Taking care of you in trimester 2

As your body continues to change, sometimes by the day, it’s perhaps more important than ever to listen to your body and take extra care at every opportunity.

It’s important to stay active as best you can throughout pregnancy. You may not have felt up to doing much in the early weeks but hopefully you might now be able to aim for 30 minutes of exercise each day.

Childbirth educator and Epworth midwife, Frances Laing, says there’s a multitude of benefits to moving safely during pregnancy.

‘Most activities you enjoyed before pregnancy can usually be done safely during pregnancy, but make sure you talk to your obstetrician, trainer or physiotherapist to help create a safe exercise plan,’ Frances said.

‘Exercising throughout your pregnancy can help ease those aches and pains and what you might not know is that keeping active can actually help your body in labour and post birth recovery.’

‘Walking is a great one, along with swimming, stationary cycling and low impact aerobics are great because they are gentle on the body and low impact. If you prefer to attend exercise classes, make sure your instructor is qualified in training with pregnant woman and that they know how far along in your pregnancy you are.

‘Remember that exercise doesn’t need to be strenuous to be beneficial.’

‘Stomach strengthening, pelvic tilt and pelvic floor exercises will help support the growing weight of your pregnant uterus. It also strengthens your joints, improves backache and can help your recovery after your baby is born.’

Exercise can also help give your mood a boost, but if you are finding that your mental health is a concern then make sure that you seek help. You might like to talk to a friend, your doctor or even a help line at Beyond Blue or PANDA. Don’t forget that you can also make an appointment with one of our Pre Admission Midwives if you have any concerns about your physical or mental wellbeing.