Is Cycling Safe for Pregnant Women?

Cycling is known as a type of sport as well as a fun means of transportation. In addition to being healthy for the heart, cycling outdoors also makes it possible to see the sights. However, is cycling safe for pregnant women (pregnant women)?

Although previously often and proficient in cycling, pregnant women need to remember that the body's ability to maintain balance decreases during pregnancy. Likewise with the center of gravity on the pregnant woman's body. Pregnant women have a greater risk of falling and if this happens, there are various dangers that lurk.

The Right Time for Pregnant Cycling

So, when is the right time for pregnant women to cycle? Cycling while pregnant is still considered safe during the first trimester of pregnancy. At this time, pregnant women's body weight has not increased significantly, so pregnant women can also cycle more comfortably.

At this gestational age also, the balance of the body and the center of gravity of the pregnant woman has not undergone major changes so that the risk of falling is smaller.

It's different when pregnant women enter the third trimester. Pregnant women's center of gravity has shifted so that pregnant women are at high risk of falling while cycling. In addition, the growing belly can put more pressure on the back, which can lead to discomfort.

If pregnant women are determined to ride a bicycle and fall, they are at risk of experiencing placental abruption. Complications of pregnancy, which is characterized by the detachment of the placenta from the uterine wall, cannot be underestimated because it can cause miscarriage or premature labor.

This reason makes pregnant women need to reconsider cycling activities, especially when pregnancy has entered the third trimester.

Tips for Cycling Safe While Pregnant

Pregnant women are still allowed to cycle in the first trimester of pregnancy. However, for the safety of pregnant women and babies in the womb, pregnant women need to be more careful when cycling.

Here are some safe cycling guidelines:

1. Wear safe equipment and clothes

Pregnant women are advised to use a standard helmet to reduce the risk of head injury. Avoid wearing tight clothing and use a sports bra to support the enlarged breasts during pregnancy. Don't forget to wear comfortable sports shoes, okay?

2. Prioritize safety when cycling

Choose a dedicated bike path, not on busy highways or sidewalks. It is recommended to choose a road with one-way traffic, and avoid sudden stops. In addition, also choose a quiet road, not many speed bumps, or trash on the road.

Remember to always be careful because many car or motorcycle riders don't pay attention to cyclists.

3. Choose the right time

Make sure the weather and time are favorable for cycling outside. Not raining or too hot. Foggy weather or twilight at night may make cyclists less visible to other road users.

Also, don't ride alone. Pregnant women can invite their father or other relatives who can also cycle.

4. Check the condition of the bike

Make sure pregnant women are really familiar and master the bike that will be used. A new or rented bicycle may be uncomfortable, even dangerous.

5. Recognize your own needs

Don't forget to drink enough mineral water. Stop cycling if pregnant women experience shortness of breath, pale, chest pain, dizziness, vaginal bleeding, nausea, contractions, discharge from the vagina, or reduced movement of the baby in the womb.

Pregnant women can start cycling slowly and don't push yourself. Even though they are used to exercising, pregnant women are advised to reduce the duration of exercise. For example, pregnant women who usually cycle 5 kilometers (km) every day should only cover 3 km.

As a safer alternative, pregnant women are advised to cycle using a stationary bicycle at home to reduce the risk of falling. However, pregnant women are also advised to consult with a gynecologist so that the exercise they do remains safe and comfortable.