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Learning To Drive While Pregnant: Three Things To Remember

by Aubree Richardson

While some women may decide not to get behind a wheel as soon as they know they are having a baby, there is no reason that an expectant mum cannot continue to take driving lessons. That aside, given the need to protect mum and baby, if you decide to learn to drive while pregnant, you will need to take some extra well-being precautions. Learn more about three of them here.

Adjust your seating position

It's important to take steps to protect your baby from any injury that may occur if you hit the steering wheel. A collision is the worst-case scenario, but even if you stall or brake a little too sharply, the jolt may push you against the steering wheel, so you need to take precautions.

Throughout the pregnancy, adjust the seating position you take to sit as far back as you comfortably and practically can. Tilt the steering wheel toward your breastbone and not your abdomen, where possible. As your position becomes less comfortable, you can use a cushion on the seat, higher heels and different shoes, but you must not lose control of the pedals. If the position becomes too uncomfortable to drive safely, you may need to give up your lessons until after the birth.

Take regular breaks

Healthy circulation is vital for a healthy pregnancy, especially in your legs. When you're pregnant, your blood volume increases to meet the demands on your body. What's more, a substantial dip in blood flow could harm your baby.

Take regular breaks during lessons, so you can stretch your legs. Your driving instructor won't mind if you ask for extra breaks, and you only need to get out of the car and walk around for a minute or so. Of course, you may need extra toilet breaks, as well, so you may decide to kill two birds with one stone.

Fuel up

It's not just the car that needs fuel before a driving lesson. Eat a good-sized meal before your lesson, and drink plenty of fluids to help you stay hydrated. Hunger or thirst pangs may become an unwanted distraction while you're out on the road, so, if necessary, take a bottle of water and a snack with you to have during a break.

If you're suffering from morning sickness, you'll want to schedule your lessons at a time of day when you're less likely to suffer nausea. Don't drive if you feel unwell. It's better to cancel the lesson than suffer a bout of sickness while you are driving.

Many pregnant women take driving lessons, but you may need to make some adjustments to cope. For more information, contact Road Ready or a similar company.

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