So, you are a pregnant woman and searching for pregnancy swimming. Well, you are the right guide. Some women worry about swimming; they think the disinfectants used in the pool will harm their baby, but according to research, they usually don’t. And it is also found that swimming is good for both mother and baby.

Yes, swimming comes with a bunch of health benefits, but when discussing maternity, there are also some risks. Don’t worry; this article will discuss all the pros and cons of pregnancy swimming and some safety tips.

Benefits of pregnancy swimming

It will improve your blood circulation along with your muscle tone. It will also improve your sleep quality. By swimming, you will feel more energetic and more relaxed. In addition, it will help in your baby’s growth.

If your ankles are swollen, consider walking in the pool; it may help you. It relieves your body from nausea. Swimming is much better than other exercises in some ways. It keeps you cool and prevents overheating. It will also give relief to your lower back. Swimming in maternity will let your joints and back thank you. Usually, it is considered a safer exercise.

Cons of swimming during pregnancy

Yes, it is a very effective exercise, yet it contains some cons. You should avoid swimming if it feels nauseous. This rule also applies to other exercises. If swimming creates too much strain, then stop immediately.

You should only swim when you have a good knowledge of swimming, or you can do some other light exercises like walking and yogic practice. If you get bleeding or a vaginal discharge along with pelvic pain, you should definitely stop it.

Find a good swimsuit.

A swimsuit is essential for swimming, and when it comes to a pregnant woman, a well-fitted swimsuit is a must. Invest time in finding good maternity swimwear. It is obvious that during pregnancy, your size and shape will change. Don’t try to fit in an unfitted swimsuit. Instead, try to purchase a new one. You should purchase a few swimwear as your pregnancy progresses.

Go for an adjustable one-piece or a halter bikini. A swimsuit with a skirt can be a good option too.

Aqua-natal classes

These classes can be a good option if you are comfortable exercising in a group. It is a type of class specially made for pregnant women in their second and third trimesters. You can also meet your pregnant neighbors and friends. In addition, it will refresh your mood, which is a plus point for your baby.

An aqua-natal class may include a warm-up session, some aerobic exercises, and some strength exercises. This is a great way to ensure good health during your pregnancy.

Safety tips for maternity swimming

You should beware of the risks of swimming during pregnancy. To avoid them, you must consider these tips:

You must keep an eye on the temperature

During pregnancy, you should avoid swimming in very warm water. This can raise your body’s temperature. However, it doesn’t mean that you should swim in extremely cold water. The water temperature should be around 36°C or not more than 39°C. If you want a warm bath or hot tub, try limiting it.

Apply a good sunscreen

If you are swimming outdoors, then it will help you in avoiding sunburn. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30. Try to reapply sunscreen between 11 am to 3 pm. It is the time when the sun stays stronger. During these hours, try to avoid swimming outdoors.

Always keep someone around you.

As you are pregnant so your needs are also very much. You should always keep a loved one or a friend around you. You can need help anytime. It is a must if you are swimming outdoors or without a lifeguard.

Stay hydrated during swimming.

Have enough breaks to drink plenty of water. Do not replace water with caffeine or alcoholic drinks. It may affect your baby’s health badly.

The Bottom Line

Swimming during pregnancy comes with benefits but also some risks. You should keep that in mind. A pregnant lady should take care of every single safety tip. Hopefully, in this article, you got a piece of information that may help you.