It's best that you
wait until six weeks after your baby's birth before you get in a pool. If you go sooner, there’s a chance you could pick up an infection.
If you’ve had a
caesarean section or a
perineal tear, your doctor or child health nurse may recommend that you wait longer than six weeks, usually until after your
postnatal check.
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Even if you had a straightforward birth, you will experience some bleeding as your body sheds the lining of your uterus (womb) after birth. This type of bleeding is called
lochia, and it can last for up to six weeks after birth.
Although your baby can go swimming at any time from birth, it’s best to wait until he has his two-month
immunisations before you take him to a public pool.
If you’re keen for your baby to be
introduced to swimming before he’s six weeks old, have a chat with your child health nurse or GP. If she gives your little one the all-clear for swimming, your partner or someone else can take him to:
- a warm, private pool, if you or a neighbour or friend has one that’s kept really clean
- your local beach if the water quality is high
Avoid spas with your baby, because they tend to harbour germs.
A few private baby swimming lessons start as early as birth. Most baby swimming lessons, though, don’t start until your baby is
three months to
six months old.
Baby swimming lessons focus on familiarising your baby with water. They tend to be in small pools, heated to about 32 degrees C, which are ideal for tiny tots.
If you plan to use a big public swimming pool, you may want to invest in a baby wetsuit that will help keep your baby warm. Try to pick a quiet time to visit, so that your baby isn’t put off by all the noise and activity.
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Most babies up to six months of age can actually swim, with your help, of course! If you start early, you can take advantage of your baby's natural ability to do basic strokes. Also, your baby's inbuilt gag reflex is generally at its strongest before six months. This means that he can hold his breath under water without even thinking about it.
Keep swimming times short at first, initially no more than 10 minutes and build up from there. Don’t stay in for more than 30 minutes, and take your baby out if he starts to shiver or looks like he’s had enough. Give swimming a miss if your baby is unwell or tired.
Find out more about
swimming with your baby.
Reviewed for BabyCenter Australia by Diane Phillips, family GP
