Hi Reader!

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I hope this message finds you well. As birth professionals, we know how crucial it is for expecting mothers to maintain their physical and emotional well-being. Today, I want to emphasize the importance of being physically active during pregnancy and how it can benefit both moms and their babies.

Why Physical Activity Matters During Pregnancy:

Improved Physical Health:

1. Boosts Energy Levels: Regular exercise can help reduce fatigue and increase overall energy, which is especially beneficial during the later stages of pregnancy.
2. Reduces Pregnancy Discomfort: Activities like walking and prenatal yoga can alleviate common pregnancy-related aches and pains, such as back pain and swelling.
3. Supports Healthy Weight Gain: Staying active helps manage weight gain, reducing the risk of gestational diabetes and other pregnancy complications.

How Physical Activity Benefits Delivery:

Easier Labor:

1. Strengthened Muscles: Exercise strengthens the muscles used during labor, making the process more efficient.
2. Better Endurance: Regular physical activity increases stamina, which is essential during the often lengthy labor process.
3. Improved Flexibility: Stretching and mobility exercises can enhance flexibility, aiding in different birthing positions and potentially easing delivery.

Benefits for the Baby:

Enhanced Development:

1. Healthy Birth Weight: Active moms are more likely to have babies with a healthy birth weight, reducing the risk of complications.
2. Improved Brain Development: Physical activity increases blood flow, which can contribute to better fetal brain development.
3. Reduced Risk of Chronic Conditions: Babies born to active moms may have a lower risk of developing chronic conditions such as obesity and diabetes later in life.

Getting Started with Low-Level Physical Activity:

1. Daily Walks: Encourage moms to take a 20-30 minute walk each day. It’s a simple way to stay active and enjoy fresh air.
2. Prenatal Yoga: Gentle yoga is great for improving flexibility and relaxation. There are many online resources available for beginners.
3. Pelvic Floor Exercises: Kegel exercises can be done anytime and help strengthen the pelvic floor, which is crucial during pregnancy and postpartum recovery.

For those interested in more detailed guidelines, I recommend reviewing the Canadian PARmed-X for Pregnancy, which provides a comprehensive overview of safe exercise practices during pregnancy. Your client can fill it out or you can briefly read over it so that you have some red-flags to look out for. You can access it here.

Let's continue to support our clients in staying active and healthy throughout their pregnancies. If you have any questions or need additional resources, feel free to reach out.

Your pelvic floor specialist,

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