Safety precautions for antenatal yoga

Every pregnancy is different. Always consult your yoga teacher, your doctor and midwife for advice concerning your own needs.

Yoga should be learnt and practiced under the guidance of a qualified teacher, using books and cassettes wisely.

You are ultimately responsible for the care of your own body and of course your baby. Always work within your own limits. Don't forget precautions regarding any pre-pregnancy conditions as well as pregnancy-related ones.

Work with awareness and with respect for your body. Adapt your practice to your changing needs. Discontinue postures if they become uncomfortable.

Avoid any movement involving strong use of the abdominal muscles. Lift toddlers by bending the knees and keeping the back straight. Always get up from lying down by first rolling on to your side.

Avoid all strong backward bends.

Be aware of your breath - if you are struggling to breathe steadily in a posture then do not hold the posture.

Avoid strong breathing exercises and do not hold the breath. Concentrate on calming and balancing breaths, such as deep breathing, alternate nostril breathing, breathing meditations.

Stop the exercise or posture that you are doing if you feel pain, dizziness, nausea, discomfort, or are feeling very tired.

Always come out of a posture slowly and gently in the way you have been taught. Avoid any sudden jerky movements.

Discontinue practice if you experience any bleeding or if you have a temperature or a fever. Consult your doctor or midwife immediately.

Take care not to force yourself into any position. This may overstretch and damage your muscles and joints, which are especially soft during pregnancy.

Use a non-slip surface to work on when necessary.

Take care of your balance - your centre of gravity is changing throughout pregnancy. Use the wall or a chair as necessary.