PREGNANCY: WHAT SHOULD I DO AND NOT DO?
Exercise. It makes sense to do some form of regular exercise, in order to be fit before, during and after pregnancy. If you didn’t exercise regularly before you became pregnant, you don’t suddenly have to become a triathlete, but it would be a good idea to incorporate some type of activity into your routine. If you have always exercised, then you can probably continue with that, depending on what it is.
Exercise is beneficial at any time of your life, but there are additional benefits during pregnancy, when exercise will help prepare your body for the extra stresses and strains of changing shape. Back pain and sore legs may be reduced by having your body in better condition. Having better cardiovascular (heart and lungs) fitness will help you now, and in labour, and may make the transfer of oxygen and nutrients to your foetus more efficient.
The uterus is fairly well hidden away, and unlikely to be damaged by most physical activities in early pregnancy. But once the uterus is bigger, say after you have reached fourteen weeks or so, it would make sense to perhaps avoid very vigorous contact sports. Swimming is an ideal pregnancy exercise, and can be done throughout pregnancy. Low-impact aerobics, power-walking and running are not too bad in earlier pregnancy, but may become a bit more uncomfortable as the pregnancy progresses. Regular walking should be done throughout pregnancy. Stretching exercises, such as those taught in yoga classes, could be very beneficial, and the breathing exercises you learn in some forms of yoga might be helpful too. Many gyms, swimming pools, physiotherapy clinics and yoga rooms hold special classes for prenatal exercises.
If you have had problems during the pregnancy, like bleeding, be guided by the advice of your doctor about your individual situation, as you might be wise to avoid vigorous exercise.
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