Exercise in pregnancy

Exercise has become an integral part of the life styles of many women. However, many women stop exercising during pregnancy because of concerns regarding the well-being of the fetus. Although pregnancy is associated with several physiologic changes and response to exercise is different in the pregnant state than in the nonpregnant state, exercise can be beneficial to the pregnant woman in the absence of obstetric or medical complications. There are certain contraindications to exercise during pregnancy, including pregnancy-induced hypertension, preterm rupture of membranes, preterm labor, incompetent cervix, intrauterine growth retardation, and persistent second- or third-trimester bleeding. In addition, certain guidelines should be followed in order to prevent harmful effects on the fetus. This article reviews the maternal and fetal responses to exercise, benefits and potential risks of exercise during pregnancy, and recent guidelines for exercise during pregnancy. It is important to note, however, that objective data regarding exercise during pregnancy is limited and that further research is warranted regarding this topic.