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Late -
Pregnancy
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Exercise Risks
Exercise during pregnancy isn't without some risks, including increased body temperature, decreased blood flow to the uterus and possible injury to you. Your age is probably not an important factor, however. Most experts recommend you reduce your exercise to 70 to 80% of your pre pregnancy level. If you have problems with bleeding, premature labor or cramping or have had problems in previous pregnancies, you must modify or eliminate your exercise with your doctor's advice.
We know the increased hormone levels of pregnancy soften connective tissues, which can make your joints more susceptible to injury. Avoid full sit-ups, double leg raises and straight-leg toe touches.
It was once believed that exercise could cause preterm labor because of a temporary increase in uterine activity following exercise. However, studies prove that this isn't a problem in a normal pregnancy. The fetal heart rate increases somewhat during and immediately after exercise, but it stays within the normal fetal range of 120 to 160 beats a minute. A moderate exercise program should not cause any problems for you or your baby.
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