Surprisingly, I get a lot of emails that go something like this:
“I’m a couple months pregnant, do you think I should do your exercise program? Or should I modify it a bit? I’d like your expert opinion–thanks!”
First off …
I’m NOT A Doctor, You Should Check With Yours First!
Because I’m not a doctor, I’m not giving medical advice, anything and everything I say is just my opinion and I’m not responsible for you or your actions.
What I’m trying to say is I’m not an “expert” like you think, especially to people who are just emailing me randomnly and asking me questions that would be hard for anyone to answer if they didn’t know the person personally.
So with the legal begals satisfied, here’s my opinion on and what I know about exercising during pregnancy …
Medical Conditions That Prevent Exercise during Pregnancy
Exercise is usually a healthy way to stay fit during pregnancy. For a healthy woman, exercise strengthens muscles for a shorter labor and easier delivery. But, sometimes, because of medical conditions you should avoid exercise of any kind while pregnant.
Here’s the general idea:
- Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, exercise is safe in moderation.
- If you begin to spot or cramp, see your doctor immediately. It could be nothing but it could also signal problems with the cervix or placenta. You’ll have to follow your doc’s recommendation from there …
- Your high blood pressure or asthma becomes a more critical situation when a baby is present. Any type of strenuous exercise can increase your blood pressure to an unsafe level for your baby.
- Asthma makes it hard to breathe under the best of circumstances and your lower level of oxygen affects the baby too. It is important to keep asthma under control as much as possible.
- Heart disease is another medical condition that prohibits intense exercise. Depending on your heart condition, bed rest may be advised.
Work It Out With Your Doctor
When pregnant, your doctor will take a detailed history. If you have had a history of miscarriages, exercise will be taken off the table. Any increase in physical activity could contribute to another miscarriage. Normally, doctors don’t like taking that chance.
Each month you go in to see your doctor for an exam, inform him of changes to your body. Listen to your doctor’s advice for your protection.
Things To Do If You Can’t Exercise
Even without exercise you can still maintain a healthy pregnancy and easy labor. Kegel exercises are encouraged for all women throughout their pregnancy. It is a strengthening move and not strenuous.
Of course, if you can’t exercise, then it’s more important than ever to eat right. Eating right will nourish your baby and promote healthy development. You can still avoid gaining too much weight with smart food choices.
Certain medical conditions prohibit exercise during pregnancy. Even if you exercised before pregnancy, follow the doctor’s orders for a healthy pregnancy.
