Your growing baby bump makes beautiful maternity photos and is also the reason for some adjustments in your day-to-day life. Traveling safely in a vehicle is important for you and for your baby. Below are some tips to help guide you through this exciting time of growth in your family.
Make a Routine Maintenance Appointment
Take your personal vehicle to a mechanic that you trust for routine maintenance. Ask them to list any repairs that are needed and choose those that are most important. Find out if they offer any lock-out or road-side assistance services. This helps you prevent any unexpected issues or injuries and prepares your vehicle for the seasonal weather you’ll experience while pregnant.
Leave Airbags Turned On
If your vehicle has the option to turn the airbags off, it is safest for you and for your baby to keep them turned on throughout your pregnancy and postpartum.
Wear Your Seat Belt
Your seat belt should fit across your chest and below your belly. The shoulder strap should lay between your breasts and away from your neck. The lap belt should sit below your bump and be snug against your hips and pelvic bone. Pull to ensure there’s no slack in the belt.
Locate the Closest Hospital
Will you be visiting a tropical island or cabin by the lake for a babymoon, or flying to another state to see your family? If so, check out where your closest emergency room is located and review your medical insurance policy for any out of network coverage. Hopefully, you will not need to visit a hospital while traveling, but it is always best to be prepared.
Locally, map out 2-3 routes to get to the hospital or birth center where you plan to have your baby. Labor can happen any time of day and that includes rush hour. If you know the alternate routes, it may save you some time.
Adjust Your Seat
Move your driver side car seat back as far as you can while still comfortably reaching the pedals. Leave at least 10 inches between the center of your chest and the steering wheel. When you’re in the passenger seat sit as far back from the dashboard as possible. As your body changes throughout your pregnancy, you may need to make multiple seat adjustments or have extra support for your lower back.
Stretch Your Legs
Take a break every 60-90 minutes during long car rides and road trips. Get out of the car, take a walk, and stretch your legs. This is important not only for your comfort and preventing leg cramps, but also to decrease the chance of blood clots forming from sitting too long.
Stay Hydrated and Pack Snacks
Bring your favorite water bottle so you’re able to stay hydrated as you travel. It’s important to drink 8-12 cups daily to help your body absorb vitamins, nutrients, and reduce swelling, constipation, and urinary tract infections. Time your drinking with bathroom breaks to reduce the pressure on your bladder.
Also, pack healthy snacks that will give you energy:
- Trail mix
- Granola
- Bananas
- Avocado
- Veggie slices
- Apples
- Cheese
- Whole wheat crackers
- Peanut butter
Dress for the Occasion
Wear compression socks to help prevent swelling in your ankles and feet and blood clots. Dress in layers so that if you get too cool or warm, you can easily adapt to get more comfortable.
Bring a Buddy or Tell a Friend
Bring a friend or partner with you on long distance trips so you can share driving responsibilities, have an extra set of eyes on the road, and someone to assist if your vehicle experiences an issue. Time will pass by faster and you’ll make some amazing memories. If you have to travel alone, share your location with your partner or a friend. Let them know your anticipated stops and the time you’ll likely arrive at your destination.
Exploring and traveling doesn’t have to stop just because you’re pregnant. There’s more planning involved, but you can safely and comfortably drive and ride in a car throughout your pregnancy. Safe travels!
