Every third woman falls at least once during pregnancy. Of those who fell, 10 percent fell repeatedly, and another 5 percent got bruises or injuries that were potentially dangerous [1]. The problem is being researched to better understand the risk factors.
Do pregnant women fall more often than non-pregnant women?
They do. Moreover, most falls occur in the sixth or seventh month [2]. As the stomach grows, the center of gravity shifts, and they have little time to adapt to their new bodies.
Studies show that pregnant women younger than 24 years old fall and get injured twice as often as mothers over 35 [1, 2]. Older expectant mothers may be more realistic about how pregnancy has changed their physical abilities.
As banal as it may seem, many falls occur because of a reluctance to hold on to the railing when taking the stairs while wearing heels [2]. Slippery surfaces are also among the top risks.
Is the baby protected in the mother's belly?
During pregnancy, the baby is protected by the uterus and amniotic fluid. In the first trimester, when the placenta is not yet formed, and there is no belly bump, minor injuries usually do not harm the baby. But any falls that occur after the 20th week of pregnancy merit a consultation with your doctor, even if it seems like everything is okay [3].
Why are falls dangerous for the baby?
In the later stages of pregnancy, when the baby is already large and heavy enough, a fall (not necessarily on the stomach) can lead to placental abruption, rupture of membranes, and premature birth [2].
When should an ambulance be called?
You need to go directly to the hospital after a fall if you have:
Those symptoms may appear a day or two after the fall, so go to the hospital and report the fall as soon as you get there. The same is true if you stop feeling the baby move.
