When planning for pregnancy, there are a lot of details to consider. One such issue is whether or not you can safely ride on a boat while pregnant.
Your pregnancy status and health condition will dictate if it’s safe to go boating during your journey, provided that you take certain precautions.
Preparation is Key
Boating can be a joyous activity for all, but when pregnant it’s especially important to remember some key points. Pregnancy may make your center of gravity and balance more challenging, so try your best to remain seated as much as possible while out on the water.
If you plan to be out on the water for any extended period, make sure you bring snacks, sunscreen, and medication for seasickness relief. Furthermore, stay hydrated as pregnancy dehydration can be hazardous both to yourself and your unborn child.
Finally, seek shaded areas and bring along a portable fan to stay cool. The sun can be extremely damaging to your skin, especially your baby’s; therefore, take steps to protect them from ultraviolet rays.
Pack a Safety and Comfort Bag
Pregnancy presents a special set of needs, so it is essential to plan ahead when taking a boat ride. This includes packing a safety and comfort bag with all your essential items for comfort.
You’ll need plenty of water to stay hydrated and protect yourself from dehydration, snacks and medications, an extra set of clothes, sunscreen, and a portable fan for added cooling comfort. A well-stocked bag should also include these items:
It’s best to avoid boating on rough waters or large waves. These can cause repetitive shocks to your body and may even result in a fall.
If you decide to go boating while pregnant, make sure you wear a life jacket and remain seated. Furthermore, ask the captain for calm waters when out on the water.
Don’t Skip Water
Water is an essential nutrient for everyone, especially pregnant women. It plays a significant role in absorption and distribution of essential nutrients, waste removal, digestion, as well as regulation of body temperature.
Hydrating during pregnancy not only provides cushion for your joints, but it also prevents urinary tract infections and eases constipation. A proper hydration routine during pregnancy can also help combat nausea, morning sickness, acidity or heartburn as well as headaches and fatigue.
Non-pregnant women typically drink between 2 and 3 litres of water daily, while pregnant women need 8-10 glasses due to the increased demands on blood volume, amniotic fluid and fetal circulation that occur during pregnancy.
Avoid Speedboats
Always consult your doctor before doing anything that could potentially be hazardous for yourself or your unborn baby. Pregnant women should exercise extra caution when partaking in water sports or activities on the water, just as they would with any other activity.
Speedboating can be one of the least secure choices for pregnant women due to the potential risk of the vessel tipping over and resulting in fatality for all on board.
Pregnant women should avoid boating during the first trimester of pregnancy, as it can aggravate morning sickness and motion sickness. Furthermore, water skiing and other high-speed water sports should be avoided during this stage of gestation.
Another potential concern is that a bumpy ride could harm your baby’s amniotic sac. Your uterus is designed to protect your child from minor knocks, but strong impacts could cause problems.
Chris is a passionate learner and writer. When he’s not working on his blog or learning something new, he’s a full-time systems administrator and father of two beautiful girls. Chris loves spending time with his family, reading, writing, and playing hockey.