Aboriginal - physical activity during and after pregnancy
Aboriginal; pregnancy; exercise; physical; activity; walking; swimming; aerobic; bike; stretching;
Contents
Physical activity will help you:
cope with labour and caring for your newborn baby.
- recover faster after childbirth.
- return to pre-pregnancy weight and fitness.
- be less stressed.
Check with your doctor or midwife first to make sure it is okay for you to be active, especially if you:
- have high blood pressure
- are having twins
- have been told you may have your baby early
- have not been physically active for some time.
If you haven't been physically active, start slowly (like 15 minutes) and slowly increase.
Pay special attention to your body.
Make sure you STOP if it hurts.
- Drink lots of water before, during and after exercise.
- Wear loose fitting clothing and comfortable shoes (not thongs).
- Be active in the cooler parts of the day or in air conditioning.
- Stretch, warm up and cool down.
Recommended activities during pregnancy
Walking.
- Using an exercise bike.
- Some types of exercise classes (let your instructor know that you are pregnant).
- Gently stretching.
- Swimming and water aerobics.
Recommended activities after your baby is born
Once your doctor or midwife says you can be active again, try:
- brisk walking (push your baby in the pram)
- swimming
- low impact aerobics
- bike riding.
Breastfeeding your baby
If you are breastfeeding, be active after breastfeeding when your breasts are not so full and heavy. A good bra helps you feel comfortable.
The information in this topic is attributed to ©State of Queensland (Queensland Health)
The information on this site should not be used as an alternative to professional care. If you have a particular problem, see your doctor or midwife.