Can You OR even Should you Snorkel While Pregnant?

Taking a babymoon to the Caribbean? Don’t be afraid to put snorkeling on your to-do list.

Can you OR Should you Snorkel while Pregnant?  While scuba diving isn’t recommended by medical organizations like the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology because an unborn baby’s immature lungs can filter the nitrogen bubbles that can form, this same group and others give a green light to snorkeling. In fact, they say that snorkeling as well as lap swimming can be fun ways to stay active during pregnancy while using the buoyancy of the water to alleviate lower back pain and reduce pressure on knees and ankles.

That said, there are a Couple of Considerations BEFORE you jump in and Snorkel while Pregnant.

1. Check with your Doctor. Let your obstetrician know you intend to travel as well as anticipated activities on the trip. Conditions such as multiples (twins, triplets or more); a history of premature labor; severe anemia; and pregnancy-induced high blood pressure, to name a few, could curtail the ability to take a flight and participate in sports.
2. Choose Your Location Wisely. Look for a reef in a calm bay near a beach. Big waves and uneven footing can increase the risk of falling and getting hurt. Good suggestions include the underwater snorkel trail in Trunk Bay, St. John; Lac Bay/Sorobon Beach on the east coast of Bonaire and several spots along the Belize Barrier Reef and Ambergris Caye. Even if you know how to swim, its often a good idea to wear a life vest or carry a swim float. This way, even if there’s no trouble, these devices can give you a chance to momentarily stop swimming and float to rest.
3. Have A Buddy System. Pregnant or not, never go out snorkeling alone. Always have a buddy. If you snorkel in a group, choose one designated person to be your buddy and stay close to them while snorkeling.
4. Resist the Urge to Dive. Sure, there might be a pretty shell lying on the sea floor or curious marine life that you’d like to look at more closely. However, don’t hold your breath and dive down, even if it’s only 4 to 5 feet. Babies need a constant supply of oxygen.
5. Keep Cool. The temperature of the Caribbean Sea water is often cooler than the air especially on a hot sunny day, therefore you may not feel hot. However, remember that your back is usually exposed when snorkeling. Wear a T-shirt or long sleeve rash guard to prevent a sun burn. Back on shore, keep hydrated (water is best) and keep cool with a hat, coverup and a nice shady place to sit and enjoy your babymoon.