Women have been gaining more freedom and autonomy every day. That old idea of the ‘weaker sex’ completely dependent on a husband is gone. Along with independence comes the freedom to come and go without needing anyone.
As a result, we increasingly see more women driving, overcoming their fears and facing traffic to make life easier, especially the family’s daily routine. But what happens when a woman gets pregnant? Can a pregnant woman drive?
This is a question many women have, especially those who completely rely on their cars to manage their routine. Working outside the home, taking and picking up children at school, going grocery shopping, and running errands. And almost always without a second option or anyone to help them.
Is Driving a Luxury?
Driving will never be a luxury! It is a matter of necessity. When it comes to pregnancy, there is no DETRAN (State Department of Transit) law that prohibits women from driving during pregnancy. What does exist are some recommendations and precautions.
Until 1997, the Brazilian traffic code prohibited pregnant women from driving after the fifth month of pregnancy and stated that, from that point, a pregnant woman posed risks to herself and others by being closer to labor. It was also justified that during this period, the baby becomes more active in the womb, which could distract the woman, in addition to her reflexes being slower at this stage.
But this law has changed, and usually recommendations are given by the obstetrician who, in case of risks, will advise avoiding or completely cutting out this activity, at least temporarily.
Until When Can You Drive?
For healthy pregnancies, a pregnant woman can drive up to the eighth month, as long as she feels comfortable and safe to do so. In the first trimester, the recommendations focus on how the pregnant woman feels when driving, since nausea, dizziness, and malaise are common during this period, which can lead to accidents if the woman cannot stop the vehicle in time1.
So, at any stage of pregnancy, a woman should only drive if she feels well. If the woman experiences severe dizziness or even fainting, it’s best to suspend driving until the symptoms completely disappear. We know that in these cases the work doubles, since she will need to depend on others or even public transportation to get around. However, safety always comes first.
Precautions While Driving
One of the main complaints among pregnant women who drive is about the use of seat belts and the height of the steering wheel, which often sits right on the belly, especially when it’s already big. But the seat belt is an essential item when driving, since it provides safety for the pregnant woman, and not using it can also result in a fine. You should pay attention to the height adjustment of the belt and where it is positioned over the belly, as well as the steering wheel. Some cars have adjustable height, which helps a lot during pregnancy.
What Should You Avoid?
Even if you’re feeling perfectly well and willing, avoid very long journeys and, whenever possible, stop to stretch, use the restroom, and drink water. Don’t do more than you feel able to do, and if you feel any discomfort, no matter how mild, pull over until you feel better. If needed, call someone to pick you up or take an Uber. To drive, you need a lot of focus – not only for yourself but also to avoid putting your life, your baby’s life, and the lives of others in danger.
Another concern is the pregnant woman’s reflexes, since it’s common for her to become slower and inattentive, especially in the last trimester2. Swollen feet and legs are also a concern and a pregnant woman should only drive if she feels comfortable and safe when pressing the pedals.
Precautions like these are essential to make sure nothing happens on the road, since any sudden braking or impact can be highly harmful for the baby’s health. They can cause placental abruption, bleeding, and even lead to premature birth3.
Studies conducted by traffic authorities show that 98% of pregnant women involved in car accidents had momentary nausea, dizziness, or distractions caused by pregnancy discomforts.
So, you can never be too careful, and a pregnant woman can drive as long as she feels completely confident and well enough to do so. Always keep emergency numbers handy, including your obstetrician’s, and don’t even think about continuing driving if you feel any discomfort.
See Also: What Kind of Clothes Should I Wear During Pregnancy?
Photo: CDC/ Amanda Mills
