BumpNotFrump

Pregnancy And Maternity Exercise

During your pregnancy it is perfectly find to remain physically active and you should try and get some form of exercise. Physical activity can help your metabolism run smoothly and keep you feeling healthy.

Exercise can help offset varicose veins, leg cramps and fatigue and help keep up muscle tone in the vagina, adbomen and uterus.

Cardiovascular Pregnancy Exercise

Studies have shown that cardiovascular exercise does not have an adverse effect on your unborn baby but is recommended that you follow slower exercises than normal, such as walking, swimming and water aerobics.

If you are performing any form of cardiovascular exercise, it is important that you stay hydrated. Drink a glass of water before and after your exercise session, and if possible take small sips of water from a bottle as you workout.

Stretches during Pregnancy

Stretching before and after a workout will help to prevent muscle injury and stiffness and promote better flexibility. Stretching throughout the day, especially in the later stages of pregnancy, can help to relieve some of the discomfort your body may experience.

Do use your common-sense however and never move beyond your comfort level when stretching. Stretching should never cause you any pain.

Exercise to avoid during Pregnancy

Certain exercises can be detrimental to your body during pregnancy or have the potential for risk to your unborn baby. Follow the guidelines below when choosing an exercise of performing a normal routine.

- Contact sports where there is a possibility of falling or an injury should be avoided.

- Activities which could place pressure on your stomach should not be performed.

- High-impact exercise that leaves you very out of breath.

- After the first three months of your pregnancy, any intense exercise that requires you to be on your back for a prolonged period of time should be avoided.

- Activities with bouncing movements.

- Activities in hot, humid weather or in extreme cold.

- Anything that forces your pelvis to tilt back and your lower spine to curve. Sex is fine though unless you have been advised otherwise by your doctor!

When to stop Pregnancy Exercise

If you are pregnant and during exercise you experience any of the following symptoms you should stop immediately and contact your doctor.

- Pain

- Vaginal bleeding.

- Dizziness or faintness.

- Increased shortness of breath.

- Abnormal fluid leaking from the vagina.

- Rapid heartbeat.

- Uterine contractions and chest pain.

- Difficulty walking.