Pregnancy and the active-duty female

  • Published
  • By Alison Morrell
  • 90th Medical Operations Squadron
F.E. Warren AFB, Wyo. --  Pregnancy is an exciting time that brings many changes. One of the most rewarding changes women can make for themselves and their baby is to focus on a healthy lifestyle. That means eating healthy foods, getting regular physical activity, stopping smoking and avoiding alcohol and drugs. With these decisions you and baby will be sure to come in "first place." 

In a recent update of Air Force Instruction 10-248, the AFI that governs the Air Force Fitness Program, there is a change in the area of active-duty pregnant women. It states that all pregnant servicemembers will engage in physical activity to maintain cardiovascular and muscular fitness throughout the pregnancy and postpartum period. 

Members will be exempt from the fitness assessment during pregnancy and for 180 days after delivery. This exemption is only for the fitness assessments and does not exclude the member from participating in a fitness-training program. 

Members should discuss their fitness program with their provider and consult with the health and wellness center exercise physiologist and dietician. 

All individuals will maintain workout documentation on Air Force Form 1975. 

An Air Force Form 1975 card can be picked up from the unit fitness program manager or at the HAWC. Forms will be turned in to the UFPM at the end of each month. 

Pregnant members who were in the poor category prior to pregnancy will continue to participate in the fitness improvement program and document that participation. 

The HAWC offers monthly classes to educate women about changes they may experience during their pregnancy. 

Here are the recommended weight gain guidelines for pregnant women: 
· If you are normal weight before pregnancy: Gain 25 to 35 pounds during pregnancy.
· If you are overweight before pregnancy: Gain 15 to 25 pounds during pregnancy.
· If you are underweight before pregnancy: Gain 28 to 40 pounds during pregnancy (depending on your pre-pregnancy weight).
· If you have a multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets or more): See your health care provider. You will need to gain more weight during pregnancy depending on the number of babies you are carrying.