Seat-belts and pregnancy

Your constant need to visit the bathroom combined with lower backache, nausea and an inability to get comfortable, will likely test your patience for traveling by car when pregnant but if you do make journeys in this way, be sure to make them safely.

The most obvious step towards in-car safety is, of course, the seat belt. As you get larger, even though it may be a little uncomfortable, you should always wear your seat belt. The most important point to remember here is to keep the lap belt under your bump, not across the middle of it. This part of the belt should cross your pelvic area or upper thighs, rather than rest on your bump. The shoulder part of the belt should come down across your collarbone and, in this way, the two parts should avoid the abdomen. Don’t, in any circumstance put the shoulder belt under your arms.

If you were to stop suddenly your baby is well-protected by amniotic fluid, so the belt isn’t a danger to your baby. All the statistics prove that it is much safer to fasten your seat belt than not, and this still applies during pregnancy. If you’re not the driver, but a car passenger, you can make your journey a little more comfortable by moving the seat backwards to give yourself more space to stretch out. You might like to invest in a neck cushion or special pillow that you can place in the small of your back.

Try to make sure that when you are traveling by car, you have a few healthy snacks and some bottled water on hand to refresh yourself with. If you suffer with nausea you may find that opening the window and getting some fresh air helps you feel better.

The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.