Reasons to Try Exercising During Your Pregnancy
Posted on: 28 February 2022
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Whether you're a fitness guru or you're considering exercise for the first time in a long time, you shouldn't let pregnancy hold you back. If you're relatively new to exercise or you've gone without it for a while, make sure you consult your obstetrician first. Similarly, if you want to try something new, you should check that your obstetrician feels it's safe. Otherwise, here are some reasons to try staying fit during your pregnancy.
Less Constipation
During your pregnancy, you'll start releasing more of the hormone progesterone. Progesterone relaxes your muscles, including the ones that keep your intestines moving. One way to give your intestines a helping hand is by exercising. Even going for a quick daily walk will make a positive contribution towards reducing your constipation.
Less Back Ache
Your back muscles find themselves rapidly supporting extra weight while you're pregnant. By engaging in some forms of exercise, you can keep them strong and reduce your backache. Try prioritising exercise that strengthens your core, your back, and your pelvic floor. Your obstetrician may be able to recommend yoga or pilates classes that are specifically for pregnant women.
Battle Pregnancy Insomnia
Pregnancy can result in insomnia for a range of reasons. From aches and pains through to thinking about the changes that are ahead, it can make it difficult for you to sleep. Exercising can lower some of the stress hormones that may be stopping you from sleeping. It also burns off excess energy, which then increases your chance of falling asleep each night.
Reduce Gestational Diabetes Risk
There's a chance that exercising during pregnancy may also reduce your risk of gestational diabetes. Staying active is an effective way to keep your blood sugar levels within check. As gestational diabetes makes your pregnancy high risk and increases your chances of your baby being too large for a natural birth, it's good to do what you can to combat it.
Beat the Blues
It's natural to feel a degree of apprehension when you're pregnant. When your worries start to grow, you're at risk of developing prenatal depression. Exercising is a quick way to release happy hormones such as serotonin. While it won't guarantee that you'll beat the baby blues altogether, it can go a long way towards balancing your mood.
If you're struggling to find a form of exercise that suits you, speak to your obstetrician. Activities such as swimming and gentle walks can work well for most women. Make sure you avoid any contact sports or dynamic movements that you haven't adjusted to before your pregnancy.