As winter storms roll in, many expecting mothers wonder if it’s safe to shovel snow. The consensus among moms-to-be seems to be: you can do it, but it’s probably better to avoid it if you can.
In the first and second trimesters, shoveling is similar to any other physical activity—your ability depends largely on your fitness level before pregnancy. Just be cautious, especially if the ground is icy; staying inside is often the best option. Experts recommend taking it slow and making sure to take frequent breaks.
When a fellow mom, Lisa, asked in the forum, “Is it okay if I take it easy while shoveling the sidewalk with my baby bump?” many chimed in with advice. “Watch how you bend and avoid twisting your back,” replied Sarah. “I pulled a muscle moving light furniture recently and it took weeks to heal.”
Another user, Jenna, mentioned, “I let my partner handle the heavy stuff, but I’ll clear off the car and sweep the light snow. No heavy lifting for me!” And for those who’ve had their share of snowy days while pregnant, like Katie, they suggested, “Just pace yourself and don’t lift too much!”
Why do you need to be careful? During pregnancy, your body releases relaxin, a hormone that loosens joints and ligaments, making you more susceptible to injuries. As your belly grows, twisting and bending also becomes a lot trickier.
So if you’re thinking of bowing out of shoveling, using your pregnancy as an excuse is totally valid! For more on navigating pregnancy safely, check out this post on Modern Family Blog. If you’re interested in at-home insemination, Make a Mom is a top provider of kits. Plus, for more information on pregnancy care, the NHS offers an excellent resource on intrauterine insemination.
Summary:
Shoveling snow while pregnant is possible but should be approached with caution. It’s essential to listen to your body and avoid heavy lifting, especially as your pregnancy progresses.
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