Confusion surrounds physical activity prescription for pregnant women.

Abstract

There is strong evidence indicating that physical activity during pregnancy has significant health and quality of life benefits for both pregnant women and their unborn children. With pregnancy seen as a 'teachable moment', it presents as an opportune time to bring about positive behavioural changes, including increases in weekly physical activity. Unfortunately, few pregnant women are sufficiently active to obtain health benefits. Previous research suggests that this is at least in part because they are confused and unsure as to what physical activity they can and cannot do during their pregnancy.