Travelling by car during pregnancy

Is it safe to drive during pregnancy?

Yes. As long as you're healthy, it's fine to carry on driving right up until the end of your pregnancy.

In your first trimester, tiredness and nausea can make it hard to concentrate. Be sure to take regular breaks, and, if possible, drive only when you're feeling alert and well-rested.

If you have back pain or pelvic pain, driving can be uncomfortable and you may find it distracting when you drive. If you can, limit the number of times you have to get behind the wheel. Get advice from your midwife or physio about managing back and hip pain during pregnancy.

In the last few months of pregnancy, your bump may make it harder for you to get in and out of the car.

Try to avoid long car trips on your own. It's safer, and more enjoyable, to share driving duties. Take your maternity notes with you on long trips, just in case.

How can I stay comfortable when travelling by car?

Simple stretches, both in and out of the car, will keep your blood circulating. Sitting for long periods can be difficult when you're pregnant. It can make your feet and ankles swell, your legs cramp, and give you heartburn.

You may be able to relieve aches and swelling with only a little movement. Whether you're sitting in the car or standing at the motorway services, extend your leg heel first, and gently flex your foot to stretch your calf muscles. When you're sitting, rotate your ankles and wiggle your toes – as long as you're not driving, of course!

If sitting in the car gives you back pain, try putting a cushion, foam wedge or rolled-up towel in the small of your back.

In the later stages of your pregnancy, you may find a tiny elbow or foot poking your ribs or elsewhere. Try to stay focused on your driving, and take a break at least every 90 minutes for a rest and a toilet break.

Keep some healthy snacks and water handy to maintain your energy levels and ensure you stay hydrated.

As your bump gets bigger, you may need to push back your seat a little and adjust the steering wheel. Remember to check your mirrors if you make any changes. Depending on the type of vehicle you drive, make sure you can still reach the clutch, brake and accelerator comfortably. If you have to brake or change gear suddenly, you want to be sure there isn't a delay in your reaction.

How should I wear a seat belt safely during pregnancy?

Only use a three-point seat belt that has a diagonal strap and a lap belt. Never wear a lap-only belt.

Here's how to use a three-point belt:

• Position the diagonal strap across your collarbone and between your breasts. Ease the strap down the side of your bump. If the belt cuts across your neck, try repositioning your seat so it fits better, or get a seat belt pad.
• Position the lap belt under your bump, so that it fits across your thighs and hips. Never place the lap part across your belly, as it could put pressure on your baby. If the strap is covering your belly button, it's too high.

Make sure you wear your seat belt as tightly as possible.

Is it safe to travel in a car with airbags during pregnancy?

Yes, an airbag will protect you and your unborn baby if an accident happens. If the car has the option to turn the airbag on or off, make sure it's always switched on, whether you're driving, or are a passenger.

Airbags are designed to work with seat belts and you should be safe as long as you're wearing your seat belt properly.

Your seat belt will help to restrain your upper chest and keep you away from the steering wheel. The airbag will help to spread out the force of a collision, acting as an instant cushion for you and your bump.

As your belly grows, you may not be able to keep as much space between you and the steering wheel. If you're driving and the steering wheel is adjustable, tilt it towards your breastbone and away from your tummy.

I have to drive for work. What are my rights?

Your employer is obliged to carry out risk assessments of your working conditions during your pregnancy. This may mean that they'll have to reconsider your work pattern as your pregnancy progresses. If you find you're struggling with your commitments between risk assessments, ask your employer for a review.

You could ask your employer to give you extra training or advice about driving safely once your bump gets big.

What should I do if I'm involved in a car accident?

Even if you feel fine after an accident, it's best to get checked out by a doctor just to be safe. A forceful jolt may cause pregnancy complications, such as a partially separated placenta. If you have contractions, pain or bleeding after an accident, see a doctor as soon as possible.

Tell the doctor if you have a rhesus negative blood group, as you may need to have an anti-D injection.

What should I do if the car breaks down when I'm pregnant?

If you haven't got breakdown cover, arrange it before you travel. Think about what level of cover you want. It may be easier to bolt it on to your insurance policy.

If you're going on a particularly long trip to a remote area, keep an extra supply of warm clothes, a torch, cash, snacks, and water in your car.

If you break down on the motorway, your priority is to move away from fast-moving traffic. Follow these steps:

• Get off the motorway if you can. Otherwise, get to an emergency bay or pull onto the hard shoulder. If there's no hard shoulder, pull onto the verge on your left. Switch on your headlights and hazard lights.
• If your bump permits, get out of the left side of your car. Step behind the barrier if you can.
• If possible, use the roadside emergency phone, rather than your mobile. There should be posts with arrows pointing in the direction of the nearest phone along the back of the hard shoulder. There's a phone every mile or so. Follow the arrows, staying on your side of the carriageway. Each emergency phone has its own reference number and is answered by an operator. Tell the operator that you are a vulnerable motorist, because you're pregnant.
• Return to your car and wait for help. Wait on the raised area behind the barrier, well away from the traffic.
• If you can't get to an emergency phone, call your breakdown provider, or Highways England on 0300 123 5000.
• In the unlikely event that you break down in moving traffic and can't leave your car, keep your seatbelt on, switch on your hazard lights, and call 999.