Is It Safe To Use A Seat Belt During Pregnancy?

If you are a first-time mum-to-be, you may have many questions and doubts in your mind about the dos and don’ts during pregnancy. Whether to wear or not to wear a seat belt during pregnancy is one such question that may come to your mind. Read on to know if it is safe to use a seat belt during pregnancy.

Why Is A Seat Belt Important?

Everyone, including expecting women, should wear a seat belt while riding in a car as seat belts are the most effective way to save lives and reduce potential injuries in case of an accodent. Correctly wearing your seat belt can protect you and your growing baby from serious harm. 

However, there are certain precautions that should be kept in mind while wearing seat belts during pregnancy.

Here’s What You Need To Know About Wearing A Seat Belt During Pregnancy

1. Position the seat belt correctly: When wearing a seat belt during pregnancy, ensure that the seat belt crosses over your collarbone and lies between your breasts. It should not hit your neck. It is not advisable to put the shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back. Plus, the lap belt should go under your belly, across your hips and should never be on or above your belly.
2. Adjust your seat position: As your body changes during pregnancy, you have to adjust your seat position in the car. It is recommended to have a safe distance of about 10 inches between your belly and the steering wheel. After adjusting your seat, try to make sure that you can still comfortably reach the accelerator, brake, and clutch.

6 Safety Measures While Wearing A Seat Belt During Pregnancy

1. It is recommended to move your seat back as far as you can if you have airbags.
2. Avoid dismantling the airbag as it can save your life in case of an accident.
3. If you are driving, ensure to tilt the steering wheel towards your head instead of allowing it to remain facing your chest or belly.
4. It is not advisable to place the shoulder strap behind the back.
5. If you are wearing an extra layer of clothing like jacket, try to remove it if it interferes with the lap strap.
6. As you enter into the second trimester, you can use a cushion or a folded blanket under your butt that will raise you up until you are sitting flat. This will reduce the chances of back pain and a posterior baby.

Using A Belt Positioner During Pregnancy

You can also opt for belt positioners. There are 3 common styles of seat belt positioners that are designed for pregnant women:

• Soft material positioners that are designed to keep the lap belt under the belly.
• Positioners that use a hook to anchor the seat belt between the legs and move the belt away from the tummy area.
• A cushion or pillow that is placed between the tummy and the seat belt.

Now that you are already familiar with the tips and tricks of using a seat belt during pregnancy, we are sure that you will have a comforting ride. It is always advisable to wear a seat belt if you are driving or if you take the front seat.

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