When a woman finds out that she is pregnant, it can be a time of great joy and excitement. However, it is also a time to be mindful of the activities that the mother-to-be engages in. Many women wonder if doing sit-ups during pregnancy, especially in the early stages, can have any negative effects on the pregnancy. This is a valid concern, as experts have linked abdominal exercises, like sit-ups, to an increased risk of miscarriage. In this blog post, we will explore the potential risks associated with sit-ups during early pregnancy. We will also provide guidance for how to practice the exercise safely and discuss what other types of exercises may be more suitable for pregnant women. By the end of this post, you should have a clear understanding of the risks and benefits of performing sit-ups during pregnancy and how best to proceed if you decide to include this exercise in your routine.
Are ab exercises safe during early pregnancy?
Early on, the majority of abdominal exercises are safe (with some modifications, as there are some exercises to avoid while you’re pregnant), unless your doctor has advised against it.
Additionally, your baby bump won’t likely appear until the second trimester, which can make some abdominal exercises more challenging as your pregnancy progresses.
Lying on your back. A few minutes of lying on your back are acceptable. However, as your uterus grows heavier, it may cut off blood flow to your feet and legs as well as to your unborn child. Avoid lying on your back for more than a few minutes while performing yoga poses, crunches, or any other exercise.
Exercise to lose weight. You can anticipate to gain between 25 and 35 pounds, depending on your pre-pregnancy weight. Though it may be difficult to accept on an emotional and physical level, save the calorie burning for after giving birth. Weight gain during pregnancy is a sign of your baby’s healthy development as long as you eat a healthy diet.
Shortness of breath. Especially in your final few months of pregnancy, a growing baby can press against your lungs and make it difficult to take a full breath. The hormonal changes that affect your lungs early on in pregnancy can make you feel out of breath. But call your doctor or midwife right away if you experience increased shortness of breath or any other unusual changes in your breathing.
Pregnancy-related benefits of exercise include improved sleep, increased strength and endurance, and a happier mood. You should go for walks or swim, for example. However, some exercises are not advised for pregnant women. Understanding the difference can keep you and your developing child safe.
Dizziness. Pregnancy increases the likelihood of experiencing vertigo, especially in the early stages of the second trimester. Dizziness during exercise, though, could cause you to fall. Don’t take a chance; if you start to feel lightheaded, stop and lie down on your side. Call your doctor or midwife if the symptoms persist.
For pregnant women who exercise, particularly in the first trimester, is there an increased risk of miscarriage?
Pregnant women have traditionally been advised to postpone exercise until the second trimester in an effort to reduce the risk of miscarriage. However, no research has directly linked exercise to early-pregnancy miscarriage. However, a 2007 study did link high-impact exercise to an increased risk of miscarriage, particularly before 18 weeks of gestation. This is why the majority of medical professionals continue to advise expectant mothers to err on the side of caution.
However, this does not imply that you should stay at home for the first three months of your pregnancy or that your favorite exercise will “cause” a miscarriage. There are a number of completely unrelated causes of miscarriage, including:
Check out our pregnancy-friendly energy-boosting workouts.
The American Pregnancy Association and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology also view regular exercise as a must for overall health. But pregnant women should avoid “contact sports or activities that have a risk of injury” such as gymnastics, skiing, hockey, basketball, and horseback riding. Basically, skip anything with significant jumping or jolting movements.
“Exercise is a good thing, and may actually lower risk [of miscarriage],” agrees Dr. Alison Mitzner, a pediatrician based in New York City. “It makes you stronger, reduces stress, helps your mood, and even builds up stamina for the birth process. It can also make the baby healthier.”
FAQ
Are sit-ups safe during first trimester?
Can exercises cause miscarriage in early pregnancy?
Can squatting cause miscarriage in early pregnancy?
Can working out too hard cause a miscarriage?