How does exercise affect mood during pregnancy?

Exercise during pregnancy is known to have a positive impact on mood and mental health. Engaging in regular physical activity can stimulate the release of endorphins, often referred to as "feel-good" hormones. These endorphins can help to alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression, leading to an overall improvement in the emotional well-being of pregnant individuals.

Research supports that exercising during pregnancy can decrease the risks of mood disorders, make coping with the physical and emotional changes of pregnancy easier, and enhance self-esteem and body image. Because of these benefits, many health professionals recommend maintaining an appropriate level of exercise during pregnancy as a strategy to support mental health, making the assertion that it can reduce anxiety and depression the most accurate and beneficial understanding in this context.