For how long can a pregnant woman perform activities in a supine position in the aquatic setting?

The correct answer is based on established guidelines for exercise during pregnancy. When a pregnant woman exercises in a supine position, especially in an aquatic setting, there is a concern regarding the potential compression of the inferior vena cava, a major vein that carries blood from the lower body back to the heart. This compression can lead to reduced blood flow and oxygen to both the mother and the fetus, creating a risk during exercise.

Current recommendations suggest that activities in a supine position should generally be limited to short durations. In this context, limiting the time to a maximum of two minutes is considered safe for most pregnant women. This duration allows for minimal risk of vena cava compression while still providing the benefits of the exercise.

In comparison, the other timeframes presented, such as one minute, five minutes, and ten minutes, extend beyond what is recommended for safety. Exercise in a supine position for more than two minutes could potentially lead to complications, which is why the guideline prioritizing short durations is critical for the health and safety of both the mother and the fetus. Thus, a two-minute limit balances the need for movement and the importance of maintaining maternal and fetal well-being.