Quick verdict: ❌ Best avoided. Wakesurfing is not considered safe during pregnancy due to the high risk of falls, abdominal trauma, and potential complications like placental abruption or preterm labor. While the water itself is low-impact, the balance challenges, boat speed, and risk of collision make it a high-risk activity for expecting parents. There are plenty of safer water-based alternatives to stay active.
You’re standing on the dock at sunset, the boat’s engine humming, and your usual wakesurf board feels suddenly unfamiliar. Your hand drifts to your belly—just a few weeks along, but the question gnaws at you: is wakesurfing safe during pregnancy? Maybe you’ve already taken a few runs this season and now you’re panicking. Or maybe you’re just trying to decide whether to skip your usual summer ritual. Either way, you’re not alone. Many expecting parents find themselves Googling at 11 pm, searching for a clear answer.
Here’s the bottom line: most obstetricians and sports medicine experts recommend avoiding wakesurfing while pregnant. The risks—falls, abdominal trauma, and potential complications—aren’t worth the thrill. But don’t worry: this doesn’t mean you have to give up water sports entirely. We’ll walk you through the evidence, trimester by trimester, explain why wakesurfing is riskier than it seems, and share plenty of safer alternatives to keep you active and happy on the water.
| Trimester | Verdict | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First trimester | ❌ Avoid | Highest risk of miscarriage; falls or abdominal trauma could harm the developing embryo. Hormonal changes also affect balance and joint stability. |
| Second trimester | ❌ Avoid | Risk of placental abruption or preterm labor increases with falls or high-impact collisions. Your center of gravity shifts, making balance harder. |
| Third trimester | ❌ Avoid | Even low-impact falls can trigger contractions or placental issues. The risk of injury to you and your baby is too high. |
| Breastfeeding | ⚠️ Caution | Physically safe once you’ve healed from delivery, but avoid if you’re still recovering from a C-section or pelvic floor issues. |
What is wakesurfing?
Wakesurfing is a water sport where you ride the wake (the wave created by a moving boat) on a small, buoyant board without being directly towed by a rope. Unlike wakeboarding, where you hold onto a handle, wakesurfing relies on the boat’s speed and the shape of its wake to keep you moving. You start by holding a short rope to get up, then drop it and surf the wave using your balance and body weight.
The sport has grown in popularity because it’s accessible to beginners and feels more like traditional surfing. Wakesurf boards are shorter and wider than wakeboards, making them easier to maneuver. Boats designed for wakesurfing have ballast tanks that can be filled with water to create a larger, more surfable wake. Speeds are typically slower than wakeboarding—around 10-13 mph—but the risk of falling is still significant, especially for new riders.
For many, wakesurfing is a fun way to enjoy the water with friends or family. But when you’re pregnant, the dynamics of the sport—balance, speed, and the potential for falls—take on new risks.
Is wakesurfing safe during pregnancy?
First, the risk of falling is high, even for experienced riders. Pregnancy changes your center of gravity, making it harder to stay balanced on the board. Hormonal shifts, like the increase in relaxin (a hormone that loosens your ligaments to prepare for childbirth), can also make your joints less stable. This combination increases your risk of falls, which could lead to abdominal trauma—a serious concern at any stage of pregnancy.
Second, the speed of the boat and the force of the wake itself can be risky. While wakesurfing speeds are slower than wakeboarding, the boat’s movement creates a powerful wave that can knock you off balance. A fall at even 10 mph can cause significant impact, especially if you land on your belly or collide with the board or boat. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) warns that any activity with a high risk of abdominal trauma should be avoided during pregnancy, and wakesurfing falls squarely into that category.
Third, there’s the risk of complications like placental abruption (where the placenta separates from the uterus) or preterm labor. These are rare but serious conditions that can be triggered by trauma to the abdomen. The NHS (UK) advises avoiding activities where falls or collisions are likely, and wakesurfing is explicitly mentioned as a high-risk sport for pregnant people.
Finally, there’s the risk of dehydration or overheating. Wakesurfing is physically demanding, and spending time in the sun without proper hydration can lead to heat exhaustion—a risk that’s already elevated during pregnancy. The CDC recommends staying hydrated and avoiding overheating, especially in the first trimester, when your baby’s neural tube is developing.
Most obstetricians and sports medicine doctors agree: the risks of wakesurfing during pregnancy outweigh the benefits. If you’re looking for a way to stay active on the water, there are plenty of safer alternatives (which we’ll cover later).
Is wakesurfing safe in the first trimester of pregnancy?
No, wakesurfing is not safe in the first trimester. This is one of the most critical periods of your baby’s development, and the risks of wakesurfing are particularly high during these early weeks.
The first trimester is when your baby’s major organs and neural tube (which becomes the brain and spinal cord) are forming. This process is delicate, and trauma to your abdomen—even from a seemingly minor fall—could disrupt it. The risk of miscarriage is also highest in the first 12 weeks, and while most miscarriages are caused by chromosomal abnormalities, abdominal trauma can be a contributing factor.
Your body is also undergoing significant changes that affect your balance and coordination. The hormone relaxin, which loosens your ligaments to prepare for childbirth, starts increasing in the first trimester. This can make your joints less stable, increasing your risk of falls or sprains. Combine this with the shifting center of gravity caused by your growing uterus, and you’re more likely to lose your balance on a wakesurf board.
Additionally, the first trimester is when many pregnant people experience nausea, fatigue, and dizziness—symptoms that can make it harder to focus on the physical demands of wakesurfing. If you’re already feeling off-balance on land, you’re even more likely to fall in the water.
ACOG recommends avoiding activities with a high risk of falling or abdominal trauma during pregnancy, and wakesurfing checks both boxes. If you’re in your first trimester, it’s best to sit this one out and opt for safer water-based activities, like swimming or paddleboarding.
Can you wakesurf in the second trimester without risking miscarriage?
No, wakesurfing is still not safe in the second trimester. While the risk of miscarriage decreases after the first trimester, the risks of wakesurfing shift to other serious complications, like placental abruption or preterm labor.
In the second trimester, your baby is growing rapidly, and your uterus is expanding to accommodate them. This changes your center of gravity even more, making it harder to stay balanced on a wakesurf board. The hormone relaxin continues to loosen your joints, increasing your risk of falls or injuries like sprains or strains. A fall at this stage could cause trauma to your abdomen, which could lead to placental abruption—a condition where the placenta separates from the uterine wall. Placental abruption is a medical emergency that can deprive your baby of oxygen and nutrients, and it often requires immediate delivery.
Preterm labor is another concern. While it’s more common in the third trimester, it can happen as early as 20 weeks. The impact of a fall or collision could trigger contractions or other signs of preterm labor. The NHS advises avoiding activities where falls or abdominal trauma are likely, and wakesurfing is a prime example.
There’s also the risk of overheating. The second trimester is when many pregnant people start to feel warmer due to increased blood flow and metabolism. Wakesurfing is a physically demanding sport, and spending time in the sun without proper hydration can lead to heat exhaustion or dehydration. Both can be dangerous for you and your baby.
If you’re in your second trimester and missing the water, consider safer alternatives like swimming, paddleboarding, or aquatic yoga. These activities allow you to stay active without the high risks associated with wakesurfing.
Is wakesurfing allowed in the third trimester or should you stop?
No, wakesurfing is not safe in the third trimester, and it’s best to stop entirely. This is the stage of pregnancy where the risks of falls, abdominal trauma, and preterm labor are at their highest.
In the third trimester, your belly is significantly larger, and your center of gravity has shifted even more. This makes it harder to stay balanced on a wakesurf board, increasing your risk of falls. Even a minor fall can cause significant trauma to your abdomen, which could trigger contractions or placental abruption. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) advises avoiding any activity where falls or collisions are likely, and wakesurfing is no exception.
Your joints are also at their loosest due to the hormone relaxin, which can make it harder to stabilize yourself on the board. This increases your risk of sprains, strains, or other injuries. Additionally, your balance is compromised by the weight of your growing baby, making it more likely that you’ll lose your footing and fall.
Preterm labor is a major concern in the third trimester. While most babies born after 37 weeks are considered full-term, labor that starts before 37 weeks can lead to complications for your baby. A fall or collision while wakesurfing could trigger contractions or other signs of preterm labor, such as cramping, bleeding, or fluid leakage. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to call your doctor immediately.
There’s also the risk of overheating. The third trimester is when many pregnant people feel the warmest, and spending time in the sun while wakesurfing can lead to heat exhaustion or dehydration. Both can be dangerous for you and your baby, especially as you approach your due date.
If you’re in your third trimester and looking for ways to stay active, opt for low-impact activities like walking in water, prenatal yoga, or stationary biking. These are much safer for you and your baby as you prepare for delivery.
How many minutes of wakesurfing is safe during pregnancy?
There is no safe amount of time for wakesurfing during pregnancy. Because of the high risk of falls, abdominal trauma, and complications like placental abruption or preterm labor, most obstetricians recommend avoiding wakesurfing entirely while pregnant.
Even a single fall or collision can cause serious harm to you or your baby, regardless of how long you’ve been on the water. The risks aren’t tied to duration—they’re tied to the nature of the activity itself. Wakesurfing requires balance, coordination, and quick reflexes, all of which are compromised during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and your shifting center of gravity. A fall can happen in seconds, and the impact can be significant.
If you’re used to spending 30 minutes or an hour wakesurfing, it’s understandable to feel disappointed. But the reality is that no amount of time is considered safe. The ACOG and NHS both advise against activities with a high risk of falling or abdominal trauma, and wakesurfing fits this description at every stage of pregnancy.
Instead of focusing on time limits, consider safer water-based alternatives that allow you to enjoy the water without the risks. We’ll cover these in detail later in the article.
What are the risks of falling while wakesurfing when pregnant?
Falling while wakesurfing during pregnancy poses several serious risks to you and your baby. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Abdominal trauma: The most immediate risk of a fall is trauma to your abdomen. Even a seemingly minor fall can cause significant impact, especially if you land on your belly or collide with the board or boat. Abdominal trauma can lead to complications like placental abruption, where the placenta separates from the uterine wall. This is a medical emergency that can deprive your baby of oxygen and nutrients, often requiring immediate delivery. The risk of placental abruption is highest in the second and third trimesters, but it can occur at any stage of pregnancy.
2. Preterm labor: A fall or collision can trigger contractions or other signs of preterm labor. Preterm labor is when your body starts preparing for delivery before 37 weeks of pregnancy. While some babies born after 34 weeks do well, preterm birth can lead to complications like breathing difficulties, feeding problems, and long-term health issues. The impact of a fall can cause your uterus to contract, which may lead to preterm labor. If you experience cramping, bleeding, or fluid leakage after a fall, call your doctor immediately.
3. Miscarriage: In the first trimester, the risk of miscarriage is highest, and abdominal trauma can be a contributing factor. While most miscarriages are caused by chromosomal abnormalities, a fall or collision could disrupt the delicate process of early fetal development. The risk of miscarriage decreases after the first trimester, but it’s still a concern if you experience significant trauma.
4. Joint and ligament injuries: The hormone relaxin, which loosens your ligaments to prepare for childbirth, increases your risk of sprains, strains, or other joint injuries. A fall while wakesurfing could lead to a twisted ankle, knee injury, or even a dislocated joint. These injuries can be painful and may require medical attention, which can be stressful during pregnancy.
5. Overheating and dehydration: Wakesurfing is a physically demanding sport, and spending time in the sun without proper hydration can lead to heat exhaustion or dehydration. Both can be dangerous for you and your baby, especially in the first trimester when your baby’s neural tube is developing. Overheating can also increase your risk of dizziness or fainting, which could lead to a fall or other injury.
6. Psychological stress: Even if a fall doesn’t cause physical harm, the stress and anxiety of falling can take a toll on your mental health. Pregnancy is already a time of heightened emotions, and the fear of falling or injuring your baby can add unnecessary stress. It’s important to prioritize activities that make you feel safe and relaxed.
If you do fall while wakesurfing during pregnancy, it’s important to stop the activity immediately and monitor yourself for any signs of complications. Call your doctor if you experience cramping, bleeding, fluid leakage, or any other unusual symptoms.
Are there pregnancy-safe alternatives to wakesurfing for water sports?
Yes! If you’re missing the water but want to stay safe during pregnancy, there are plenty of low-impact, pregnancy-friendly alternatives to wakesurfing. Here are some of the best options:
- Paddleboarding (SUP): Stand-up paddleboarding is a great way to enjoy the water while staying active. It’s low-impact, improves balance, and strengthens your core—all without the high risk of falls. Stick to calm waters and avoid rough conditions. If you’re new to paddleboarding, start on your knees to reduce the risk of falling.
- Swimming: Swimming is one of the safest and most effective forms of exercise during pregnancy. It’s gentle on your joints, supports your growing belly, and helps you stay cool. Whether you’re doing laps or just floating, swimming is a great way to relax and stay active. Just avoid diving or jumping into the water.
- Aquatic yoga: Aquatic yoga combines the benefits of yoga with the buoyancy of water. It’s a gentle way to stretch, strengthen, and relax without putting stress on your joints. Many pools offer prenatal aquatic yoga classes, which are tailored to the needs of pregnant people.
- Kayaking (low-impact): Kayaking is a great way to explore the water while getting a low-impact workout. Stick to calm waters and avoid rapids or rough conditions. If you’re new to kayaking, go with a partner and wear a life jacket for added safety.
- Walking in water: Walking in waist-deep water is a fantastic way to stay active without putting stress on your joints. The resistance of the water helps strengthen your muscles, and the buoyancy supports your growing belly. You can do this in a pool, lake, or shallow ocean.
- Stationary biking: If you prefer to stay on land, stationary biking is a safe and effective way to get your heart rate up. It’s low-impact, strengthens your legs, and can be done indoors or outdoors. Just make sure to adjust the seat for comfort as your belly grows.
- Prenatal yoga: Prenatal yoga is designed to support your changing body and prepare you for childbirth. It focuses on gentle stretches, breathing techniques, and relaxation. Many studios offer prenatal yoga classes, or you can follow along with online videos at home.
- Tai chi: Tai chi is a slow, flowing form of exercise that improves balance, flexibility, and relaxation. It’s gentle on your joints and can be done indoors or outdoors. Tai chi is a great way to stay active while reducing stress and anxiety.
Each of these alternatives allows you to enjoy the water or stay active without the high risks associated with wakesurfing. Always listen to your body and stop if you feel tired, dizzy, or uncomfortable. If you’re unsure about an activity, check with your doctor before starting.
Does the type of boat or wakesurf board affect safety during pregnancy?
Yes, the type of boat and wakesurf board can affect safety, but neither makes wakesurfing safe during pregnancy. While some equipment may reduce certain risks, the fundamental dangers of the sport—falls, abdominal trauma, and complications—remain unchanged. Here’s how different factors come into play:
Boat type: Boats designed for wakesurfing typically have ballast tanks that can be filled with water to create a larger, more surfable wake. While this makes the sport more accessible, it doesn’t eliminate the risk of falling. In fact, a larger wake can sometimes make it harder to stay balanced, especially for beginners. Additionally, the speed of the boat (usually 10-13 mph) is still fast enough to cause significant impact if you fall or collide with the boat.
Some boats are equipped with features like wake shapers or surf systems that create a more predictable wave. While this might make wakesurfing easier, it doesn’t reduce the risk of abdominal trauma or complications like placental abruption. The NHS advises avoiding activities where falls or collisions are likely, regardless of the equipment used.
Wakesurf board: Wakesurf boards come in different shapes and sizes, and some are designed to be more stable than others. For example, larger boards with more volume are generally easier to balance on, while smaller boards are more maneuverable but less stable. However, no wakesurf board can eliminate the risk of falling during pregnancy. Your shifting center of gravity and loosened joints (thanks to the hormone relaxin) make it harder to stay balanced, even on the most stable board.
Some boards are marketed as "beginner-friendly" or "low-impact," but these terms don’t translate to pregnancy-safe. The risk of abdominal trauma or complications remains the same, regardless of the board you use. ACOG recommends avoiding activities with a high risk of falling or abdominal trauma, and wakesurfing fits this description no matter what equipment you choose.
Life jackets: Wearing a life jacket is always a good idea when participating in water sports, but it doesn’t make wakesurfing safe during pregnancy. A life jacket can help keep you afloat if you fall, but it won’t protect your abdomen from trauma or prevent complications like placental abruption. Additionally, life jackets aren’t designed to support your changing body during pregnancy, and they may not fit comfortably as your belly grows.
Bottom line: While certain boats or boards may make wakesurfing easier or more enjoyable, they don’t eliminate the risks associated with the sport during pregnancy. If you’re looking for a safer way to enjoy the water, consider alternatives like paddleboarding, swimming, or aquatic yoga.
Can wakesurfing cause placental abruption or preterm labor?
Yes, wakesurfing can increase the risk of placental abruption or preterm labor. Both conditions are serious and can have significant consequences for you and your baby. Here’s how wakesurfing could contribute to these complications:
Placental abruption: Placental abruption occurs when the placenta separates from the uterine wall before delivery. This can deprive your baby of oxygen and nutrients, and it often requires immediate medical attention. The most common cause of placental abruption is trauma to the abdomen, such as a fall, collision, or impact. Wakesurfing poses a high risk of abdominal trauma due to the likelihood of falls or collisions with the board or boat. Even a seemingly minor fall can cause significant impact, especially if you land on your belly.
The risk of placental abruption is highest in the second and third trimesters, but it can occur at any stage of pregnancy. Symptoms include sudden abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, and contractions. If you experience any of these symptoms after wakesurfing, call your doctor immediately.
Preterm labor: Preterm labor is when your body starts preparing for delivery before 37 weeks of pregnancy. While some babies born after 34 weeks do well, preterm birth can lead to complications like breathing difficulties, feeding problems, and long-term health issues. The impact of a fall or collision while wakesurfing can trigger contractions or other signs of preterm labor. This is because the trauma can cause your uterus to contract, which may lead to cervical changes or the rupture of membranes.
Symptoms of preterm labor include regular contractions, cramping, lower back pain, pelvic pressure, and fluid leakage. If you experience any of these symptoms after wakesurfing, it’s important to call your doctor right away. The NHS advises avoiding activities where falls or abdominal trauma are likely, and wakesurfing is a prime example of a high-risk sport.
Other factors: In addition to the risk of falls, wakesurfing can contribute to other factors that increase the risk of placental abruption or preterm labor. For example, dehydration or overheating can trigger contractions or other complications. Wakesurfing is a physically demanding sport, and spending time in the sun without proper hydration can lead to heat exhaustion or dehydration. Both can be dangerous for you and your baby, especially in the second and third trimesters.
If you’re concerned about the risks of wakesurfing, talk to your doctor. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and the stage of your pregnancy. In the meantime, consider safer alternatives like swimming, paddleboarding, or aquatic yoga.
Is wakesurfing safer than wakeboarding or waterskiing during pregnancy?
No, wakesurfing is not safer than wakeboarding or waterskiing during pregnancy. While wakesurfing may feel less intense because you’re not holding onto a rope, it still poses significant risks to you and your baby. Here’s how the three sports compare:
| Sport | Risk level | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Wakesurfing | ❌ High | No rope for stability, high risk of falls, abdominal trauma, and complications like placental abruption or preterm labor. Balance is harder due to shifting center of gravity. |
| Wakeboarding | ❌ High | Holding onto a rope reduces fall risk slightly, but higher speeds (18-25 mph) and jumps increase impact risk. Falls can still cause abdominal trauma. |
| Waterskiing | ❌ High | Similar to wakeboarding but with even higher speeds (25-35 mph). Falls at these speeds can cause severe impact and trauma to the abdomen. |
Wakesurfing: While wakesurfing speeds are slower than wakeboarding or waterskiing (around 10-13 mph), the lack of a rope makes it harder to stay balanced. This increases your risk of falling, especially as your center of gravity shifts during pregnancy. A fall while wakesurfing can cause abdominal trauma, which could lead to complications like placental abruption or preterm labor. The ACOG advises avoiding activities with a high risk of falling or abdominal trauma, and wakesurfing fits this description.
Wakeboarding: Wakeboarding involves holding onto a rope while being towed behind a boat at speeds of 18-25 mph. While the rope provides some stability, the higher speeds and jumps increase the risk of falls and impact. A fall at these speeds can cause significant trauma to your abdomen, which could harm your baby. The NHS recommends avoiding high-speed water sports during pregnancy due to the risk of falls and collisions.
Waterskiing: Waterskiing is similar to wakeboarding but typically involves even higher speeds (25-35 mph). The risk of falling and abdominal trauma is even greater, making it one of the most dangerous water sports during pregnancy. The CDC advises against activities with a high risk of injury, and waterskiing is a prime example.
Bottom line: None of these sports are safe during pregnancy. While wakesurfing may feel less intense, the risks of falls, abdominal trauma, and complications are still too high. If you’re looking for a safer way to enjoy the water, consider alternatives like paddleboarding, swimming, or aquatic yoga.
Safer alternatives to wakesurfing during pregnancy
If you’re missing the water but want to stay safe during pregnancy, there are plenty of low-impact, pregnancy-friendly alternatives to wakesurfing. Here are some of the best options, along with why they’re a great choice:
- Paddleboarding (SUP): Stand-up paddleboarding is a fantastic way to enjoy the water while staying active. It’s low-impact, improves balance, and strengthens your core—all without the high risk of falls. Stick to calm waters and avoid rough conditions. If you’re new to paddleboarding, start on your knees to reduce the risk of falling. Many pregnant people find paddleboarding to be a relaxing and enjoyable way to connect with nature.
- Swimming: Swimming is one of the safest and most effective forms of exercise during pregnancy. It’s gentle on your joints, supports your growing belly, and helps you stay cool. Whether you’re doing laps or just floating, swimming is a great way to relax and stay active. Just avoid diving or jumping into the water. The buoyancy of the water can also relieve back pain and swelling, making it a favorite among expecting parents.
- Aquatic yoga: Aquatic yoga combines the benefits of yoga with the buoyancy of water. It’s a gentle way to stretch, strengthen, and relax without putting stress on your joints. Many pools offer prenatal aquatic yoga classes, which are tailored to the needs of pregnant people. The water provides resistance, helping you build strength and flexibility while keeping you cool. It’s also a great way to meet other expecting parents and share tips and experiences.
- Kayaking (low-impact): Kayaking is a great way to explore the water while getting a low-impact workout. Stick to calm waters and avoid rapids or rough conditions. If you’re new to kayaking, go with a partner and wear a life jacket for added safety. Kayaking can be a peaceful and meditative activity, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of nature while staying active. Just be sure to listen to your body and take breaks as needed.
- Walking in water: Walking in waist-deep water is a fantastic way to stay active without putting stress on your joints. The resistance of the water helps strengthen your muscles, and the buoyancy supports your growing belly. You can do this in a pool, lake, or shallow ocean. It’s a great way to get your heart rate up while staying cool and comfortable. Many pregnant people find water walking to be a refreshing and enjoyable way to exercise.
- Stationary biking: If you prefer to stay on land, stationary biking is a safe and effective way to get your heart rate up. It’s low-impact, strengthens your legs, and can be done indoors or outdoors. Just make sure to adjust the seat for comfort as your belly grows. Stationary biking is a great way to stay active without putting stress on your joints. It’s also a convenient option if you prefer to exercise at home or in a gym.
- Prenatal yoga: Prenatal yoga is designed to support your changing body and prepare you for childbirth. It focuses on gentle stretches, breathing techniques, and relaxation. Many studios offer prenatal yoga classes, or you can follow along with online videos at home. Prenatal yoga can help reduce stress, improve flexibility, and strengthen your body for labor. It’s also a great way to connect with other expecting parents and share experiences.
- Tai chi: Tai chi is a slow, flowing form of exercise that improves balance, flexibility, and relaxation. It’s gentle on your joints and can be done indoors or outdoors. Tai chi is a great way to stay active while reducing stress and anxiety. Many pregnant people find it to be a calming and meditative practice. It’s also a low-impact way to build strength and improve your posture as your belly grows.
Each of these alternatives allows you to enjoy the water or stay active without the high risks associated with wakesurfing. Always listen to your body and stop if you feel tired, dizzy, or uncomfortable. If you’re unsure about an activity, check with your doctor before starting.
Water sports safety during pregnancy: at a glance
If you’re wondering how wakesurfing compares to other water sports during pregnancy, this table breaks down the safety verdict for 10 popular activities. Remember: even "low-risk" activities should be done with caution, and it’s always best to check with your doctor before trying something new.
| Activity | Verdict | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wakeboarding | ❌ Avoid | High speeds (18-25 mph) and jumps increase risk of falls and abdominal trauma. |
| Waterskiing | ❌ Avoid | Even higher speeds (25-35 mph) make falls more dangerous. High risk of injury. |
| Jet skiing | ❌ Avoid | High speeds, risk of falls, and potential for collisions make it unsafe. |
| Parasailing | ❌ Avoid | Risk of falls from height, sudden drops, and harness pressure on abdomen. |
| Kiteboarding | ❌ Avoid | High speeds, unpredictable winds, and risk of falls make it too risky. |
| Surfing | ❌ Avoid | High risk of falls, abdominal trauma, and collisions with the board. |
| Whitewater rafting | ❌ Avoid | Rough waters, risk of falls, and potential for collisions with rocks or other rafters. |
| Scuba diving | ❌ Avoid | Risk of decompression sickness and oxygen toxicity for the baby. Never safe during pregnancy. |
| Snorkeling | ⚠️ Caution | Safe in calm, shallow waters, but avoid deep diving or rough conditions. Stay close to shore. |
| Tubing (behind a boat) | ❌ Avoid | High risk of falls, collisions, and abdominal trauma from sudden stops or turns. |
Myth vs. fact: wakesurfing during pregnancy
There’s a lot of misinformation out there about wakesurfing and pregnancy. Let’s clear up some common myths with the facts:
Myth: "Wakesurfing is
