Exercise and Pregnancy
This can be a personal topic for some women who have not been hugely active through their life. During pregnancy it often is a time they feel pressured to be more physically active. On the flip side those women who have been very active prior to pregnancy, it can pose questions about what activities they can and cannot do safely.
It is always a good idea, no matter what your current activity levels are, to discuss your current exercise practice with a qualified practitioner in your first trimester . This will allow you to assess your needs in terms of carrying a successful pregnancy and prepare you for not only the birth process but the physically demanding role of being a mother.
Sports Medicine Australia has recently published a position statement based on current literature about exercise benefits and risks during pregnancy.
THIS IS SUMMARISED BELOW:
There are numerous benefits to pregnant woman to remain active during pregnancy. These include improved weight control and maintenance of fitness. There may also be benefits in terms of reduced risk of development of gestational diabetes mellitus and improved psychological functioning.
Moderate intensity aerobic exercise has been shown to be safe in pregnancy. A number of studies now indicate that for trained athletes it may be possible to exercise at a higher level than is currently recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
Studies of resistance training, incorporating moderate weights and avoiding maximal isometric contractions, have shown no adverse outcomes. There may be benefits of increased strength and flexibility.
The risk of neural tube defects due to exercise -induced hyperthermia that is suggested by animal studies is less likely in women, because of more effective mechanisms of heat dissipation in humans.
There is accumulating evidence to suggest that participation in moderate intensity exercise throughout pregnancy may enhance birth weight, while more severe or frequent exercise, maintained for longer into the pregnancy, may result in lighter babies.
There have been no reports of fetal injury or death in relation to trauma or contact during sporting activities. Despite this, a risk of severe blunt trauma is present in some sporting situations as pregnancy progresses.
Exercise and lactation are compatible in the post-partum period, providing adequate calories are consumed. Considerations of pelvic floor function and type of delivery are relevant in planning a return to certain types of exercise at this time.
If you have any questions about exercising during pregnancy, please book an appointment to see us.
Reference:
Sports Medicine Australia. (2017). SMA Pregnancy Statement [Press release].
