Dr. Sonam Dahiya, a general practitioner based in the UK and soon to be a mother of twins, captured attention after she posted an Instagram video of herself dancing energetically to the Bollywood track Ding Dong Dole alongside choreographer Aadil Khan on May 3. The video highlights her confidence and excitement, challenging traditional beliefs regarding pregnancy and fitness. Also read | Should you engage in exercise during pregnancy? An expert shares recommended practices and precautions.

The pregnant woman's dance video, which has garnered 39. 3 million views on Instagram, motivated many, particularly expectant mothers, to focus on their physical and mental health throughout pregnancy. By displaying her fitness journey, Dr. Dahiya inspired others to remain active and healthy during pregnancy. Nonetheless, some users on social media expressed concerns, questioning whether the high-energy routine was safe for both the mother and her twins.

Check out Dr. Dahiya's video:

'Isn’t it harmful for the baby?'

An X user responded to Dr. Dahiya's video, which received 796. 2K views and was shared by another X user: “Can any doctor verify if it’s safe for the baby? ” Another individual tweeted, “Is this type of dance safe for the fetus at this stage of gestation? ? What about the mother? ? What kinds of exercises are safe for a pregnant mother? ” Someone also inquired, “Isn’t it hazardous for the baby? ”

While defending Dr. Dahiya but acknowledging that her dance seemed risky, an X user stated: “She’s a doctor and comprehends the nuances. Gentle dancing during pregnancy, similar to light exercise, is typically safe, but vigorous actions like jumping or intense routines are not recommended. As a doctor, she probably knows her limits. Personally, I would choose to be cautious and steer clear of any potential risks. ”

In response to the attention surrounding her dance video, Dr. Dahiya personally wrote in the caption of her dance video: “As a doctor myself, I would like to assist in answering your questions about whether it is safe to exercise during pregnancy? Yes, if you are healthy and your pregnancy is uncomplicated. Physical activity does not raise your risk of miscarriage, low birth weight or early delivery. It is still crucial to consult with your doctor to discuss which activities you can safely engage in. ”

She also posted this on May 4:

Is dancing actually safe during pregnancy?

By dancing while pregnant, Dr Dahiya is breaking stereotypes and showing that pregnancy doesn't mean stopping physical activity entirely. But is it actually okay to dance energetically while pregnant? 

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Dhatchayani S, consultant, obstetrics and gynaecology, Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road said, “Dance, when done safely, is a wonderful way for expectant mothers to stay active during pregnancy. About 25 percent of pregnant women engage in some kind of regular physical activity. Incorporating safe forms of exercise, such as gentle dance, can support overall well-being.”

However, Dr Dhatchayani S added that 'it's imperative to avoid dance moves that put too much strain on the joints, increase the danger of falls, or cause abdominal injuries'. 

“Any fitness program must consider the physiological changes that pregnancy brings about, such as elevated heart rate, increased oxygen demand, and increased calorie requirements. Exercises elevate maternal body temperatures, which can cause foetal hyperthermia and negatively impact foetal development. Hence, it is crucial to stay hydrated and have adequate ventilation to prevent a major rise in body temperature,” she said.

What are the pros and cons of dancing for pregnant women?

According to her, 'it has also been demonstrated that dancing during labour may lessen discomfort, shorten the time of the labour, and encourage a natural delivery without harming the unborn child'. Although dance during pregnancy may be beneficial, 'there are some clear contraindications', she added.

“Women with high blood pressure (preeclampsia), an incompetent cervix, second or third trimester bleeding, placenta previa, heart or restrictive lung disease, or severe anaemia should avoid dance-based exercise. It is highly recommended to consult a healthcare expert before starting a dance-based exercise or continuing any form of physical activity during pregnancy,” Dr Dhatchayani S said.

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