Is it safe to exercise during pregnancy?
Quick answer: For a healthy, normal pregnancy, ACOG says it is safe to continue or start regular physical activity, and that exercise should still be discussed with your ob-gyn at early prenatal visits.
What ACOG says
ACOG's patient FAQ on exercise during pregnancy states: "If you are healthy and your pregnancy is normal, it is safe to continue or start regular physical activity. Physical activity does not increase your risk of miscarriage, low birth weight, or early delivery." It adds: "It's still important to discuss exercise with your obstetrician–gynecologist (ob-gyn) during your early prenatal visits." Listed benefits include reduced back pain, eased constipation, healthy weight gain and a possible lower risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia and cesarean birth.
Source: ACOG: Exercise During Pregnancy
Committee Opinion 804: "Most pregnant patients can exercise. There are few maternal medical conditions in which aerobic exercise is absolutely contraindicated... In women who have obstetric or medical comorbidities, exercise regimens should be individualized." It also states that "A thorough clinical evaluation should be conducted before recommending an exercise program to ensure that a patient does not have a medical reason to avoid exercise."
Source: ACOG Committee Opinion 804
Questions about your own pregnancy, birth or recovery belong with your doctor or primary healthcare provider.
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MOMDAY is not a healthcare provider. This article shares general information from public health sources such as ACOG and is educational only, not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always talk with your doctor or primary healthcare provider about what is right for you, and never delay seeking care because of something you read here. If you think you have an emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number.