If you missed your period and your pregnancy kit test results are positive, then congratulations on the good news. It's time to visit your doctor or get an appointment with a gynaecologist, as they will help you better. They will advise you on the changes you need to make and the exercises you need to start that will help in healthy and safe pregnancy. Read the blog to know more.
You might be skeptical about continuing your yoga or exercises while you are pregnant but don’t worry. According to American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), staying active has several benefits. It helps mothers to increase their energy, stabilize their mood and add to their ability to sleep peacefully.
What is Prenatal Yoga?
Prenatal Yoga is an excellent form of exercise for pregnant women. It helps them relax and stay fit throughout the pregnancy and also prepare for labour. It is a combination of exercise and meditation focusing on positions specifically for pregnant women.
How is Prenatal Yoga different from Normal Yoga?
Prenatal Yoga involves movements and stretches that prepares the body for labour. It also emphasizes on breathing which helps connecting the mind and body. Normal Yoga includes movements stressing joints and pelvis which is not advisable during the time of pregnancy. Hence, doctors recommend prenatal yoga as a part of your pregnancy planning because it has several benefits.
Benefits of Prenatal Yoga -
• Lowers blood pressure – Prenatal yoga isn’t stressful like normal yoga and involves low impact exercises. This helps in regulating and lowering blood pressure and heart rate of pregnant women.
• Reduces pain, fatigue and stress – It is seen that high level of stress leads to miscarriage or preterm labour. This is where yoga helps reducing stress and fatigue. Prenatal yoga includes breathing, meditation and posture positions that helps relieve back pain, fatigue, stress and even heartburn. This will lower the risk of preterm labor and hypertension.
• Stabilizes your mood – It is natural to be stressed and anxious during your pregnancy. The breathing exercises, relaxation and deep meditation integrated with yoga help in stabilizing the mood. It also reduces depression and anxiety in pregnant women.
• Increases strength and stamina – Yoga is the best way to increase your strength and stamina. The Yoga asanaas and postures strengthen hips, back and shoulders. This aids in increasing stamina and strength to carry the baby. The stretching of muscles and tissues during yoga helps in circulating blood and oxygen and stimulate organ systems. It also helps in delivering the baby while pushing out and recovery.
• Manage your weight – Don't worry about gaining extra weight during your pregnancy. There is no need to go on a diet during pregnancy as pregnant women require all the nutrients for themselves and their baby. Prenatal yoga helps to stay active and in turn helps in managing your weight gain.
While you are practicing yoga make sure you stay cool, hydrated and avoid any strenuous postures. Don't overdo it, take breaks and if you experience any discomfort, it is always recommended to talk to your doctor and seek advice.
Pregnancy is a beautiful phase but also requires some care and precaution. Stay active and healthy throughout. You can calculate your due date from Pregakem’s calendar due date that will give you an estimation for your delivery date. Hope this blog was helpful and may you have a healthy and safe pregnancy!