1st 3 months

2nd 3 months  

3rd 3 months  

Pregnancy Health Care  

  Nutrition

Exercise  

Rest & Relaxation  

Sex During Pregnancy  

Exercise for Health

Being pregnant does not mean giving up all the physical activities you enjoyed before you conceived. In contrast, studies show that moderate exercise 3-4 times a week while you are pregnant:

  • Increases circulation
  • Increases energy levels
  • Eases leg cramps and backaches
  • Helps relieve constipation
  • Helps prepare your body for labor and birth
  • Helps you get your figure back sooner after delivery

Low-impact exercises like walking and no-impact exercises like swimming are best during pregnancy. Any exercises that involve bouncing or carrying weight can be harmful to you and your baby. Also refrain from engaging in any activity in which you could fall or suffer an impact, such as water or snow skiing, ice skating, diving, horseback riding, or rock climbing.

If you are not normally active, consult with your healthcare provider before beginning an exercise program. All pregnant women, whether or not they exercised before their pregnancies, should avoid strenuous workouts or activities that put them in danger of falling or being hit. Below are some additional exercise guidelines:

  • Always warm up before you exercise and cool down at the end of your workout.
  • If you get tired, begin to feel dizzy, or get too hot, stop exercising. Don't exercise if you are sick or have a fever.
  • Check your pulse frequently- if it gets above 140 beats a minute, quit exercising.
  • Stop exercising immediately if you experience any pain.
  • Drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after your workout.