Safe exercise during multiple pregnancies
You have been told
that you are expecting multiple pregnancies and that you will need to gain more
weight, consume more calories, and possibly expect more significant pregnancy
symptoms. So, how does multiple pregnancy affect your workouts? You must be
aware of what is best for you and your children.
Is the exercise safe?
The answer to this
question can be very confusing. The recommendation for a singleton pregnancy is
30 minutes or more of moderate exercise per day. Experts advise women with
twins to refrain from aerobic exercise due to the high risk of potential
problems.
It is best to discuss
your desire to remain physically active with your health care provider. If you
were physically active before you became pregnant, you will probably be advised
to stay active for as long as your healthcare provider thinks it is safe to do
so.
What exercises can I do?
Once you have
received permission from your healthcare provider, you can start exercising. If
you walked daily before pregnancy, chances are you will be able to continue doing
so during the first half of your pregnancy.
Weight-bearing
exercise is often recommended because it is better tolerated. Other exercises
considered safe include cycling, arm exercises, and swimming.
Many women find the
buoyancy in the pool soothing and enjoyable. Pregnancy yoga and Kegel exercises
are also recommended.
What exercises should be avoided?
You should refrain
from performing exercises that require lying on your back. Strength training
and weight training should also be avoided. You should also refrain from any
physical exercise if you have a fever or if it is hot and humid outside. Hot
baths and saunas should also be avoided.
What are the warning
signs that I need to stop exercising?
- You feel like are having contractions
- You feel pelvic pressure
- You experience vaginal bleeding or discharge
- You feel lightheaded
- You experience swelling, especially in your feet
- Make sure that you are communicating with your health care provider about your exercise routine throughout your pregnancy.
When should I reduce physical activity?
As long as you feel
healthy and have no complications, most women who have been exercising
regularly throughout their pregnancy can continue to do so for as long as they
feel comfortable.
Some health care
providers recommend that women reduce physical activity at 20 weeks (singleton
pregnancies are reduced to 28 weeks).
Obviously, if complications occur that require partial or complete bed rest, such a reduction will occur even earlier.
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