Mary was physically active before becoming pregnant, and she has continued doing regular exercise during her pregnancy based on her doctor’s recommendations and guidelines. Mary’s mother does not approve and says women need “to relax and put their feet up” when pregnant like she did and to avoid physical activity like exercise. What can Mary tell her mother about why her doctor encourages

Question

her to exercise during pregnancy and possible health benefits?

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

An active, physically fit woman experiencing a normal pregnancy can continue to exercise throughout pregnancy, adjusting the duration, intensity, and type of activity as the pregnancy progresses. In fact, physical activity during pregnancy offers many benefits. Staying active can improve cardiovascular fitness, limit excessive weight gain, prevent or manage gestational diabetes and hypertension, and reduce stress. Women who exercise during pregnancy report fewer discomforts throughout their pregnancies. Regular exercise develops the strength and endurance a woman needs to carry the extra weight through pregnancy and to labor through an intense delivery. It also maintains the habits that help a woman lose excess weight and get back into shape after birth.
Inactive women and those experiences pregnancy complications should discuss physical activity with their health-care provider. With approval, inactive women can safely begin walking three to four times per week, gradually increasing from 25 to 40 minutes per session.