Baciuk (2008) Water aerobics in pregnancy- cardiovascular response, labor and neonatal outcomes

Introduction to Water Aerobics During Pregnancy

Water aerobics has gained attention as a safe form of exercise for pregnant women. This study explores the impacts of water aerobics on maternal cardiovascular health, labor outcomes, and neonatal well-being.

Methodology and Participants

A controlled trial involved 71 low-risk pregnant women, divided into a water aerobics group and a control group. Participants underwent cardiovascular assessments during three pregnancy trimesters and were monitored through delivery.

Findings on Maternal Health

Both groups showed increased cardiovascular capacity in the second trimester, which normalized in the third. Cardiac output rose with pregnancy progression, and exercise-induced temperature increases were well-tolerated, suggesting water aerobics is safe for maternal health.

Labor and Delivery Outcomes

No significant differences were observed in labor duration or delivery type between groups. However, the water aerobics group had a notably lower request for labor analgesia, indicating potential benefits in pain management during labor.

Neonatal Health Results

Neonatal outcomes, including birth weight and Apgar scores, were comparable across both groups, affirming the safety of water aerobics for fetal development.

Conclusion

Regular, moderate water aerobics is a beneficial and safe exercise for pregnant women, improving pain management during labor without adverse effects on maternal or neonatal health.

Keywords: Water aerobics, pregnancy, cardiovascular health, labor outcomes, neonatal well-being, maternal exercise, labor analgesia.