Women are constantly told not to carry out any strenuous activity during pregnancy. For example, moving furniture while pregnant can require a lot of strength and may not be appropriate for pregnant women. However, it may also be seen that some can comfortably carry out such tasks without any pain or discomfort. Therefore, you may need to know the right techniques, the right time, and conditions to carry out tasks like this safely during pregnancy. This post will tell everything about moving furniture while pregnant, including its safety and techniques.
Is It Safe To Move Furniture While Pregnant?
There are no safe limits that can be medically recommended for you to move around furniture while you are pregnant. As a general rule of thumb, you must let others move the furniture for you. However, you can do certain activities with your doctor’s permission and guidance (1). It may not always be possible for you to avoid situations where you need to move some furniture around. Understanding some concerns and how you can best avoid any mishap is the best step in such a situation.
Things To Consider Before Moving Furniture While Pregnant
Every pregnancy is unique, and different women will react to their pregnancy in different ways. For some women, it may be alright to move furniture while they are pregnant, while for some it may be completely off-limits. Here are a few things you should be aware of before you move furniture during your pregnancy:
1. Consider Your Medical Condition And The Health Of Your Pregnancy:
Take into consideration details like your medical health and the way your pregnancy is progressing. In case you developed any complications during your pregnancy you need to first speak to your doctor about it. Backache and back-related problems are quite common during pregnancy. Consult a doctor before moving furniture if you have any back problems, a weakened cervix, a low-lying placenta, or pelvic pain (2).
2. Understanding How Much Is Okay And When To Stop:
While the evidence is inconclusive, some research suggests that heavy lifting during pregnancy may lead to obstetric complications or an increased risk of preterm delivery (3). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, increased physical demands such as standing for long hours, bending a lot during pregnancy, or lifting heavy objects can increase a pregnant woman’s chances of miscarriage, preterm labor, or injury during pregnancy (4). Listen to your body and do not push yourself beyond the limits of your comfort. Do not hesitate to seek help from your friends and family.
3. How Can I Lift Things While I Am Pregnant?
When you are pregnant, your body finds it difficult to maintain balance. Your center of gravity changes and lifting things incorrectly can hurt both you and your baby. It also increases your chances of falling, so you need to be extra cautious (3). Remember to squat down to pick up things instead of bending. Once you have picked up something, stand back gently. The pressure should fall on your legs and not on your back. Try and hold on to some support while squatting down or getting up. This will keep you safe against a fall (1).
