Is It Safe to Ride Roller Coasters While Pregnant?
Who doesn’t love visiting amusement parks and roller coasters? Even if you aren’t a thrill-seeker, watching all these rides and fun stuff will surely excite you to try some. But are amusement park rides such as roller coasters, water slides, and drop towers safe for individuals like pregnant women?
Let’s explore what experts recommend about riding roller coasters while pregnant.
Is riding roller coasters safe during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, it is important to be cautious when considering going on amusement park rides. While some rides may be safe for pregnant women, it is best to avoid high-speed, intense rides that involve a lot of jerking or jolting movements. This would include roller coasters, thrill rides, and other fast-moving attractions.
This is because the intense jolts and jerks of roller coasters can potentially put the baby and placenta under a lot of stress, not to mention the discomfort or anxiety a rider faces. Additionally, the risk of falling or being thrown from the ride can be dangerous for both the mother and baby. It is best to consult with a healthcare provider before making any decisions about riding roller coasters or other amusement park rides during pregnancy.
What are the dangers of riding roller coasters when pregnant?
The harness and restraint system of a roller coaster is mostly responsible for creating significant G-forces to risk the baby or the placenta. No amount of cushioning will be enough to eliminate the risks. Aside from placental abruption, other potential risks associated with riding roller coasters while pregnant include:
- Motion sickness
- Dizziness
- Reduced blood flow to the placenta
- Uterine contractions
- Preterm labor
- Miscarriage
It is important to note that the risk increases with more intense and high-speed rides. So listening to your body is crucial during any ride while pregnant. It’s best to get off right away and rest if you feel uncomfortable or unwell while on a ride.
At what point in pregnancy can you ride roller coasters?
Riding a roller coaster is a really bad idea regardless if you are in the early stage of your pregnancy or not. You could call your OB to get their opinions! But they will tell only one thing- it’s not worth the risk. If you wish to ride roller coasters at amusement parks, then wait until you give birth.
That being said, riding a roller coaster during the TTC process or before knowing the news of your pregnancy is probably not that risky.
Safe amusement park rides during pregnancy
Worried about missing out on the fun? The good news is there are rides you can still enjoy while pregnant! You are likely safe to try gentle rides such as carousels, ferris wheels, and train rides.
It’s also worth noting that some rides may have specific rules or recommendations for pregnant women, so it’s a good idea to check beforehand. Don’t ignore the rules or suggestions; they’re there for a reason.
Final Thoughts
Well, exercise during pregnancy is encouraged. But the amount of jerking or jolting caused by a roller coaster ride is way too much for a pregnant woman. So it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Being pregnant doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. Just be smart about things and listen to your body and the baby. If you still plan to ride while pregnant, talking to your doctor is always the best route to take.
