PUBLISHED 11/13/2006
Participating in a race while you're pregnant is fine, as long as you don't push the pace. (Save the pushing for labor.) The baby usually receives about 20 percent of your blood flow, but during hard efforts that drops to about five percent, which is not good for the fetus. Strenuous running can also lead to overheating. So play it safe and keep your pace conversational. I stopped racing at 15 weeks with both my pregnancies but enjoyed casual events until delivery. If you experience any leaking fluid, bleeding, or pain, or notice decreased fetal movement, stop running and see your doctor before resuming. And of course, keep your obstetrician advised about your running throughout your pregnancy.
Kari Anne Bertrand, M.D., is a 2:47 marathoner and a California-based OB-GYN who has worked with many pregnant runners.
