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· 18 Apr 2022

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What to watch out for after falling while pregnant

Being pregnant is so much fun. The 9 months are great and the anticipation of holding a boy or a girl makes it worth the pain and discomfort. One should enjoy their pregnancy the most but it is also important to keep a few things in mind to keep yourself and the baby safe during the time. One of the major problems a lot of women face is a fall.

Falling accidentally during pregnancy can be painful or worrisome but usually, it brings no harm to the baby. This is due to the uterus which is lined with strong muscles and filled with amniotic fluid that works like a soft cushion for the baby and saves it from most blows. There is usually no reason to stress about a little fall but it is never bad to be careful than to be sorry. If you or someone you know takes a fall during pregnancy they should know the basics for sure to avoid any complications.

What happens if you fall while pregnant?
Falls are common during pregnancy due to the weight a woman carries, it might make it difficult for her to balance her body or she may feel dizzy and fall. If a woman falls she should contact her doctor and share the details with her to make sure everything is ok.

If the fall was serious and she suffers from a sprain, broken bones, or other issues then she should not wait and visit the doctor immediately.

Can falling during pregnancy hurt the baby?
Yes, it can but usually, it doesn’t. You may feel a little shaken up or embarrassed but your belly is tough and is meant to protect the baby. The baby stays in the middle of shock-absorbing fluid and a muscular uterus, it also has sturdy membranes and an abdominal cavity made of bones and muscles to protect the baby. It would take a heavy blow to harm the baby if a woman falls.

Women also fear losing the baby after a fall but if she falls on her bottom there is a risk of a placental abruption but not a miscarriage. So, fret not and relax if you slip and fall or trip over the carpet when you are pregnant.

Reasons for most falls during pregnancy
You could fall anytime but it is usually the third trimester when women trip and fall. This is because the belly shifts your center of gravity forward and it becomes difficult to walk upright or walk on an uneven surface like a sidewalk.

The joints tend to get loose when you are closer to delivery due to hormone relaxin. The hormone helps the joints and connective tissues in the pelvis and cervix to stretch and makes it easier to push the baby out.  This is good right? But this can also make you unstable on your feet and you might fall more often.

You may have low blood pressure and sugar due to a weakened immune system and an imbalance in hormones that can cause dizziness and falls.

Pregnancy is a difficult time. A woman is almost always exhausted, uncomfortable, or overwhelmed due to the changes happening in her body and mind which can increase the risk of falling for her.

How to prevent falling while pregnant
You can take certain precautions during pregnancy to avoid tripping or falling.
•    Choose flats over heels. Flat shoes or sneakers are safer choices than tippy wedges or heels. But watch out for flip-flops, which are flat but can be unstable for walking.
•    Use the railings. It seems obvious, but make a habit of always holding the rail for extra support as you walk up and downstairs.
•    Go slowly. There’s no need to speed walk when you’re expecting! Instead, take your time as you move about the house or while doing errands.
•    Seek smooth pathways. Sidewalks are your best bet for walking rather than uneven surfaces like grass or bumpy trails in the woods.
•    Skip heavy loads. Don’t be a hero by carrying that huge laundry basket. Instead, share the work with family members.
•    Bike in place. If you love to cycle, stick to stationary wheels since your growing middle can challenge your balance, making it riskier to ride a standard bike.
•    Keep your energy up. Stash good-for-you snacks and a small water bottle in your purse or desk so you head off any dizziness caused by low blood sugar or thirst.
•    Remove tripping hazards. To prevent falls at home, remove loose throw rugs (or attach a no-slip pad underneath) and keep toys, books and magazines off the floor.
•    Stay attentive when walking
•    Avoid stairs as much as possible
•    Ask your partner to massage your feet to help relax muscles
 
When should you see a doctor after a fall?
When you feel uncomfortable or experience prolonged pain, when you notice a decrease in fetal movement or see vaginal bleeding or feel contractions then it is time to meet your doctor.

Remember, if you fall on the front or side of your abdomen then it might be dangerous for the baby as there might be bleeding inside the uterus but not coming out of the vagina.

If you see the fluid leaking from your vagina then you need to contact a doctor ASAP

In the end remember that falling can increase the chances/risks as you go further along in the pregnancy.

Ask your doctor about the warning signs and know how to avoid falling.

Take rest and ask your family and friends to help you. Have a doctor’s number handy in case you fall and need to talk to him immediately. Most importantly, relax, stay comfortable and enjoy your pregnancy.

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