Can i swim at 39 weeks pregnant

Swimming after the bag of water has broken invites germs to enter the uterus, which can result in a maternal or fetal infection. But do enjoy it to stay cool and to relieve pressure on your joints and uterus during pregnancy. Your body will thank you. Monique Cowan , a birth and postpartum doula and family coach. This article was originally published on June 26, Going for a swim helps cool you down and keeps you from overheating as easily.

Helps with swelling — Some pregnant women may suffer from a condition known as oedema, which causes swelling in the ankles, feet and fingers due to increased body fluids accumulating in your tissues. Oedema is most likely to be a problem or a symptom of something serious — so always seek help if you experience discomfort towards the end of your pregnancy, but some women find they retain water throughout and this can create a lot of discomfort. Luckily swimming can be used to combat Oedema.

Submerging your body in water can help increase your circulation, which helps relieve the amount of swelling. If up until your pregnancy you have not been a regular swimmer, then you should pace yourself, so that you ease into it, increasing the length of time you swim as you go. As a beginner, you want to aim to complete a minute session three or four days a week. Alternate between swimming on your front and back to help give your body an effective workout. The stroke that is most commonly recommended for pregnant women is the breaststroke because it is the least strenuous, but there is no evidence to show that a particular is better or worse for pregnant women.

So, find the stokes that are easy for you and you enjoy, and stick with them. During your session, keep at a comfortable pace. Instead, just try to relax and have fun. Slow down or stop for a quick break. I would not intentionally restrict yourself. Keep in mind that the physiological changes of pregnancy on heart and lung capacity peak at approximately weeks, therefore you will begin to fatigue with endurance earlier in your pregnancy than you may want to give in to.

But, you are not hurting yourself by going the distance. USMS: Why do many women report that it feels so good to swim while pregnant, as opposed to other forms of exercise? Day: Swimming provides the buoyancy effect and allows your body to adjust to the increase in weight. In addition, it helps unload your back. The water's property of hydrostatic pressure helps with lower extremity swelling also. Nelson: Buoyancy increases your flexibility and decreases pressure on your pelvis as well.

USMS: Can a woman do flip turns during pregnancy? Day: It really depends on the individual, the size of her belly, and the advice of her doctor. In my circumstance, flip turns were not recommended, so I adopted a swivel turn because I found it difficult to tuck my knees up to push off for an open turn. Nelson: Absolutely! USMS: Is there anything that should be avoided in practice during pregnancy? Day: Be mindful of the force of pushing off the walls. Also, diving during the last trimester is not advised.

Nelson: No. Your Guide to Swimming While Pregnant. Medically Reviewed by James Greenberg, M. Medical Review Policy All What to Expect content that addresses health or safety is medically reviewed by a team of vetted health professionals.

Swimming can be a welcome reprieve for pregnancy aches and pains. Here are the benefits, along with safety tips and suggested swim workouts. Back to Top. In This Article.

What are the benefits of swimming while pregnant? Continue Reading Below. More on Exercise During Pregnancy. Exercises to Avoid During Pregnancy. How to Exercise Safely.