Guide | Falls During Pregnancy: Causes and Prevention
Falls during pregnancy are not uncommon: about 30% of pregnant women fall at least once. Most do not cause serious harm, but falls may threaten the mother and fetus. This article reviews causes, responses, and prevention.
1. Causes
Pregnancy brings physical changes that protect the fetus, including a thicker uterine wall and cushioning amniotic fluid. Hormonal changes also affect the cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary, and musculoskeletal systems. Weight gain, reduced muscle strength, and decreased movement control can shift the center of gravity and increase fall risk.
Relaxin, a hormone produced by the ovaries and placenta, loosens joints and ligaments in preparation for delivery. It can also make the joints and feet less stable.
2. What to Do After a Fall
Possible risks include:
Maternal fractures
Fetal head injury
Internal bleeding in the mother or fetus
Changes in fetal position
Damage to the uterus or membranes
Rarely, maternal or fetal death
First-trimester falls usually do not cause serious complications. Falls in the second or third trimester, especially direct abdominal impact, carry more risk. After a late-pregnancy fall, seek immediate care for contractions, vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, or reduced fetal movement.
3. Balance Exercises
Regular exercise may improve balance, reduce stiffness and discomfort, and lower fall risk. Pregnancy balance exercises strengthen the core, thighs, and hips. Consult a doctor before trying:
Pelvic tilts: Strengthen core and pelvic muscles.
Leg lifts: Strengthen the back, abdomen, and buttocks.
Backward stretches: Stretch the back, thighs, and pelvic muscles.
Upper-body rotations: Stretch the back and upper body.
4. Prevention
To reduce fall risk:
Avoid wet, slippery, or uneven surfaces
Wear slip-resistant shoes
Avoid high heels and wedges
Use handrails on stairs
Avoid carrying large objects or anything that blocks your view
Guide | Falls During Pregnancy: Causes and Prevention
Guide | Falls During Pregnancy: Causes and Prevention
Falls during pregnancy are not uncommon: about 30% of pregnant women fall at least once. Most do not cause serious harm, but falls may threaten the mother and fetus. This article reviews causes, responses, and prevention.
1. Causes
Pregnancy brings physical changes that protect the fetus, including a thicker uterine wall and cushioning amniotic fluid. Hormonal changes also affect the cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary, and musculoskeletal systems. Weight gain, reduced muscle strength, and decreased movement control can shift the center of gravity and increase fall risk.
Relaxin, a hormone produced by the ovaries and placenta, loosens joints and ligaments in preparation for delivery. It can also make the joints and feet less stable.
2. What to Do After a Fall
Possible risks include:
Maternal fractures
Fetal head injury
Internal bleeding in the mother or fetus
Changes in fetal position
Damage to the uterus or membranes
Rarely, maternal or fetal death
First-trimester falls usually do not cause serious complications. Falls in the second or third trimester, especially direct abdominal impact, carry more risk. After a late-pregnancy fall, seek immediate care for contractions, vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, or reduced fetal movement.
3. Balance Exercises
Regular exercise may improve balance, reduce stiffness and discomfort, and lower fall risk. Pregnancy balance exercises strengthen the core, thighs, and hips. Consult a doctor before trying:
Pelvic tilts: Strengthen core and pelvic muscles.
Leg lifts: Strengthen the back, abdomen, and buttocks.
Backward stretches: Stretch the back, thighs, and pelvic muscles.
Upper-body rotations: Stretch the back and upper body.
4. Prevention
To reduce fall risk:
Avoid wet, slippery, or uneven surfaces
Wear slip-resistant shoes
Avoid high heels and wedges
Use handrails on stairs
Avoid carrying large objects or anything that blocks your view
Story source:
Collected online