Os benefícios do exercício físico na gravidez: revisão da literatura

Abstract

The physical exercise in women during pregnancy or postpartum period, no clinical contraindications, is recommended in order to promote benefits for maternal and fetal health. Regular physical exercise during this phase is essential for the prevention of diseases associated with pregnancy, as well as complications to the newborn. This study aimed to identify the benefits of physical exercise during pregnancy, for the woman and for the fetus and/or newborn, through an Integrative Literature Review and using the PICOD methodology, which resulted in the research question “Which are the benefits of exercise in pregnancy?. The articles analyzed show that exercise can and should be recommended to all healthy pregnant women. Its regular practice during pregnancy promotes numerous physical and psychological benefits, as well as no evidence of complications for the fetus and/or newborn, when performed at light to moderate intensity. However, few pregnant women adhere to this practice and many still have fears and doubts about the safety of its performance.