Maintaining your health throughout pregnancy involves many aspects of your daily life, and this includes exercise. Physical activity helps contribute to your well-being during this time. By understanding the connection between exercise and pregnancy health, you can make informed choices for yourself and your baby. Here is more information about the role of exercise when you’re pregnant:
Eases Back Pain
During pregnancy, women typically experience back pain as their center of gravity shifts and ligaments become more relaxed. Gentle exercise strengthens the muscles that support your back and abdomen. Specific stretches and low-impact activities may help manage discomfort, and this can be a welcome relief.
Developing core strength can be done through approved exercises, and it provides better support for your growing belly. To improve overall posture and balance, incorporate appropriate prenatal exercises. It may reduce the risk of long-term back issues by promoting flexibility and maintaining muscle strength throughout your pregnancy.
Reduces Complications
Regular physical activity during pregnancy can be used to reduce certain complications. Gestational diabetes, a type of diabetes that appears during pregnancy, may be less likely to develop in women who exercise. Moving your body helps it use glucose more effectively. High blood pressure may also impact pregnant women who are not active.
Regular exercise contributes to pregnancy health throughout the process. Gaining a recommended amount of weight reduces the likelihood of issues for both mother and baby. To determine a suitable weight gain target, you can work with your healthcare provider. This weight management also plays a part in lowering the chances of needing a cesarean delivery.
An active lifestyle also supports overall cardiovascular health, and your heart and blood vessels might work harder during pregnancy to supply blood to the placenta. Moderate exercise strengthens your cardiovascular system, so it is better equipped to address this increased demand.
Supports Labor
Preparing your body for labor and delivery is a physical process, and building muscle tone through regular exercise may assist with the endurance needed during labor. While every labor experience is unique, having a foundation of physical fitness can be beneficial. Stronger muscles may help during the pushing stage of delivery.
These exercises are particularly useful for labor preparation:
- Doing Kegels to strengthen muscles.
- Squatting helps open the pelvis.
- Walking maintains cardiovascular fitness.
Aids Postpartum Weight Loss
After your baby arrives, returning to a regular exercise routine can help you gradually lose the weight gained during pregnancy. Physical activity burns calories and builds muscle mass, and this may boost your metabolism. This process takes time, so patience with your body is helpful as it recovers from childbirth. When your doctor gives you clearance, you can begin with gentle activities and slowly increase the intensity. It is a good practice to start slow, and you can build from there.
Get Checked for Pregnancy Health
Before starting or continuing any exercise program during pregnancy, it is best to speak with your healthcare provider. They can offer guidance based on your personal health history and current condition. Your provider can help you create a safe and effective fitness plan that supports a healthy pregnancy. Schedule an appointment with a gynecologist to discuss your exercise plan and overall pregnancy health today.
