Can You Run While Pregnant?

What happens when a runner gets pregnant? This can be exciting news but may also bring up many questions. For example, can you continue to run while pregnant? A runner since middle school, I asked the same question when I first got pregnant. I am now pregnant with my fifth child and it has not slowed me down a bit.

The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) says that if you were a runner before pregnancy, then often you can continue running during pregnancy. You are always encouraged to talk with your doctor about it first and it might require you to change or adjust your routine accordingly.

Advantages to Runners in Pregnancy

There are some good reasons why you may want to continue running in pregnancy if you can. For example, most runners find it to be a great stress-reliever. Hormones and the pressures of motherhood can create new stress in life so having that release from running is good for your mental health as well.

Many moms who find they can stay in shape by running and jogging most of their pregnancy will find childbirth easier. When your body is more fit, it can make the process of labor and delivery easier for you. It can also help you get back to a healthy pre-pregnancy weight more quickly after your little one is born.

Listen to Your Doctor

You should begin meeting with a doctor before you even become pregnant but at least as soon as you find out you are. Talk with your OB about your health and your desire to continue running. He or she will be able to guide you through the process and tell you signs to look out for that you should stop.

Dangers of Running While Pregnant

Some of the dangers of running while pregnant are the same dangers you would face if you were not pregnant. Other than that, women should be aware that during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, there is risk of miscarriage. You should be aware of the signs of threatened miscarriage and stop running if you experience pain, bleeding, cramping or possible signs of miscarriage. If the doctor has warned you that you are high risk for early pregnancy miscarriage, then you may decide to put your running routine on hold for awhile. Again, always listen to your doctor.

Another danger is overheating. Your baby cannot sweat in the womb and has no way to control his/her temperature so it's up to you to be sure your core temp does not reach dangerous levels. You want to keep your internal temperature below 101 to avoid damage to the unborn baby.

When to Stop Running

Some situations may occur in pregnancy where you need to stop running. A good rule of thumb is if it hurts, stop doing it. If you have Braxton-Hicks contractions, you should stop running and walk. Always make sure you are properly hydrated. Dehydration is one common cause of cramps and contractions. As your belly grows larger, you may need to cut back or stop the amount of running you do but many pregnant women find they are able to maintain a light jog up to the end of their pregnancies or at least until the third trimester.