Advice says expectant mothers should exercise 2½ hours a week

● New pregnancy guide is world first ● Keeping active can cut health risks

New exercise advice for pregnant women has been issued by the UK’S chief medical officers, aimed at improving the health of expectant mothers and their offspring.

The official recommendations, believed to be the first of their kind in the world, aim to reduce problems such as obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure during pregnancy.

The latest evidence suggests pregnant women should carry out around 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity every week.

This is described as action that makes you breathe faster but does not stop you being able to hold a conversation.

Those not in the habit of exercising prior to pregnancy are advised to start gently and build up to the weekly target.

However, they are also told to avoid activities that could “bump the bump” and stop if they experience discomfort.

The guidelines are being issued as an infographic, designed to help midwives, nurses, GPS, obstetricians, gynaecologists and fitness professionals give advice for a healthy pregnancy.

Catherine Calderwood, Scotland’s chief medical officer, said: “We want to make pregnant women aware of the benefits of being active throughout their pregnancy and make sure they’re clear about the

0 American tennis ace Serena Williams competed in – and won – the Australian Open while two months pregnant in January this year of activities that are safe. The latest evidence shows that regular, moderate exercise during pregnancy reduces blood pressure problems, improves fitness, lowers weight gain and reduces the risk of diabetes.

“My advice to pregnant women is to listen to their body and adapt their exercise regime accordingly.

“If you’re not already active, start gradually – and if you are active, just keep going. If anything feels uncomfortable, then stop and seek advice.”

Thelatestfiguressuggestone in 20 women is obese during pregnancy. Being overweight increases the risk of complications such as gestational diabetes and the potentially fatal condition pre-eclampsia.

There is also a greater risk of miscarriage, premature birth and interventions such as forceps during delivery.

Midwives have welcomed the new guidelines.

“It is important to keep physically active during pregnancy – moderate exercise will not harm the woman or her baby,” said Louise Silverton, director for midwifery at the Royal College of Midwives (RCM).

She said: “The RCM has contype