What to Know About Driving While Pregnant: Tips for Staying Safe Behind the Wheel

Pregnancy brings so many changes—physically, emotionally, and even in the most routine parts of life, like getting behind the wheel. If you're expecting and still driving, you're not alone. Many people continue to drive well into their third trimester. But with a growing bump, shifting hormones, and a body that’s working overtime, there are some important things to keep in mind to stay safe on the road.

Whether you're commuting to work, heading to a prenatal appointment, or just making a grocery run, here’s what to expect—and how to protect yourself and your baby while driving during pregnancy.

Your Changing Body Affects How You Drive

One of the most noticeable changes during pregnancy is your body’s shape—and that can impact how you sit, how close you are to the steering wheel, and how easily you can check your mirrors or blind spots.

As your belly grows, it’s normal to feel like your usual driving position no longer fits. You might find your seatbelt feels tighter, or that sitting for long periods becomes uncomfortable. Your center of gravity can also shift, which may slightly affect your coordination or balance when moving in and out of the car.

Is It Safe to Wear a Seatbelt?

Yes, and in fact, you absolutely should.

Wearing a seatbelt is crucial for protecting both you and your baby. The key is positioning. The lap belt should lie snugly below your belly, across your hips and pelvis—not across your stomach. The shoulder strap should go between your breasts and off to the side of your bump, never under your arm or behind your back.

Proper positioning helps prevent serious injuries in case of a crash. It’s always worth taking a moment before you drive to check that your belt is where it should be.

Dealing With Discomfort and Fatigue

Long drives can be especially draining during pregnancy. If you’re in the second or third trimester, you may already be dealing with back pain, leg cramps, or swelling in your ankles. Sitting in one position for too long can make these symptoms worse.

Here are a few tips to help:

• Take breaks: On longer trips, pull over every hour or so to stretch your legs and walk around.

• Support your back: Use a small pillow or lumbar support behind your lower back.

• Stay hydrated: Bring water with you, especially in warmer weather.

• Listen to your body: If you’re feeling lightheaded, nauseous, or overtired, skip the trip or ask someone else to drive.

Watch Out for “Pregnancy Brain”

It’s real. Many pregnant people report feeling more forgetful or distracted—often called “pregnancy brain.” When you’re on the road, even small lapses in attention can lead to dangerous situations.

Stay focused by:

• Avoiding phone use, even hands-free

• Keeping your route simple

• Playing calming music or keeping distractions low

• Pulling over if you feel overwhelmed or unfocused

When Should You Stop Driving?

This depends on your comfort level, your pregnancy, and what your provider recommends. Some people drive right up to their due date, while others choose to stop in the third trimester. If you have pregnancy complications—like high blood pressure, risk of preterm labor, or dizziness—it’s best to check in with your doctor about what’s safe.

And always remember: if you’re in labor, don’t drive yourself to the hospital. Have someone else take you or call for transportation.

In Case of an Accident

If you're in a crash—even a minor one—get checked out as soon as possible. Sometimes injuries to the uterus or placenta aren’t immediately obvious, and it’s always better to be safe.

Make sure you also inform your doctor and monitor any signs of concern, like contractions, bleeding, or unusual fetal movement.

Final Thoughts

Driving while pregnant is something most people do without a second thought—but there are small adjustments that can make a big difference. Pay attention to how your body feels, prioritize your safety, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.

Whether you’re early in your pregnancy or nearing your due date, this time is about protecting both your well-being and your growing baby.

Need More Guidance?

Gervelis created a detailed guide to help you navigate driving during pregnancy, including safety tips, risk factors, and when to stop driving. You can read it here:

Driving While Pregnant: What to Know