As 7-month pregnant Egyptian fencer competes at Paris Olympics, we ask expert if combat sport during pregnancy is safe

Updates from the Paris Olympics 2024 are getting interesting by the day, and we get to read about some defining and incredible moments. One such news has been about Egyptian fencer Nada Hafez who competed while being seven months pregnant. The 26-year-old athlete, who hails from Cairo, took to Instagram to share her experience, writing: “What appears to you as two players on the podium, were actually three! It was me, my competitor, and my yet-to-come-to-our-world little baby!”

“My baby and I had our fair share of challenges, be it both physical and emotional. The rollercoaster of pregnancy is tough on its own, but having to fight to keep the balance of life and sports was nothing short of strenuous, however worth it. I’m writing this post to say that pride fills my being for securing my place in the round of 16!” added Hafez, who was competing in her third Olympics.

Though her progress was halted in the last round by South Korea’s Jeon Hayoung — who defeated her 15-7 — Hafez’s grit and determination to compete at such a crucial juncture during her pregnancy has been extremely inspiring.

Taking a leaf out of her Olympics dairy, we reached out to an expert to understand how safe combat sports during pregnancy are.

 

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Engaging in combat sports, like fencing, during pregnancy carries a number of serious health concerns, said Dr Priyanka Suhag, consultant, dept of obstetrics and gynaecology, CK Birla Hospital (R), Delhi. “The main worries include possible abdominal trauma, which might result in dangerous side effects such placental abruption, premature delivery, or fetal injury,” said Dr Suhag.

The possibility of falls or collisions, coupled with the quick movements, increases the danger. “If a pregnant woman decides to continue fencing, she should take certain important safety precautions. It’s critical to have routine obstetrician consultations to evaluate their health and pregnancy status. It’s critical to modify the level of intensity and tactics to reduce risk, such as avoiding hard strikes or physically demanding moves,” said Dr Suhag.

Let’s understand about playing sport during pregnancy (representative)(Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

To ensure the health of both the mother and the foetus, it is important to follow a healthy diet and drink enough water.

According to Dr Suhg, enhanced clothing that is protective should be used to guard the abdomen. “It’s also important to keep a close eye out for any indications of pain, dizziness, or contractions. Certain physical activities can be helpful during pregnancy, but the risks associated with combat sports frequently outweigh the advantages. For the betterment of mother and child’s safety, it is advisable to think about safer alternatives,” said Dr Suhag.

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