Stretching Exercises May Protect Against Preeclampsia

“Contrary to previous research, a new study says that stretching may be more effective than walking or rigorous exercise at reducing the risk of preeclampsia in certain women. The findings, by researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing, apply only to women who were not physically active before becoming pregnant and who have experienced preeclampsia before. Up to 8 percent of pregnant women experience preeclampsia, or pregnancy-induced hypertension, putting the condition among the leading causes of maternal and fetal illness and death worldwide. In preeclampsia, blood pressure sharply increases (readings of 140/90 or higher must occur twice within six hours) and swelling and kidney problems may also result. The findings, presented last week at the annual meeting of the American College of Sports Medicine, in Indianapolis, were expected to be published in the spring issue of Hypertension in Pregnancy.”

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