Obstetrics and gynaecology specialist Dr.\u00a0Natasya Prameswari, Sp.OG,\nhas outlined the recommended timing and benefits of exercising for\npregnant women.<\/p>\n
\"Pregnant women may exercise provided there are no complications\nidentified from a prior obgyn examination,\" said Dr.\u00a0Natasya, who\npractises at the University of Indonesia Hospital (RSUI), during an\ninterview in Depok, West Java, on Monday.<\/p>\n
Dr.\u00a0Natasya noted that there is no specific gestational age that\nstrictly determines when a pregnant woman can begin exercising. However,\nthe second trimester is generally regarded as a more suitable time\ncompared to the first trimester.<\/p>\n
\"Pregnant women are also permitted to engage in more intense exercise\nin the third trimester. Activities already performed previously, such as\nwalking more frequently, can indirectly help facilitate the birth canal.\nBut the idea that squatting to mop floors is beneficial is actually a\nmyth,\" she added.<\/p>\n
According to Natasya, pregnant women should ideally continue with\nexercises they were accustomed to before pregnancy. She gave the example\nthat if a pregnant woman previously did strength training with\nprofessional guidance, that activity is still permissible.<\/p>\n
\"Running is allowed if she frequently ran before pregnancy. Running\nshould also be gradual; we need to observe the body\u2019s adaptation to an\nincreased heart rate and body heat,\" she added.<\/p>\n
Natasya said pregnant women are advised to exercise for at least 150\nminutes per week. The effects of exercise are beneficial for pregnant\nwomen, with research suggesting it can lower blood pressure, reduce the\nrisk of preeclampsia and gestational diabetes, and prevent excessive\nweight gain.<\/p>\n
\"Some studies also show that pregnant women who are more active and\nexercise regularly find it easier to have a normal delivery,\" she\nstated.<\/p>\n
Furthermore, Natasya stressed the importance of maintaining a balance\nbetween nutritional intake and physical activity during pregnancy.\nPregnant women must pay attention to nutrition, increasing protein\nintake without simply doubling calorie consumption. Therefore,\nnutritional intake must be tailored to the body\u2019s needs during\npregnancy.<\/p>\n
\"Often, pregnant women increase calories with only carbohydrates and\nfats, while protein and micronutrients are overlooked,\" she said.<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/timing-and-benefits-of-exercise-for-pregnant-women-1781538871", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }