Women wearing heels during pregnancy is a highly debated topic. While many women want to continue wearing high heels and look stylish, elders in the family and many doctors might advise against it. If it is so dangerous, why do we see celebrities flaunting their baby bump and heels? These mixed messages can be quite confusing.
Many women love wearing heels. Not only do they look good, but they help many women attain a great posture too. While some women can do without them, some just can’t wear anything else for long. Many feel their profession requires them to wear heels. Can they wear heels during pregnancy? Is it safe? Come, let’s find out.
In This Article
- Is It Safe To Wear Heels During Pregnancy?
- What Are The Side Effects Of Wearing Heels?
- Tips To Wear High Heels In Pregnancy
- Precautions To Take While Wearing Heels
- FAQs
Is It Safe To Wear Heels During Pregnancy?
It is actually not very safe to wear heels during pregnancy. The initial few weeks may be okay, but as your pregnancy progresses, your belly will get bigger, thus displacing your center of gravity and blocking your view of the surface you are walking on. These two together are not a great combination for wearing heels.
What Are The Side Effects Of Wearing Heels?
Wearing heels during pregnancy may have the following side effects on you:
- Lower Back Pain A pregnant woman’s back starts tilting as her pregnancy progresses, to balance the increasing weight in the front. When you add heels to it, the strain on your back increases.
- Body Posture When wearing heels during pregnancy, you may arch more than usual to retain your center of balance. Over time, it can affect and change your posture, unless you consciously correct it.
- Joint Aches The increase in progesterone hormone will increase your joint aches. Wearing heels can increase the aches in your knees and ankles.
- Swollen Feet Many pregnant women’s feet start swelling in the third trimester. It can be very uncomfortable to wear high heels with swollen feet. Not only will your footwear not fit you well, but standing or walking with swollen can be very painful. Wearing heels will only aggravate it.
Tips To Wear High Heels In Pregnancy
If you are planning to wear heels during pregnancy, here are some tips to help you stay safe and reduce discomfort
- Limit The Time Pregnancy increases the progesterone levels in your body, which in turn can increase the laxity of your muscles. So, your joints and muscles will be looser than before. Wearing those heels for long stretches of time is not advisable as it can not only affect your balance but can also increase joint aches and pains.
- Reduce The Height If you are prone to wearing very high heels, start reducing the height of your heels as your pregnancy progresses. Wearing high heels in your 8th or 9th month may become dangerous and quite painful.
- Heel Type Opt for kitten heels or platforms where the heel is broad and uniform throughout. Wearing stilettoes or pointy heels can tilt your pelvis forward, further affecting your balance.
- Take Breaks Whether you are standing or walking in your heels for long durations, take small breaks to reduce the strain on your joints and back.
- Keep A Spare Always carry spare footwear. If you are required to stand or walk more than what you had in mind, these shoes can come in handy.
Precautions To Take While Wearing Heels
If you prefer wearing heels during pregnancy, here are some points to note and precautions to take for your safety:
- Watch Your Step Take small and well-paced steps to avoid tripping over something. If you are walking on uneven surfaces, get someone to walk with you.
- Use Support Use the railing or handles when climbing stairs. If you have someone walking with you, you can hold their hand for more support and stability.
- Reduce Speed Do not try walking fast in heels. Matching your earlier stride length or speed may not be feasible when pregnant.
- Check Your Heels Always check if your heels are intact and sturdy before you wear them. Even a slight wobble can twist your ankle or make you lose your balance.
Conclusion
Wearing heels during pregnancy is generally not recommended. If you do wear them, you need to be very cautious and listen to their body if it protests. Remember, your body is changing, and accept the change rather than trying to fight it.
FAQs
1. Can I Wear Heels When 7 Months Pregnant?
Yes, you can wear them as long as your doctor has not advised against them or if you don’t have any other joint or back aches.
2. Can I Wear Heels During Pregnancy First Trimester?
You can wear small heels that do not cause your pelvis to tilt too much. You need to be very careful and not trip as the first trimester is a risky phase.
3. Can Wear Heels During Pregnancy Cause Miscarriage?
Wearing heels during pregnancy can cause aches and pains but not a miscarriage. If you were to trip and fall because of your heels, it can hurt you or your baby.
