Child Health A-Z

Exercise During Pregnancy

Picture of two mothers walking with jogging strollers

Exercise during pregnancy:

Regular exercise, with the approval of your physician, can often help to minimize the physical discomforts of pregnancy and help with the recovery after the baby is born. There is evidence that physical activity may be especially beneficial for women with gestational diabetes. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), women who exercised and were physically fit before pregnancy can safely continue exercising throughout the pregnancy. Women who were inactive before pregnancy or who have medical or pregnancy complications should consult with their physician before beginning any exercise during pregnancy.

All women should be evaluated by their physician before beginning or continuing an exercise program in pregnancy.

Exercise may not be safe if the pregnant woman has any of the following conditions:

preterm labor in current or past pregnancies
vaginal bleeding
cervical problems
leaking of amniotic fluid
shortness of breath
dizziness and/or fainting
decreased fetal activity or other complications
increased heart rate (tachycardia)
certain health problems such as high blood pressure or heart disease

Types of exercise to avoid during pregnancy:

horseback riding
waterskiing
scuba diving
high altitude skiing
contact sports
any exercise that can cause a serious fall
exercising on your back after the first trimester (because of reduced blood flow to the uterus)
vigorous exercise in hot, humid weather, as pregnant women are less efficient at exchanging heat
exercise involving the Valsalva maneuver (holding one's breath during exertion), which can cause an increased intra-abdominal pressure

Last Update
February 3, 2008

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