Benefits of Water During Pregnancy (Swimming, Pools, Hot Tubs, Baths, and Float Tanks)

07/04/21 • 21 min

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If you enjoy the water, you don’t have to give it up when you are pregnant. Pregnancy impacts your body by weight gain, increased blood flow, and many more changes that can exert pressure on your cardiovascular system, joints, and spine. Enjoying being in water can be a great workout, relaxing and therapeutic. This episode examines the evidence on the risks and benefits of swimming pools, hot tubs, baths, and float spas during pregnancy.

You can read the full article and resources that accompany this episode by clicking here.

For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

You can read the full article and resources that accompany this episode by clicking here.

For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Previous Episode

Do You Need a Doula?

A doula is a professional trained in childbirth who provides emotional, physical, and educational support to a mother and her birth partner during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. They do not have any formal medical training and do not perform any medical procedures. There are doulas that specialize in every type of birth, from home birth to a planned cesarean at a hospital. There is substantial growing evidence on how doulas positively impact births. But do you need a doula? With the benefits are downsides, like the additional cost. This episode examines the evidence on having a doula, how they advocate for you and work with your OB/GYN or midwife, and how they support your partner in being your primary support during labor. Plus, get tips on how to find a doula that is the right fit for your family.

You can read the full article and resources that accompany this episode by clicking here.

For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.

Next Episode

Hydrotherapy and the Benefits of Water During Labor (Baths, Showers, and Waterbirth)

Hydrotherapy is a broad term that encompasses many different treatments around the physical properties of water like temperature and pressure. In this episode, we explore the use of water during labor. Proponents of water birth claim that it is beneficial in managing discomfort from contractions, that it promotes relaxation and eases stress for your baby during birth. Critics of the practice raise concerns about the safety of water births and risks associated with respiratory issues for the baby, and the risk of infection for both you and your baby. This episode examines the evidence and safety of waterbirth, as well as alternative ways to utilize water during labor at home or in a birth center or hospital.

You can read the full article and resources that accompany this episode by clicking here.

For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.