Less outdoor activities in early and late pregnancy

Ms. Li, who resides in the Qingxiu District of Nanning, is a workaholic — even during her pregnancy. When she was two months pregnant, she traveled to Guangzhou on business. During her leisure time in Guangzhou, a client invited her to play ball. Ms. Li thought that since she was only two months pregnant, it wouldn't be an issue, especially since it was a client's invitation, so she happily accepted and went along. However, halfway through the game, Ms. Li began to feel abdominal pain. By the time she reached the hospital, the doctor informed her that she was experiencing a threatened miscarriage and would need to be hospitalized for fetal preservation.

Experts explain that the first three months of pregnancy are a high-risk period for miscarriages. At this stage, the placenta has not fully developed and its attachment to the uterine wall is not yet secure. If one engages in excessive physical activity or becomes overly fatigued while traveling, it can easily lead to a miscarriage. This is especially true for those with a history of natural miscarriages or habitual abortions, who should exercise extra caution. Additionally, after seven months of pregnancy, excessive travel is not recommended because, in the later stages of pregnancy, the mother’s body undergoes significant changes: the waist expands, weight increases rapidly, and the fetus grows quickly. The heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys of the pregnant woman bear heavier loads, and movement becomes more cumbersome, making it difficult to endure the fatigue associated with travel.

Doctors suggest that between the fourth and sixth months of pregnancy, when severe morning sickness has passed and the fetus has begun to "settle," the expectant mother may have better endurance and a more pleasant state of mind for travel. However, this does not mean that early or late stages of pregnancy preclude travel altogether; it just implies that compared to the middle trimester, there is slightly more risk involved. In the early and late stages of pregnancy, moderate exercise such as walking is still appropriate.

A gentle reminder:

If travel is absolutely necessary, pregnant women should avoid overexertion as much as possible. Short trips accompanied by someone are more suitable. It is also important to carry prenatal examination records in case of emergencies. Since pregnant women tend to sweat easily, they should bring an extra layer of clothing when traveling. Nutrition is key in their diet; they should consume more fresh, vitamin-rich foods. Given the high temperatures and dry air in spring, water loss through perspiration can occur easily, so pregnant women should drink more water appropriately.

In summary, whether traveling or exercising, pregnant women should always prioritize safety and health, adjusting activities according to their specific stage of pregnancy.