Can You Scuba Dive During Pregnancy?

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By Dr. Joel Bernstien | Updated on Dec 3, 2023
Image for article Can You Scuba Dive During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is considered an absolute contraindication to scuba diving, so this is a no-no.

While there aren’t any direct studies on pregnant people scuba diving, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Divers Alert Network don’t recommend scuba diving at any point in your pregnancy. When scuba diving even in shallow waters, small bubbles can get into your vasculature. While adult lungs can clear the tiny bubbles, fetal lungs can’t.

In utero, the circulation of the blood bypasses the fetal lungs because the blood gets its oxygen in the placenta. This lack of filtration could in theory lead to gas embolism in the baby, which could be fatal.

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

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Updated on Dec 3, 2023

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Can You Scuba Dive During Pregnancy?

 Joel Bernstien Profile Photo
By Dr. Joel Bernstien | Updated on Dec 3, 2023
Image for article Can You Scuba Dive During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is considered an absolute contraindication to scuba diving, so this is a no-no.

While there aren’t any direct studies on pregnant people scuba diving, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Divers Alert Network don’t recommend scuba diving at any point in your pregnancy. When scuba diving even in shallow waters, small bubbles can get into your vasculature. While adult lungs can clear the tiny bubbles, fetal lungs can’t.

In utero, the circulation of the blood bypasses the fetal lungs because the blood gets its oxygen in the placenta. This lack of filtration could in theory lead to gas embolism in the baby, which could be fatal.

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

Want evidence-based health & wellness advice for fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum delivered to your inbox?

Your privacy is important to us. By subscribing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.


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