Exercising during Pregnancy
Important Guidelines for Expectant Mothers
Consider the following when developing a pregnancy exercise program:
- Avoid dehydration — drink extra fluids before, during, and after exercise
- Routine — blend your exercise into your routine schedule two to three times a week
- Enjoy the feelings of wellness
- Go for it — exercise with a friend
- Notice your body's response to the exercise; always check with your physician before beginning any new form of exercise
- Comfort — consider purchasing a well-fitting exercise bra
- Intensity — exercise should be at your own pace; do not try to exercise to prevent weight gain. Your program of exercise should be done at a sensible level where you are comfortable.
- Tolerance — avoid pushing beyond your body's limit, always exercise with caution, and prevent fatigue. Training for a marathon would be discouraged.
- Evaluate — pregnancy causes new sensations, so be aware of your body's normal posture and be alert to potential problems.
- Safety — always exercise with a friend or join an established exercise program. Do not exercise lying flat on your back.
- Never exercise to exhaustion; temperature elevations in you can cause harm to your baby.
- Trial — try new forms of exercise that will accommodate your new needs.
You'll love the benefits that occur with labor & delivery as well as the post-partum benefits of getting back into shape which include:
- Faster labors have been reported, although not all studies support this theory
- Satisfaction with your appearance is guaranteed.
DANGER
Stop exercising & call your doctor if you experience:
- Pain of any kind including chest, head, back, pubic, or hip
- Uterine contractions at 20 minute intervals, or closer
- Vaginal bleeding
- Leakage of amniotic fluid
- Dizziness or fainting
- Elevated temperature
- Shortness of breath
- Palpitations or irregular heart rate
- Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
- Persistent nausea and vomiting
- Difficulty walking
- Swelling of the lower extremities or joints
- Decreased fetal movement
