I heard warnings from many well-meaning advisers, who insisted that the strain of lifting weight would cause me to have a miscarriage. Of course, I didn't have a miscarriage-- my daughter was born full-term and perfectly healthy. But is there any major risk associated with lifting heavy objects during pregnancy? Here are some points to consider.
1. Lifting heavy objects will not cause a miscarriage. There is no compelling evidence suggesting a link between lifting weight and miscarriage. This common misconception is ultimately no more than an old wives' tale, based in a traditional belief that pregnant women should avoid any form of physical exertion. Dr. Raul Artal, an obstetrician, notes that there are no professional guidelines stipulating weight-lifting limits for expectant mothers.
1. Lifting heavy objects will not cause a miscarriage. There is no compelling evidence suggesting a link between lifting weight and miscarriage. This common misconception is ultimately no more than an old wives' tale, based in a traditional belief that pregnant women should avoid any form of physical exertion. Dr. Raul Artal, an obstetrician, notes that there are no professional guidelines stipulating weight-lifting limits for expectant mothers.
2. Many pregnant women lift large amounts of weight safely. I'm not the only mother who has safely lifted heavy objects during pregnancy. My sister teaches kindergarten and regularly picks up her students, most of whom weigh over forty pounds. She continued to do this throughout both of her pregnancies, and has had completely healthy babies both times. Her own obstetrician completely supports her doing this, so long as it does not cause discomfort. We are among the thousands, or millions, of women who have done this throughout pregnancy with full approval from our health care providers.
3. Back strain is a more significant problem. You don't need to limit the amount of weight you lift in order to protect your baby-- the baby will most likely not suffer any ill effects from lifting weight. However, you are more susceptible to back injury during pregnancy, so it is a good idea to use caution to protect your own health and wellbeing. While lifting a heavy object won't cause you to miscarry, it's important to consider your own health.
4. Check with your obstetrician or midwife. Women with high-risk pregnancies or medical conditions may be at a greater risk of complications caused by physical activity in general. For example, if you have pre-eclampsia or are expecting multiples, any form of strong physical exertion may be discouraged by your health care provider. Get in touch with your obstetrician or midwife if you are concerned about the risks of lifting heavy objects during pregnancy-- especially if oyu have any reason to suspect that it could endanger your health or your baby's.
5. Take extra precautions to keep yourself safe and healthy. While you probably don't have to avoid lifting heavy objects altogether, you should take extra precautions to prevent injuries or complications. Do not do the Valsalva maneuver-- in which you exhale without actually releasing air. Breathe deeply and steadily while lifting on object to maintain good bloodflow to the unborn baby. If you must lift heavy objects or children frequently, consider getting a back belt for extra support. And, as always, lift with your knees-- not your back-- and stop as soon as you feel any sign of impending pain or injury.
5. Take extra precautions to keep yourself safe and healthy. While you probably don't have to avoid lifting heavy objects altogether, you should take extra precautions to prevent injuries or complications. Do not do the Valsalva maneuver-- in which you exhale without actually releasing air. Breathe deeply and steadily while lifting on object to maintain good bloodflow to the unborn baby. If you must lift heavy objects or children frequently, consider getting a back belt for extra support. And, as always, lift with your knees-- not your back-- and stop as soon as you feel any sign of impending pain or injury.
Always defer to the judgment of a professional health care provider if you are concerned about the safety of a specific activity or occupation during pregnancy.