Pregnancy outcome: Physical activities inside versus outside the workplace

Abstract

There is concern that the thermal, cardiovascular, metabolic, and biophysical changes which accompany physical activity may have detrimental effects on both mother and fetus. Research focused on physical activity in the workplace has identified four specific physical stresses (quiet standing, long hours, protracted ambulation, and heavy lifting) that are associated with an increased incidence of both prematurity and low birth weight. The physiological basis for these is believed to be that these activities cause intermittent but protracted reductions in uterine blood flow. Research focused on recreational physical activity during pregnancy has not identified similar associations. Indeed, these data indicate that the overall impact of regular recreational exercise on pregnancy outcome is positive for both mother and fetus. The physiological basis for these beneficial effects is believed to be that the interaction between the physiological adaptations to both exercise and pregnancy improve maternal cardiovascular reserve, maternal mechanisms for heat dissipation, and placental growth and functional capacity. Finally, there is preliminary evidence suggesting that the vibratory and auditory stimuli associated with regular recreational exercise may enhance functional maturation of the fetal brain.