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The cardiovascular changes that occur in pregnancy are
very similar to those induced by exercise. Both increase blood volume,
maximal cardiac output, blood vessel growth, the ability to dissipate heat
and the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the tissues. For this reason,
researchers believe that fit women have an easier time adapting to the
physiologic changes of pregnancy than unfit pregnant women. This is why it
is important to exercise and attain healthy fitness levels prior to
pregnancy. One difference between the cardiovascular effects of exercise and
pregnancy, however, is where the blood goes. With exercise, the blood flow
is routed to the heart, skin, muscles and adrenal glands. In pregnancy, more
blood is directed to the reproductive organs, kidneys and skin. Although the
combined effects of exercise and pregnancy are additive, from a safety
standpoint, there is concern that exercising too vigorously during pregnancy
will shunt blood away from the internal organs and the fetus to the working
muscles and skin, resulting in less blood flow to the baby. While fit
pregnant women may have less blood shunting than unfit women, research shows
that mild to moderate exercise is ideal for the pregnant woman.
For more information about this and other subjects
related to preparing for childbirth,
read Motherwell Maternity Fitness
Plan by Bonnie Berk, RN
Copyright 2005
Bonnie Berk, Inc. |
