What to Expect When You Are Expanding: Anatomical Considerations and Exercise Guidelines in the Peripartum Period-What to Expect When You Are Expanding: Anatomical Considerations and Exercise Guidelines in the Peripartum Period

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, Dr. Sarah Wong discusses exercise recommendations in pregnancy. The goal of exercise during pregnancy is to pursue moderate intensity exercise for at least 20-30 minutes per day on most days of the week. Exercise is safe during pregnancy and does not result in negative outcomes such as miscarriage, poor fetal growth, musculoskeletal injury, or premature delivery. In fact, exercise during pregnancy has many benefits including a lower incidence of cesarean birth, excessive gestational weight gain, gestational diabetes, and gestational hypertensive disorders. It also improves postpartum recovery time and reduces the risk of depressive disorders. Various types of exercises including walking, stationary cycling, aerobics, resistance exercises, and stretching exercises have been found to be safe during pregnancy. However, there are certain contraindications to exercise during pregnancy such as incompetent cervix, multiple gestational pregnancy at risk for premature labor, persistent second or third trimester bleeding, and certain medical conditions like preeclampsia. There are also certain exercises to avoid such as contact activities with a high risk of abdominal trauma and activities with a high risk of falling. It is important to be aware of warning signs to discontinue exercise during pregnancy such as vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, contractions, amniotic fluid leakage, dizziness, and chest pain. Exercise prescription in pregnancy is similar to that of the general population, but it is important to consider the individual's fitness level and gradually progress their exercise routine. It is also important to address barriers to exercise during pregnancy such as limited access to exercise facilities and resources, lack of guidance from healthcare workers, physical limitations, fatigue, and time constraints. Finally, targeted exercises such as core strengthening, glute strengthening, and open glottis pushing can be beneficial during pregnancy. In summary, exercise is safe and beneficial during pregnancy, and individuals should aim to engage in moderate intensity exercise for at least 20-30 minutes per day on most days of the week.

Keywords

exercise recommendations

pregnancy

moderate intensity exercise

exercise benefits

cesarean birth

gestational weight gain

gestational diabetes

gestational hypertensive disorders

contraindications to exercise

warning signs during exercise