Using Indian Toilet During Pregnancy – Safe or Not?

Advantages of Using Indian Toilet During Pregnancy

Using an Indian toilet during pregnancy is a bliss. There are many benefits that a pregnant woman can get by using an Indian toilet during pregnancy. Few such benefits are-

• Using Indian toilet requires squatting, which helps in reducing the chances of pelvic pain
• The pelvic and thigh area gets strength which is good in preparing for the delivery of the baby
• Using squatting in an Indian toilet helps in avoiding any unhygienic contact between the surface of the toilet and the mother’s body, thus preventing chances of infections
• It is the best position at the time of labor as it helps in opening up the birthing canal which eventually helps in descending the child
• At the time of squatting, the pressure built helps the colon in eliminating the waste completely

[Read : How Safe Is Squatting During Pregnancy?]

Precautions to Take While Using Indian Toilet

Even though sitting in a squat position while using Indian toilet is considered good for a pregnant woman, it is important to be extra careful and take precautions during this time. There are few pointers that must be always kept in mind at the time of using the Indian toilet. These are-

• Pregnancy is a time when the balance of the body is affected. So, it is better to install handles on both sides for a better grip and prevent chances of tripping 
• The toilet must be clean and dry so that the pregnant lady does not fall or slip
• It is important to keep the toilet essentials like toilet paper or water ready and within reach so that the pregnant woman does not have to stretch much
• It is also important to have proper ventilation and light in the toilet
• It is important to not put too much pressure on the pelvic region while passing motion
• The pregnant woman must always wear bathroom footwear which has a good grip so that she does not slip
• It is important to keep the back straight when squatting as it helps in keeping the balance and prevents falls or any types of aches
• Never try squatting on a western style toilet as doing it on height can result in falling
• Lastly, there must be someone always there nearby for the pregnant woman’s help, if the need be. This is a time when she can feel dizziness, discomfort, etc.

[Read : Falling During Pregnancy]

What is The Best Sitting Position in Toilet During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a time when one should have a good sitting position. Constipation and other stomach issues are common at this time. Thus, a proper sitting pattern will help in encountering these problems and even ease the process. There are few steps that can be kept in mind while sitting in a good position-

• It is good to let the elbows rest on the knees while leaning forward 
• The back must always be straight and have no arches
• It is best to keep a footstool under the feet for proper support to get the best position and not lose balance
• The bowel is emptied easily when the toilet sitting position is a good one
• Never hold the breath rather take short breaths with the mouth as it helps the tummy muscles to relax

Thus, squatting or using an Indian toilet during pregnancy holds more benefits than harm for a woman. It is also a healthy option to prepare the body for labor and prevent constipation issues. Since the squatting position may make one lose balance, one should take necessary precautions. Also, check with the doctor before using Indian toilet while pregnant. 

[Read : Can Squats Help To Induce Labor?]

FAQ’s

1. Can We Sit in Indian Toilet During The First Trimester?

Sitting in Indian toilet during the first trimester is advisable as it helps in preventing hemorrhoids and constipation. It even strengthens the thigh and abdominal muscles. It is also much more hygienic than the western toilets.

2. How Many Times in a Day Can a Pregnant Woman Visit The Toilet?

During pregnancy, the frequency of using a toilet increases. As a pregnant woman drinks more water to stay hydrated, it also leads to more frequent urination. On an average, a pregnant woman can visit the toilet around 6 times or more. 

Read Also: Frequent Urination During Pregnancy