What movements should be avoided during pregnancy?
- jumping, which can stimulate uterine contractions and damage the joints;
- no extreme running or sports with jumping, which increase uterine contractility;
- supine exercises, which can cause compression of the vena cava;
- abdominal crunches, which crush the belly and increase the risk of abdominal diastasis;
- avoid lifting very heavy objects: when you go shopping get some help (and a little cuddling too!);
- no step aerobics, as this can lead to trauma to the abdomen;
- avoid activities with a bicycle or horse as they are a fall risk.
Also remember that movements due to housework, such as washing the floors or vacuuming, are not dangerous and are not contraindicated due to the risk of contractions or preterm delivery, but should be done without fatigue.
What happens if I sleep on my right side during pregnancy?
Many studies have linked sleeping on your back or right side to an increased risk of serious pregnancy complications as these positions may compress the blood vessels that supply the uterus.
Therefore, sleeping on the left side, with the legs slightly bent, is considered the best position for sleeping during pregnancy. This position facilitates blood flow to the heart, kidneys and uterus and improves the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the foetus.
What happens if you stand too much during pregnancy?
According to a recent study conducted at the University of Rotterdam, published in the journal Occupational and Environmental Medicine, standing too many hours and working more than 40 hours a week would negatively affect the intrauterine growth of the foetus, slowing it down. Therefore, if you normally work standing, from the fourth month of pregnancy you are entitled to 12 hours of daily rest as well as additional breaks of ten minutes every two hours. From the sixth month of pregnancy onwards, standing work may not exceed four hours.