[Submitted Question]

Everyone says that swimming is a great exercise while pregnant. However, I am worried about the chlorine in the water. Doesn’t it harm the baby?

[WombToBloom]

There was a 2002 study that looked at the connection between swimming in chlorinated pools and risks to the pregnancy. The study was specifically interested in the link between a byproduct of chlorine, trihalomethanes (THMs) and miscarriage, low birth weight, urinary tract problems and neural tube defects. The results were "inconsistent and inconclusive.”

Still, the author of the study called for more research and the monitoring of THMs in swimming pools. THMs occur when chlorine mixes with organic matter such as skin cells, urine, sweat, dirt and some body care products. They tend to be stronger in highly populated, heavily chlorinated pools with low ventilation.

Still, there is no evidence that swimming in a chlorinated pool is risky during pregnancy. In fact, most healthcare professionals insist that the benefits of swimming far outweigh any potential dangers from chlorine exposure.

[Emly]

No.. I don't think so.. You definitely can swim but May be it will be difficult for you in the mid of third trimester!
But In my opinion swimming is not harmful for you or for your baby!

[welyncha]

I think you'll be fine as far as the chlorine goes, and it'll definitely be good for you to swim