Prenatal and Postnatal Fitness Glossary

A surgical procedure for delivering a baby through an incision in the abdomen and uterus, requiring specific recovery considerations before returning to exercise.

The functional unit of the diaphragm, pelvic floor, transverse abdominis, and multifidus that manages intra-abdominal pressure.

A breathing technique that emphasizes full expansion and contraction of the diaphragm, foundational for core rehabilitation.

Separation of the rectus abdominis muscles along the linea alba, commonly occurring during pregnancy.

The first 12 weeks after birth, recognized as a critical period for maternal recovery and newborn adjustment.

A form of diabetes that develops during pregnancy due to increased insulin resistance.

The large vein that carries deoxygenated blood from the lower body to the heart, which can be compressed by the uterus during supine positions in pregnancy.

The pressure within the abdominal cavity, managed by the core canister system and affected by breathing, movement, and load.

A pelvic floor strengthening exercise involving the contraction and relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles.

The fibrous band of connective tissue running vertically down the midline of the abdomen between the rectus abdominis muscles.

Physical activity performed at a level where breathing is noticeably elevated but the individual can still hold a conversation.

A group of small muscles along the spine that provide segmental stability and are a component of the core canister system.

The group of muscles and connective tissue at the base of the pelvis that supports the pelvic organs and plays a key role in continence and stability.

A condition in which pelvic organs descend from their normal position due to weakened pelvic floor support.

A mood disorder that can affect women after childbirth, characterized by persistent sadness, fatigue, and anxiety. Regular exercise has been shown to help reduce symptoms.

A pregnancy complication involving high blood pressure and potential organ damage, usually occurring after 20 weeks of gestation.

A modified form of yoga adapted for pregnancy, avoiding supine poses, deep twists, and overheating while emphasizing gentle movement and breathing.

A subjective scale used to assess exercise intensity based on how hard the activity feels to the individual.

A peptide hormone produced during pregnancy that increases joint and ligament laxity throughout the body.

A drop in blood pressure caused by the weight of the pregnant uterus compressing the inferior vena cava when lying flat on the back.

A simple method of gauging exercise intensity by determining whether the individual can comfortably carry on a conversation during activity.

The deepest layer of abdominal muscle that wraps horizontally around the trunk, providing core stability.

One of three roughly equal periods (each about 13 weeks) into which pregnancy is divided for medical and developmental purposes.

The involuntary loss of urine, commonly experienced after childbirth due to weakened pelvic floor muscles.

Holding the breath and bearing down during exertion, which increases intra-abdominal pressure and is generally discouraged during pregnancy.