Is it safe to ice-skate or roller blade during pregnancy?

You don't want to risk falling, which could bring on contractions or cause the placenta to tear away from your uterus, both of which could trigger preterm delivery.

In general, pregnancy's not a good time to take up any new sport or overexert yourself. It also makes sense to avoid sports that put you at risk for rough contact or falling — including hockey, soccer, basketball, gymnastics, horseback riding, downhill skiing, and racquetball.

There's a risk of falling in any sport where maintaining your balance is an issue, and that can carry added risks if you're pregnant. A fall could cause abdominal injuries that could affect the pregnancy. Trauma to the abdomen can cause premature separation of the placenta or premature labor. It could even fatally injure the fetus. So it's a matter of personal judgment: Do you feel confident enough in your abilities, and do you want to take the risk?