Pregnancy tips: Swimming is a good exercise for moms-to-be

Swimming while pregnant may not only give you the benefits of exercise but it will also provide relief from various common pregnancy symptoms.

By: Longjam Dineshwori | | Updated: April 2, 2020 8:57 am

Swimming is particularly good for pregnant women, as the water helps to support their extra weight.

Yes, it is OK to swim if you have a healthy pregnancy. Doctors usually recommend women who are having healthy pregnancy to do some exercise. Swimming could be a great choice to work toward your goal of 30 minutes of prenatal exercise a day. However, if swimming is new to you, talk to your doctor, physiotherapist or midwife first. Also Read - Stress in expecting mothers impact baby: Herbs to relieve stress during pregnancy

Swimming is a great workout as it makes you move your whole body against the resistance of the water. It gets your heart pumping, strengthens muscles, builds endurance and improve cardiovascular health. Swimming is particularly good for pregnant women, as the water helps to support their extra weight. It can be a real treat, especially in the third trimester. Swimming is a good exercise during pregnancy because it- Also Read - Why babies kick in the womb and when it starts?

helps to keep you fit
makes you feel better about your changing body
Reduces morning sickness
Improves blood circulation
boosts heart and lung function
increases muscle tone and strength
builds endurance
relieves ankle and foot swelling
burns calories, helping in weight gain management
promotes good sleep
relieves feeling of tiredness
eases aches and pains
keeps you cool
Improves your labour and delivery experience

What you should not be doing

There are certain things that you should keep in mind if you’re going to take up swimming during pregnancy. Also Read - Late Pregnancy: Planning to get pregnant in 40s? Here are the probable complications

Swimming in a chlorinated pool may not do any harm to you or your baby. However, you shouldn’t swim after your waters have broken. Even if you are a seasoned swimmer, start slowly and gradually increase your sessions. But don’t over-exert yourself. Also make sure you warm up and cool down gradually.

Unlike other forms of exercise, swimming makes you feel cool and relaxing. Try strokes that you enjoy and feel comfortable. Floating on your back can really make you feel good but be careful not to arch your back.

In case you are having any pain at the front of your pelvis, avoid breaststroke. It may make the pain worse. If you experience any unusual symptoms such as pain or bleeding, stop your swimming sessions. Check with your doctor or midwife.

Published : April 1, 2020 8:01 pm | Updated:April 2, 2020 8:57 am

Ensure a safe delivery if you opt for home birthing in the times of COVID-19

Pregnancy and diabetes: Things to keep in mind if you high blood sugar and plan to have a baby

About The health Site

TheHealthSite.com is India's largest health site with more than 40 lakh unique visitors per month. We focus on fitness, beauty, health, pregnancy and more.

Most popular health and wellness website in India in 2012 at the Website of the year awards.

health@corp.india.com

+91 – 22 – 6697 1234

91 – 22 – 2490 0302.

ZEE ENTERTAINMENT ENTERPRISES LTD, 18th floor, A-Wing, Marathon Futurex, N. M. Joshi Marg, Lower Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400013.

We respect your privacy

Ensure a safe delivery if you opt for home birthing in the times of COVID-19

Pregnancy and diabetes: Things to keep in mind if you high blood sugar and plan to have a baby

About The health Site

Useful Links