The Benefits of Exercise in Pregnancy

Many pregnant women do not exercise. Exercise in pregnancy is correlated with a decrease in many common problems of pregnancy. In addition, establishing the habit of exercise in pregnancy may decrease the later life incidences of chronic hypertension and type 2 diabetes in women who are predisposed to these illnesses. Exercise during pregnancy is beneficial to fetuses as well. In most cases, there appears to be no harm to the fetus with moderate exercise. Although recommendations are currently accepted for pregnant women to engage in moderate exercise, many women may not receive this information from their health care providers. Prenatal care offers a unique opportunity to assist in the adoption of healthy behaviors.