Pregnant woman: what you should definitely not do in the car

While pregnant women are not advised against driving, it is nevertheless necessary to take some precautions.

That’s it, you are pregnant, congratulations! But inevitably, with the joy that accompanies this new stage, new concerns and questions emerge. And among them, the fear of not being able to drive, which would constitute a real handicap in your busy life. Rest assured right away: apart from a contraindication from your doctor, it is quite possible to continue driving, no matter how advanced the treatment is. pregnancy. But of course, it is necessary to take some precautions to ensure the safety but especially the well-being of the mother-to-be and the baby. Auto-Moto gives you some great tips on what to do if you have to drive, whether you’ve been pregnant for three, six or eight months. Check out the five things you should not do while driving while pregnant below.

Do not put on your belt

First of all, it is necessary to twist the neck to a well-established misconception: wearing a seat belt is absolutely not dangerous for the pregnant woman and the baby, contrary to the rumor conveyed. This is in any case compulsory and in no way constitutes a risk, quite the contrary. On the other hand, it is necessary to think about placing it well under the bone of the pelvis, so that it does not disturb the mother-to-be and that it protects the baby well in the event of a shock. For those whose belly is already well rounded, it is quite possible to opt for an adapter, allowing to reduce the pressure of the belt while guaranteeing an optimal protection.

In the event of an accident, even a minor one, always remember to go to the emergency room as quickly as possible, in order to check via a ultrasound that the baby has not suffered any trauma.

Driving abruptly

If you are fond of sporty driving, you will have to calm your enthusiasm during your pregnancy and limit strong acceleration and sudden braking. Likewise, avoid as much as possible speed bumps roads in poor condition, and consider whoever you might hand the wheel to do the same. While shaking is not dangerous for pregnancy, it is very uncomfortable and can also cause contractions, especially if you are near term. You can place a small pillow in the small of the back to soothe back pain and limit discomfort.

Leave without a bag full of medicine and water

Even if you haven’t planned to go very far and only have a short errand to do, always remember to equip yourself with a bag full of essentials, such as water. , snack cakes for hypoglycemia, and medication. You may need paracetamol in the event of contractions, if these are too painful. Also remember to keep your medical file with you, which can be useful in the event of an accident, and equip yourself with a small bag, which can save your life in the event of vomiting. In summer, don’t forget to bring a mist or fan with you, which will soothe you if it’s too hot.

Driving if there is a risk of premature labor and during contractions

While driving is generally not contraindicated for pregnant women, some pregnancies are not compatible with driving. This is particularly the case if the expectant mother is at risk of giving birth prematurely, the shaking then risking to cause contractions which can induce the onset of labor. More generally, avoid taking the road if you are prone to severe regular cramps, as this will then have the effect of reducing your attention, and may mean that childbirth is approaching. Your best bet is to stop and have someone take over and take you to thehospital.

In any case, if you are near the end of your pregnancy, it is best to avoid straying too far from the maternity ward.

Make too long trips (and do not leave the steering wheel in case of fatigue)

If the great trips are not prohibited during pregnancy, it is better to limit long trips if it is already well advanced. If you drive, you risk experiencing some inconvenience that will reduce your concentration, such as hypoglycemia, nausea and fatigue. Likewise, it is not advisable to remain seated too long, this position can then cause sciatica or low back pain, as well as venous insufficiency. Remember to take regular breaks to stretch your legs and ventilate yourself.

In case of fatigue, do not hesitate to leave the wheel to the person accompanying you, and avoid going far alone if you can.