It does not, for example, condemn her to inactivity and seclusion,
for it is advisable to lead a moderately active life during
pregnancy. Of course, such obvious indiscretions as prolonged
exertion, violent exercise, and fatiguing journeys should be avoided,
for transgression of the laws of health brings its own punishment,
generally in the form of discomfort, more quickly, and often more
severely, during pregnancy than at other times. Yet, on the whole, it
is more frequently necessary to emphasize to prospective mothers what
they should do than what they should avoid. This happens to be the
case because, as a rule, they are inclined to become recluses. For
fear of attracting attention they often wish to give up outdoor
exercise during the day; they stay away from public places of
amusement, and deny themselves other pleasures to which they have
been accustomed. Against this tendency they must be warned, for if
they yield to it they will surely be the worse off both physically
and mentally. Every prospective mother should make up her mind to
enjoy recreation out of doors regardless of comments.

THE NEED OF PURE AIR.--Outdoor life has been so urgently advocated of
late that the public has come to appreciate its benefits almost as
fully as do physicians. The existence of pregnancy does not lessen,
but rather enhances, the value of fresh air; in order to enjoy the
best health during this period one should spend at least two hours
out of doors every day. Neither the season of the year nor the state
of weather should modify this obligation. If the sun is shining the
"airing" is more delightful, but it should be taken in bad weather
also, on a protected porch or in a room with the windows wide open.

Even when the injunction to be regularly out of doors is observed