A CHESTER-BASED mum-of-three and founder of an award-winning local business, MummyYoga, has written a book on the importance of physical activity during pregnancy and postnatal period.

Why Pregnancy and Postnatal Exercise Matter, by Dr Rehana Jawadwala, is part of the Why It Matters series by the publishers, Pinter & Martin.

All the previous books in the series have been landmarks in bringing clear and current information about pregnancy, birth and new parenthood and Rehana’s book is the latest in that line.

Tackling many of the common myths of pregnancy and postnatal exercise, Rehana explains everything from the physiological changes women experience during pregnancy and how different types of exercise - aerobic, resistance and water-based – impact mother and baby.

She also explains how common ailments can be alleviated by physical activity and how staying mobile can help reduce the likelihood of complications such as gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia.

Rehana, an exercise physiologist for more than 20 years, says, “There are many books on what exercise pregnant women can do, but no book explains the real reasons why it is important.

"This book not only talks about how exercise will make pregnancy and childbirth easier, but it also explores the science of how babies born to physically active women have less risks of future diseases.

"I am excited to have had the opportunity to be part of such an amazing series of books. I hope my passion for the subject will encourage many pregnant women and new mothers to consider their lifestyle choices before, during and after pregnancy.”

The book is set to release on September 17.