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Prenatal yoga: What you need to know

Content What are the benefits of prenatal yoga? What happens during a typical prenatal yoga class? Are there styles of yoga that aren't recommended for pregnant women? Are there special safety guidelines for prenatal yoga? How do I choose a prenatal yoga class?

What are the benefits of prenatal yoga?

Much like other types of childbirth-preparation classes, prenatal yoga is a multifaceted approach to exercise that encourages stretching, mental centering and focused breathing. Research suggests that prenatal yoga is safe and can have many benefits for pregnant women and their babies.

Prenatal yoga can:

  • Improve sleep
  • Reduce stress and anxiety
  • Increase the strength, flexibility and endurance of muscles needed for childbirth
  • Decrease lower back pain, nausea, headaches and shortness of breath

Prenatal yoga can also help you meet and bond with other pregnant women and prepare for the stress of being a new parent.

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