Antenatal Exercises

Mahboubeh ValianiAcademic Member of

IUMS

Frequent questions

What type of exercise?

objectives ?

Is it safe?

How it will affect the results of pregnancy?

GuidelinesContraindication

objectives

Ease or prevent minor discomfort of pregnancy Maintain a stable body position Prepare for labourPrepare for immediate Postnatal period

Cardiovascular and respiratory fitness

General body muscle tone and relieve tension

Result

Woman who exercise have:

Less intervention during pregnancy

Cardiovascular and respiratory fitness

General body muscle tone and relieve tension

Shorter Labor Speedy recovery

Guidelines

Exercise at least three times per weekAvoid exercise in supine position after first trimester & prolonged motionless standing

modify exercises according to maternal symptoms and fatigue levels Avoid exercises could cause loss of balance or falling (ballistic exercises)Have adequate dietHydration before during after exercise

Contraindication

Pregnancy induced hypertension

Preterm rupture of membranesPreterm labour during a prior or current pregnancy

Incompetent cervix /cerclage

Persistent or intermittent bleeding in the second or third trimester

Hip adductor stretching

Tailor’s Sitting Position

Modified Upper Limb & Lower Limb Exercise

Low back extensors stretching

Manual Back Stretch