When is it particularly important to avoid poses that place pressure on the abdomen during pregnancy?

The reason why it's particularly important to avoid poses that place pressure on the abdomen during the late stages of pregnancy is largely due to the physical changes occurring in the body at that time. In the later stages of pregnancy, the abdomen grows significantly as the baby develops, which can increase discomfort and the risk of complications if pressure is applied.

During this period, the body’s center of gravity shifts, and the ligaments become more relaxed, leading to added strain on the pelvis and lower back. Poses that exert pressure on the abdomen can interfere with the baby's positioning and increase the risk of discomfort or injury to both the pregnant individual and the fetus. Furthermore, the physiological changes, including the expansion of the uterus, mean that the body requires a gentler approach to movement and stabilizing postures.

Understanding the dynamics of a developing pregnancy informs the need for careful selection of yoga poses. While caution should also be exercised during the first and second trimesters, the risk and concerns become more pronounced as pregnancy progresses into its final stages, making it critical to modify or omit certain poses that could place undue pressure on the abdomen at this time.