QuestionI'm a trained runner and I understand that it is 'safe' to continue running during my pregnancy. However I can't help but be concerned that the 'bouncing' could increase my risk of misscarriage, risk hurting the baby or lead to premature labour???
Is there any need for concern? Should I start wearing a support brace when my belly gets bigger?
Thanks for your help.
Christine.
AnswerThe impact of running has never been shown to dislodge or harm the placenta, or lead to premature birth. In fact, all the studies show that the fitter the mom, the fewer pregnancy and labor complications.
So women do fine with running in the latter part of pregnancy when the belly gets big and the "bouncing" becomes more pronounced, others find that the impact of running gets to stressful on the uterine ligaments. This can be felt in the dorsal ligament as lower back pain, or in the lateral ligaments as pain on the lower side of the abdomen.
Since pregnancy hormones lengthen ligaments and other connective tissues I suggest that you run as long as you are comfortable. I'm not a big fan of the supprt belt idea, because if you need to wear one, then if means that you are experiencing ligament stress, and therefore should no longer be running.
If, or when, you need to, begin cross training with swimming or a non-impact aerobic activity like stationary incumbent bike (upright bike is not suitable in toward the end of pregnancy for most women) elliptical training, aqua aerobics, or fitness walking. Hard core runners tend to overlook, or be inexperienced in, the benefits of cross training. So if you do need to back-burner running for a while, think of this as an opportunity to become a more well rounded athlete, as opposed to having to give up an activity that you love.
Swimming offers great benefits in the latter stages of pregnancy, as the hydrostatic pressure increases circulation and lymphatic drainage. It's stress free on weight bearing joints, integrates the entire body and is great for the core too.
