Pregnancy Health Screening for Yoga

Congratulations on your pregnancy.

Pregnancy yoga has many benefits for mums-to-be. It can help you stay strong and mobile during pregnancy, support birth preparation and postnatal recovery, and ease some common symptoms such as breathlessness and slower digestion. It also offers valuable time to relax and restore. Yoga brings together mind and body, which can be a helpful preparation for labour.

The questions below are designed to help keep you well and ensure your yoga practice is safe and beneficial. Please read and answer each question carefully and thoroughly.

Can I practice yoga?

If you have or are experiencing any of the above then taking part in a general yoga class is NOT recommended

If you have circled any of the above, pregnancy yoga may still be suitable, but you must have confirmation from your Midwife, GP, or Consultant before attending. Please include their details below:

Subject to the above you may start practising pregnancy yoga or yoga in a general class from 14 weeks, once you have had your first scan confirming all is well.

Things to be aware of in class

Please note any relevant health concerns from before this pregnancy, for example:

- Current or recent injuries (e.g. broken bones, sprains)

- Ongoing structural issues (e.g. knee replacement, lower back/postural problems)

- Major accidents or injuries in the past (especially back or hip injuries)

Pregnancy hormones (including relaxin) increase flexibility, and old injuries can flare up.

Please note any pregnancy-related conditions, for example:

- Low blood pressure

- SPD / PGP (pelvic girdle pain)

General class guidance (especially helpful if you’ve practised yoga before)

Please avoid:

- Jumping in and out of poses (step instead)

- Lying on your abdomen

- Deep twists or strong abdominal work (gentle open twists are OK)

- Holding your breath

- Lying flat on your back after 25 weeks (or earlier if you feel breathless/uncomfortable)

- Strong backbends (e.g. camel). Instead, focus on opening the upper body and releasing the hip muscles (e.g. Warrior I)

Please do:

- Stop if you feel faint

- Remember pregnancy is a time to maintain fitness, not to train for improvement

- Avoid overstretching (relaxin can make you more flexible than usual)

- Slow down and avoid maximum intensity or overheating

- Shorten your stance in standing poses (e.g. Warrior, Triangle)

- Move your legs regularly when standing; avoid holding poses too long (especially with low blood pressure)

- Include pelvic floor exercises to support birth and recovery

- Rest on your left side in relaxation, and roll to the left to come out of it

- Bring a pillow/cushion and blanket for comfort and support

- Stay well hydrated

Liability Disclaimer & Notice

I acknowledge that Melissa Porter will take all reasonable care to ensure these lessons are safe. However, I understand that yoga is a physical activity and may involve some risk of injury.

I confirm that I have been advised to consult my doctor/health professional regarding any past or present injury, illness, health condition, or medication that may affect my participation. I accept responsibility for my participation and release Melissa Porter from liability for any injury to myself arising from taking part in the lessons.

If you do not understand anything, please ask before submitting this form.

I will do my absolute best to look after you. Please keep me updated about any changes to your health before each class.