Exercise in pregnancy and the postpartum period

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Sports Medicine
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine

Background:

• Canadian guidelines were developed to advise obstetric care providers on the implications of exercise during pregnancy.
• This guideline was jointly sponsored by the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada and the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology.

Framework:

• A comprehensive MEDLINE search (1966-2002) identified English-language articles on aerobic and strength conditioning in pregnancy.
• Evidence was reviewed by the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) Clinical Practice Obstetrics Committee and the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology.
• Evaluation of evidence followed guidelines from the Canadian Task Force on the Periodic Health Exam.

Implementation:

• All pregnant women without contraindications should be encouraged to engage in regular aerobic and strength-conditioning exercises.
• Goals should focus on maintaining fitness, not achieving peak performance or athletic training.
• Women should select activities minimizing risks of falls and fetal trauma.

Implications:

• Exercising women are not at increased risk for adverse pregnancy or neonatal outcomes.
• Pelvic floor exercises postpartum may reduce future urinary incontinence.
• Moderate exercise during lactation does not negatively impact breast milk or infant growth.