Crossing Legs While Pregnant – Is It Safe?

It is crucial to keep maintain a proper posture when sitting to avoid body pain during pregnancy. Sitting with your legs crossed is known to raise blood pressure and can also disrupt blood circulation, causing varicose veins. Some pregnant women are advised to sit cross-legged. For many people, it is a preferred habit to sit cross-legged during mealtimes. A good posture while sitting improves muscle function, mental health, concentration and blood flow. The most important reason is that it helps in the progression of labour. Expectant ladies should avoid a sedentary lifestyle by stretching, taking walks, and sitting up straight. It is safe to say that women can sit cross-legged during pregnancy, as long as it feels comfortable.

Is Sitting Cross-legged Safe During Pregnancy?

All pregnant women aim at a healthy pregnancy by taking care of matters that need attention. One cannot deny the fact that ‘Tailor Sitting’ opens up the pelvis and allows the baby to move down freely, preparing the expectant mom for labour. Keeping the advantages in mind, some women consciously prefer sitting cross legged in pregnancy while doing household chores, for religious ceremonies, or while doing yoga and meditation.

Who Should Completely Avoid Sitting in Indian Style When Pregnant?

Despite the multiple benefits of sitting cross-legged, physiotherapists do not recommend it for some pregnant ladies. Following are some women who should completely avoid sitting in Indian style when pregnant:

• Pregnant ladies who suffer from pelvic girdle pain (PGP) should avoid sitting in a cross-legged position.
• Another reason is symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD), which tends to put the pelvis in an asymmetrical position. It causes an uneven distribution of weight on the legs, causing strain and discomfort.
• Sometimes, sitting cross-legged for extended periods puts pressure on the legs and ankles, restricting circulation and causing swelling or varicose veins.
• Some ladies develop back strain if they sit for long hours in any position, and not just the cross-legged position alone.

Benefits of Sitting Cross-legged for Pregnant Women

Here are some of the benefits of sitting cross-legged for pregnant women:

1. Improved Posture

Encourages an upright posture, reducing strain on the lower back.

2. Enhanced Blood Circulation

Helps maintain healthy blood flow, reducing swelling and varicose veins.

3. Pelvic Floor Strengthening

Engages crucial muscles for childbirth, aiding in delivery and postpartum recovery.

4. Reduced Abdominal Pressure

Alleviates pressure on the abdomen, providing comfort in the later stages of pregnancy.

5. Encourages Relaxation and Mindfulness

Promotes a sense of calm, reducing stress and anxiety while preparing for labour.

Risks of Sitting Cross-legged While Pregnant

Here are a few risks associated with sitting cross-legged during pregnancy:

1. Restricted Blood Flow

Prolonged periods of sitting cross-legged may lead to reduced blood flow to the legs and feet, potentially exacerbating issues related to swelling and varicose veins.

2. Strain on Joints

Sitting in this position for extended periods may put additional stress on the hip and knee joints, which can be uncomfortable or painful for some pregnant women.

3. Discomfort in Later Stages

As pregnancy progresses, the expanding abdomen may make it increasingly uncomfortable to sit cross-legged due to the pressure on the belly.

4. Potential for Nerve Compression

Incorrect posture or prolonged cross-legged sitting can lead to compression of nerves, causing numbness or tingling in the legs.

5. Risk of Falls

Pregnancy changes a woman’s centre of gravity. Sitting cross-legged may increase the risk of losing balance and potentially falling, especially in the later stages of pregnancy when the balance is already compromised.

Precautions to Take While Sitting Cross-legged During Pregnancy

A pregnant women must take the following precautions while sitting cross-legged during pegnancy: 

1. Comfort and Support

Choose a comfortable surface to sit on, such as a cushion or a yoga mat, to provide support to your back and pelvis. This helps reduce strain on your lower back and hips.

2. Avoid Excessive Pressure

Be mindful of any discomfort or pressure you might feel on your legs or feet. If you experience any numbness or tingling, change your position to relieve the pressure.

3. Maintain Good Posture

Sit up straight and avoid slouching. This helps maintain the natural curvature of your spine and reduces strain on your back and neck.

4. Take Breaks

Avoid sitting cross-legged for extended periods of time. Take breaks to stretch and change your position. This helps improve blood circulation and reduces the risk of developing blood clots.

5. Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to your body’s signals. If sitting cross-legged becomes uncomfortable or if you start to feel any pain or discomfort, change your position or stand up for a while.

Alternatives of Sitting Cross-legged for Pregnant Women

If sitting cross-legged isn’t comfortable or safe for you during pregnancy, there are several alternatives to consider. You might opt for a pregnancy ball, which offers similar benefits while promoting good posture and relieving back pain. Another option is to use a chair with strong lumbar support. Regular exercise and stretching can also help alleviate discomfort and maintain good posture. Some find relief by using a footrest or cushion under their feet while sitting, reducing pressure on the lower back and improving leg circulation. A wider-seated chair can provide more space for your growing belly, reducing discomfort. Always consult your healthcare provider before making significant changes during pregnancy.

Other Sitting Positions You Should Avoid During Pregnancy

Here are some of the alternative positions that you must avoid when pregnant:

• Twisting and torquing
• Sitting on the floor with straight legs
• Deep squatting
• Tightly crossing legs while pregnant
• Sitting on unsupportive surfaces

FAQs

1. Can Sitting Cross-legged During Pregnancy Harm My Baby?

Crossing legs during pregnancy is generally safe. However, if it causes discomfort, numbness, or any unusual sensations, it’s best to switch positions. Always prioritise comfort and consult your healthcare provider if concerned.

2. Is Sitting Cross-legged Good for Labour?

Sitting cross-legged can be a comfortable position for some during early labour, as it allows relaxation and conserves energy. However, as labour progresses, more active positions are typically recommended for aiding the birthing process. Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance.

The article proves beyond doubt that body mechanics should be proper during pregnancy to minimise discomfort. The most important step in achieving body mechanics is good posture. Sitting Indian style or sitting criss cross while pregnant is quite comfortable and improves blood circulation. It also stretches and maximises the flexibility of the thigh muscles. Hence, upright positions such as the cross-legged positions are great in bringing the baby to the cervix and aid in safer and easier delivery.

References/Resources:

1. Why Do Some Pregnant Women Get Varicose Veins?; kidshealth.org; https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/veins.html

2. Pregnancy and Posture; stanfordchildrens.org; https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=pregnancy-and-posture-134-8

3. Do’s and Don’ts During Pregnancy; sutterhealth.org; https://www.sutterhealth.org/health/pregnancy/dos-donts

4. Pelvic pain in pregnancy (SPD); tommys.org; https://www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information/pregnancy-complications/pelvic-pain-pregnancy

5. Pelvic girdle pain and pregnancy; rcog.org.uk; https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information/pelvic-girdle-pain-and-pregnancy/

6. Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction; my.clevelandclinic.org; https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22122-symphysis-pubis-dysfunction

7. Varicose veins; mayoclinic.org; https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/varicose-veins/symptoms-causes/syc-20350643

8. Varicose veins; medlineplus.gov; https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001109.htm

Also Read:

Bending Over while Pregnant
Benefits of Good Posture during Pregnancy
Best Standing & Sitting Positions in Pregnancy
Is It Safe to Stand Long Hours during Pregnancy?