Training and sports competition during pregnancy and after childbirth. Physical training is beneficial for mother and child
Henriksson-Larsén, K.
Lakartidningen 96(17): 2097-2100
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0023-7205 PMID: 10354674 Document Number: 499124
Physical training and activity during pregnancy is very common today, and many women even continue training after the 25th week of gestation. Irrespective of its level of intensity, training has not proved to be associated with manifest risk. Moderate training seems to be beneficial, by increasing the peripheral effect of insulin among those possibly at risk of gestational diabetes. Gravidae who train not only tend to be characterised by better health and self-esteem, and a lower incidence of depression during pregnancy, but also find delivery less strenuous. The offspring of women who train during pregnancy manifest fewer signs of stress during delivery, and are usually characterised by better general condition (e.g., higher Apgar scores).