How Safe is It for Pregnant Women to Partake in Physical Activity

How Safe is It for Pregnant Women to Partake in Physical Activity?

There are many questions around the topic of how safe exercise is during pregnancy, particularly among women who are undergoing various fertility treatments like IVF. There are so many changes that happen to the body during pregnancy that understanding how physical activity fits into this delicate phase is very important. We’ve put together this blog post to help people understand the science backed benefits, safety recommendations and things to think about for various lifestyles for people trying to get pregnant as well as women who are already pregnant.

Exercising During Pregnancy

Carrying out physical activity during pregnancy is highly beneficial for both the mother and the baby. Research shows that exercise can improve mood, energy levels and also reduce complications associated with pregnancy such as gestational diabetes. Its can even support smoother labour. According to a systematic review of 57 studies on physical activity during pregnancy, exercise positively influences the maternal health and poses minimal risks when done correctly.

Another study which was published on ScienceDirect, shows how staying active during pregnancy benefits foetal health, contributing to better developmental outcomes for the baby.

This brings us onto the next point which talks about intensity and exercise guidelines.

Safety Guidelines for Physical Activity While Pregnant

For the majority of women, moderate exercise is safe and actually recommended. This includes actives like walking, swimming and some types of specialised yoga, such as prenatal yoga, which are all excellent low impact options. However, women should take not of a few important points.

Do not involve yourself in any high-risk activities like contact sports or anything where there is a risk of falling.
Stay hydrated and avoid getting too hot (overheating). This is especially important in the first trimester.
Before starting or continuing any exercise plan, make sure you consult a healthcare provider.

The same review we mentioned earlier emphasis that tailored exercise recommendations allow women to reap the maximum benefits without jeopardizing the safety of themselves or the child.

I would also like to note that exercise intensity should be adapted to a women’s previous fitness level prior to pregnancy, along with elements like a women’s medical history and characteristics or the ongoing pregnancy.

Highly Active Women

For women in the upper echelon of fitness like athletes and women whose lifestyles already include high-intensity exercise, adjusting routines during fertility treatments or pregnancy can be challenging. There is research available that has noted that excessive amounts of exercise, for example, marathon training or vigorous gym sessions can negatively impact fertility. A study on lifestyle behaviours and IVF success shows that overly vigorous exercise can reduce the chances of conception. Transitioning to moderate-intensity activities like brisk walking or lighter resistance training would be advisable for these women.

After women in this category become pregnant, maintaining a balanced routine which avoids prolonger strenuous efforts while at the gym or training while still offering enough movement to support their health is advisable.

Get Moving If You’re Less active

Now, for women who are on the other end of the spectrum and classify as living a more sedentary lifestyle, the good news is, its never too late to start. A simple activity like walking for 20-30 minutes a day or joining a prenatal yoga class can provide many benefits.

Going to a prenatal class or getting guidance from a pre or post-natal trainer can help build your confidence. Studies such as this one on physical activity during pregnancy show the notable health improvements, even when a women starts exercising only after becoming pregnant.

Exercise and IVF Success Rates

If you are currently undergoing IVF treatments of some kind, there is compelling evidence that exercise before starting a cycle can really improve your outcomes. A meta-analysis carried out shows that women who were physically active before IVF experienced a higher clinically pregnancy and live birth rates compared women who were more sedentary. Importantly more moderate exercise did not negatively affect outcomes during the IVF process itself. Another study here published in ScienceDirect founds that some forms of exercise can even improve reproductive success.

If are you pregnant or trying to become pregnant, whether it be naturally or by undergoing IVF treatment, exercise can improve your confidence and provide many physical benefits as well as emotional benefits during this potentially stressful time.

Support

If you are struggling with fertility, our team is here to help you. At DEEP & HARMONICARE IVF, we offer the personalised care you need to support and guide you every step of the way. If you would like to discuss your option with out, don’t hesitate to reach out to us here.