by Barbara Anne Hessel MD | Jul 28, 2023 | Gynecology, Obstetrics, Pregnancy, Women's Health
Pregnancy is a time of immense physical and emotional change for women. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including exercising regularly, can have significant benefits for both the mother and the baby.
Studies have shown that exercising during pregnancy can reduce the risk of gestational diabetes, support healthy weight, and improve overall physical and mental well-being. However, it’s essential to follow safe guidelines and choose the right exercises according to your pregnancy stage.
In this guide to exercises during pregnancy, we will discuss the advantages of working out while pregnant, provide suggestions for safe and practical exercises, and highlight potential risks and precautions that must be considered. We’ll also touch upon how to modify your workouts based on your fitness levels and stage of pregnancy, ensuring a safe and comfortable exercise experience.
The Benefits of Exercising During Pregnancy
Exercising during pregnancy offers numerous benefits for both the expecting mother and the baby. Staying active can help:
1. Alleviate pregnancy discomforts: Physical activities can help reduce discomforts such as back pain, swelling, and constipation.
2. Improve mood and energy levels: Regular exercise boosts endorphins, which can improve mood and increase energy levels.
3. Promote weight management: Staying active helps control weight gain throughout pregnancy, reducing the risk of complications.
4. Strengthen muscles: Exercise can increase muscle strength, endurance, and flexibility, which can be beneficial during labor.
5. Improve sleep: Physical activity can help pregnant women fall asleep faster and enjoy a better quality of sleep.
6. Reduce the risk of complications: Regular exercise may lower the risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and premature birth.
Safe Exercises to Perform During Pregnancy
Here are some safe and effective workouts that can be performed during pregnancy:
1. Walking: It’s one of the best cardiovascular exercises for pregnant women, providing an excellent workout without putting too much stress on the joints.
2. Swimming: This low-impact exercise helps pregnant women build strength and improve cardiovascular fitness while reducing the strain on the joints.
3. Prenatal yoga: Yoga promotes flexibility, strength, and balance, as well as improving mental relaxation and focus.
4. Pelvic floor exercises: Kegel exercises help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which are essential for a smooth delivery and postpartum recovery.
5. Gentle stretches: Stretching can help maintain flexibility and prevent muscle strain, promoting overall comfort during pregnancy.
Precautions and Safety Measures When Exercising During Pregnancy
While exercising during pregnancy is beneficial, it’s crucial to follow specific safety measures to avoid unnecessary risks:
1. Consult your doctor: Before starting any exercise regimen, consult with your healthcare provider to ensure it is safe for you and your baby.
2. Avoid high-impact exercises: High-impact workouts, like jogging and jumping, can be too strenuous during pregnancy. Stick to low-impact exercises that are gentler on the body.
3. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercising to stay hydrated and prevent overheating.
4. Monitor your heart rate: Keep your heart rate in check during physical activities, aiming for a moderate intensity level where you can still carry on a conversation.
5. Listen to your body: Pay attention to your body’s signals and stop exercising if you feel any pain, discomfort, or unusual symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath, or contractions.
Adapting Your Workout Routine for Each Trimester
As your pregnancy progresses, you may need to modify your exercise routine to accommodate the changes in your body. Here are some suggestions for adapting workouts during each trimester:
First Trimester
During the first trimester, you can generally continue with your pre-pregnancy exercise routine if approved by your doctor. However, you may need to make some modifications:
1. Opt for low-impact exercises if you feel discomfort or fatigue.
2. Focus on maintaining a consistent routine rather than increasing intensity.
3. Take breaks and rest when needed, prioritizing self-care during this period of significant change.
4. Avoid saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs.
Second Trimester
As your belly grows during the second trimester, it’s essential to modify your workouts accordingly:
1. Avoid exercises that involve lying flat on your back, as it can cause decreased blood flow to the baby.
2. Focus on strengthening your core and pelvic floor muscles to support your growing baby.
3. Incorporate balance exercises as your center of gravity shifts,but avoid any exercises that might cause you to lose your balance and fall.
Third Trimester
In the final trimester, focus on staying active and maintaining your fitness levels while prioritizing comfort:
1. Reduce the intensity of your workouts, opting for shorter and more gentle sessions.
2. Choose exercises that help prepare your body for delivery, such as pelvic tilts and prenatal yoga.
3. Avoid exercises that may cause strain on your abdomen or increase the risk of injury.
Conclusion
Exercise during pregnancy is a vital aspect of maintaining a healthy lifestyle for both mother and baby. With appropriate guidance and understanding of the benefits and safety measures, pregnant women can enjoy an active, fit, and healthy pregnancy journey. Remember to consult with a trusted healthcare provider before starting or modifying any exercise routine, and always listen to your body to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
If you need a maternity care consultation to learn about pregnancy nutrition and exercise, Barbara A. Hessel, MD. FACOG is ready to help you. She is a board-certified obstetrician/gynecologist working with patients in the Forest Hills, NY area for over 25 years. She is a member of the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists and a recipient of the Special Excellence in Endoscopic Procedures Award. Contact us today to book a consultation!
by Barbara Anne Hessel MD | Jul 2, 2023 | Gynecology, Obstetrics, Pregnancy, Women's Health
Pregnancy is an exciting time for expectant mothers, but it can also be a time of great uncertainty and anxiety. That’s where an obstetrician comes in. Obstetricians are medical professionals who specialize in the care of pregnant women and their unborn babies. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what obstetricians do, why they’re essential, and what you can expect if you’re under their care during pregnancy and childbirth.
What Is an Obstetrician?
An obstetrician is a medical doctor who specializes in the care of pregnant women and their unborn babies. Obstetricians are also trained to manage any complications that may arise during pregnancy, such as high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, or preterm labor. They work closely with other medical professionals, such as perinatologists, neonatologists, and midwives, to provide comprehensive care for their patients.
What Does an Obstetrician Do?
An obstetrician’s primary role is to monitor the health and development of the fetus and the health of the mother throughout pregnancy. This involves regular check-ups and ultrasounds to ensure that the baby is growing and developing properly. Obstetricians also monitor the mother’s health during pregnancy, checking for any signs of complications such as preeclampsia, preterm labor, or gestational diabetes.
Obstetricians are responsible for managing the labor and delivery process. They work closely with labor and delivery nurses to ensure that the mother and baby are safe and comfortable during labor. Obstetricians also perform cesarean sections (C-sections) when necessary and are trained to handle emergency situations such as fetal distress or umbilical cord prolapse.
After delivery, obstetricians continue to monitor the mother’s health and recovery, checking for any signs of complications such as postpartum hemorrhage or infection. They also provide guidance on breastfeeding and infant care and may refer the mother to other medical professionals if necessary.
Why Are Obstetricians Important?
Obstetricians play a critical role in ensuring the health and safety of both mother and baby during pregnancy and childbirth. They are trained to identify and manage any complications that may arise and are equipped to handle emergencies if they occur.
In addition to their medical expertise, obstetricians provide emotional support and guidance to expectant mothers throughout the pregnancy and delivery process. They can help alleviate anxiety and provide reassurance during what can be a stressful and uncertain time.
What Should You Expect if You’re Under an Obstetrician’s Care?
If you’re under an obstetrician’s care during pregnancy, you can expect to have regular check-ups and ultrasounds to monitor the health and development of your baby. Your obstetrician will also monitor your health throughout pregnancy, checking for any signs of complications.
As your due date approaches, your obstetrician will work with you to develop a birth plan that outlines your preferences for labor and delivery. They will also provide guidance on pain management options and help you prepare for the delivery process.
During labor, your obstetrician will be present to monitor your progress and ensure that you and your baby are safe and comfortable. If complications arise, they will work quickly to address them and ensure safe delivery.
After delivery, your obstetrician will continue to monitor your health and recovery, checking for any signs of complications. They will provide guidance on breastfeeding and infant care and may refer you to other medical professionals if necessary.
Final Thoughts
Obstetricians play a critical role in ensuring the health and safety of both mother and baby during pregnancy and childbirth. They are trained to identify and manage any complications that may arise and are equipped to handle emergency situations if they occur. If you’re under an obstetrician’s care during pregnancy, you can expect to receive comprehensive care and support throughout the pregnancy and delivery process. With the help of an obstetrician, you can feel confident that you and your baby are well cared for.
Do you need pregnancy testing? Trust Barbara A. Hessel, MD. FACOG, a board-certified obstetrician/gynecologist who has been working with patients in the Forest Hills, NY area for over 25 years. She is a member of the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists and a recipient of the Special Excellence in Endoscopic Procedures Award. Her hospital affiliations include Northwell Health/ Long Island Jewish Medical Center. Book now!
by Barbara Anne Hessel MD | Jun 9, 2023 | Pregnancy
For many couples, the journey to parenthood can be long and difficult. Trying to conceive can be stressful, emotional, and exhausting. However, with the right tools and support, couples can increase their chances of achieving their dream of parenthood. The Positive Pregnancy Test Blueprint is a step-by-step guide designed to help couples navigate the process of trying to conceive and increase their chances of a positive pregnancy test.
Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle
Understanding your menstrual cycle is one of the most important factors in achieving pregnancy. The menstrual cycle is the monthly process by which a woman’s body prepares for pregnancy. It involves the release of an egg from the ovary, the thickening of the uterine lining, and the shedding of the lining if pregnancy does not occur. Understanding the timing of ovulation is crucial in trying to conceive, as it is the only time during the menstrual cycle when pregnancy can occur.
Optimizing Fertility
There are several things’ couples can do to optimize their fertility and increase their chances of a positive pregnancy test. Eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly can all affect fertility. Avoiding tobacco, alcohol, and drugs is also important, as these substances can have a negative impact on fertility. Additionally, supplements such as folic acid and zinc may help improve fertility.
Tracking Ovulation
Tracking ovulation is a crucial step in trying to conceive. Several methods for tracking ovulation include using ovulation predictor kits, monitoring basal body temperature, and tracking cervical mucus. Ovulation predictor kits work by detecting the surge in luteinizing hormones that occur just before ovulation. Monitoring basal body temperature involves taking your temperature every morning before getting out of bed and looking for a slight increase in temperature that occurs after ovulation. Tracking cervical mucus involves monitoring changes in the cervical mucus throughout the menstrual cycle.
FAQs on When to Seek Medical Attention
1. What are the common signs of female infertility?
Some of the most common signs of female infertility include irregular periods, painful periods, no periods, or abnormal bleeding. Other signs may include hormonal imbalances, ovulatory disorders, endometriosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease.
2. What are the common signs of male infertility?
The most common sign of male infertility is low sperm count, decreased sperm motility, or abnormal sperm shape. Other signs may include hormonal imbalances, erectile dysfunction, or a history of sexually transmitted infections.
3. When should someone see a doctor about infertility?
If a couple has been trying to conceive for over a year without success, it may be time to see a doctor. Women over 35 should see a doctor after six months of trying to conceive. Additionally, if there are any signs of infertility such as irregular periods or low sperm count, it is important to seek medical attention. A doctor can help diagnose the underlying cause of infertility and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Conclusion
Achieving a positive pregnancy test can be a challenging and emotional journey for many couples. However, with the right tools and support, couples can increase their chances of conceiving and achieving their dream of parenthood. Understanding the menstrual cycle, optimizing fertility, tracking ovulation, and seeking support are all important steps.
If you are looking for a trusted OBGYN to help guide you through your pregnancy journey, look no further than Barbara A. Hessel, MD. FACOG. With years of experience and a dedication to providing the highest level of care, we are committed to helping women achieve their dream of parenthood. Schedule an appointment today!
by Barbara Anne Hessel MD | Mar 24, 2023 | Obstetrics, Pregnancy
Prenatal care is an essential part of keeping both the mother and the baby healthy during pregnancy. If you’re pregnant, or planning on becoming pregnant it’s necessary to understand prenatal care and why it’s essential to ask your OB/GYN questions. Prenatal care involves regular checkups, gynecological exams, and monitoring of the health of the mother and the developing fetus. This article will provide insight into the importance of prenatal care and what questions to ask your OB/GYN.
What is Prenatal Care?
Prenatal care is medical care that pregnant women receive from their healthcare provider. The goal of prenatal care is to ensure the health of the mother and the developing fetus throughout pregnancy. Prenatal care involves regular checkups, tests, and monitoring of the health of the mother and the developing fetus to identify any potential issues early on.
Why is Prenatal Care Important?
Prenatal care is essential for the health of both the mother and the baby. Regular prenatal care can help identify potential problems early on and allow for prompt treatment. Prenatal care can also help prevent complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Additionally, prenatal care can help ensure that the mother receives proper nutrition, guidance on exercise, and emotional support during pregnancy.
Questions to Ask Your OB/GYN About Prenatal Care:
1. How Often Should I Come in for Checkups?
Your OB/GYN will schedule regular checkups throughout your pregnancy to monitor the health of you and your baby. Typically, the frequency of these checkups will increase as your pregnancy progresses. Ask your OB/GYN how often you should come in for checkups and what to expect during each visit.
2. What Tests Will I Need?
Your OB/GYN will likely recommend several tests throughout your pregnancy to monitor your and your baby’s health. These tests can include blood tests, ultrasounds, and genetic screenings. Ask your OB/GYN what tests you can expect and what they will tell you about your baby’s health.
3. How Can I Manage My Symptoms?
Many women experience symptoms during pregnancy, such as nausea, fatigue, and back pain. Ask a certified obstetrician how you can manage these symptoms and if there are any safe medications you can take. Your OB/GYN may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as exercise and diet modifications, to help manage your symptoms.
4. What Should I be Eating?
Nutrition is essential during pregnancy, as it can affect the health of both you and your baby. Ask your OB/GYN what foods you should be eating and what to avoid. You should avoid alcohol, smoking, and drug use even when trying to conceive to that the fetus isn’t exposed. Your OB/GYN will also recommend taking prenatal vitamins to ensure that you’re getting all the necessary nutrients.
5. Can I Exercise During Pregnancy?
Exercise can be safe and beneficial during pregnancy, but it’s essential to do it safely. Ask your OB/GYN what types of exercise are safe during pregnancy and what to avoid. Your OB/GYN may also recommend modifications to your exercise routine as your pregnancy progresses.
6. What Should I Know About Labor and Delivery?
It’s never too early to start preparing for labor and delivery. Ask your OB/GYN what to expect during labor and delivery and what options are available for pain management. Your OB/GYN may also recommend taking childbirth classes to help you prepare.
Conclusion
Prenatal care is an essential part of keeping both the mother and the baby healthy during pregnancy. Regular checkups, tests, and monitoring can help identify potential problems early on and allow for prompt treatment. If you’re pregnant, it’s important to ask your OB/GYN questions about prenatal care to ensure that you’re receiving the best possible care for you and your baby. Remember to ask about checkup frequency, necessary tests, symptom management, nutrition, exercise, and labor and delivery preparation. By understanding prenatal care and asking the right questions, you can help ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
It’s important to find a trusted professional to provide you with the best care and answer all your questions. Barbara A. Hessel, MD, FACOG, is a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist who provides comprehensive prenatal care to women in the New York area. Dr. Hessel works carefully and thoughtfully with each patient to ensure that they receive the best care before, during, and after pregnancy. She is committed to providing personalized, comprehensive care in a safe and comfortable environment. To learn more about Dr. Hessel and the services she offers, contact her office today.
by Barbara Anne Hessel MD | Nov 1, 2020 | Pregnancy
One in 9 babies are born too early in the United States each year. Around the world, 15 million babies are born before their 37th week–and these numbers are rising. Preterm birth is about more than just being small. Babies born too early can have life long health consequences including hearing and vision impairment, cerebral palsy and learning disabilities. Prematurity is the leading cause of death in babies less than four weeks of age. And you know what’s worse? According to the World Health Organization, three quarters of these deaths could be prevented, even if there’s not an intensive care unit available. (more…)
by Barbara Anne Hessel MD | Oct 1, 2020 | Pregnancy
If you were one of the lucky few women in the world who actually got through pregnancy without so much as a twinge of nausea, you are certainly the exception to the rule. Most commonly known as morning sickness, many women don’t even suspect that they are pregnant until they begin those early morning visits with the toilet. What’s so strange about morning sickness (or all day sickness for some) is its uncanny ability to make you violently ill one minute, and still have you craving a triple decker bacon burger with all the extras the next. (more…)
