Living Well With BCHC; Pregnancy and Exercise
Pregnancy is a great time to be active. There are numerous perks to getting off the couch during these nine months. Exercise can help reduce your risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy, increase your muscle strength to prepare you for labor, ease back pain and other discomforts, and even boost your energy!
Like the general individual, pregnant women should aim to incorporate 30-60 minutes of physical activity into each day. Walking and swimming are great low-moderate choices for cardiovascular activity. Basic strength training can also be beneficial. Expectant mothers should avoid contact sports, as well as activities that involve extensive jumping, running, or rapid changes of movement.
Beware of warning signs! Although exercise is safe and beneficial for nearly all pregnant women, stop exercising and consult your physician if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Sharp abdominal pain
- Vaginal bleeding or excessive discharge
- Sudden swelling in your face or extremities
- Notice a decrease or subsiding in fetal movement
- Feel dizzy or light-headed
Pregnancies vary among women. In fact, your own pregnancies may vary from one child to the next. Always consult with your physician before beginning any exercise program, and inform him/her of any abnormal symptoms you may be experiencing.
Buchanan County Health Center
319 – 332 – 0850
www.bchealth.org