The latest research on exercising while pregnant

We found a study that was done in late 2009 monitoring the effects of treadmill walking on fetal heart rate and uterine contractions.  Some of you baby momma’s will be happy to hear the news, and some of you may not.   The result?  There was no evidence of uterine contractions while exercising.  The fetal heart monitor demonstrated a significant reduction in fetal heart rate and fetal movements, HOWEVER, the variation of rates (short time periods and high variations)  increased, demonstrating the overall maintenance of fetal well-being during exercise.  Exercise is considered safe for pregnancies that are not high risk.  If you are unsure, please ask your health care provider before beginning any exercise routine.

What is keeping you from exercising while pregnant?

A study was done on this too.  It seems to be that your own perception of exercise and physical wellness are the two factors that come in to play when you decide to hit the gym or hit the couch.  According to the report, the most common exercise belief while pregnant is that exercise improves mood.  The biggest obstacle to exercise was feeling sick (nauseated).  The most common exercise belief after having the baby was that exercise controls the weight gain.  The biggest obstacle to exercise after having the baby? Lack of time.  What can change all of this?  Support from spouse/partner and other family members.  All of the women in the study reported that they exercised more before getting pregnant than while pregnant or after having the baby.

If exercise is important to you, make sure that your partner/spouse and family know this.  Make a plan of when and how long you would like to exercise and stick to it.  You are worth it!!

References

“Effects of physical exercise on the fetal heart rate and uterine activity,” A. Melo, M. Amorin, J. Silva, P. Assuncao, F. Melo, L. Katz, A. Souza, A. Costa. International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology, 107s2 (2009) s93-s396.

“Women’s exercise beliefs and their behaviors during their pregnancy and postpartum,” D. Downs, H. Hausenblas. Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health, Vol.49, Issue 2, Pages 138-144 (March 2004).