According to research, exercises remove the risk of complications during pregnancy. See more reasons pregnant women should exercise
Contrary to what many people think and are even guided by some professionals, women pregnant women should exercise to enjoy the benefits of physical activity during the months of pregnancy.
This is what has been highlighted by a recent study conducted by the Rambam Health Care Campus, in Haifa, Israel, in collaboration with the Shaare Zedek Medical Center.
According to the survey, expectant mothers are shown to engage in 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, spread over at least three days a week, combined with anaerobic exercise and resistance training, even for women who were inactive prior to pregnancy.
“A large American study revealed that less than 15% of pregnant women exercise regularly, many fearing it could cause premature births and damage their health or that of their babies. But, in fact, the practice of physical activity is earlier and the postpartum only brings benefits for both,” stressed Ido Solt, obstetrician at Rambam and one of the authors of the research.
Why pregnant women should exercise, according to study
According to the study, one of the main motivating reasons for exercising during pregnancy is that a sedentary lifestyle facilitates excess weight gain, which can cause pregnancy complications.
“For this reason, the nine months of pregnancy are also an opportunity for the mother to move towards a healthy lifestyle and adopt new habits. Physical activity is strongly recommended, with the exception of women who have specific cases of attention and who, on the recommendation of the doctor, cannot exercise these activities”, underlines Solt.
Another advantage of practicing physical exercise during pregnancy is the reduction of the risk of preeclampsia, a serious condition which can occur after the 20th week or after delivery, with an increase in blood pressure and serious consequences for the baby and the mother.
“Pre-eclampsia occurs in five to eight percent of pregnancies and, in the majority of cases, leads to a premature birth,” the obstetrician points out.
Additionally, the research also found that pregnant women who practiced at least 150 minutes of both aerobic and anaerobic exercise three days a week were shown to have no increased risk of miscarriage, infant hypoglycemia, early sac rupture, low delivery weight or birth defects.
“Not only do these women not increase these risks, but they also provide benefits before and after childbirth, with faster recovery, with a reduced risk of developing back pain, they wrote. If a pregnant woman exercises regularly, she can recover more quickly from childbirth, reduce the risk of back pain, or even gestational diabetes and even postpartum depression,” stressed Ido Solt.
Be careful during pregnancy
While the practice is indicated, obstetrician Rambam stressed that there are some important restrictions. Are they:
- Avoid exercising outside in hot, humid weather;
- Cycling or horse riding;
- Immersion;
- Exercise – especially during the first trimester;
- Avoid the practice of competitive sports, which could endanger the health and life of the mother and child.
Furthermore, it is always necessary to have the follow-up of a physical educator to ensure both the safety of the mother and the child during physical activities.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
