Benefits of exercise before (pre-) and during pregnancy

Exercising has numerous health benefits and is a sure way to minimize the risks associated with a range of health conditions. There is ample evidence from research to show that exercising before trying to conceive improves fertility in women by managing health conditions such as diabetes and PCOS. The benefits of exercise extend well into pregnancy as it is shown to reduce the risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, preterm birth and DVT. Simple pregnancy exercises at home are also associated with reduced length of labor and delivery complications.

Benefits of exercise before pregnancy

Obesity and associated morbidities are one of the greatest public health challenges. In women who are trying to conceive, obesity is a significant contributor to infertility as it reduces the chance of both spontaneous and assisted conception. Managing weight with a pre-pregnancy exercise plan is essential in preventing and treating infertility.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the leading cause of anovulatory infertility and affects up to 12-18% of women of reproductive age. The prevalence of obesity in women with PCOS ranges from 40-80%. Therefore one of the first lines of treatment for the condition is lifestyle changes, with exercise being one of the most important components.

Women who exercise before pregnancy are also more likely to continue into gestation, thereby reducing the risk associated with gestational diabetes and improving their psychological well being. Women who are struggling to conceive because of infertility are more prone to depression, anxiety, body image distress and regular exercise are known to improve all the psychological conditions.

Benefits of exercise during pregnancy

Exercise in pregnancy benefits are similar to pre-pregnancy benefits and extend all the way to childbirth and beyond. When done within the limits of what is considered safe, exercise provides some relief from the common discomforts associated with pregnancy.

Regular exercise is known to reduce the incidence of type 2 diabetes along with the risk of gestational diabetes in pregnant women. Multiple studies show that exercise during pregnancy significantly lowers glucose levels in the glucose tolerance tests done during the 24-28 week period in physically active women. While exercise may not prevent gestational diabetes, it could help to manage it. Additionally, exercise is a good way to modulate excess weight gain during pregnancy.

Regular exercise during pregnancy has positive benefits with regard to labour and delivery. It is thought that the improved tone of the abdominal muscles and the pelvic floor muscles because of exercise can shorten the duration of labour and reduce the risk of C-section delivery. Therefore it is advisable to take up pregnancy exercise for normal delivery by trained professionals who specialize in pregnant women.

Exercise is associated with fewer depression symptoms in individuals with clinical depression. Regular exercise is also known to reduce the symptoms of perinatal depression in women and improve their overall well being.

Conclusion

Physical activity before and during pregnancy is safe for women who have no contraindications. It is beneficial in reducing the risks associated with gestational diabetes, preeclampsia and perinatal depression. Pre-pregnancy exercise is also helpful with reducing infertility and improving chances of conception.

Additional information and references will be provided on request. Please write to us on communications@pharmed.in