Exercise can improve the mood and fatigue levels of pregnant women, a new study suggests.

According to Canadian scientists, while the seriousness of mental health problems, such as postnatal depression, is widely acknowledged, rates of problems such as depression and anxiety are actually higher during pregnancy than after.

Complications that can arise as a result of depression during pregnancy include smaller babies, premature birth and increased substance use by the mother.

The scientists decided to investigate whether exercise can improve the mood of women during pregnancy. They assessed the effects of a four-week exercise programme among previously inactive pregnant women.

The study found that women who participated in the programme experienced significant improvements in their mood. They also experienced less fatigue.

The scientists from the University of Western Ontario noted that the children of mothers who were depressed during pregnancy are at an increased risk of having cognition problems and mental health problems.

Furthermore, fatigue during pregnancy has been linked with an increased risk of caesarean sections and an overall negative effect on the mental and physical health of the mother.

The scientists believe that women should be encouraged to exercise regularly during pregnancy, but pointed out that due to misconceptions about the safety of exercise at this time, ‘continued efforts to educate women, their families and prenatal health professionals about current guidelines and the benefits and barriers associated with exercise during pregnancy are needed'.

Details of these findings are published in the journal, Psychology & Health.

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