Thinking about taking a motorcycle ride while expecting? It’s a question many pregnant women ponder. Riding on two wheels can be fun and freeing, but when you’re carrying a baby safety takes the front seat.
Is it a thumbs-up for the biking adventures, or it is better to park the motorcycle for now? Let’s rev up the conversation into this and explore if motorcycle is a yay or nay during this nine month journey!
Is it safe to Ride a Motorcycle while Pregnant?
Your body is going through a lotta changes now, some of which can screw up your ability to balance. This makes riding a motorcycle a bit more complicated than usual.
There is always the risk of getting into accidents and falling while on the bike, which is something we certainly want to avoid. Another thing you’d like to weigh is the air around you while you’re zooming down the road.
Motorcycles don’t shield you from pollution or bad weather in the way cars do. When you’re pregnant, staying away from pollution and not getting too hot or too cold are both pretty important.
We don’t recommend it anyway. However, if you talk to your doctor and decide that riding is still on the table, you’d want to make sure you’re as safe as can be. Wearing the right gear like helmet, gloves and protective clothing is a no-brainer.
A second thing you’d want to do is to steer clear of busy roads where accidents are more likely and to keep rides short to avoid getting too tired or uncomfortable. Water is a must, try to drink more and take regular breaks, so you don’t run yourself into the ground.
However, there’re times when this isn’t the best choice. If doctors say your pregnancy is a high-risk one, or if you have zero balance, or if your doctor advises against it, like we do.
In the end, the decision to hop on a motorcycle or to skip it is personal. You just have to weigh the risks and talk it over with your doctor. Sometimes, finding another way to get around might just be the safest bet.
Alternatives For Pregnant Riders
investing in a car
You might start to think about swapping your motorcycle for something safer, like a car. It’s a big decision, with lots to consider, but a car can be a cozy little bubble that keeps you and your baby safe while on the move.
We think cars are better because they have seats, seat belts and airbags that cushion you when you encounter a thump or bump on the road. Being in a car also means you’re out of the rain and sun, which is better for a pregnant woman. If you think buying a car is the right step, there are a couple of stuff to know.
First, you want to find a reliable car. It needs to be responsive and get you to your destinations almost all the time without drama. Comfort is another thing. Is there enough space for your belly near the steering wheel? Will it be easy to get in and out of it when your belly gets bigger?
The cost of the car is something you can’t brush aside. You want to be sure it fits your budget, especially at this time you have a baby on the way. There are always other costs like gas, insurance and taking care of the car now(fueling, maintenance).
Buying a car is a pretty big step, and you might want to chat with friends or family who have cars to get their advice. Or pop into a car shop to talk to the folks there. They can help you decide which car would fit your needs and your growing family best.
public transportation
This is pretty cool because it takes the driving out of your hands. There’s less to worry about controlling a vehicle, which can be a relief, especially at this time when you have persistent morning sickness and are tired all the time. It’s also cheaper than owning and maintaining a car.
You only gotta pay your fare and off you go! However, using buses and trains means you have to plan a bit more. You’d have to replan your schedules and always leave twenty to thirty minutes earlier to ensure you get to your destinations on time.
It can be really crowded during rush hours, and this might not be comfortable when you have a baby bump. Thus, try to travel during off-peak hours when there are fewer people.
Look for seats reserved for pregnant women, seniors, or people with disabilities. Don’t be shy about asking someone to give up a seat to you. Wearing a ‘baby on board’ badge can help, as it lets people know you’re pregnant and might need to sit down.
You know, not all stations have access to elevators or escalators, and thus, you should always check out your route in advance so you won’t be found wanting.
While we think public transportation is a safer option than motorcycles, you should also be cautious regardless. Hold onto rails while standing, watch your steps getting on and off and always be hydrated, have a snack with you incase you get hungry.
walking
For shorter trips, walking can be really good for your health. It keeps you far away from the hubbub. You cruise at your own speed and you don’t stress about traffic jams. You’re also saying goodbyes to the worries that come with motorcycles – like balancing at stoplights or the risk of taking a spill.
Walking feels even better when you put on a pair of soft and cushy shoes. When you’re pregnant your feet feels a lil bit puffy and these shoes will hug your feet just right and prevent you from getting sore.
As you start walking to the grocery store or around your neighborhood, keep a water bottle handy. Drinking lots of water is like giving a big, cool high-five to your body, especially when you’re carrying extra weight.
While you’re out and about, picking the right path is key. Always stick to flat and smooth sideways. If the sun starts to dip down, stay in places with plenty lights to see the way and stay safe.
Now, pregnant bodies can be a bit fussy sometimes. They’ll let you know when you need to kick back and rest. So, if you’re feeling out of gas or something feels off, it’s totally okay to pause and relax. Growing a baby is a big job, and you don’t have to push it.
telecommuting and shopping online
If you work or need to run errands far from home, consider telecommuting. This is just a fancy word for working from home or shopping online if you can. These options not only keep you cozy at home but also cut down on the risk of riding on two wheels.
Working from your own space means you get to make your environment as comfy as you need. You got all your snacks and water right next to you, take breaks to rest and stretch whenever you want. You won’t deal with traffic, Apparently no stress of commuting.
You also don’t have to worry about balancing on a motorcycle, which can be tricky as your belly grows. It’s like fitting your work to your life, not the other way around. Shopping online on the other hand means you don’t need to gear up for a motorcycle ride or run through crowded stores.
You only need your phone while you lay in your couch and wait for your stuff to arrive. It isn’t only convenient but you also avoid carrying heavy bags and queuing in long lines.
What rides should you avoid when pregnant?
Rides that move too fast or can be bumpy aren’t ideal for your pregnant body and the baby. Here’s our list of those you should shun while expecting;
- Roller coasters: They are very fast and can yank you around a lot. This can put too much stress on your body and your baby.
- Bumper cars: The whole point is to bump into other cars, which can give you quite a jolt. That’s not safe when you’ve got a baby on board.
- Spinning rides: These can make you really dizzy and mess with your balance, which changes a lot when you’re pregnant.
- Drop towers: Rides that drop you from way up high can press on your tummy too hard, and that’s not good for you or the little one.
- Water slides: They come with lots of twists and turns and can end in a big splash. This might be rasping for your belly.
- Any ride with a warning sign: Be sure to check signs that tell you rides that are a no-no for pregnant women.
This is a time to appreciate your body because it’s doing a lot of work growing your baby. It’s best to stick to rides that are slow and smooth if you’re looking to have some fun at the park.
And, of course, confirm with your doctor any ride you decide on embarking at all. They’d let you know whether they’re safe for you or not, and advice accordingly.
Is It safe to ride a motorcycle while pregnant? – Final Say
Riding a motorcycle when you’re pregnant comes with risks. It’s not just about being on two wheels; it’s about keeping you and your baby away from harm.
Motorcycles can be unsteady, and even a tiny bump or quick stop might be risky. As your bump grows, balancing gets trickier and you might not react as quickly to save a possible accident.
We suggest finding other ways to get around. Perhaps driving a car, taking a bus, or walking can be safer choices. These keep you more protected and comfortable, especially as your body changes.
This is a special time to take extra care of yourself and the little one. And choosing the safest way to travel is part of that care. So, while motorcycles might be fun, it’s best to park them until after your baby is born.
