In summer we make more plans, we go on vacation, to see the family, to the beach ... in short, we increase our frequency of road trips. Children and pregnant women are two of the most vulnerable groups when traveling by car.
If you are pregnant and you are going to take a long trip, we give you some tips to make it more bearable, as well as the ideal travel quarter. Road trips in this state are usually heavy, it is important to take safety measures to fully enjoy the holidays.
Seat belt, always
Both the DGT and the Spanish Association of Midwives insist on the importance of wearing a seat belt in pregnant women, a practice from which they were exempt until 2006, date on which the Traffic Law was modified.
Although today no one questions the use of the seat belt, a percentage of pregnant women wear it badly, with the risks that this can cause for both its physical integrity and that of the baby.
DGT infographic on the WRONG USE of the safety belt in pregnant women The pelvic band should be placed in the lower part of the hip, to avoid pressure in the gut, and the chest band should go in the chest. If the belt is uncomfortable for us, or the pelvic band goes up to the abdominal area, Fundación Mapfre advises to use the safety belt for pregnant women developed by BeSafe, whose function is to prevent the lower band from climbing without reducing the effectiveness of the belt.
Is any time good to travel?
In general, traveling during pregnancy is not contraindicated unless there are certain medical problems that advise against it. Therefore, before starting a long road trip, it is best to consult with your gynecologist.
During the first trimester there is an increased risk of having a miscarriage, so we must exercise caution when traveling during this period. The amount of amniotic fluid during the first few weeks is low, and an accident could cause serious damage.
Experts advise traveling between weeks 14 and 28, and stop doing so during the third quarter, when the discomforts of an advanced state are more than remarkable. In addition, a collision or sudden braking during the last months of pregnancy could lead to childbirth or cause trauma to the fetus.
Tips when it comes to getting on the road
Once chosen the best time to travel, and being clear that the first thing we should do when riding in the car is fasten our seat belt, it is advisable to follow these tips to make the trip more bearable:
- Plan your trip to do frequent stops in rest areas
During pregnancy, the risk of venous thrombosis increases and this is avoided by moving the legs and feet with some frequency. Make regular stops every two hours, stretch your legs, make circular movements with your ankles and take the opportunity to walk.
It will be good for you to stretch your back and relieve any possible lumbar discomfort that the trip may cause, as well as empty your bladder frequently.
- Drink and eat frequently
Pregnant women have a higher risk of low blood pressure, hypoglycemia and dehydration, so it is recommended to eat and drink more or less continuously. Always have on hand a bottle of water, fruit or any healthy snack that helps you maintain correct levels of sugar and hydration.
- Avoid sudden braking and irregularities on the asphalt
When traveling by car plan your route based on the comfort of the roads. Avoid roads with many curves, irregularities in the asphalt or obstacles that prevent smooth driving. Sometimes, choosing a longer route can guarantee you a more pleasant and comfortable trip for your state.
- Get comfortable
When traveling by car, always wear comfortable shoes and baggy clothes that do not press or compress any part of the body. Check that the elastics are not nailed or uncomfortable and choose breathable clothing and natural fabrics.
You can also put a cushion on your back that helps you relieve back pain caused by posture.
Do not disconnect the airbag when traveling as a co-pilot
Regulate the seat and increase the distance to the steering wheel or dashboard
It is recommended that travel always accompanied, especially if the journey is long. This will allow you to take turns behind the wheel with your companion and be able to rest
If you are going to drive, the eye doctors remind us that during pregnancy the diopters increase so you vision ability could be slightly altered. Keep this in mind when getting behind the wheel.
Belt Adapter for Pregnant Women
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