Sex efficiency through exercises : special physical culture for women / by Th. H. van de Velde ; [photos, by E. Steinemann].
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On the other hand, No. 11 (Film 7), No. 12 (Film 8), and Nos. 13 and 15 are, if executed slowly, suitable also for the expectant mother, for, apart from their excellent effect on the general muscular system, they increase the mobility of the pelvic zone and bring it under voluntary control, without in any way displacing or over-burdening the womb. These four exercises may, therefore, be safely performed by healthy women throughout pregnancy, especially if they have been mastered beforehand. Even when this is not the case they may be attempted, but without needless exertion and attempts at technical perfection ; in fact, there should never be attempts at tours de force in this manner while gestation lasts. Even if their technical execution is far from faultless they bring great benefits, and not the least of their merits is the length of time during which they are practicable. But again, do not overdo it! Note.—Instead of performing some of these and the following exercises, No. n (Film 7) and No. 18 (Film n), as prescribed on the toes, it is advisable to execute them during pregnancy on the whole feet. The " Sideways motion of the pelvis " described under No. 14 (Chapter IV.) can be practised throughout pregnancy if and when there has been some previous proficiency, and if the tempo is much slower than under normal conditions. The " Horizontal Pelvic Rotations " (Films 9 and 10) described under headings 16 (a) and 16 (b) in Chapter IV., and the " Pelvic Version while Walking " (No. 18, Film 11),— which certainly needs some previous practice—may also be performed throughout gestation, if the movements are not vehement and extreme. But the " Pelvic Spirals " of No. 17 are best omitted by the expectant mother, even if an expert. No. 19 (Film 12, the Suspension-flexion) must be entirely prohibited during pregnancy for the reasons already given in detail. On the other hand, No. 26 (the numbers mentioned here under B all refer to Chapter IV.) is not fatiguing, and may be executed so long as not causing any complaints.