Tribune News Network
Doha
The Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) has advised expectant mothers to perform physical activities, including exercise, as they are key to building a healthy lifestyle for pregnant women and benefit both the mother and the unborn baby.
"Pregnant woman should consult their health centre doctor during pregnancy checkups to discuss the types of exercise and physical activity to perform during pregnancy,” said Dr Hana Saleh, Child and Adolescent specialist at PHCC headquarters.
Dr Saleh noted that any exercise programme for previously inactive pregnant women should start with low-intensity exercises such as walking, cycling - they can choose an indoor cycling bike for their safety - swimming for three days a week, then, they may increase it to five sessions or more.
She said, "Physical activity makes your pregnancy more enjoyable as it provides tremendous health benefits when performed on regular basis. Keeping a consistent workout routine is key, and over time, it can help pregnant women prevent certain diseases and reduce the risk of weight gain, obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, osteoporosis, depression, etc.”
"The good news is that pregnant women can keep exercising throughout their pregnancy, as the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that women who engage in physical activity should continue to do so. Always listen to your body if you need to rest and stop exercising when you feel tired or exhausted,” added Dr Saleh.
Nevertheless, a pregnant woman’s exercise must be agreed on with a health care professional, as some pregnant women may need to avoid high-intensity exercise or even stop performing some types of exercises completely for their safety and that of their unborn babies.
Some cases must completely stop performing physical activities and immediately consult a specialist. These cases include shortness of breath, chest pain, painful uterine contractions, vaginal bleeding, continuous fluid leaking from the vagina, which indicates rupture of the membranes, dizziness or persistent fatigue that does not go away with rest.
Dr Saleh advised that exercise and physical activity should not be during pregnancy only: it should rather be a lifestyle and a choice that depends heavily on consistency and regularity. "We always say: start today to become more active, "now” is always the best time to start.”
Physically active people enjoy many health benefits, and studies indicate that exercising with family or friends helps in performing physical activities on regular basis.
Dr Saleh advised pregnant women to drink enough water and to always carry a bottle of water to drink before, during and after exercise, as well as avoiding extremely hot and humid places.
"As the muscles and joints become loose during pregnancy, control your movements; avoid sudden movements and rapid changes in your direction. Extended warm-up and cool-down routine can reduce your risk of injury. Keep taking a deep breath and rest from time to time, and you will notice with time that you can control the situation. If you experience unusual symptoms, stop exercising and consult your doctor,” advised Dr Saleh.