Surfing During Pregnancy: The Main DO & DON’Ts
Pregnancy is a time when you need to be especially careful about yourself. But what if you are a surfer and can’t imagine life without waves? Many people wonder: can you continue surfing while pregnant? Opinions are divided on this issue: some believe that surfing is safe at certain stages, while others argue that any risks during pregnancy may be unnecessary.
Let’s look at the nuances and facts to assess how acceptable surfing is for expectant mothers.
Surfing During Pregnancy: Facts and Recommendations
Doctors and sports trainers believe that moderate physical exercise is healthy for the majority of pregnant women as long as their health allows it and the pregnancy goes smoothly. Furthermore, physical exercise helps lower the risk of gaining too much weight and alleviate several pregnant symptoms including exhaustion and edema. Surfing, on the other hand, is categorized as an extreme activity, thus all aspects must be considered.
Risks of Surfing During Pregnancy
Surfing can be dangerous for pregnant women for several reasons:
- Risk of falls. One of the main risks of surfing is the possibility of falls and impacts. Getting hit by a board, falling on rocks, or even a small collision with a wave can be dangerous for the expectant mother and fetus. This is especially true in the second and third trimesters, when the belly is already noticeably larger and becomes vulnerable.
- Water temperature and hypothermia. Sensitivity to temperature changes increases during pregnancy so acts of cold water can cause cramps, which are very dangerous during your pregnancy.
- Physical strain. Because surfing is such a physically demanding sport, hormone changes also make joints and ligaments more flexible, which then can increase the risk of injury. Furthermore, the strain on the heart and respiratory system can place a damper on the well being of the mother and fetus.
- Infections. Open water can be a source of infections that are dangerous for both mother and baby. The risk of bacteria entering the body, especially in contaminated areas, is quite high.
When Can You Surf?
But if you’re an experienced athlete and surfing is no big deal to you or if your pregnancy doesn’t start causing complications in the early stages. Some experts may even allow you to surf. As a rule, during the first trimester, the belly does not interfere with moving and balancing on the board, and there is almost no risk of falling on the belly. Even in this case it’s recommended to choose safe and quiet surfing places, away from big waves and if you can take someone with you who can help.
Psychological Aspects
For many people, surfing is not only a physical activity, but also a way to relax, relieve stress and be alone with nature. During pregnancy, mental health is no less important than physical health. Research shows that moderate physical activity reduces stress levels and can improve the mood of the expectant mother, and this has a positive effect on the development of the child. However, it is important to consider whether surfing is worth it: if you cannot imagine your life without surfing and are confident in your abilities, perhaps moderate surfing can really be a source of joy. But if you feel even the slightest doubt, it is better to choose a safer activity, such as swimming or yoga.
Alternatives to Surfing
There are many safe alternatives for pregnant women who want to stay active:
- Swimming. One of the safest and most enjoyable forms of physical activity for pregnant women. It improves blood circulation, reduces stress on joints, and helps maintain muscle tone.
- Yoga. Special classes for pregnant women help strengthen muscles, learn proper breathing, and prepare the body for childbirth.
- Walking. Walking in the fresh air is beneficial for both physical and mental health.
Pregnancy is also a great time to learn how to track the state of the body and understand its needs. Many women during this period begin to keep an ovulation tracker and other fitness trackers that help track physical activity and other health parameters. Such tools allow you to monitor your activity and load, assessing how suitable they are for your current state.
The Decision Is Yours
Every pregnancy is unique, and what may be safe for one woman may not be appropriate for another. If you want to continue surfing, discuss it with your doctor and make sure you have no contraindications. Remember that your safety and the safety of your baby are the most important thing, and if in doubt, it is better to choose safer alternatives.
In conclusion, surfing during pregnancy is a controversial issue, and there is no single answer. The health of the expectant mother and baby should come first, so make a decision based on your feelings, the recommendations of your doctor, and your preparedness for possible risks. If you are unsure, it is best to find a safe way to stay active, because health and comfort during this period are of paramount importance.