Benefits of Exercise During Pregnancy

Have you every been told that it is unsafe to exercise while pregnant?? Unfortunately, exercising while pregnant gets a really bad reputation in our society.

Why is that?? Well, historically women have been told that exercise in pregnancy was unsafe and could increase the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, low birth weight or birth defects, etc. We now know this is not the case!

With the advancement of research in this area, we now understand the multitude of benefits to both starting physical activity for the first time as well as continuing exercise during pregnancy.
⠀
Pregnancy is NOT a disability… but we can kind of think of it like an INJURY of sorts. There will be certain modifications and considerations as pregnancy progresses toward delivery, but remaining active is possible and encouraged!

Here are some of the amazing benefits of exercise during pregnancy:⠀
⠀
✨Decreased risk of pre-eclampsia⠀

✨Decreased total weight gain during pregnancy⠀

✨Decreased risk of gestational hypertension and diabetes⠀

✨Decreased symptoms of depression and improved mental health⠀

✨Decreased risk of urinary incontinence ⠀

✨Decreased risk of having a c-section or delivery with instrumentation⠀

Is this amazing or what?!! Who knew something as simple as physical activity could play such a vital role in ensuring a healthy and happy pregnancy and postpartum experience.

It is extremely important to listen to your physician and work 1:1 with a trained professional such as a pelvic floor physical therapist or a physical therapist skilled in assisting pregnant women.

1:1 care will allow you to get individualized advice, treatment, programming and modifications that work for YOU! There is no cookie cutter approach to maintaining fitness during pregnancy, and each woman has a unique experience that needs to be considered.
⠀
If you or anyone you know is pregnant or trying to conceive, please reach out to me so I can help you prepare for this major life event! You can see just how important it is to be physically active during pregnancy, if able, and I am here to help you along the way. ⠀
⠀
I understand that remaining physically active is just not possible or even safe for some women. Every woman is different, and it is important for you to listen to your body (and doctors) and do what is best for YOU ❤❤❤⠀

XOXO Dr. Robles

Owner @ Wildflower Physical Therapy & Wellness

(Recommendations from the 2019 Canadian guideline for physical activity throughout pregnancy)