Exercise During Pregnancy May Help Baby

Pregnancy is a wonderful phase in a woman’s life wherein the expectant mother shifts all her focus towards the well being of her developing baby. At this time, along with a healthy dietary pattern and sufficient rest, a regular exercise schedule plays a vital role in ensuring that both mother and child are hale and hearty. Most women fear that exercise may cause harm to the unborn baby and often tend to lead a very cautious and restricted life. However, studies prove that exercise is essential for the better development of the baby. Besides, exercise also proves beneficial in relation to the pregnancy, delivery and post delivery phases for the mother as well.

Studies show that women who exercise during the course of pregnancy are believed to have normal weight babies rather than overweight babies. These babies are less likely to become obese as adults thus reducing the risks of cardiovascular and other disorders. Furthermore, this reduces the risk of conditions related to delivery like C-sections and postpartum bleeding. It was also noticed that the baby developing within the mother who exercised had better cardiovascular control during breathing movements. Fetal heart rate was significantly lower and during breathing movements, the baby’s heart rate variability was higher. This positive link between the baby’s breathing movements and developing autonomic nervous system indicated that exercise proved beneficial to the unborn baby.

Regular exercising during pregnancy assists in keeping the expectant mother fit and active in addition to giving her a feeling of control over the numerous physical changes taking place in her body. An exercise schedule also helps in improving blood circulation and enhances the expectant mother’s energy levels due to a natural increase in the endorphin levels in the body. In addition, exercising helps in lubricating the joints and strengthens the muscles thus reducing joint and back pains triggered by hormonal changes and the strain of the pregnancy. Hence, we see that exercising helps in improving the overall state of mind and composure of the expectant mother thus ensuring the well being of the developing baby.

These exercise routines need not be extensive and rigorous. A simple routine that includes a 20 minute walk or swim and breathing exercises is beneficial to both mother and child. However, consulting your gynecologist before undertaking any form of exercise is recommended as some women may be advised rest and caution as a result of certain complications in the pregnancy. Most others are able to carry out their normal daily routines without much restriction.