Top Pregnancy Myths De-Bunked for a More Empowered Pregnancy and Postpartum Experience
By Dr. Meilin Yang, PT, DPT, of Lumina Pelvic Health
Pregnancy is a “disability” or "disease"
There are tons of physical changes as well as psychological changes that occur during pregnancy. However, consider it a state of health. The idea of pregnancy being a disability or disease can lead to fear and negativity, which is not good for the mother and future baby.
Pregnant women should only do low-impact exercises
Pregnant women can continue to do the activities they were doing before pregnancy such as running and hiking, as long as they are comfortable and not at risk of falling or being hit. Walking is a great daily exercise, but it is also important to get your heart rate up and build your endurance!
Pregnant women should not lift weights
Pregnant women can safely lift weights as long as they use proper form and do not overexert themselves. Weight lifting can help maintain muscle strength and improve their postpartum recovery.
Strengthening your pelvic floor muscles helps push your baby out
Having strong pelvic floor muscles does not directly help push your baby out. Your uterus will do the contracting. *Relaxing* your muscles will allow your baby to pass through the birth canal
Peeing your pants during and after pregnancy is "normal"
Unfortunately, a lot of women believe it is something they have to live with. Some women will avoid specific activities that they enjoyed doing before pregnancy. Incontinence does not have to be permanent and can be reversible!
Women should not do core work during pregnancy
Strengthening your core is crucial to help support the weight of the growing baby and uterus and improve overall stability and balance. Strong core muscles can also reduce the risk of back pain and other common discomforts during pregnancy. It would be helpful to consult with a physical therapist to choose appropriate exercises and learn to do them safely.
You can’t have sex during pregnancy
Sex is safe during pregnancy as long as you are comfortable and there are no complications. The muscles in the pelvic floor often become more tense throughout pregnancy, which can cause pain with sex.
Learn more about Dr. Meilin Yang and her work at Lumina Pelvic Health
