Pregnancy is a time of joy for many expecting parents, but there are also risks to be aware of and precautions to take. One of the most common questions expecting mothers face is whether or not it is safe to go in a chlorinated pool while pregnant. Chlorine is a chemical compound often used in pools to disinfect the water, and it is important for pregnant women to understand the potential risks and benefits of swimming in chlorinated pools. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at whether or not it is safe to go in a chlorinated pool while pregnant, and what steps can be taken to ensure a safe experience. We will also look at the different types of pools and the specific risks associated with each one, as well as the potential benefits of swimming while pregnant. By understanding the potential risks and benefits associated with swimming in chlorinated pools during pregnancy, expectant mothers can make the best decision for their health and their baby’s safety.
Dont worry ladies! Get on your bathing suits and rock that baby bump. You go out there and enjoy the water! If you are outside make sure that you wear extra sunscreen because pregnant women do have more sensitive skin and can burn easier but there should be nothing that is discouring you from swimming. If you feel like there is some sort of health risk make sure you discuss your concerns with your doctor before you participate in any physical activity.
San Diego–based expert David M. Priver, MD, FACOG said, “I tell them that if you combine chlorine with sodium, you get table salt. Moderate exposure is fine.” While one European study found that a chemical by-product of chlorine, in large amounts, can be dangerous to pregnant women and their babies.” In 2010 there was a study that was conducted that “suggests there are no negative birth outcomes associated with the cleaning chemicals in pools.” The results of the study found that, “Risk estimates were similar for swimmers and bicyclists, including those who swam throughout pregnancy and those who swam more than 1.5 hours per week. Compared with nonexercisers, women who swam in early/mid-pregnancy had a slightly reduced risk of giving birth preterm.” In addition, the study actually found that women who swam regularly in the beginning and the middle of their pregnancy have a slightly lower chance of delivery early, or babies who were born with congenital malformations.
When pregnant, you shouldn’t be concerned about chlorine exposure unless you are exposed to extremely high levels.
Research has shown that a moderate amount of chlorine exposure is safe for pregnant women. Swimming is one of the best things for pregnant women because it allows them to get exercise without causing any harm to them or their unborn baby. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says, “swimming is one of the safest forms of exercise during pregnancy. Swimming is even an approved form of exercise during in vitro fertilization (IVF) because of the considerable health benefits it offers while not placing a high level of stress on the body. If you’re concerned about losing your endurance and muscle strength during IVF due to activity restrictions, swimming can offer a safe way to maintain your current fitness level.” ACOG continues, “Swimming is a low impact exercise that builds strength and aerobic capacity. By focusing on exercises that build core strength and don’t twist the abdomen, it’s possible to get in a safe swimming workout even late in your pregnancy.”
During your pregnancy, you are constantly being told what you cant do. There are always lists of things that doctors, nurses, friends, family, coworkers, and random people on the street are telling you that you have to avoid. Well, rest assured that swimming is a great way to exercise during pregnancy and poses almost no risk to you and your baby. Unless you are in the pool drinking gallons of the chlorine then you are perfectly safe to swim during your pregnancy. It is important to note that pregnant women should be extra cautious around water when they are pregnant. They are not going to swim as well as they did before they were pregnant and they wont have the same stamina. Be very mindful of swimming where there might be tides because pregnant women are not as strong as swimmers. Pregnant women are also encouraged to pay attention to the temperatures of the swimming water. According to Healthline Parenthood, “Particularly in the first trimester, a rise in body temperature due to being submerged in hot water could result in abnormalities at birth or potential miscarriage, so it’s important to take this recommendation seriously. On the other side of the thermostat, it’s important to avoid swimming in lakes and oceans in frigid weather as the cold temperature can place the body into shock or result in illness, neither of which is good for your developing baby.”
Swimming is the best prenatal exercise, followed by walking, biking, prenatal yoga, and dancing. Avoid participating in water skiing, downhill skiing, and horseback riding.
Yes, according to San Diego-based expert David M. “Many pregnant women try to avoid every chemical on the planet,” Priver, MD, FACOG. “I explain to them that table salt is created by combining sodium and chlorine.” Moderate exposure is fine. Swimming is one of the healthiest activities a pregnant woman can do, according to Priver, despite the fact that a European study found that a chemical by-product of chlorine, in large amounts, can be dangerous to pregnant women and their unborn children. Many of my third-trimester patients don’t lose their minds because of being weightless in water, according to Priver If I had told them to stop, I would have received my head on a platter. ”.
Please be aware that The Bump and the materials and information contained therein are not intended to be, and do not constitute, medical advice or diagnosis of any kind. Always talk to a licensed doctor or other health care provider about your individual situation.
What few studies there are currently are focused on THM levels and whether they have any effect on pregnancy.
Actually, chlorine’s function in a pool is to disinfect it and keep it free of other bacteria that might be harmful.
Swimming in a chlorinated pool is safe during pregnancy. In fact, it’s a fantastic way to exercise while pregnant and is advised.
However, the NHS website pretty clearly surmised that the study was very small, didn’t follow the women during their pregnancy (rather basing its findings on estimates) and that the researchers themselves concluded:
According to the NHS website, THM, also referred to as trihalomethanes, is a “group of 4 chemical by-products in chlorinated water.”
FAQ
Does chlorinated water affect pregnancy?
How long can you be in the pool while pregnant?