Even the most healthy women can have pregnancy problems but taking steps towards a healthy lifestyle can increase your chances of having a healthy pregnancy.
Good food, a level of physical activity, relaxation and reduced stress all provide the best conditions for your health and therefore your pregnancy, your fetus and your birth experience. Your goals can be simple and need to be achievable. Worrying about health and fitness during pregnancy is not going to be helpful, in fact worry will only increase your stress levels.
-
Quick tips
There are a number of important things that you can work towards to improve the health outcomes for both you and your baby.
Learn more -
Active pregnancy
Being pregnant and giving birth are physically demanding. Having a reasonable level of fitness will help you manage your changing body shape as well as the demands of pregnancy, birth and early parenting.
Learn more -
The pelvic floor
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and ligaments that support the bladder, uterus (womb) and bowel. When the pelvic floor is strong, it supports the pelvic organs to prevent problems such as incontinence and prolapse.
Learn more -
The abdominal muscles
The abdominal muscles support your abdominal organs and spine. Because your abdominal muscles stretch over the growing baby and uterus, they can become less effective. Gentle tummy exercises will help you maintain core stability.
Learn more -
Back care & posture
As your baby grows and your baby bump becomes larger, your spine can be dragged forward with the growing weight, this is called a ‘sway back’.
Learn more -
Common concerns in early pregnancy
It is quite normal to have a few discomforts in early pregnancy. Sometimes they can become quite severe and you may need to talk to your doctor about trying to manage them.
Learn more -
Food & nutrition in pregnancy
Pregnancy creates extra demands for certain nutrients, including iron, calcium, iodine and many vitamins, that's why it's important to have a varied diet.
Learn more -
Weight and pregnancy
Weight is important, however it is just one of the many ways to understand your health and wellbeing during pregnancy.
Learn more -
Reducing the risk of stillbirth Learn more
Disclaimer
The Women’s does not accept any liability to any person for the information or advice (or use of such information or advice) which is provided on the Website or incorporated into it by reference. The Women’s provide this information on the understanding that all persons accessing it take responsibility for assessing its relevance and accuracy. Women are encouraged to discuss their health needs with a health practitioner. If you have concerns about your health, you should seek advice from your health care provider or if you require urgent care you should go to the nearest Emergency Dept.