If you’re undergoing assisted reproduction treatment, you might wonder if it’s safe to continue exercising. How often and at what intensity should you work out? And once you’re pregnant, can you maintain your level of physical activity? Let’s address these important questions.

Exercising During Assisted Reproduction: Is It Safe?

The short answer is yes, but with adjustments. Contrary to the belief that a sedentary lifestyle benefits ovarian stimulation, research does not show improved pregnancy outcomes from avoiding exercise.

In fact, moderate exercise reduces stress, particularly during the Beta Wait (the period before your pregnancy test). However, physical activity should be carefully managed.

Exercise Guidelines During Fertility Treatment

✔️ During Ovarian Stimulation: Avoid intense workouts, as enlarged ovaries may cause discomfort. Opt for light activities like walking.

✔️ After Embryo Transfer: During the two-week wait, avoid high-impact activities or intense exercise to minimize strain on your body.

Can You Exercise While Pregnant?

If your pregnancy is progressing well, regular exercise benefits both mother and baby. Studies show that physical activity improves the cardiovascular and circulatory system of the fetus, providing vital oxygen.

Benefits for the Mother

✔️ Strengthens pelvic muscles.

✔️ Improves stamina & lung capacity.

✔️ Regulates bowel movements.

✔️ Boosts the immune system.

✔️ Reduces stress, fatigue, insomnia, back pain, and cramps.

When to Avoid Exercise

Your doctor may advise against physical activity if you have: ⚠️ Multiple pregnancies. ⚠️ Premature rupture of membranes. ⚠️ High blood pressure. ⚠️ Thyroid issues. ⚠️ History of miscarriages. ⚠️ Cardiovascular complications.

Always consult your doctor before starting or continuing an exercise routine during pregnancy.

Sports to Avoid During Pregnancy

Some activities pose risks to you and your baby and should be avoided.

Unsafe Activities

🚫 Contact Sports – Judo, boxing, football, basketball (risk of falls and impact).

🚫 Underwater Sports – Scuba diving and snorkeling (breathing control and decompression risks).

🚫 High-Risk Activities – Climbing, skydiving, paragliding, rafting, snowboarding, water skiing.

🚫 Intense Exercises – Weightlifting, trampoline jumping, horseback riding (strain on pelvic area).

Safe Alternatives

✔️ Walking – Low-impact and excellent for circulation. ✔️ Stationary Cycling – Safe alternative to outdoor biking. ✔️ Prenatal Yoga or Pilates – Great for flexibility and relaxation. ✔️ Swimming – Provides full-body exercise with minimal strain.

If you weren’t exercising before pregnancy, start with low-impact activities and gradually adjust based on your doctor’s recommendations.

Exercise Recommendations During Pregnancy

✔️ Always warm up before workouts. ✔️ Stay hydrated before, during, and after exercise. ✔️ Stretch after completing your routine. ✔️ Wear comfortable clothing & shoes. ✔️ Use sun protection if exercising outdoors. ✔️ Monitor heart rate – Overexertion can affect the baby. ✔️ Avoid overheating – Avoid exercising in hot, humid environments.

Stop Exercising Immediately If You Experience:

⚠️ Dizziness ⚠️ Palpitations or shortness of breath ⚠️ Severe pelvic or back pain ⚠️ Vaginal bleeding ⚠️ Leaking amniotic fluid

Is It Safe to Exercise After Childbirth?

After childbirth (postpartum period), gradually reintroduce physical activity under medical supervision: ✔️ Wait at least six weeks after delivery. ✔️ For C-section births, wait two months to allow for proper healing. ✔️ Start with gentle exercises like walking before increasing intensity.

Conclusion

A well-structured exercise plan offers significant benefits during fertility treatment and pregnancy. You don’t need to stop exercising, but adjustments ensure the health and safety of both you and your baby.

📞 Have questions about exercise during fertility treatment or pregnancy? Contact Sakalli IVF today for expert guidance and support on your journey to parenthood!