Is there any danger to me taking a long driving trip by myself at 20 weeks pregnant?

Question

I'm going to talk to my OB about this, but I'm asking because my mom is freaking out about me driving by myself. It's 900 miles each way up a major interstate on a drive I've taken dozens of times by myself from CA to WA. I have a new SUV with an awesome navigation system that I've been wanting to take on a long drive.

The reason I don't want to fly is because I want to take my German Shepherd with me because I love her so much I don't want to take another trip without her. My husband's going to fly into Seattle and I'll pick him up there.

I'm having a healthy pregnancy, just have to pee a lot and am sometimes nauseous at night. My mom thinks this is too much and I could lose the baby (from a drive in a comfy SUV???) What do you think??

Answer 1

I think you should be okay

I drove across canada which was 5402 miles, mind you I was with my boyfriend.

Just make sure you drink lots of fluids even though you do have to use the washroom quite a bit. And take lots of pit stops. But you should consider gettin' someone to go with you.

good luck

Answer 2

I think you know your body better than n e 1. if you feel up for it go for it enjoy your trip.

Answer 3

It is possible. I had premature rupture of membranes, and joined a group after the fact, and a lot of the women on there have experienced the premature rupture of membranes after a long car trip or after flying. They don't necessarily know that the trip is what caused it, but there is an awfully lot of the women that have experienced it right after the trip, and it seems like more than a coincidence. It can also cause other problems as well, with blood clots and embolisms. If you do go on the trip you need to do a lot of moving, and not sit still for a very long period of time. It would be best to get out every 100 miles or so and walk around to prevent that.  

Answer 4

I dont think you should either. Thats a heck of a drive. Pregnant woman tire to easily. if your planning on doing it in a few days, stopping at a motel to get a full nights sleep, then that will be ok as long as you have plenty of rest stops and lots of fluid!

Answer 5

hiya...when i was @30 weeks pregnant i drove from Alabama to South Carolina on my own...made alot of stops tho to eat and restroom but other than that everything was just fine! ;)

Answer 6

i don't think you should do this alone , that is a long trip and you dog wont help you if something happens to you . why not fly and fly your dog .

Answer 7

its not going to put you in danger no. but you should stop frequently just to stretch out. it easier during pregnancy to get a sore back and issue with circulation, so try not to sit for too long even if you feel comfortable.

Answer 8

I think u'll be fine... just take it easy and relax... i mean how is it going to hurt sitting down and driving??? Still check with ur doctor just to be safe.. good luck and congrats on the baby on the way!

Answer 9

http://www.travelmuse.com/essays/back-pa...

Answer 10

As long as you keep yourself comfortable, fed, and hydrated, I don't see a problem with a long drive. Just make sure to stop more often than you normally would to get some exercise, it will keep you from getting too stiff while you drive.