Is it safe to swim outdoors during pregnancy? New study aims to find out

Cold-water swimming has gained popularity in recent years, with known risks and benefits. A groundbreaking study now focuses on the safety of cold-water swimming during pregnancy, aiming to fill the gap in evidence.

The study investigated the impact of water temperature on maternal and fetal health, as well as the potential harm of water quality on the baby.

Comprised of experts in cold water physiology, exercise physiology, fertility, obstetrics, neonatology, midwifery, water epidemiology, and public health, the research team sought evidence from existing studies to address common questions from pregnant women.

Despite only finding six published studies worldwide on pregnant individuals and cold-water swimming, with none providing significant insights due to small sample sizes, the new research published in the journal Lifestyle Medicine offers expert-led recommendations for pregnant women.

The study addresses the concerns of pregnant women who enjoy cold-water swimming but lack substantial research to guide their decisions. The findings emphasize the need for further research to enable informed decisions and minimize risks to both mothers and babies.

Dr. Heather Massey, an expert in outdoor swimming effects, highlights the growing interest in pregnancy and cold-water swimming. The study provides practical guidance for pregnant women or those considering cold-water swimming during pregnancy.

The recommendations suggest that pregnant women should only swim in cold water if they were regular cold-water swimmers before pregnancy, avoid swimming alone, and refrain from cold-water swimming if they have high or low blood pressure.

While these recommendations are expert opinions based on consensus, given the lack of specific studies, the authors stress the importance of further research in this area.

The research group aims to advance knowledge and improve advice for pregnant women who wish to continue cold-water swimming during pregnancy.