Protecting Your Unborn Child

The trauma of a car crash during pregnancy may lead to premature delivery, miscarriage and complications sustained from blood clots, fractures and internal injuries to organs. All of these can lead to long-term negative consequences for your unborn child.

When travelling on the road, whether it is a 30-minute trip or a 5-minute stop at a nearby supermarket, it is important to remember and practise some car safety rules in order to protect yourself and your unborn child.

1. Ensure that your car comes with airbags for added protection. Seat belts and airbags work together to protect you and your unborn child in a crash
2. Position the shoulder strap between the breasts and away from the neck
3. Place the lap portion of the seatbelt below your abdomen and across your upper thighs
4. The breastbone should be at least 25cm (about the length of your forearm) from the steering wheel or dashboard
5. As your abdomen grows, move the seat back to keep as much distance as possible while your feet can still reach the pedals

EXTRA CAUTION

It is best to minimise the number of times you drive during your pregnancy. However, if you do decide to drive, please do it during daylight hours and in good weather. Avoid driving in the last few months of pregnancy as you may not be able to get your abdomen far enough from the steering wheel! Instead, car-pool or get someone to give you a lift. Wear your seatbelt even when riding in the back of the car. In fact, riding belted in the back is even safer than riding belted in the front passenger seat. If you are ever involved in a crash, no matter how minor, do get yourself checked at the emergency room immediately. Your unborn baby, uterus or placenta could be injured even if you do not seem to be hurt. Avoid riding motorbikes during your pregnancy as they offer zero protection.