If you're a mom-to-be with younger children at home, it can be understandably challenging — if not impossible — to completely avoid lifting your little ones while you're growing another little one inside you.

As long as your doctor hasn't restricted your activity (or your lifting), it's not a problem to lift your big baby, suggests data from the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG). Just get clearance for baby lift-off from your doctor first. And always let your practitioner know if you experience any pain or spotting after lifting a younger child.

summary icon
Key Takeaways
  • If your provider hasn’t restricted lifting, it’s generally okay to pick up your older child — just get the green light first.
  • Use safe form: wide stance, butt tucked, bend at the knees, and lift slowly with your legs (not your back).
  • Stop and call your provider if you have pain or spotting, and switch to seated snuggles if your back protests.

“I’m a 3rd time mom and I have a 2-year-old daughter (will be 3 in March) and a 1-year-old daughter (will be 2 in May), and I’m a stay-at-home mom, so I carry them 24/7,” reports What to Expect Community mom G1rlM4m4.

Juggling pregnancy with a big kid (or two)? Get the What to Expect app for guidance and support.

As long as your lifting is unrestricted, make sure you're doing it in a way that doesn't hurt your back. To safely pick up a bigger baby or younger toddler during pregnancy, keep these steps in mind before you lift:

  • Stabilize your body first by assuming a wide stance (feet shoulder-width apart).
  • Tuck your buttocks in.
  • Bend at the knees, not at the waist, and lift (not abruptly) with legs rather than your back.

If lifting your younger child does hurt your back, blame your back — not the baby (no need to set the stage for sibling rivalry just yet!). Or just do more sitting and cuddling!

Good luck,


Heidi Murkoff