Driving when pregnant can be a topic of concern and consideration for many expectant parents. It is important to prioritize safety and comfort while driving during this special time.
Top 5 tips for driving when pregnant
- Adjusting the seat: To ensure a comfortable driving experience when pregnant, it is crucial to adjust your seat properly. Position the seat in a way that allows you to reach the pedals comfortably while maintaining a safe distance from the steering wheel. Avoid sitting too close to the steering wheel, as it can increase the risk of injury in case of an accident. To ease back pain and discomfort you may wish to use a lumbar support pillow when travelling.
- Seat belt safety: Always wear your seat belt properly and ensure it is positioned correctly. The lap belt should be placed under your belly, across your hips, and the shoulder belt should go between your breasts and to the side of your belly. This way, the seat belt will provide optimal protection without putting pressure on your abdomen.
- Take breaks and stay hydrated: Long drives can become uncomfortable during pregnancy, so it’s important to take regular breaks, stretch your legs, and stay hydrated. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and discomfort, so make sure to have water with you during your journey. Additionally, stopping to rest and walk around will help reduce the risk of blood clots in your legs.
- Plan for frequent bathroom breaks: As pregnancy progresses, the growing uterus can exert pressure on the bladder, leading to increased frequency of bathroom visits. Plan your travel routes accordingly, making sure there are restrooms available along the way to accommodate your needs.
- Listen to your body: Each pregnancy journey is unique, so it is important to listen to your body and make adjustments as necessary. If you start feeling discomfort or fatigue while driving, don’t hesitate to pull over, rest, or ask someone else to take the wheel if possible.
Remember, if you have any concerns about driving during your pregnancy, consulting with your healthcare provider is always a good idea. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and medical history. Stay safe and enjoy the journey while taking care of yourself and your little one!
If you are planning to go abroad check out my blogs post on flying when pregnant and travelling when pregnant! Here is a packing list for your travels: Packing list for travelling when pregnant.
Online Birth Preparation Course only £35!
Please also check out my online course! No videos, just text and images to learn in your own time. Includes hypnobirthing mp3s, scripts, workbook, handouts, infographics and much more! Lots and lots of information at your fingertips! Includes:
- hypnobirthing mp3s
- hypnobirthing scripts
- written information
- infographics and other imagery
- printable handouts
- printable workbook/journal
Sources and Further Reading:
- ACOG. (2017) Travel during pregnancy. Available from: https://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Travel-During-Pregnancy
- Cantwell R, Clutton-Brock T, Cooper G, Dawson A, Drife J, Garrod D, Harper A, Hulbert D, Lucas S, McClure J, Millward-Sadler H, Neilson J, Nelson-Piercy C, Norman J, O’Herlihy C, Oates M, Shakespeare J, de Swiet M, Williamson C, Beale V, Knight M, Lennox C, Miller A, Parmar D, Rogers J, Springett A. Saving Mothers’ Lives: Reviewing maternal deaths to make motherhood safer: 2006-2008. The Eighth Report of the Confidential Enquiries into Maternal Deaths in the United Kingdom. BJOG. 2011 Mar;118 Suppl 1:1-203. doi: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.2010.02847.x. Erratum in: BJOG. 2015 Apr;122(5):e1. Erratum in: BJOG. 2015 Apr;122(5):e1. PMID: 21356004. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21356004/
- Gov.UK. (2018) Seat belts: the law. Available from: https://www.gov.uk/seat-belts-law/when-you-dont-need-to-wear-a-seat-belt
- Hendey GW, Votey SR. Injuries in restrained motor vehicle accident victims. Ann Emerg Med. 1994 Jul;24(1):77-84. doi: 10.1016/s0196-0644(94)70166-0. PMID: 8010553. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8010553/
- Johnson, H.C. and Pring, D.W. (2000), Car seatbelts in pregnancy: the practice and knowledge of pregnant women remain causes for concern. BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 107: 644-647. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1471-0528.2000.tb13307.x
- NHS. Car Travel in Pregnancy: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/travelling/#car-travel-in-pregnancy
- NHS. Deep Vein Thrombosis in pregnancy. https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/related-conditions/complications/deep-vein-thrombosis/