High-risk pregnancies, often resulting from pre-existing medical conditions or complications arising during pregnancy, require special care to ensure the well-being of both mother and baby. Due to modern lifestyle changes, genetic factors, and existing health conditions, pregnancies are becoming increasingly complicated. Conditions such as autoimmune diseases, diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, and even mental health issues like depression contribute to the rise in high-risk pregnancies
Dr Mohanapriya, Senior Executive Physiotherapist at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Chennai, says that physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing these pregnancies by providing tailored exercise plans that support both physical and emotional health.
She states the need for structured physiotherapy interventions during high-risk pregnancies, as physical activity benefits both the mother and the foetus. The World Health Organisation recommends a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week during pregnancy. However, in high-risk cases, the physiotherapy regimen must be customised based on the individual's medical condition and the advice of their obstetrician.
Key Benefits of Physiotherapy in High-Risk Pregnancies
Dr Mohanapriya points out several benefits that physiotherapy offers
Reduction in high blood pressure: Regular moderate exercise helps to maintain healthy blood pressure levels
Weight management: It controls weight gain for both mother and baby, reducing the risk of complications.
Improved postnatal recovery: Physiotherapy aids in faster recovery post-childbirth, helping the mother regain strength and fitness.
Enhanced mood and stamina: Exercise elevates mood, reduces stress, and improves stamina, which is crucial during labor and recovery.
Safe Exercises for High-Risk Pregnancies
While exercises are essential, Dr Mohanapriya recommends a simple "talk test" to assess fitness levels and ensure that the intensity of physical activity is appropriate. For example:
Low-intensity exercise: The patient can talk without any difficulty.
Moderate-intensity exercise: The patient may struggle to complete sentences but can still talk.
High-intensity exercise: The patient can only produce short phrases or words due to breathlessness.
In some high-risk pregnancies, such as those involving gestational hypertension or preeclampsia, women may be advised to engage in only light activities, such as walking, which helps maintain blood sugar levels and prevent muscle cramps.
Postural and Pelvic Floor Exercises
Physiotherapy for high-risk pregnancies also includes postural corrections to avoid back pain and pelvic girdle issues. Exercises such as wall slides, shoulder blade pulls, and pelvic floor strengthening (like Kegels) are recommended. "Pelvic floor exercises are vital as they prepare the body for childbirth and aid in postnatal recovery," adds Dr Mohanapriya.
Consult Your Physician
While physiotherapy is beneficial, it is important to monitor for warning signs like dizziness, breathlessness, or reduced foetal movements. "Consult your obstetrician if any of these symptoms persist during exercise," advises Dr Mohanapriya.
With the right guidance from a physiotherapist and regular consultations with your doctor, exercising during a high-risk pregnancy can be a safe and effective way to improve maternal and foetal outcomes.