Physiotherapy exercises in pregnancy

Physiotherapy Exercise for Pregnancy And The Post Natal Period

Due to the restrictions around the Covid-19 pandemic we are unable to offer you a physical assessment or invite you to attend our pregnancy exercise class. We have therefore put together a short set of exercises which you may find helpful at this time.

In order to get the most out of the below video you should have received a phone consultation from your physiotherapist first, giving you the opportunity to discuss your symptoms in detail.

The information you give to your physiotherapist will help to determine if these exercises are suitable for you. However, symptoms can change with time and so it is important that you check the following guidelines below.

Warning Signs to Discontinue Exercise While Pregnant

  • Vaginal Bleeding
  • Abdominal Pain
  • Regular Painful Contractions
  • Amniotic Fluid Leakage
  • Shortness of Breath Before Exercise
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Chest Pain
  • Muscle weakness affecting balance
  • Calf Pain or Swelling

Medical Conditions which are not suitable for exercise in Pregnancy

  • Cervical insufficiency or cerclage (stitch)
  • Being pregnant with twins or triplets (or more) with risk factors for preterm labour. If you are expecting twins/triplets or more, we advise you seek clearance from your consultant/midwife to exercise as it may be safe if you don’t have any obstetric or medical complications.
  • Placenta previa after 26 weeks of pregnancy
  • Preterm labour or ruptured membranes (your water has broken) during this pregnancy
  • Pre-eclampsia or pregnancy-induced high blood pressure
  • Severe anaemia
  • Certain types of heart and lung diseases

You can download and view the exercises in the video here.