PREGNANCY AND EXERCISE

Exercise during pregnancy can improve some of the common discomforts of pregnancy such as constipation, hemorrhoids, leg cramps and swelling. It may also prevent or reduce the back pain you experience during your pregnancy. Exercise during pregnancy call also give you more energy, help you rest better and increase your over all mood. Two good reasons to xercise during your pregnancy is that it can help make your child birth easier, and it makes it easier to lose the extra weight after the pregnancy. It is always important to consult with your doctor before beginning any exercise program during your pregnancy and it is important to find out what exercises are best for you. Exercise is important but there are some warning signs that can be used to help you exercise safely. Talk to your doctor today and get started with a good exercise program that will be good for both you and your baby.

Here is a list of some recommended exercises:

• Swimming
• Yoga
• Bicycling
• Jogging
• Kegal

Here are some warning signs related to exercise during pregnancy:

• Vaginal bleeding
• Unusual pain
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Unusual shortness of breath
• Racing heartbeat or chest pain
• Fluid leaking from your vagina
• Uterine contractions
• Muscle cramps

Stop if you feel tired, too hot, cramped, light headed, or dizzy.

Compiled using information from the following sources:
Clapp, Dr. James F. III, MD. Exercising Through Your Pregnancy. Addicus Books: Omaha, Nebraska,
2002.
Mikeska, Erinn, CPT, and Dr. Christine Quatro, Delivering Fitness. Brown Books Publishing Group:
Dallas, TX, 2004.