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Effects on the foetus of exercise in pregnancy
M K Riemann1, I L Kanstrup Hansen
1Department of Clinical Physiology, Herlev Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark.
Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports
|February 29, 2000
Summary
Moderate maternal exercise during pregnancy is safe and may lead to healthier fetal growth. While some fetal heart rate changes occur, no adverse effects on embryogenesis or fetal abnormalities have been observed in human studies.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Sports Medicine
- Fetal Development
Background:
- Maternal training during pregnancy is a growing area of research.
- Existing studies focus on the effects of exercise on fetal development and maternal health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey recent investigations on maternal training during pregnancy.
- To assess the safety and impact of exercise on embryogenesis, fetal heart rate, and fetal growth.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing scientific literature and investigations on maternal training.
- Analysis of studies examining fetal heart rate, growth, and potential abnormalities.
Main Results:
- No human studies show negative effects of maternal training on embryogenesis.
- Moderate maternal exercise is associated with significantly larger babies compared to non-trained or heavily trained women.
- Increased maternal temperature during exercise does not lead to fetal abnormalities.
Conclusions:
- Moderate physical training during pregnancy is generally safe.
- Recommendations for safe maternal exercise practices can be provided.
- Further research may explore optimal training regimens for maternal and fetal well-being.