Is it hazardous for a pregnant woman or her fetus to practice yoga during pregnancy?
If it is not initially harmful, at what point in the pregnancy should a woman cease hot yoga practice?
How long should a woman recover after giving birth before resuming practice?
Posted by Rebecca on 01/21 at 05:43 AM
Hello Rebecca
A great question! And one that is not black and white to answer? A great rule of thumb, I believe, is to practice what you know.
Please tell me what your level of experience at hot yoga is, how long you have practiced and how many times per week. Then also please tell me how many weeks/months pregnant you are.
I can tell you that I am a mother and practiced Bikram Yoga almost all the way through my pregnancy. (Almost, because we were overseas for about a month in the middle, but I continued right up until my child was born and she was 2 weeks late). It was the greatest thing that I could do. I NEVER had a backache and my breath remained deep and vital and I felt great. It was an excellent way to prepare for childbirth.
You have to be very attentive to how you feel. I could actively control the temperature in my thermostatically controlled state-of-the-art heated studio to within a half of a degree. When I was practicing (or teaching) I ensured the temperature was kept to no higher than body temperature. That is not to say that you can’t have it higher. Opinions are definitely polarized. If you do decide to practice in a hot room then it has to be totally up to you based on what you know, and what your obstetrician or carer advises you. I know that fear and ignorance drives most people’s opinions when it has to do with Hot Yoga even without being pregnant!
So, know the conditions in the room. And you may even have to practice near to a window or door in case you feel the need for a little fresh air. I don’t recommend running in and out of the room, but having a bit of space and maybe a little air flow will help.
I found it exhilarating and energizing and a wonderful experience.
You can do the pregnancy series (there is a video) but that is only 1 hour long and not in a hot room. I did not enjoy it. I really love the whole 90 minute experience. There are some modifications to some poses that your teacher should be able to help you with… or ... just ask the hot yoga doctor! LOL
As for post childbirth. It really depends on your healing. You may have some cuts and tears or grazes, the severity of which will determine your entry. But I know you can start as soon as you like. I did one set of each pose in the hospital room 2 days after my girl was born.
Good luck 
Gabrielle
