Motherhood is seen as one of the most special periods in one’s life. At the same time, it tends to be a phase with little mobility and even a sedentary lifestyle – which is not good for anyone.
Swimming for pregnant women appears to be one of the main physical activities because, in addition to having a low impact, it also has a number of other advantages.
Although many have doubts whether pregnant women can practice swimming, the ideal is always to consult with the doctor to analyze the need and, above all, to request approval for the performance of physical exercises.
However, once each individual case is evaluated, it is possible to understand that the benefits of swimming for pregnant women can be very welcome to promote a healthier pregnancy, with less pain and that also helps in the development of the baby.
Want to know more about which exercise is good for pregnant women and swimming indications and contraindications? So, read on!
Can pregnant women practice swimming?
It is important to emphasize that all physical activities that were done during pregnancy must be carried out with awareness and caution. Exactly for this reason, once the person is released by the doctor, swimming for pregnant women is highly recommended.
In other content, it has already been highlighted that one of the main reasons for swimming at any age is the fact that it is a low-impact exercise. That is, at the same time that it works the whole body, as it is practiced in the water, it poses less risk to joints and muscles.
What are the main benefits of swimming for pregnant women?
PAIN RELIEF AND PREVENTION
One of the main complaints during pregnancy is muscle pain. This point can be reduced with swimming for pregnant women.
That’s because, as it’s an activity that moves the whole body, it helps to strengthen the muscles, especially the back, one of the main places that have complaints as the belly grows.
In addition, swimming can also help in improving posture and increasing flexibility.
WEIGHT CONTROL
It is natural for expectant mothers to gain weight during pregnancy. After all, a new life is being generated. However, this is a point of attention and should not be ignored so that the development of diseases caused by this condition does not occur, such as:
- Arterial hypertension.
- Cardiovascular problems.
- High cholesterol.
- Gestational diabetes.
So, as in other cases, swimming can also be used as a resource for weight maintenance. The important thing is to evaluate the intensity of the exercise so that it does not have an impact on the health of the pregnant woman and the baby.
IMPROVED CIRCULATION AND RELIEF FROM SWELLING
Due to fluid retention, swelling is one of the main nuisances during pregnancy. Swimming for pregnant women can also help at this point. Because it is an aerobic activity, the activity improves the cardiovascular system, which reduces edema, that is, the accumulation of liquids.
In addition, the respiratory system is benefited, since swimming helps to strengthen the lungs, facilitating breathing and even reducing fatigue or tiredness.
PHYSICAL AND MENTAL RELAXATION
One of the main advantages of practicing physical activity for anyone is increased disposition and energy. For pregnant women, this would be no different.
So, in addition to helping to reduce pain and swelling, swimming ends up activating the production of hormones that bring a feeling of pleasure and well-being.
This helps reduce stress and anxiety, also increasing tranquility. Even because doing activities in the water is usually extremely relaxing.
Swimming precautions for pregnant women
Now that you know the main benefits of swimming for pregnant women, it is necessary to understand the precautions that must be taken during practice, even before entering the pool.
- Stretching : as with any person or in other physical activities, stretching is essential to prepare and warm up the body for the exercise that comes next, reducing the risk of injuries, cramps and other discomforts.
- Balance : the practice must be done carefully, with light to moderate intensity. In addition, it is necessary to be careful with sudden changes, even in the water.
- Entering and exiting the pool : this must always be done using the ladder, avoiding jumping directly into the pool or even diving without guidance, as they can generate a high impact.
- Symptoms during or after activities : if any discomfort appears during the activity, the pregnant woman must notify the teacher and stop the exercises. Likewise, if you feel any discomfort after swimming, you should inform your doctor to ensure that everything is fine.
Indications and contraindications of swimming for pregnant women and babies
As with any type of physical activity, there are some indications and contraindications for swimming for pregnant women and babies that should be considered.
However, as already highlighted, the main part of this process must be the authorization of the exercise by the physician , be it the gynecologist or the pediatrician.
FOR PREGNANT WOMEN
Some of the main contraindications are due to the physical health of the pregnant woman or even pre-pregnancy illnesses. In this case, the following should be evaluated:
- High blood pressure and presence of heart disease.
- Lung problems.
- Low insertion placenta index or placenta previa.
- History of premature birth or miscarriages.
- Cervical problems.
In addition, it is worth remembering that most moderate-intensity physical activities should be reduced or discontinued after the eighth month, according to medical advice.
FOR BABIES
Normally, there are no physiological contraindications for swimming for babies , as long as it is done in a specialized place, with qualified professionals and following all precautions.
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