How much Exercise should I be doing during Pregnancy?

The amount of exercise depends upon your individual circumstances. You will need to discuss this with your midwife or doctor. However, in most cases women can exercise for around 30 minutes, three times a week.

It is best not to over-do any form of exercise and to take regular breaks for water and rest, in order to ensure you do not become overheated. Regular exercise during pregnancy has many benefits both physically and mentally and it is worthwhile investigating which exercise is best for you.

Signs to watch out for when exercising during Pregnancy

If you experience any of the following signs when exercising during pregnancy then you should stop immediately and take rest, or in severe cases consult your doctor or midwife.

Faintness

If you feel faint or you think you are going to collapse you may be over exhausted due to exercising. You will need to take immediate rest. Feeling faint can be a result of low blood sugar and it is therefore advised that you get your blood pressure checked at the doctors.

Dizziness

Some women may experience dizziness while exercising. If you do feel dizzy then you should sit down and rest. Dizziness may be caused due to pregnancy hormones but if you feel that it is severe and you cannot move then you should call the doctor.

Bleeding or Fluid Leaking

If you notice any bleeding or fluid leaking while exercising then you should stop immediately and call the hospital to further investigate the reason for bleeding. Any bleeding or fluid leaking from the vagina should be reported straight away to your doctor or midwife.

Shortness of Breath

If you experience shortness of breath and are finding it increasingly difficult to breath this could pose a threat to the health of your unborn baby. It is best to call for an ambulance if you are suffering from severe shortness of breath.

Contractions

If you think you may be experiencing contractions after exercising then you should call up your doctor or midwife immediately. It could be Braxton Hicks contractions, or it may be something more serious which is why it is best to find out.

Headaches

Headaches are common in pregnancy; however, if your headache is severe you should consult your doctor or midwife as it may be a sign of problems related to your blood pressure or low iron levels.

Your doctor or midwife should be able to further advise you on warning signs when it comes to exercising. Moderate exercise 3 times a week should be fine during pregnancy and can have many benefits.

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• The Benefits of Exercise during Pregnancy
• What Types of Exercise should I do During Pregnancy?
• How much Exercise should I be doing during Pregnancy?
• Fitness Ball Exercise during Pregnancy
• Yoga for pregnant women