Why exercise is a health decision during pregnancy?

 

Physical activity health benefits are making a huge difference for pregnant women and babies during pregnancy.

To exercise during pregnancy is a healthy decision that every pregnant woman needs to make as soon as released by their healthcare provider. Physical activity during pregnancy can offer numerous benefits for both the mother and the baby. The ACOG recommends at least 150 min of physical activity per week.

 

Here are the top five reasons why it is important for your health:

 

Physical activity health benefits include an Improved Cardiovascular Health:

Regular physical activity can help strengthen the mother’s heart and improve her cardiovascular health. This is essential during pregnancy when the body is working harder to support both the mother and the growing baby. Exercise can help reduce the risk of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia, conditions that can be harmful to both the mother and baby.

 

Gestational Weight Management:

Maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy is crucial for the well-being of both the mother and the baby. Physical activity can help prevent excessive weight gain by burning calories and maintaining muscle tone. It can also aid in postpartum weight loss, making it easier for the mother to return to a healthy weight after giving birth.

Reduced Risk of Gestational Diabetes:

Regular exercise can help lower the risk of gestational diabetes, a condition that can develop during pregnancy. Controlling blood sugar levels through physical activity can benefit both the mother and the baby, reducing the risk of complications such as large birth weight and delivery complications. Nutrition and a healthy nutrition plan combined with physical activity guarantee an optimal prenatal health.

 

Physical activity also positively impacts mental health – Enhanced Mood and Reduced Stress:

Pregnancy can be a challenging time emotionally and physically. Engaging in physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Exercise can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and boost overall mental well-being for the mother. A happier and less stressed mother can positively impact the baby’s development in utero. Prenatal depression can affect anyone during pregnancy. Exercise may alleviate the symptoms and allows the expecting mother to meet other expecting women on the same journey.

Better Muscle Strength and Endurance:

Maintaining strong muscles and good endurance is important for the mother’s comfort during pregnancy and labor. Strong muscles can reduce the risk of common pregnancy discomforts like back pain. Additionally, improved endurance can make labor and delivery less physically taxing, potentially leading to a smoother birth process for both the mother and the baby.

It’s important to note that the type and intensity of exercise should be tailored to the individual’s fitness level and should always be discussed with a healthcare provider. Not all exercises are suitable for pregnant women, and safety should be a top priority to ensure a healthy pregnancy for both the mother and the baby.