“Is It Safe to Wear a Smartwatch While Pregnant?” – The question is so common among expectant mothers. This is a legitimate query in an age where wearable technology has been a part of our lives.
Pregnancy is a time of profound transformation and heightened awareness of one’s health. Smartwatches are considered the most convenient wearable technology. Still, people are often concerned about the safety factors of a smartwatch while pregnant.
Fortunately, there is no proven drawback to using a smartwatch for pregnant women. Indeed, its features, like heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and fitness insights, are beneficial for them.
However, even if there is no sort of feature or material in a smartwatch that can hamper a pregnant woman, you should be careful of a few factors.
To learn about all of them, please check out this discussion until the end.
Is It Safe to Wear a Smartwatch While Pregnant?
Yes, you can consider wearing a smartwatch during pregnancy is safe. However, you should be aware of potential considerations.
Smartwatches offer several features, like heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and fitness tracking. These features can be beneficial for expectant mothers. So, you can maintain a healthy lifestyle, track vital signs, and track sleep patterns.
However, there are some sections about a smartwatch, where you should be cautious.
Electromagnetic Field (EMF) exposure from smartwatches is a concern you should think about. Even though there’s limited evidence of harm from the radiation, you should be careful.
Skin irritation may also be an issue regarding a smartwatch for a pregnant woman. So, you should think twice before choosing hypoallergenic materials.
Besides, A pregnant woman should avoid unnecessary stress by doing anything. She should avoid a smartwatch if fixating on data and managing battery life is a hassle for her.
If these facts don’t matter, a pregnant woman can consider wearing a smartwatch safe for her.
Also, you should learn whether a smartwatch is worth it or not.
What Materials Are Used to Make a Smartwatch?
You must expect a vivid explanation of why a smartwatch is safe for a pregnant woman. For that, you should have an idea of what materials manufacturers use to make a smartwatch and how they work.
Let’s first check out the materials of a smartwatch to see if there is anything that is not safe for a pregnant woman.
#1 Display
As you know, smartwatches have touchscreen displays. These displays are simply made of materials like glass, sapphire, and similar materials.
Sometimes durable synthetic materials like Gorilla Glass are also on display. These materials protect the screen from scratches and impacts.
#2 Casing
The watch’s casing is usually made of stainless steel, aluminum, or durable polymers. Premium models sometimes use titanium or ceramic for a smoother build.
#3 Straps
Smartwatch straps can be made of different materials. It can be silicone, leather, stainless steel, and more. The choice of strap material affects comfort and aesthetics.
#4 Sensors
Most smartwatches come with different types of sensors for different functions. There can be sensors for heart rate monitors, accelerometers, gyroscopes, and for light.
Manufacturers use metal and silicon to make these sensors. They are generally hidden beneath the watch’s casing.
#5 Battery
The battery inside a smartwatch is usually a rechargeable lithium-ion or lithium-polymer battery. Battery life is usually depending on usage and model.
#6 Processor and Memory
Smartwatches have a small computer chip or processor in them. It also contains a memory to run applications and store data. Stainless steel, plastic, glass, or silicone are used to make these micro parts.
Besides, they can have some common materials like plastic, and rubber in different parts.
How Do Smartwatches Work?
To understand how smartwatches work, you need to learn their base function. Here is the common function of a smartwatch that I have broken into parts:
Timekeeping
At its core, a smartwatch functions as a watch. It displays the time and date just like traditional digital watches.
Connectivity
Smartwatches are often paired with smartphones via Bluetooth. This connection lets them receive notifications, calls, and messages.
Some of them can even stream content from the paired device. For this connectivity, the system has Bluetooth or WiFi functions.
Health and Fitness Tracking
Many smartwatches have sensors to monitor various health metrics. They can track heart rate, steps taken, sleep patterns, and more. The watches can have multiple sensors for different functions.
Apps and Customization
Smartwatches can run applications designed specifically for them. Users can install apps to check the weather, control smart home devices, or even play games.
Voice Commands
Smartwatches often feature voice recognition technology. It lets users interact with their watch using voice commands.
For this feature, the watch has a speaker and a part that consumes sound as well. This is particularly useful for tasks like setting reminders or sending messages.
GPS and Navigation
Most smartwatches come with a built-in GPS system. With it, the watch provides real-time location tracking and navigation assistance.
Notifications
Smartwatches can receive notifications from different apps and connected devices. The base system of the watch works to send and receive these notifications.
Do Smartwatches Have Electromagnetic Radiation?
Yes, smartwatches contain electromagnetic radiation, like other electronic devices. This radiation is undoubtedly very low to consider.
As we know, some studies have linked electromagnetic radiation to health issues. But, there are no significant risks for pregnant women or their fetuses with this tiny amount.
So, smartwatches generally don’t pose grave concerns regarding radiation exposure during pregnancy.
Electromagnetic radiation from smartwatches mainly comes from Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections. The system uses non-ionizing radiation for these connections. But it doesn’t have that much energy to harm DNA or cells, unlike ionizing radiation.
Smartwatches comply with safety standards to limit exposure. Still, to minimize any potential risks, pregnant women can follow the tricks below:
- Choose a low-emission smartwatch.
- Use Airplane mode when not needing wireless functions.
- Avoid wearing the smartwatch if they don’t feel comfortable with it.
- Limit prolonged usage, and take breaks.
Even though smartwatches emit electromagnetic radiation, the levels are lower enough to be safe. That’s why there is no need to think about the radiation fact of a smartwatch for a pregnant woman.
Off-topic, but if you have a lawn in front of your home and you are pregnant, I think you should read this discussion on whether pregnant women should mow a lawn.
Do Any Smartwatch Interface Medical Devices Regarding Pregnancy?
Smartwatches come with a lot of sensors and systems for health-tracking capabilities. That’s why it raises concerns about interfering with crucial medical devices.
People are often concerned about its interference with monitors or pacemakers during pregnancy. Fortunately, most smartwatches are engineered to coexist safely with these medical instruments.
Indeed, no reported cases exist of smartwatches disrupting medical devices during pregnancy. Still, you should take it off while testing your body with a machine like ultrasonography. Being extra protective doesn’t actually cause anything bad.
Also, you don’t need to wear the watch when you are for a checkup. So, we suggest you avoid wearing the watches in this case. Also, you shouldn’t hold any other devices like your smartphone while being checked up with some medical devices.
Smartwatches may pose minimal risk of interfacing negatively with medical devices during pregnancy. Still, they complement, not replace, professional medical care.
Why is the False Sense of Security of a Smartwatch a Threat for Pregnant Women?
A false sense of security from a smartwatch during pregnancy can be dangerous. These devices are not medical experts. They lack the precision of a qualified OB/GYN.
Smartwatches might have FDA clearance, but they’re not infallible. They can’t detect every pregnancy issue. Relying solely on them can lead to missed problems.
The data exposed by the watch can be deceptive. A pregnant woman might trust her smartwatch too much and that’s when a problem arises.
Also, she may think it can replace medical expertise. This over-reliance can delay necessary medical attention.
Remember that pregnancy is complex. There are countless variables and a smartwatch can’t assess them all. It can’t provide the reassurance of a doctor’s experience.
Also, an AI algorithm in a smartwatch isn’t a substitute for a doctor. It can’t answer questions or offer comfort.
It can’t perform ultrasounds or interpret test results. Beyond any doubt, a smartwatch can be a helpful tool. It can track some aspects of pregnancy. But it’s not a comprehensive solution.
Pregnant women must prioritize their health and their baby’s well-being. Trust in technology should always come second to the guidance of a qualified medical professional.
Benefits of Wearing a Smartwatch While Pregnant
As you’ve seen there is actually no considerable drawback to wearing a smartwatch while pregnant. Now, can you please think about the benefits?
There are even numerous benefits of wearing a smartwatch. Once you are aware of that, you’ll love to wear it in your sensitive time of pregnancy.
#1 Health Monitoring
Smartwatches can track your heart rate. It is particularly useful during pregnancy to ensure it remains within a healthy range. Any sudden spikes or irregularities can be detected early.
#2 Activity Tracking
You should stay active during pregnancy. And a smartwatch can track your daily steps and activity. It will encourage you to meet activity goals and help you maintain a healthy lifestyle.
#3 Sleep Tracking
Pregnancy can disrupt sleep patterns. Smartwatches can monitor your sleep quality. It will also provide insights on how to improve your rest. It is very essential for your overall health and energy levels during pregnancy.
#4 Stress Management
Managing stress is a must-have during pregnancy. Some smartwatches offer stress-tracking features to help you identify stressors. They also provide different relaxation techniques.
#5 Hydration Reminders
Proper hydration is essential for both you and your baby. Smartwatches can remind you to drink water regularly. It will also ensure you stay adequately hydrated.
#6 Medication and Appointment Reminders
Another feature of some high-end smartwatches is medication reminders. As pregnancy involves taking medications and attending medical appointments, it can help.
Smartwatches can send reminders for different purposes. It will help you stay on top of your healthcare routine.
#7 Customized Health Insights
Many smartwatches offer pregnancy-specific apps or features. They provide customized information about the stage of pregnancy, fetal development, and postpartum care.
Also, some smartwatches have built-in SOS features. It lets you call for help or alert emergency contacts in case of complications or emergencies.
How to Choose the Right Smartwatch for a Pregnant Woman?
Now, let’s talk about the most important fact about smartphones for a pregnant woman. It’s about how to choose the right watch.
You should remember that not all smartwatches might be suitable for a pregnant woman. Indeed, you should be careful while choosing the right one.
First of all, you should consult with the woman’s healthcare provider before purchasing a smartwatch. They can offer guidance on whether wearing a smartwatch is safe or not for you.
If they suggest any specific watch, you should try that for sure.
Here are some other tips you should follow to choose the right smartwatch for a pregnant woman:
Consider Comfort
Comfort is paramount during pregnancy. Ensure the smartwatch has a comfortable strap that doesn’t cause irritation.
You can choose one with adjustable bands. They can accommodate changes in wrist size as the pregnancy progresses.
Compatibility
Check if the smartwatch is compatible with your smartphone’s operating system. Compatibility ensures perfect connectivity and access to features like notifications.
Brand Reputation
You should stick to reputable brands known for producing reliable and accurate smartwatches. It will ensure better customer support and regular software updates.
Also, reliable brands offer long-term warranties and customer service. That’s another thing you should consider.
Health Monitoring
Try to look for a smartwatch with advanced health monitoring features. It should include heart rate monitoring, activity tracking, sleep tracking, and stress management. Ensure these features are accurate and reliable.
Water Resistance
Pregnancy can involve increased sweating and the occasional need to wash hands frequently. A water-resistant smartwatch is essential to prevent damage in this case.
Battery Life
Try to choose a smartwatch with a good battery life. Pregnancy can be a busy time for sure. So, you may not always remember to change the watch.
Emergency Features
You should choose a smartwatch that offers emergency SOS features. It lets users call for help or notify emergency contacts in case of complications.
Customized Apps
Some smartwatches offer pregnancy-specific apps or the ability to download relevant apps. These can provide information about each stage of pregnancy and postpartum care.
Also, you should check how accurate the data of the smartwatch is. Besides, look for a watch that is specifically designed for pregnant women.
Wrapping Up
So, you must get all the answers regarding the question: is it safe to wear a smartwatch while pregnant? Wearing a smartwatch during pregnancy is safe only if you can choose the right one.
While there is no concrete evidence proving harm, some concerns are always there. Smartwatches have electromagnetic fields (EMFs), and their effects on unborn babies aren’t fully understood.
However, the amount of EMF is low enough to be dangerous. So, you don’t need to worry that much.
Pregnant women should consider their comfort and peace of mind when deciding whether to wear a smartwatch. If you choose to use one, take precautions.
Please remember that your well-being and your baby’s health come first during this special time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Devices Should a Pregnant Woman Avoid?
Pregnant women should avoid devices that emit excessive electromagnetic radiation, like X-ray machines and high-powered microwave ovens. They should also limit prolonged use of smartphones and laptops to reduce potential risks. She should consult a healthcare professional in cases of specific concerns.
Can a Smartwatch Detect a Baby’s Heartbeat in a Mother’s Womb?
A smartwatch cannot directly detect a baby’s heartbeat in a mother’s womb. Fetal heartbeats are generally monitored using specialized medical equipment like Doppler ultrasound or fetal monitors during prenatal check-ups.
Smartwatches don’t have the capability to safely and accurately capture this vital information within the womb.
What is the Best Smartwatch for Pregnant Women?
The Germin Lily is known to be the best smartwatch for pregnant women if it’s for an Android user. Otherwise, Apple watches are good for Pregnant women too. While choosing the right watch for a pregnant woman, one should check the accuracy of the readings of the watch and learn whether it is completely safe and comfortable for her or not.
