Choosing the Right Footwear for Pregnancy
July 3, 2010 11:36 am Pregnancy HealthA number of studies conducted globally have found that the pregnant women who do not resist the resist the temptation of going along with the foot fashion and wear uncomfortable shoes, notably the high heel ones, are likely to face some kind of problem during this period.
Pregnancy results in hormonal changes and weight gain. The ovaries begin to release relaxin, a hormone which results in softening of muscles and ligaments. What happens when you wear high heels is that the body balance and posture alters and there is lot of strain on your back and knees. It results in pain in foot, legs and back and heightens the risk of falling down. And, falling down could be traumatic for mother and is definitely not good for baby in the womb. It can create pregnancy complications. So, the choice of right foot is of immense importance. There are very good chances of finding the right shoes which are quite trendy and fashionable and, at the same time, are comfortable and supportive of pregnancy.
Here are some of the tips on the selection of the best shoes in this time:
1. Say no to the flip flops and ballet bumps. Instead, wear well fitted, round toed and low heeled shoes. Heel shall not be any more than 3 centimeters. Similarly, the arch of the shoe shall support the feet arch.
2. Wear shoes which absorb the shock and prevent pain in the knees and the back. There shall, ideally, be proper cushioning in the shoe.
3. Do check the material from which the sole of shoe is made. It shall not be slippery at all. At the same time, it shall not be very heavy.
4. Some people would recommend ‘negative heel’ shoes in which the heel is a little lower than the other part of foot. But, it is better to judge on your own which shoe is able to balance the body weight better.
Pregnant women shall never ignore the importance of the right footwear. In the last six months or so of the pregnancy, the center of gravity of the body keeps on changing consequently increasing the chances of falling down. The right footwear is able to carry your weight, maintains body balance and absorbs the shock. It also helps to keep on massaging the feet to improve the blood circulation and prevent the occurrence of cramps. This is good pregnancy exercise. Some would even suggest that the stockings used shall be medicated so that foot hygiene is maintained in totality.