Home | Timeline | Men's Info | Personal_ Calendar |Baby_ Names | Health | Genetics | Weight Gain | Picture_Gallery | Books | Shopping(USA) | Shopping(UK) |Multiples |  Pregnancy_ Loss | Forum | Disclaimer | FAQs

Your Questions Answered... 

Back to Questions

Q

I am concerned that my girlfriend may be doing too much heavy lifting.  She has a 2 and a 3 year old that require a lot of attention and are often wanting to be picked up.  When I am around, I pick them up before she gets to them.  She is in her second month.  What is too much weight to lift?  I am mainly concerned for the fact I don't want her to miscarry.  Am I worrying too much?  This is all new to me.

A

Even though miscarriage is normally not brought on by every day activities, you are wise to try to persuade your girlfriend to avoid any heavy lifting. The obvious follow-on question is "How much weight is 'heavy' lifting?"  The answer is that it depends on how strong she is.

If your girlfriend is at all delicate or has had a previous miscarriages, then she would be well advised to avoid ALL lifting. 

If she is used to lifting and carrying the children around, then she will probably be strong enough.  Maybe both at the same time could be too much. She should also take care to lift properly (bending knees, upright & straight back).  If she feels uncomfortable in any way (like hot sweats or tiredness), then she should lie down and rest for at least an hour.

The most important time to be extra careful is during the first three months.  It is during this time that the placenta attaches to the uterine wall and is at most risk.  In later pregnancy lifting should be avoided firstly because there is a large lump in the way which makes it difficult and secondly to avoid premature stimulation of the birth.

In conclusion, yes you are probably worrying too much (such is the man's role).  However, be sure that she does not try to lift the car without a jack or carry ANYTHING if you are moving house.

Back to Questions

.

Home | Men_ &_ Pregnancy | Timeline | Personal_ Calendar | Baby_ Names | Health | Genetics | Books | Pregnancy_ Loss | Multiple_Pregnancies | Forum  | Gallery | Shopping(USA) | Shopping(UK) | Disclaimer | Privacy_ Policy | Glossary | FAQs  

All information provided on this web site is for the purpose of education, information & discussion only and is not a replacement or substitute for consultations with your medical practitioner.  If you have ANY concerns about your health, please see your doctor immediately and do not rely solely on information found here or anywhere else on the internet.