Exercise to Keep Newborn Size Normal

Regular exercise during pregnancy could help prevent having a baby that’s too big. If a baby weighs more than 8.8 pounds, there’s a risk to both mother and child. A couple of the problems may include C-sections, postpartum hemorrhage and increased risk of obesity later in life for the child.

Norwegian researchers found that regular exercise during second and third trimesters reduces the chances of having a too-big baby by 28% in Norwegian women.

Their findings are published in the October issue of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Researchers don’t know if the same results would hold true in American women since they are more ethnically diverse and have different average body-mass index levels. However, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services suggests that healthy pregnant women need at least 2 1/2 hours of aerobic exercise each week.

Researchers caution that as women in advanced pregnancy should avoid exercise that requires reclining flat on their backs, which can restrict blood flow to baby and mother. Contact sports and any exercise that carries a danger of falling (like horseback riding) should be avoided. The March of Dimes provides more guidance on exercise during pregnancy.

Have you spoken with your doctor about exercise during pregnancy?

(Image via flickr/rahego)