The Colorado Rockies are home to some of the most breathtaking vistas in the world, and many adventurers flock to their heights to take in the scenery. For those looking to take in the scenery from the top of one of the many 14,000 ft peaks known as 14ers, the question arises: Is it safe to hike a 14er while pregnant? The answer to this question is nuanced and complex.
It’s important to be aware of both the risks and rewards associated with taking on a 14er while pregnant. The potential risks of high altitudes, exertion, and dehydration must be weighed against the potential benefits of a rich and rewarding experience. This article will provide an in-depth look at the considerations to be made when deciding whether to tackle a 14er while pregnant. It will also look at the experiences of those who have done it and the expert advice for those considering such an endeavor.
At altitudes above 8,000 feet, proceed with caution
If youre traveling to high altitudes — that is, between 8,000 feet and 12,000 feet — that can be more problematic. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, you should not sleep at elevations above 9,800 feet at any point during pregnancy.
Given the limited data available, it is unclear exactly how high altitudes will affect your pregnancy. One of the few studies that exist was a relatively small study, published in 2016 in Wilderness and Environmental Medicine, which showed that among 298 surveyed women, those who traveled to high altitudes during pregnancy were slightly more likely to go into early labor.
However, these pregnant women who were briefly exposed to higher altitudes did not experience an increase in other pregnancy complications like miscarriage, preeclampsia, or bleeding. In addition, even though their findings were statistically significant, the researchers could not draw the conclusion that the women’s time spent at high altitudes caused early labor; rather, they merely reported a link.
Most of the evidence available is for women who live at high altitudes (between 8,000 feet to 12,000 feet), and the evidence suggests that these women have a higher risk of developing preeclampsia and giving birth to smaller babies than women who live at low altitudes. For women who just visit, that exposure to high altitude probably isnt long enough to have an effect on their pregnancy overall, says Porter.
Challenge Yourself, But Listen to Your Body.
During my second trimester, I conquered my first two mountains: a 14-er in the Colorado Rockies and one in the Smokey Mountains. With a bun in the oven, I was proud to be able to take on these challenges, but I always paid attention to my body and slowed down if anything felt off. ”.
I was proud that I started the hike on more than one occasion, but I never regretted the decision to change our plans if I didn’t feel well.
I came to the realization very early in my pregnancy that everyone had an opinion. This became very clear every time I put foot to trail in an effort to go hiking. Take it easy out there, mama! Good for you; that will be one tough kid! You’re still hiking? How far along are you? The comments and questions I received while exploring the mountains ran the gamut from well-meaning support to extreme concern as to whether I was endangering my not-yet-born child. I finally learned to brush off external comments and trust myself. My doc had given me the green light for hiking and I personally felt great, so I banished the naysayers from my mind. Because here is the thing: hiking while pregnant is a safe activity, assuming your doctor approves. It is a low-impact form of exercise that is great for both cardio and muscular strength. Even more? It worked wonders for my mental state, which was critical as I worked my way through the nine-month pregnancy. But just like everything else during pregnancy, there are special considerations involved when hitting the trail with that baby bump. Check out these tips to ensure you have the safest hike possible for you and your bundle of joy.
I’m not talking about the number on the scale! Rather, I’m referencing the amount of weight you are carrying in your backpack. (Because, of course, you are still taking the necessary safety precautions and hiking with the Ten Essentials, right?!) Carrying a heavy pack up a mountain is a surefire way to send your heart rate off the charts and leave you gasping for air, especially late in your pregnancy. That said, it is OK to carry some weight; just be aware you likely won’t be carrying as much as you have in the past. If you decide to go backpacking while pregnant, talk with your hiking partner ahead of time. Be sure he or she understands that he may need to carry more than his usual allotment of gear.
As I grew heavier, I observed that hiking hurt my ankles and feet. My ankles were more prone to rolling as a result of the increased load than just my sore feet. I would frequently stretch my feet while hiking to help with this. I would begin by flexing and pointing my toes roughly 10–20 times on each foot. I would then turn my ankles to the left and to the right. It helped prevent calf cramps in addition to making my feet less sore.
If you’re already expecting, you’ve probably noticed that you’re always thirsty, and being out on the trail only makes this worse. A pregnant woman can easily become quickly dehydrated due to the heat, physical activity, and constant sweating. Before leaving, take this into consideration and be sure to allow for your increased thirst.
This may not affect everyone, but it is a good idea to consider the altitude before embarking on a hike. In Colorado, the majority of our typical hikes take place above tree line, or above 12,000 feet where the views are the best. However, my doc requested that I stay below 12k for the duration of my pregnancy. Why? There is less oxygen available to you at higher elevations, which means there is also less available to your baby. Some studies have shown that less oxygen can negatively impact a baby, causing lower birth weights (among other concerns). But here is the catch: high altitude is a relative concept, depending on where you live. Since I regularly hike 14ers (peaks above 14,000 feet), staying below 12k was a reasonable compromise. However, if you permanently reside at sea level, altitudes of 6,000-7,000 feet are going to leave you breathless. Talk with your doc before hiking at a higher-to-you altitude and figure out a game plan.
FAQ
Can you hike high elevation while pregnant?
Is it safe to climb ladders while pregnant?
Is mountain climbing safe during pregnancy?
Keeping baby and mom safe is always a priority during pregnancy. To begin with, here are two vital rules: 1. Always use a full-body harness so as to avoid pressure on the abdomen, and 2. Avoid situations that could result in trauma to your belly—this includes, no lead climbing or no bouldering!
Can you take a baby on a 14er?