Mothers, sometimes, get to miss the fun part when they are expecting. Pregnancy demands that they make their well-being the top priority for those 9 months. For safety reasons, they might have to skip a few activities, which they would otherwise do – it could be taking a dip in the sea or self-driving around places.
But, not really. If you love to drive and take road trips, pregnancy shouldn’t stop you. However, there are few safety essentials that women need to keep in mind before hitting the road. Before you begin consider keeping your road trips short and have a companion along for your safety.
Here is your guide to safer road trips.
1. Getting In And Out Of The Car
Pretty easy to think about, however, when you are carrying a baby in the belly, getting out of the car might seem like a task.
To safely get into the car, bend and sit on the car seat first. Lean in and back and raise your legs to get inside the car.
While moving out of the car, keep one leg out and firmly on the ground. Lean back and place the other leg outside. Now use the door or any support to get out of the car.
2. Sitting In The Car Seat
Be it sitting in the front or the back, you will have to lean back in the seat. This will ensure that there isn’t much pressure on the belly or the chest – which can otherwise make you feel uncomfortable and breathless.
For your comfort, place a pillow or cushion behind your back for support. It will prevent you from backaches if you are traveling for long distances.
3. Right Way To Wear Seat Belts
Wear seat belts at all times while you are driving. The shoulder strap of the belt will pass over your shoulder, in between your breasts. Keep the lower belt below the belly. Make sure it is not too tight around your abdomen and you fit in snugly. Fix the length of the strap as per your comfort.
4. Keep It Slow
Drive at slow speeds and keep it steady. This is not only for safety, sometimes, mothers tend to experience motion sickness – going slow will prevent such a discomfort.
5. Drive Easy Over Bumps
When driving on a bumpy road, be slow and avoid as many potholes as you can. Sudden jerks could be harmful to you and the baby.
6. Take Breaks To Stretch Yourself
Long hours of sitting in the car could be uncomfortable. Sitting at one place may also contribute to swelling in the legs and increase the risk of developing varicose veins.
Always take a break in between the ride. Stop the car by the roadside, get out, stretch and walk around for some time. Take breaks after every hour or every 90 minutes of driving.
7. Go Prepared
Carry some healthy snacks with you – pregnancy will make you feel hungry quite often, you can always munch in between the journey. Don’t forget to keep a water bottle, wet wipes, prescribed supplements and a bag in case you feel puckish out due to motion sickness.
8. Dress Comfortably
Wear loose-fitting clothes when traveling. Tight clothes can increase the risk of developing clots and may make a long journey uncomfortable. As for the footwear, prefer flat shoes over heels. Shoes will provide comfort if you tend to develop swollen feet more often.
9. Be Prepared For Emergencies
Inform your family and friends if you are leaving for a long drive. Be prepared with emergency numbers, including your doctor’s and take your medical papers along.
Being pregnant doesn’t mean you can not enjoy traveling. However, you have to be more careful now that you are carrying a baby. Make sure your doctor knows that you are traveling – they can guide you more on safety measures.
