Question about "no laying on back" rule when pregnant

[christy g]

Hi all,

I'm wondering how much you pay attention to the guideline that you can't lie on your back?

I'm normally a side or belly sleeper (well, not anymore) so, that is not really an issue. But, doing Cathe workouts is beginning to be an issue because I sometimes find that lying on my back for extended amounts of time makes me light-headed. So, for those of you who are pregnant (or were), do you always do modifications for those exercises that you are required to lay on your back (i.e. chest flies)?

Also, do you know if I was to elevate one end of my step by 2-3 risers if that would make a difference? I can't tell if that position still puts pressure directly on that nerve...

I'm 25 weeks along w/ baby #1 and not sure how worried about this I need to be...

Your thoughts?

Christy
EDD 6/29/04

 

[alandrum]

RE: Question about

My doctor said that after 20 weeks ot not lay on your back. It is very important to listen to this but you can do modification so you should not be to concerned about changing your workouts. You can do what you mentioned above with your step or if you have a ball you can lay on in incline with that.

 

[shopaholic]

RE: Question about

I too paid attention to this . I used an incline bench or changed the moves. I modified all ab work so I was never in a flat position. also, listen to your body, if you are lightheaded stop the move.

 

[sara33]

RE: Question about

Hi Christy! Just like the other girls mentioned, I definitely modified to an incline. They say that as long as your head is above your heart, you are okay. As long as your step is steady, that modification should be great!

 

[melanalyus]

RE: Question about

I"m naughty. I did not follow this 'rule' with either of my kids. ;-) I don't think the studies that have been done are conclusive one way or another & the little bit of decline/incline modifications don't make too much of a difference as far as oxygen flow goes. Follow your instincts & do what feels right for you.

**Melanie**
Justin born 1/17/04
Jory born 4/9/94

" Take care of your body like it will last a lifetime. Take care of your soul like it will last for eternity"

 

[christy g]

RE: Question about

Thanks for your advice, everyone. I do think it's smart to just listen to my body on this one... Some days I get light headed lying on my back, others I don't. I'm going to do the incline and see hows that goes. It's kind of a challenge thinking of ways to modify all these moves!

There are so many precautions that I'm not sure which ones to blow off and what to follow anymore. Geesh! It seems there is a restrition on everything - I can't even use my electric blanket anymore!

As usual you ladies are the best!

Christy
EDD 6/29/04

 

[lax lover2]

RE: Question about

Congratulations on your pregnancy.
In general, after about 12 wks, lying on your back reduces the blood flow to your uterus and your baby by compressing the vena cava- large blood vessels behind your uterus and this why is it not recommended to do crunches or sleeping on your back. This is why you are probably also lightheaded when lying on your back for a prolonged period of time.