There's been a lot of controversy over moms working out while expecting and even more controversy over pregnant women rocking six-packs. And while most of these athletic women have proven that intense exercise while pregnant isn't necessarily harmful, fit mom and Instagram guru Chontel Duncan, recently revealed that her rock-hard abs actually made her labor even harder.
More from MamásLatinas: Watch this mom box like a pro at 39 weeks pregnant
Even during her pregnancy, Duncan was still working out hard and rocking a full set of abs. And while she didn't have any issues when she was pregnant, she admits that it did cause labor complications. Apparently her tight abs made it hard for her to have a natural labor.
"They struggled to rip Jeremiah from my tummy as my abs locked him in super tight as I began vomiting during the operation. This is why my scar was cut up on my right side because the surgeon had to cut me further and use forceps to successfully get Jeremiah out. Perhaps a down side to a strong core," she captioned a photo of her scar on Instagram.
Embedded content: https://www.instagram.com/p/BMFfA9RAc11/
What's interesting about this, is that most healthcare experts would argue that a strong abdominal core and strong pelvic-floor muscles would actually help during labor. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate to intense aerobic activity every week. Mind you, that also includes abdominal exercises. So it is a little ironic that Duncan's strong core worked against during her labor.
Either way, don't let this experience discourage you from working out while pregnant. Everyone's body is different. Just make sure to consult with your doctor about what works best for you.
Image via chontelduncan/Instagram
