Monday 20th April 2009 News Index

Expectant mums who participate in regular exercise throughout pregnancy help strengthen their baby's respiratory health and enhance nervous system development, according to a new report.

Researchers at Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences have recently discovered that babies whose mothers exercised during pregnancy tend to have "more mature" lungs and nervous systems.

Dr Linda May, the report's author says "When we compared babies whose mothers exercised with babies whose mothers had not exercised we found wonderful differences,"

The research involved women 36 to 38 weeks into their pregnancy, who were aged between 20 and 35, who exercised for at least 30 minutes three times a week.

Walking, running, walking, aerobics and cycling in pregnancy all had a positive impact on infant health, according to the findings.

Aqua-natal classes have become increasingly popular among British mums-to-be, with many midwives and medical practitioners recommending the classes to pregnant women.

This type of activity can help ease discomfort and tone muscle but does not put much strain on the body.

A UK expert said pregnant women should discuss exercise levels with their GP.

Patrick O'Brien, of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists says "You should keep within your comfort zone so you can still hold a conversation."

"Pregnant women should consult their midwives and doctors on the types of exercise they could do when pregnant and how much."

Mr O'Brien said excessive exercise during pregnancy could be dangerous for the unborn baby if a woman becomes too hot or lets their heart rate go over 130 beats per minute.

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