You have been looking forward to a beach vacation for months. Fortunately, your husband informed you about a planned vacation he has booked for both of you in one of your dream coastal destinations.
While you’re excited about trying your sexy swimsuit, it hits your mind that you’re six months pregnant! Does it make any difference?
I know you don’t want to miss the beach fun but aren’t sure about the dos and don’ts of such a trip. You can’t stop wondering if ocean waves hitting pregnant belly could harm you and your baby.
Is it safe to have a splash in ocean water when pregnant?
Let’s Talk.
Ocean Water Hitting A Pregnant Belly – Is It Safe?
A dip in ocean water is safe during pregnancy but should be done with caution. Swimming is a great low-impact exercise. It’s not harmful if ocean waters hit your belly, but only when the waters are calmer.
When the waves are huge and rough, they may be dangerous as they could throw you off balance, causing a serious fall. Strong waves forcefully hitting your belly with force may hurt your body by stressing your uterus and baby.
Can Ocean Waves Hurt A Pregnant Woman?
The short answer is no. The fact that you’re carrying a baby doesn’t mean you have to forget to swim on the beach completely. However, unlike before you got pregnant, you need to be extra careful to avoid harming yourself and your baby.
If you love water skiing or wave jumping, don’t do them until after delivery. It’s okay to take that beach holiday, but before you jump in the waters to cool the summer heat, here are a few things you should consider:
1. The intensity of ocean waves
Due to your growing belly, body coordination could be hard for pregnant women. I’d advise you to go into cool, calm waters only to avoid strong waves putting pressure on the uterus. They can knock you down and hurt your body.
2. Water temperature
Pregnant women are sensitive to everything, including cold water. Whether you need a cold splash to cool off or a relaxing bath, go for relatively warm water only.
Sudden temperature change may cause uterine contractions and could be life-threatening. It’s also best to go to the beach when the weather is warm.
3. Personal safety
Aside from providing a fun-filled environment, oceans have creatures such as sharks, jellyfish and crabs that could bite or sting you. Put your safety first since your baby depends on you.
4. Distance into the ocean
Stay close to the shore whether you’re an armature or an experienced swimmer. Pregnant women are prone to drowning because they often experience difficulty swimming due to pregnancy-related fatigue.
5. Sunscreen
Sunbaths and beaches go hand in hand. Don’t forget to protect your skin from harmful sunlight and UV rays. Invest in suitable sunscreen. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends using broad-spectrum sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or above and should be water-resistant.
6. Water hygiene
Like other natural waters, ocean water may be contaminated with sewage, fertilizers and chemicals, leading to gastrointestinal problems. Check with the relevant authorities about the water quality. Plus, avoid swallowing the water as much as you possibly can.
7. Hydration
The hot sun and salty ocean water may seriously dehydrate you. Take lots of water to avoid complications associated with dehydration in pregnancy.
If you’re still wondering, “are ocean waves safe during pregnancy?” Follow the above considerations, and nothing can stop you from enjoying your beach vacation.
Can Ocean Waves Cause A Miscarriage?
Currently, no studies link ocean waves to miscarriages among pregnant women. However, if strong waves forcefully hit your belly, it may cause premature uterine contractions, which may cause preterm labor. If you’re still worried about ocean waves hitting pregnant belly, talk to your OB/Gynecologists’ for comfort.
Why The Beach Is A Great Place To Visit When Pregnant
By now, you have a clear idea if ocean waves hitting your pregnant belly may harm your pregnancy, now let me show you why you should visit beaches frequently. There are myriad benefits of taking a beach vacation when pregnant. Such include:
1. Rest
The beach is ideal for resting when undergoing an intriguing pregnancy journey. Basking in the sun and walking in the sand with ocean waves gently hitting your belly is therapeutic.
2. A cool environment to unwind and catch up with friends
The breezy beach environment is perfect for friends and family to meet, share and enjoy together.
3. The beach is a good place to exercise
Aside from walking or dancing, swimming is another recommended low-impact aerobic exercise in pregnancy. According to a research by Loma Linda University, swimming is also a good form of self-care.
4. Catching up on your hobbies
You may also have some personal time and read a book, watch a movie on your laptop or listen to soothing music by the beach.
Tips for Swimming In The Ocean Waves Safely While Pregnant
- Wait for the ocean tides to calm down: It’s risky to swim when the waves are high and rigorous. You’ll get hurt, and your baby too.
- Don’t do it alone: Pregnant women are more vulnerable to accidents. Don’t swim alone. Take your partner with you or a professional swimming assistant who can help with any eventuality.
- Swim in moderation: Avoid excess swimming in ocean, as it can leave you exhausted.
- Watch the weather: The ocean weather could be unpredictable. Avoid cold or windy weather that can bring rough ocean waves/tides.
- Choose your swimsuit accordingly: A well-fitting swimsuit flaunts your baby bump while making swimming fun and safer. Go for the right one suitable for your shape and body size.
Wrapping Up
Every pregnant woman deserves a trip to the beach to relax, exercise and enhance her mental well-being. But you aren’t sure if ocean waves hitting pregnant belly could be disastrous.
Let’s summarize.
Are ocean waves bad for pregnancy? No, swim in calm beach waves while maintaining safety standards such as staying near the shore, wearing your sunscreen, hydrating and wearing appropriate swim gear.
The beach environment is an excellent place to relax, exercise and catch up with friends/family. The salty ocean water helps reduce morning sickness, relax muscle tissues, relieve joint pains and reduce body swellings common in pregnancy.
While ocean waves are safe, let your gynecologists’ advise you about the best way to enjoy your beach holiday
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