Is it Safe to Swim While Pregnant?
When it comes to swimming safety, you can never be too careful. Swimming is a wonderful form of exercise and can be downright exhilarating! That said, one question pops up rather frequently: is it safe to swim while pregnant?
In today’s Pool Fence DIY blog, we’ll take a closer look at the answer to this question!
Yes! It is Safe to Swim While Pregnant!
Let’s get the big question out of the way right here and now! Yes, according to many doctors, it is quite safe to swim while pregnant in most cases. In fact, it’s often encouraged. Of course, this is just a general guideline. No physical activity should be taken lightly during pregnancy and expectant mothers should take extra precautions during these activities. To be absolutely sure of what is safe for your individual pregnancy, consult with your personal doctor. She’ll be able to tell you what the wisest move is in your unique situation. That said, most expectant mothers are encouraged to engage in some healthy exercise.Swimming is Great Exercise for Pregnant Women
Working up a sweat can be tricky, particularly during the third trimester. Fortunately, that’s where swimming excels. The water will help to support your extra body weight. It is a low-impact exercise that puts far less stress on your body than other exercise options. In fact, many pregnant women find daily swimming to be quite relaxing. In certain situations, women find that it helps to ease the pains of morning sickness. What’s more, it also helps to ease other pains of pregnancy, including swollen feet and backaches. There’s nothing more relaxing than a nice soak and float! If you were swimming before becoming pregnant, you will likely be able to continue your regular workout routine. But it’s best to start off slow. In fact, starting gradually is a good idea for all workouts. No matter how strong you are, you may not have as much stamina or energy as you are used to. To combat this, try not to overexert yourself. For example, it is typically recommended that you swim in sessions of about 30 minutes at a time. Listen to your body. If you get tired, stop and take a rest!Be Extra Careful
While it is generally safe to swim while pregnant, it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be a bit more cautious. Besides taking swimming lessons, there are a few other safety precautions that mommies-to-be should consider:- Surfaces are slippery when wet. Be careful when getting in and out of the pool.
- Not too hot, not too cold! The ideal temperature for swimming is between 78 and 84 degrees Fahrenheit, but if the water feels too hot or cold, wait before getting into the pool. Similarly, stay out of hot tubs. That level of heat can potentially lead to complications with your pregnancy.
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water when doing any exercise.
- Watch out for bacteria and infections. Public pools, lakes and the ocean can pose an additional risk because of potential exposure to bacteria if water is contaminated.
