Learner name:

Learner number:

J/504/3340

VRQ

UV31474

Principles of physical activity for antenatal and postnatal clients

By signing this statement of unit achievement you are confirming that all learning outcomes, assessment criteria and range statements have been achieved under specified conditions and that the evidence gathered is authentic.

This statement of unit achievement table must be completed prior to claiming certification.

Unit code Date achieved Learner signature Assessor initials

IV signature (if sampled)

Assessor name Assessor signature Assessors initials

Assessor number (optional)

Assessor tracking table

Statement of unit achievement

All assessors using this Record of Assessment book must complete this table. This is required for verification purposes.

VTCT is the specialist awarding body for the Hairdressing, Beauty Therapy, Complementary Therapy, Hospitality and Catering and Sport and Active Leisure sectors, with over 45 years of experience.

VTCT is an awarding body regulated by national organisations including Ofqual, SQA, DfES and CCEA.

VTCT is a registered charity investing in education and skills but also giving to good causes in the area of facial disfigurement.

UV31474Principles of physical activity for antenatal and postnatal clients

The aim of this unit is to provide you with the underpinning knowledge and understanding of the benefits of physical activity for antenatal and postnatal clients.

This unit addresses the physiological and biomechanical changes that occur during pregnancy, possible barriers and contra-indications to physical activity, and the importance of a balanced diet, hydration and appropriate clothing.

UV31474_v7

GLH

Credit value

Level

Observation(s)

External paper(s)

18

3

3

0

0

On completion of this unit you will:

Learning outcomes Evidence requirements

Principles of physical activity for antenatal and postnatal clients

1. Understand the physiological and biomechanical changes associated with pregnancy

2. Understand the benefits, barriers and contra-indications to physical activity for antenatal and postnatal clients

3. Understand the importance of hydration, nutrition and appropriate clothing for antenatal and postnatal clients

1. Knowledge outcomes There must be evidence that you possess all the knowledge and understanding listed in the Knowledge section of this unit. In most cases this can be done by professional discussion and/or oral questioning. Other methods, such as projects, assignments and/or reflective accounts may also be used.

2. Tutor/Assessor guidance You will be guided by your tutor/assessor on how to achieve learning outcomes in this unit. All outcomes must be achieved.

3. External paper There is no external paper requirement for this unit.

UV31474 3

Achieving knowledge outcomes

Developing knowledge

You will be guided by your tutor and assessor on the evidence that needs to be produced. Your knowledge and understanding will be assessed using the assessment methods listed below*:

• Projects• Observed work• Witness statements• Audio-visual media • Evidence of prior learning or attainment• Written questions• Oral questions• Assignments• Case studies• Professional discussion

Where applicable your assessor will integrate knowledge outcomes into practical observations through professional discussion and/or oral questioning.

When a criterion has been orally questioned and achieved, your assessor will record this evidence in written form or by other appropriate means. There is no need for you to produce additional evidence as this criterion has already been achieved.

Some knowledge and understanding outcomes may require you to show that you know and understand how to do something. If you have practical evidence from your own work that meets knowledge criteria, then there is no requirement for you to be questioned again on the same topic.

*This is not an exhaustive list.

UV314744

Knowledge

Outcome 1

Understand the physiological and biomechanical changes associated with pregnancy

You can: Portfolio reference

a. Describe physiological and biomechanical changes associated with each trimester

b. Explain the implications of these changes for clients taking part in physical activity

c. Explain how long these changes may persist for post-birth

d. Explain the importance of avoiding dramatic or sudden weight gain

e. Explain the relevance, incidence, timing and benefits of the postnatal check

f. Explain the importance of resuming postnatal activity on an individual, gradual and progressive basis

UV31474 5

Outcome 2

Understand the benefits, barriers and contra-indications to physical activity for antenatal and postnatal clients

You can: Portfolio reference

a. Explain benefits of physical activity for: • antenatal clients • postnatal clients

b. Explain the types of barriers, real and perceived, to physical activity for antenatal and postnatal clients

c. Provide solutions to barriers to physical activity for antenatal and postnatal clients

d. Describe contra-indications for antenatal and postnatal clients, to include: • absolute contra-indications • relative contra-indications

e. Identify warning signs whereby women should stop exercising during pregnancy

f. Describe postnatal complications/considerations that may affect the resumption of physical activity

UV314746

Outcome 3

Understand the importance of hydration, nutrition and appropriate clothing for antenatal and postnatal clients

You can: Portfolio reference

a. Explain the importance of staying hydrated, and avoiding hot and humid conditions for: • antenatal clients • postnatal clients

b. Explain the implications of fatigue for: • antenatal clients • postnatal clients

c. Identify foods that are important during pregnancy, stating the reasons why

d. Identify foods that should be avoided during pregnancy, stating the reasons why

e. Explain the importance of nutrition for postnatal clients

f. Describe appropriate clothing, footwear and support for antenatal and postnatal clients

UV31474 7

Outcome 1: Understand the physiological and biomechanical changes associated with pregnancy

Unit content

This section provides guidance on the recommended knowledge and skills required to enable you to achieve each of the learning outcomes in this unit. Your tutor/assessor will ensure you have the opportunity to cover all of the unit content.

UV314748

Physiological and biomechanical changes:

Musculoskeletal system – weight gain, ligamentous laxity, joint instability (hips, sacroiliac, symphysis pubis, pelvis, lumbosacral spine), postural changes, muscular imbalances (abdominal wall, lower back, upper back, neck, chest and shoulders), effects of weight gain (on knees, feet, ankles), biomechanics (feet, change in centre of gravity), balance, abdominal/uterine/pelvic changes, breast development, effects of musculoskeletal changes on exercise.

Cardiovascular system – blood volume, cardiac output, stroke volume, heart rate, oxygen consumption, haemoglobin, iron levels, total peripheral resistance, blood pressure, effects of cardiovascular changes on exercise.

Respiratory system – lung function, hyperventilation in pregnancy, tidal volume, respiratory rate, effects on the diaphragm, oxygen cost of breathing, effects of respiratory changes on exercise.

Metabolic changes – insulin resistance, substrate utilisation, hypoglycaemia, effects of hypoglycaemia, metabolic demands of pregnancy, effects of metabolic changes on exercise/temperature/sweating.

Endocrine system – hormonal changes (oestrogen, relaxin and progesterone), hormonal effects, effects on exercise (e.g. relaxin is still present six months postnatally).

Length of time and implications of changes: Trimesters (1st trimester (0 to 3 weeks - fatigue), 2nd trimester (14 to 27 weeks - common to have increased energy), 3rd trimester (28 to 40 weeks - fatigue)), implications and considerations for exercise during each trimester, changes that occur during each trimester, postnatal implications.

Changes post-birth: Between 3 to 6 months (dependent on variables - exercise, breastfeeding, nutrition, etc.), ‘fourth trimester’ (stretched muscle and skin (stretch marks may remain), swollen uterus (nursing can help this process), weight, hormones (e.g. may be emotional), shedding of hair, discharge from vagina, irregular/missing periods, hormones, excess sweating (especially at night)), some physical changes may be permanent (e.g. hip size, feet usually larger).

Weight gain: Tendency to eat for two, eat wrong foods, sudden weight change (more likely to retain weight after birth, stretch marks).

Weight loss: Implications for your health and the health and development of baby, lack of energy/nutrients.

Postnatal check: Incidence (typically 6 weeks), purpose (checks and tests (weight, urine, blood pressure, breast examination, smear test, internal examination), contraception, discuss mood, opportunity to ask questions), benefits of the postnatal check.

UV31474 9

Importance of resuming postnatal activity on individual, gradual and progressive basis: Always resume as a newcomer to fitness, allow time to assess capabilities, identification of any complications from pregnancy, caution with forward flexion/abdominal work, diastis recti (separation of abdominal wall).

Outcome 1: Understand the physiological and biomechanical changes associated with pregnancy (continued)

Outcome 2: Understand the benefits, barriers and contra-indications to physical activity for antenatal and postnatal clients

UV3147410

Benefits of physical activity: Reduction of common pregnancy complaints (leg cramps, oedema, carpal tunnel syndrome, high and low blood pressure, constipation, haemorrhoids, varicose veins, gestational diabetes), improved posture and body awareness, better functional movement and pelvic floor muscle function, possible reduction in lower back pain, weight control, maintenance of cardiovascular and strength fitness levels, improved maternal wellbeing (better sleep patterns, less anxiety and depression, improved ability to cope with stress), possible reduction of labour length and birth complications, easier resumption of postnatal activity.

Barriers to physical activity: Real and perceived barriers, concerns and myths regarding the growing baby/pregnancy, motivation, anxiety and tension, pain and discomfort, accessibility, prejudice, underestimation of exercise ability, level of interest, scepticism of exercise effectiveness, exercise perceptions and misconceptions.

Solutions to barriers: Be sensitive, show empathy, dietary/sleep advice, advice that may assist in increasing energy (e.g. exercise), referral for advice, gentler exercises, take into account likes/dislikes, include family/partners in decision making.

Absolute contra-indications: Haemodynamically significant heart disease, restrictive lung disease, incompetent cervix/cervical cerclage, multiple gestation risk for premature labour, persistent second or third trimester bleeding, placenta praevia after 26 weeks gestation, premature labour during the current pregnancy, ruptured membranes, pregnancy induced hypertension,

symphysis pubic dysfunction.

Relative contra-indications: Severe anaemia, unevaluated maternal cardiac arrhythmia, chronic bronchitis, poorly controlled Type I diabetes, extreme morbid obesity, extremely underweight (body mass index <12), history of extremely sedentary lifestyle, intrauterine growth restriction in current pregnancy, poorly controlled hypertension/pre-eclampsia, orthopaedic limitations, poorly controlled seizure disorder, heavy smoker.

Warning signs to stop exercising: Vaginal bleeding, dyspnoea before exertion, dizziness, headache, chest pain, muscle weakness, calf pain or swelling (need to rule out thrombophlebitis), pre-term labour, decreased fetal movement, amniotic fluid leakage, poorly controlled thyroid disease.

Postnatal complications/considerations that may affect resumption of physical activity: Involution of the uterus, placental site healing and lochia (bleeding), secondary post-partum haemorrhage, air embolism, thrombosis, infection (breast, uterine, urinary tract or caesarean wound site), pelvic floor trauma, sensation loss, pelvic dysfunction, caesarean section, abdominal muscle separation, back or coccyx pain, pelvic girdle pain, pelvic torsion or instability, knee pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, anaemia, establishment of breastfeeding, postnatal anxiety and depression, separation anxiety (from baby), extreme fatigue.

Outcome 3: Understand the importance of hydration, nutrition and appropriate clothing for antenatal and postnatal clients

UV31474 11

Importance of staying hydrated and avoiding hot and humid conditions: Risk of birth defects, dangerous to developing fetus, role of water in the body, hydration guidelines and strategies (timing and volume), effects of dehydration, hyperthermia, importance of avoiding hot and/or humid environments, especially during the first trimester.

Implications of fatigue: Body is under additional stress, excess energy is needed, hormonal changes, nausea and vomiting use energy, iron deficiency, tips for avoiding fatigue (diet, exercise and lifestyle).

Foods that are important during pregnancy: Nutrient dense foods, good supply of vitamins and minerals, broad spectrum of fruit and vegetables, starchy carbohydrates (energy levels), good quality protein (build tissues), foods rich in folic acid (important for creation of baby’s nervous system, prevent neural tube defects), foods rich in iron (produce blood needed to supply nutrition to placenta), foods rich in zinc and calcium (development of the embryo), increase calorie intake by up to 500 calories during breastfeeding, any supplementation should be discussed with GP.

Foods that should be avoided during pregnancy: Alcohol, limit caffeine, limit sugar/sweets, salt in moderation, limit ‘refined carbohydrates’, need extra 200/300 extra calories than before pregnancy (do not eat for two), avoid dieting, eat safely (preparation, hygiene, avoid risk of bacterial infections, avoid certain foods, (e.g. mould-ripened cheese, raw shellfish, pâté (even vegetable pâté), large doses of vitamin A (found in liver, meal replacement shakes)).

Importance of nutrition for postnatal clients: Protect health of you and baby, development of baby, balanced diet, variety of foods.

Clothing, footwear and breast support: Comfortable, loose fitting and non-restrictive, breathable materials, supportive shoe, breast support, support belts.

UV3147412

Notes Use this area for notes and diagrams