Exercises during pregnancy help in building stamina which is required during a strenuous labor and reduces the risk of C-section. Beside this exercises provide a number of health benefits to a pregnant woman. Know more in this HerHaleness article.
Exercises could be a key to healthy pregnancy and labor. Most women have this wrong notion that physical exercises or any strenuous activity may pose a risk to the baby. However, it has been proved that if you perform moderate exercises throughout your pregnancy, it can be beneficial to you as well as your baby. The most important part is discussing your fitness plans with your doctor and getting a green signal from him. Most healthy women can continue with their fitness regimen until the end of their gestation period. The benefits of exercises performed during pregnancy are countless for mother and baby.
Health Benefits of Exercises During Pregnancy
During pregnancy a woman’s body undergoes a range of changes. She also faces a lot of physical discomforts throughout her pregnancy. Weight gain, water retention, shift of gravity, bad posture are some of the side effects of being pregnant. Exercising while pregnant can provide relief from these physical discomforts. Given below are some of the benefits of exercises for baby and mommy.
Healthy Weight
Regular exercises can help you maintain a healthy weight throughout your pregnancy. In case, you are worrying about piling pounds during your pregnancy, exercising could be a great way to get rid of them. This will also help you regain your pre-pregnancy figure quickly after delivery.
Improved Posture
As you progress into your pregnancy, your body shape changes drastically. The center of gravity also shifts due to the protruding belly. As a result, your shoulders fall back and your lower back leans forward to support your growing belly. This puts a lot of strain on your spine and disturbs your posture. By performing exercises that typically target the muscles of back and spine, you can minimize lower back pain, which is rampant during late pregnancy.
Improved Digestive Function
Constipation is a common problem during pregnancy. Pregnancy hormones slow down the digestive process so as to ensure better assimilation of nutrients. Exercising can trigger the digestive function by stimulating the muscles of intestine, thereby relieving constipation and heartburn.
Improved Blood Circulation
Exercises ensure that there is proper blood circulation inside your body. This is required to ensure that nutrients reach the fetus. Exercises also get rid of water retention in the body. Thus, you can be relieved of swollen legs.
Stress Relief
Gestational period is often full of stress and anxiety. Exercises release chemicals that help to relieve stress and make you happy. A happy mother is what makes childbirth a memorable and pleasant experience.
High Endurance
Exercises help to build endurance which is required during a long, strenuous labor. Gradually building your stamina and tolerance levels helps you to cope with the ordeal of labor.
Increased Chances of Natural Delivery
Exercising throughout your pregnancy has shown a reduction in the risk of C-section. A vaginal delivery allows you to recuperate quickly after childbirth.
Beneficial Exercises During Pregnancy
As mentioned above you must first consult your doctor if it is okay to continue exercises while you are pregnant. Mild to moderately strenuous exercises are generally considered safe for women. Exercises which target the pelvic muscles and muscles of lower body can provide lot of comfort to women. Pregnant women should keep away from intense workout or vigorous exercises. Aerobics, kegel exercises, pilates, yoga, swimming are safe exercises during pregnancy. If you are not sure regarding the safety of exercises, simply follow a walking routine for half an hour everyday. Walking provides all the benefits of exercising without straining you too much.
Although, there are numerous benefits of performing exercises in pregnancy, one should never go overboard with them. Also women suffering from any medical illness such as cardiovascular, respiratory, hyperthyroidism, etc., should stay away from exercises. If you experience any discomfort or notice any unusual symptom while exercising, please see your doctor immediately.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only. Always consult a physician before starting any physical fitness program in order to reduce the risk of injury.
