KDue to an urgent need or condition, sometimes pregnant women have to drive a caralone. Actually this is okay, but there are some things that need to be considered so that safety when driving a car is maintained.
The safety of pregnant women while driving should be considered because driving during pregnancy has many risks, both for the mother and the fetus, especially when the pregnancy is getting bigger.
Things to Pay Attention to When Drive
Actually driving a car while pregnant is considered safe as long as the pregnant woman is in good health and does not have the risk of complications. Even so, there are some things to consider when driving. Among others are:
1. Gestational age
When pregnancy has entered the third trimester and the stomach is getting bigger, you should avoid driving a car because it is feared that the stomach can be compressed if there is a collision. A study states that even small injuries to pregnant women can have a big impact on the fetus they are carrying.
So if the condition of the stomach is too close to the steering wheel and pregnant women start to find it difficult to get in and out of the car, it's better to stop driving the car yourself.
2. Driving position
Pay attention to your sitting position while driving. Pregnant women are advised to avoid a body position that is too forward. So, move the chair back a little until pregnant women feel really comfortable. The distance between the steering wheel and the body is at least 25 cm.
In addition, also adjust the steering wheel so that it is in line with the sternum and does not lead to the stomach.
3. Use of seat belts
Although the use of seat belts may cause discomfort, pregnant women still have to use them, yes. How to use a seat belt during pregnancy is to position the top seat belt past the collarbone, middle of the chest, and side of the stomach.
As for the lower seat belt, place it under the stomach or on the upper thigh. Avoid placing it right on the stomach because it can cause the stomach to be compressed when the seat belt is fastened.
4. Mileage
Pay attention to the distance traveled while driving. Pregnant women should avoid traveling long distances. Sitting in the same position for a long time can increase the risk of blood clots in the legs.
If you have to travel a lot, it's a good idea to bring someone else along so you can take turns driving or stop every few hours to get out of the car and stretch your legs.
Tips for Driving a Car Comfortable
It is important to pay attention to the comfort of pregnant women when driving a car by doing the following tips:
1. Avoid sitting too long
To reduce the risk of health problems in pregnant women, you should avoid sitting too long in the vehicle. It is recommended to stop every driving every 1–1.5 hours so that pregnant women can walk for at least 1 minute, especially when pregnancy has entered the third trimester and when traveling long distances.
2. Do some stretching
On the sidelines of driving, do short stretches to maintain smooth blood circulation. The trick is to lengthen and rotate the legs for a few minutes. This stretch is important to do because it can reduce the risk of swollen feet and leg cramps.
3. Put a pillow on your back
Sitting in a car seat for too long can trigger back pain. Therefore, place a pillow or other support on the back that can make the sitting position feel comfortable.
4. Prepare a snack
Always provide healthy snacks that are good for digestion and enough drinking water to prevent dehydration.
5. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes
Avoid wearing tight shoes and clothes. The reason is, the use of tight clothes causes discomfort and can limit the movement of pregnant women.
6. Bring a pregnancy book
If you have to travel long distances, bring a pregnancy book that contains notes or information about gestational age, estimated time of birth, and doctor's notes regarding pregnancy.
For safety reasons, pregnant women in the third trimester of pregnancy or those with a large belly, and those who have morning sickness or hyperemesis gravidarum is not recommended to drive your own car.
Driving a car when you are nauseous or dehydrated due to frequent vomiting can cause pregnant women to lose focus while driving and lead to accidents.
So before deciding to drive a car or drive a motorbike yourself, pregnant women should first consult with a gynecologist. If allowed, follow the doctor's directions while driving so that comfort and safety are maintained.
If while driving something unexpected happens, no matter how small it is, immediately consult a doctor. It is important to check the overall condition of the pregnant woman and fetus to ensure that there is no injury or risk of complications.
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