Avoid squats in mid-later pregnancy?

[Michelle in So Cal]

Hi there. I read in Oxygen a while back that one should avoid squats after the first trimester b/c they put too much strain on the pelvic floor. Contrary to that, I always thought squats were a good idea in pregnancy, particularly those that incorporate pelvic floor contractions.

I can see this advice possibly for someone who has a weakened cervix or tends to go into premature labor, but for the general population....?

In addition, are there any exercises, excluding those performed flat on the back and planks, that one should avoid during a *normal* pregnancy?

Thank you!

 

[Sheila]

Hello Michelle,

I see no reason to stop your squats during mid-pregnancy. Yes, it is wise to always contract your pelvic floor when doing ANY exercise. FYI: Plie squats have been found to place an excessive amount of "shearing" force on the sacroiliac joints of the pelvis. Since these joints are very vulnerable during pregnancy, it would be certainly prudent to eliminate this type of squat from your prenatal repertoire. I like squatting against the wall with a Resistaball. It gives great support and also feels good on the back.

Along with your avoidance of the supine position after the first trimester and the elimination of planks from your routine you should also eliminate any work that involves lying on your stomach or any that requires a belt to be wrapped around your abdomen. Also, any weight work that you can do seated on a bench will provide extra support for your back.

Hope this helps.

Sheila Watkins

 

[Lucy K]

Thanks, Sheila!

Thanks for this info. I'm filing it in my mental "exercise file" for this pregnancy -- which keeps getting bigger and bigger!!

Lucy K

 

[Leela]

Squats are great!

My bradley class had us do them as 'homework' (non weighted), and I gave birth in one! It is a great birthing position!

Leela

 

[Michelle in So Cal]

Thank you, Sheila! I didn't see any reason either. =) However, I did not know about the plie squats, so I will be sure to substitute those with regular squats.

Michelle

 

[Michelle in So Cal]

Thank you, Sheila! I didn't see any reason either. =) I was really surprised to find that article in Oxygen. However, I did not know about the plie squats, so I will be sure to substitute those with regular squats.

Michelle