Are high heels safe during pregnancy? An expert weighs in!
November 5, 2012
(1 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)
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Kourtney Kardashian wore them throughout her pregnancy. So did Jessica Simpson and Snooki. Rosie Pope even has a show about it – Pregnant in Heels! But is it safe?
“The comfort of high heels is questionable under any circumstances, but when you’re pregnant the question of health and safety become important factors,” says Dr. Ezriel Kornel, a principal surgeon at of Brain & Spine Surgeons of New York and assistant clinical professor at the Cornell University School of Medicine.
“Some studies show that high heels can flatten the back and by making the center of gravity higher in the body. As a result, it puts more stress on the lower back which can lead to earlier deterioration of the discs.”
Not only does your balance change during pregnancy (especially during the last trimester) but your feet do also. Dr. Kornel says that feet can change up to two sizes during pregnancy – and a (totally unscientific) poll of my friends reveals that your shoe size may actually go up after baby is born!
Dr. Kornel goes on to say that not only can high heels put pressure on your back, but you are also more likely to fall and not only injure yourself, but also possibly your baby.
The good is that you don’t need to pack up your high heels as soon as the pregnancy test is positive.
“If high-heels do result in back aches related to changes in the center of gravity, this would be amplified in the third trimester of pregnancy because of the postural adjustments that need to be made to compensate for the excess forward weight,” he said. “Of course, additional weight always adds stress to the joints and discs of the lower back as well as all the joints in the legs and feet.”
Use your best judgment, but once you start feeling discomfort when wearing high heels or once you can no longer see your feet – it might be time to ditch the heels.
You can wean yourself off of your stilettos by switching out your platform heels to shorter kitten heels and in the last trimester wear cute embellished sandals or chic riding boots.
More pregnancy fashion:
Chic and comfortable shoes for pregnant moms
Stylish heels that are perfect for pregnant moms-to-be
Slimming hair and beauty tips for pregnant moms
Photo credit: WENN
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One Response to “Are high heels safe during pregnancy? An expert weighs in!”
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I was so determined not to give up my heels during pregnancy! I actually found pediatrist approved heels by Casa Couture that shift and expand with your foot! They are so comfortable and safe plus I get to look cute! Definitely recommend!