnancy
Higher incidence of:
- Vaginal delivery
Lower incidence of:
- Excessive gestational weight gain
- Gestational diabetes mellitus
- Gestational hypertension, Preeclampsia
- Preterm birth
- Cesarean birth
- Lower birth weight
Common Exercises Studied During Pregnancy (and Safe)
- Walking
- Stationary cycling
- Aerobic exercises
- Dancing
- Resistance exercises (eg, using weights, elastic bands)
- Stretching exercises
- Hydrotherapy, water aerobics
Reasons to Stop Exercise and Consult Your Health Care Provider
- Vaginal bleeding
- Abdominal pain
- Regular painful contractions
- Amniotic fluid leakage
- Dyspnea before exertion
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Chest pain
- Muscle weakness affecting balance
- Calf pain or swelling
News
- Daily Reflector article: “Babies healthier when moms exercise“
- New York times: “Exercising for two“
- Washington Post: “Mother’s Exercise May Boost Baby’s Brain“
- Washington Post: “Exercise During Pregnancy Benefits Baby’s Heart“
- Health Day: “Exercising Moms-to-Be Have Less Chubby Babies, Study Finds“