Nonthaburi: Exercise has been recognized as beneficial for pregnant women, and the "ANC Clinic" is set to promote physical activities for both pregnant and postpartum women. The Ministry of Public Health, in collaboration with major health organizations, is spearheading this effort to enhance the services of ANC clinics across the nation.
According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry of Public Health, alongside the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Thailand, the Breastfeeding Center Foundation of Thailand, and the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (THPF), has announced the implementation of new guidelines. These guidelines emphasize the importance of physical activity for pregnant and postpartum women and are planned to be integrated into antenatal care (ANC) clinics nationwide. The announcement was made at the IMPACT Arena Exhibition and Convention Center in Nonthaburi.
Professor Emeritus Dr. Panyoo Panburana, who leads the Subcommittee on Maternal and Child Health, highlighted that the guidelines are rooted in global evidence from ACOG and WHO. They recommend that pregnant and postpartum women, without medical contraindications, engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic physical activity weekly. Activities like brisk walking or stationary cycling are advised to mitigate risks such as preeclampsia, hypertension, gestational diabetes, and postpartum depression while ensuring fetal safety.
Dr. Amporn Benjapholpitak, Director-General of the Department of Health, shared insights from Dr. Somruk Chungsaman, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Health. Dr. Chungsaman underscored the department's mission to build a health foundation for Thai citizens from conception. He pointed out that a prevailing misconception discouraging physical activity during pregnancy has led to sedentary lifestyles, with adverse effects on metabolism and fetal health. Thus, it is crucial to educate health personnel and the public on the safety of exercise for pregnant women.
The Department of Health plans to advance this initiative through three key areas: enhancing the skills of medical staff in assessing and recommending exercise, integrating physical activity monitoring into antenatal visits, and preparing educational resources for home use by pregnant and postpartum women.
Dr. Siriporn Kanchana, President of the Breastfeeding Center Foundation of Thailand, noted that aerobic exercise improves blood flow to the placenta, ensuring adequate oxygen for the fetus. She mentioned research supporting the benefits of moderate exercise on breast milk quality and postpartum depression, advocating for the positive impacts of maternal exercise on child brain development.
Niramon Rasri, from the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, expressed the foundation's readiness to support public communication and foster environments conducive to physical activity. The initiative aims to integrate digital health innovations for practical application within communities across Thailand.