Obesity is prevalent in the reproductive-aged population. Ideally, obesity should be addressed before pregnancy to increase the chance of successful conception and to reduce the risk for prenatal medical complications. Gestational diabetes, preterm birth, hypertensive complications, clotting issues, and operative deliveries are more common among obese or overweight women.
A reasonable diet and exercise program can also be continued during pregnancy. During pregnancy, many women are concerned that maintaining regular physical activity is associated with preterm delivery, and they therefore give up exercise.
Obviously, there are conditions in which exercise (especially vigorous) is not advised; these include bleeding, multifetal pregnancy, and immediate risk for preterm delivery owing to cervical shortening or rupture of membranes. However, most pregnant women can carry on exercising.
The optimal duration and intensity of physical activity during pregnancy can be determined by a qualified expert.

Dietician Shwetha Bhatia

Guest Article by Dietician Shwetha Bhatia