CARMARTHENSHIRE health experts have launched an innovating scheme to support expecting mothers to take up exercise.

‘Baby Let’s Move’ is an antenatal exercise programme designed to help women have an active and healthy pregnancy.

Director of Public Health for Hywel Dda University Health Board, Teresa Owen said: “We are focusing our investment on the first 1,000 days of life.

“Evidence tells us that foundations of lifelong health and wellbeing, including the risk of obesity and certain chronic conditions, are largely set during the first 1,000 days of life from pregnancy to two years of age.

“During the past year the university health board has invested money to support a programme to work to support a healthy weight in pregnancy in the early years. The vestment has allowed us to work with local authority partners to deliver the Baby Let’s Move programme.”

Being active when pregnant is safe and good for both mum and unborn baby. It can help get the body ready for giving birth and being a new mum and exercise classes can also be an excellent way to meet new people.

Teresa added: “Accredited training will be provided for expecting mothers who weight may affected them and the scheme will support our midwives to help pregnant mothers to maintain a healthy weight throughout the pregnancy.

"Keeping fit throughout the pregnancy can improve sleep, circulation and mood, reduce the risk of conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure and improve muscle strength and tone.

"The right nutrition during this 1,000 day window can have a significant impact on a child's ability to grow, learn and thrive."

Those wishing to take part need to make an appointment with their midwife. If you are overweight you will complete a referral form and send it direct to the exercise referral coordinator. Those referred will be encouraged to attend two sessions a week as part of a 16 week programme.

Before committing to a programme, a consultation will be offered including an introduction to the scheme, a tour of the leisure centre, a health assessment and a detailed plan for continuing success whilst on the scheme.