Sport during pregnancy

Many expectant mothers refuse to exercise during pregnancy, fearing harm to the baby. This is because many misconceptions circulate about physical activity during this period.

For example, it is mistakenly believed that exercise can cause a miscarriage or negatively affect fetal development. In fact, moderate exercise, approved by a doctor, can improve blood circulation, reduce the risk of complications, and even facilitate the childbirth process. Therefore, it is important to approach physical activity with knowledge, relying on expert recommendations.

The benefits of exercise during pregnancy

Physical activity during pregnancy is allowed for healthy women who are carrying the baby without complications. However, there are conditions under which exercise is contraindicated, such as the threat of miscarriage, placenta previa, multiple pregnancies with a high risk of premature birth, severe pre-eclampsia, heart and vascular diseases, as well as chronic pathologies that require strict medical supervision. Before starting any training, do not forget to consult a gynecologist-obstetrician to rule out any potential risks.

The main benefits of exercise during pregnancy

• Improves emotional state;
• Promotes normal heart and vascular function;
• Maintains muscle tone;
• Reduces the risk of hypertension, diabetes, pre-eclampsia;
• Helps maintain an optimal body weight;
• Normalizes sleep.

Optimal time for physical activity

The best time to exercise is the end of the first trimester and the beginning of the second. During this period, the woman's body has already adapted to pregnancy, the risk of miscarriage is reduced, morning sickness is less pronounced, and hormonal balance is stabilized. Moreover, at this stage, the expectant mother does not yet feel strong physical discomfort related to the increase in weight and size of the abdomen, making exercise more comfortable and safer. At the beginning of the pregnancy, it is recommended to consult a doctor before starting any physical activity.

Allowed types of physical activities

• Light aerobic exercises;
• Walking outdoors;
• Nordic walking;
• Swimming;
• Yoga for pregnant women;
• Fitness with an instructor.

Important!

When exercising during pregnancy, it is necessary to monitor your well-being. Be attentive to symptoms such as

• Shortness of breath;
• Heart palpitations;
• Dizziness;
• Weakness;
• Pain in the lower abdomen or lower back;
• A significant decrease in the baby's activity.

If any of these signs occur, you must immediately stop exercising and consult a doctor.

Prohibited sports during pregnancy

Some types of physical activities pose a serious risk to the expectant mother and the baby. They can increase the risk of falls, injuries, excessive strain on the body, as well as lead to oxygen deprivation or sudden changes in pressure, which negatively affect fetal health.

Absolute prohibitions:

• Sports with a risk of injury, extreme sports, and contact sports;
• Sports with a high risk of falls, impacts, collisions (e.g., alpine skiing, horseback riding);
• Activities involving drops in pressure and lack of oxygen (diving, mountain training);
• Intense exercises at extreme temperatures (heat, cold, heavy rain).

Difference between natural conception sports and IVF sports

Exercise in natural conception

Women conceiving naturally can adhere to the usual recommendations for physical activity during pregnancy if there are no contraindications. It is important to consider individual characteristics of the body, monitor well-being, and not overload the body with excessive loads.

Exercise after IVF

A pregnancy resulting from in vitro fertilization (IVF) requires a special approach. In the early stages, doctors recommend minimizing physical activity, as it is important during this period to ensure the successful implantation of the embryo and its further development. After the first trimester, it is possible to gradually introduce light exercises agreed upon with the doctor. Optimal options include yoga for pregnant women, swimming, and walking.

Exercise during a IVF with donor eggs

Women who have undergone IVF with donor eggs often face additional risk factors related to hormone therapy and individual body characteristics. In this case, physical activity should be as gentle as possible to avoid unnecessarily straining the body. Before starting any training, it is necessary to consult a gynecologist-obstetrician.

Consultation with a specialist

To get an accurate answer to the question "Can I exercise during pregnancy?", make an appointment with a gynecologist-obstetrician at the "Natuvitro" clinic.