Bumpy Rides: Safe For Pregnant Women?

There are many concerns about the safety of bumpy rides during pregnancy. While small bumps are unlikely to cause harm to the foetus, stronger impacts during high-speed activities, such as boating or riding roller coasters, can pose risks. The concern with bumpy rides is associated with the potential for rapid starts and stops, jarring forces, and pressures against the body, which may lead to placental abruption or other complications. It is recommended to avoid intense or prolonged exposure to bumpy rides, especially for those with a history of pregnancy complications or discomfort.

Roller coasters and other high-speed rides

The concern with roller coasters and other thrill rides is the rapid starts and stops, jarring motions, and pressures against the body that can occur. These forces can create additional jarring within the uterus, potentially leading to placental abruption or other complications. Placental abruption is the premature separation of the placenta from the wall of the uterus, which can be caused by even relatively minor jarring forces, such as those experienced in slow automobile accidents.

Although some pregnant women have ridden roller coasters and other high-speed rides without complication, it is generally recommended to avoid these rides during pregnancy. Amusement parks typically identify rides that pose risks to pregnant women, and it is important to heed these warnings. The safest course of action is to avoid any rides that may pose a risk and wait until after pregnancy to enjoy these rides again.

In addition to roller coasters, it is also recommended that pregnant women avoid other amusement park rides with forceful landings and sudden sharp stops, as these can also potentially harm the baby. It is important for pregnant women to exercise discretion and caution when considering amusement park rides and to prioritize their safety and the safety of their unborn child.

Placental abruption

The cause of placental abruption is often unknown, but it can be caused by trauma or injury to the abdomen, such as from a fall, blow to the abdomen, or a car accident. Other risk factors include high blood pressure, hypertension-related problems during pregnancy (such as preeclampsia), previous placental abruption, multiple gestations, advanced maternal age, and substance use.

If placental abruption is suspected, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Treatment options depend on the severity of the abruption, the gestational age of the fetus, and the health of the mother and baby. In some cases, early delivery or emergency C-section may be necessary.

While a bumpy ride in a vehicle is not a direct cause of placental abruption, it is recommended to avoid activities with a high risk of abdominal trauma or falling, such as riding roller coasters or horses. Pregnant individuals should always wear a seatbelt when in a motor vehicle and seek medical attention if they have experienced abdominal trauma or vaginal bleeding.

Motion sickness

Pregnant people are more likely to suffer from motion sickness. If you are experiencing nausea and vomiting, it could be morning sickness, especially if it is early in your pregnancy. Morning sickness, or nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, can happen at any time of day. It is very common in early pregnancy, affecting up to 70% of pregnant people in the first trimester. Symptoms tend to improve by the second trimester.

If you are experiencing motion sickness, there are some things you can do to help ward it off. In a car, sit in the front seat, open the window for fresh air, and focus on the horizon or a distant object. In an airplane, ask for a seat over the wing, where the ride will be smoother. On a boat, stay on deck and gaze at the horizon. Frequent light, non-greasy snacks may help soothe a queasy stomach, and it's best to avoid large, heavy meals before travelling.

Over-the-counter drugs that contain dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or diphenhydramine (Benadryl) can also help relieve motion sickness. These are considered low-risk for pregnant women, but it is always a good idea to check with your doctor or midwife before taking any medications during pregnancy.

Risk of falling

During pregnancy, a woman's body goes through several physiological changes, including hormonal, anatomical, and physiological changes that result in weight gain, decreased abdominal muscle strength, reduced control over muscular movements, and diminished muscle strength. These changes can increase the risk of falling.

The hormonal changes during pregnancy, particularly the increase in the hormone relaxin, can cause joint and ligament relaxation, affecting gait and movement and increasing the risk of falling. Additionally, the weight gain and shift in the centre of gravity during pregnancy can cause bodily imbalances, further elevating the probability of falls.

Falls during pregnancy can result in serious maternal and foetal complications, including maternal bone fractures, head injuries, internal haemorrhage, placental abruption, rupture of the uterus and membranes, and, in rare cases, maternal or foetal death. The risks are higher during the second and early third trimesters, as falling directly on the abdomen can harm both the mother and the child.

To reduce the risk of falling during pregnancy, it is essential to take adequate precautions. Some recommended precautions include:

• Wearing shoes with good grip and avoiding high heels or wedges.
• Avoiding walking on wet or uneven surfaces.
• Holding on to railings when using stairs.
• Avoiding carrying heavy loads or large items that obstruct your view.
• Engaging in regular physical exercise to improve balance and stability.
• Using maternity support belts to increase postural stability.

Preterm labour

While driving over speed bumps or bumpy roads is unlikely to trigger labour, even in the later stages of pregnancy, it is recommended that you drive slowly over any bumps to reduce the shock to your body. If you are at risk of preterm labour, your doctor may advise you to avoid very bumpy roads.

There are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of preterm labour, including:

• Preterm birth in a past pregnancy
• Having a short cervix early in pregnancy
• Past gynecologic conditions or surgeries
• Current pregnancy complications
• Lifestyle factors, such as smoking during pregnancy or low pre-pregnancy weight

If you are at risk of preterm labour, it is important to discuss treatment options with your doctor. Some possible treatments include:

• Vaginal progesterone: a gel or suppository placed in the vagina daily until 37 weeks or delivery.
• Cerclage: a procedure where the cervix is closed with stitches to prevent or delay preterm birth.

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