Pregnancy Strength: Should Women Really "Take It Easy"?

By Dr. Samantha Quézet Lee – Her Perspective on Prenatal Movement

I recently received a comment on Instagram from a mum who was upset about how I advocate for movement during pregnancy. She told me that some women can’t move and that I should stop saying women don’t prioritise movement. She felt I was shaming those who physically couldn’t exercise during pregnancy.

This made me pause. Because pregnancy is HARD, and no two journeys are the same. My goal has never been to diminish anyone’s experience but rather to start an important conversation about how we view pregnancy and movement. So, let’s unpack this together.

The Pregnancy Conundrum: Strong or Fragile?

Women today are expected to be strong. We work, manage households, care for children, and juggle countless responsibilities. But the moment we become pregnant, society suddenly sees us as fragile. Friends, family, and even healthcare providers tell us to “take it easy.”

And after birth? The focus shifts entirely to the baby, leaving mums to figure it all out alone.

But are we really caring for mums during pregnancy? Or are we just providing indirect care to nourish the baby?

Mothers matter too.

Pregnancy: A Daily Marathon

Pregnancy is often compared to running a marathon. Your blood volume doubles, your heart works harder, and your metabolism skyrockets. Yet, the dominant narrative tells us to rest and not strain ourselves. But here’s the kicker—if you don’t use your muscles for nine months, you lose them.

Then, somehow, mums are expected to “bounce back” postpartum, despite being told not to move for nearly a year. Make it make sense.

Movement Matters—When It’s Safe and Feels Good

Let’s be clear: There are conditions like placenta previa, preeclampsia, hyperemesis gravidarum, and cervical insufficiency where movement can be unsafe or extremely difficult. And I deeply respect that. In fact, research shows that movement before and early in pregnancy can help lower the risk of some of these conditions.

But for the vast majority of women, movement is not only possible—it’s essential for a strong pregnancy and smoother postpartum recovery. This conundrum can only be fixed if we educate mums on how to move in a way that feels good, is safe for both them and their babies, and supports their long-term well-being.

Questioning the Narrative Around Pregnancy

Gone are the days when you could blindly trust your GP or specialist to have all the answers. You have to do your own research and find what works for you. And that starts with understanding what has worked for others—N=1.

This is why my message will always be: If you can move, you should move. Not for aesthetics, but to stay connected to yourself in a time when your body is changing rapidly. Movement lowers the risk of complications like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. It makes postpartum recovery smoother. And most importantly, it reminds you of your own strength in a transformative period of life.

Prioritizing You: My Prenatal Program Launches Tomorrow

This is exactly why I created my Prenatal Program- Empower Prenatal, which officially launches tomorrow, February 13th! 🎉

If you’re currently pregnant, this is your chance to prioritise you—your strength, your health, and your well-being. Think of it as the ultimate self-love gift this Valentine’s season. Because taking care of yourself is taking care of your baby.

💗 Doors open tomorrow—be the first to join! Stay tuned!