When you are planning for your perfect wedding ensemble, a pair of high heels often make the list of must-have accessories. However, if you are a pregnant bride, it may be for you and your baby’s best interest to consider a footwear choice that is not only more practical but safer. The reasons for avoiding high heels when pregnant are hard to argue with, from your ever-changing center of gravity to swollen feet. Here are a few of the reasons why you may want to do your shoe shopping in the flats section.
Changing Center of Gravity
Because of body changes as your baby grows, your center of gravity will also adjust. While you may have been able to walk like a pro in high heels before your pregnancy, you may no longer find that to be true. Heels may make you unstable on your feet, and falls can be very dangerous when pregnant. Add to the heels a big dress, nerves and all of the stress that naturally comes with a wedding, and you may find that a natural factor to cut is heel height. Flats will better assist your stability, and help to lessen the risk of a dangerous fall.
Stretched Ligaments and Muscles
The ligaments and muscles in your lower back and abdomen are not the only muscles that relax and loosen due to the influx of progesterone and other hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. These hormones are released into the bloodstream to help the muscles that need to stretch or move to make room for a baby more flexible. However, since hormones are released into the bloodstream, their effects are not limited to the stomach area. The muscles in your ankles, thighs and calves also relax, which can significantly affect stability. Heels are rarely known to help with balance, and it would be horrible if your muscles relaxed or even gave out when you are trying to walk down the aisle. Flats allow your muscles to remain closer to their natural placement, which can help you better react to loose and unstable muscles in your legs.
Calf Cramps
A symptom of both wearing high heels and pregnancy, calf cramps can put a damper on easy walking. Heels cause muscles to contract in positions they are not used to, and extended wear can lead to tired muscles. No one knows why pregnant women are more prone to muscle cramps, but it is possible the combination of added weight, relaxed muscles and the changing center of gravity combine and cause cramping. Regardless, if you are wearing flat shoes and experience a leg cramp, you will be better able to regain balance and avoid the extra muscle stress that comes with heels.
Swollen Feet
Edema, or swelling, is a common complaint of women who are pregnant. Fluid pools in the foot and lower leg tissue, causing unpleasant swelling. Unfortunately, high heels or shoes that are tight tend to exasperate swelling. Swelling can cause your feet to be much larger than they are when they are when not swollen, so even if a pair of heels fit one day, it may not be possible to get them on when you need them. Flat, well fitting shoes are a much more practical choice, as swollen feet are very uncomfortable and even painful.
Back Pain
A growing abdomen may already be responsible for lower back pain, and heeled shoes will also put pressure on your lower back muscles. The combination can contribute to a very sore back. Using flat shoes won’t necessarily make the back pain lessen, but they also will not help to add back pain.
From swollen feet to excess progesterone, cramps and balance issues, it is already difficult to comfortably maneuver when pregnant. Your wedding day is one of the most planned for and anticipated days of your life. Identifying possible stressors and working towards solutions can make your day smoother. While heels certainly are an attractive wardrobe addition, when you are pregnant they are one that should be replaced with a more sensible choice of flat shoes. Fortunately, there are many appealing options, and you will be nothing less than radiant and comfortable on your wedding day.
Kristy Dickerson, keynote speaker, businesswoman, and active CEO and co-founder of STARTplanner, has devoted her life to providing hope for individuals who are looking to achieve balance, success, and happiness within their own lives. Dickerson has been sought after for keynote speaking due to her relatable story, no excuses tone, valuable advice, and upbeat personality that she entrenches in all aspects of her brands. She believes and preaches that individuals have the ability to do anything they want. Through business coaching, workshops, and speaking she has shown individuals how to make change happen in their life and small business.