Exercise during pregnancy: a comparative review of guidelines

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Sports Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Exercise during pregnancy offers benefits when no contraindications exist.
• Current recommendations for prenatal physical activity vary across major obstetric organizations.
• A need exists for standardized guidance on exercise in pregnancy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare and summarize exercise recommendations for pregnant individuals.
• To identify variations in guidelines from key international colleges of obstetrics and gynecology.

Main Methods:

• A comparative descriptive review of guidelines was performed.
• Guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada, and Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists were analyzed.

Main Results:

• All reviewed guidelines recommend regular physical activity for pregnant women without contraindications.
• Guidance on exercise type should be individualized based on prior experience and current condition.
• Discrepancies were noted regarding appropriate/inappropriate exercises and criteria for exercise cessation.

Conclusions:

• Existing guidelines for exercise in pregnancy show variations.
• An international consensus on safe and appropriate exercise during pregnancy is needed.
• Standardized recommendations can enhance maternal safety and well-being.