nearby to help if you lose your balance.
Why Exercise Helps
The first benefit of exercising while pregnant is maintaining a healthy weight. Being overweight can have a significant effect on a pregnancy. This risk is present whether or not you were overweight before the pregnancy or gained a lot of weight while pregnant. People who are overweight are more likely to develop gestational diabetes and high blood pressure and may experience preterm birth. Additionally, if you’re overweight while pregnant, you have a greater risk of developing preeclampsia – a serious condition that puts you and your baby at risk.
Studies also show that exercise can help ease joint pain, strengthen your heart, and increase the efficiency of your digestive system. You may also have an easier vaginal delivery and recover more quickly after giving birth.
Activities To Avoid
It’s a good idea to avoid activities that involve jerking movements, being flat on your back, doing abdominal crunches, and being in a high-heat environment. Contact sports are also off the table. If you’re trying an activity for the first time, doctors recommend asking about pregnancy modifications so you don’t hurt yourself.
Why Black Americans Should Pay Attention
Research shows that Black Americans are more likely to be diagnosed as obese than other ethnicities. This fact has made them more prone to prediabetes, diabetes, and gestational diabetes. Studies also show that though preeclampsia only affects five to eight percent of pregnancies, Black people have a 60 percent higher chance of developing the condition. Additionally, their symptoms tend to be more severe. The best thing you can do is keep active and talk to your doctor about what exercise regimen is best for you.
Exercise is an integral part of a healthy pregnancy. While you shouldn’t over-exert yourself, your doctor can help you with designing the best routine for you. Since it’s healthy to get some fresh air, it’s good to have a mixture of indoor and outdoor activities.