A friend of mine asked me if it was safe to ride a lawn mower while being pregnant. At first I wasn't exactly sure how to answer that, but then I explained that there is no straight forward answer and that she needed to consider a few things before doing it.
First and foremost if you are concerned in any way or have any doubts do not do it. Your body will usually let you know what it can and cannot handle. And if you just are not sure calling your doctor is a very good idea.
You may also want to consider another thing, like the type of mower you are using. I have heard many people say that it is like driving in a car, but that is not always the case. Some mowers (usually the newer ones) have a smoother ride, but if you are like every other struggling American you probably own the same mower you did ten years ago. If the mower you own feels like you are riding a mechanical bull, it is probably a good idea to leave it to the hubby.
You should also consider whether you are high risk or not. If you are you definitely should not mow the lawn. The doctor should have explained what you can and cannot do while being high risk, and most likely you are put on bed rest. So it goes without saying if you are high risk you do not need to be mowing the lawn, or doing any other types of strenuous activities.
You will need to take proper safety precautions when performing any outside activity. Take frequent breaks and stay hydrated. If it is 90 degree weather you should probably postpone mowing for a cooler time. If you start having contractions stop what you are doing immediately and lay on your left side for an hour while keeping hydrated. If the contractions stop you should be ok, but do not go back to mowing. If they worsen call your doctor immediately and head for the nearest hospital. You may also want to make sure you have an empty bladder when you are mowing, because a full bladder may feel like contractions.
So basically you need to remember to be safe, listen to your body, and consult your doctor when needed.
First and foremost if you are concerned in any way or have any doubts do not do it. Your body will usually let you know what it can and cannot handle. And if you just are not sure calling your doctor is a very good idea.
You may also want to consider another thing, like the type of mower you are using. I have heard many people say that it is like driving in a car, but that is not always the case. Some mowers (usually the newer ones) have a smoother ride, but if you are like every other struggling American you probably own the same mower you did ten years ago. If the mower you own feels like you are riding a mechanical bull, it is probably a good idea to leave it to the hubby.
You should also consider whether you are high risk or not. If you are you definitely should not mow the lawn. The doctor should have explained what you can and cannot do while being high risk, and most likely you are put on bed rest. So it goes without saying if you are high risk you do not need to be mowing the lawn, or doing any other types of strenuous activities.
You will need to take proper safety precautions when performing any outside activity. Take frequent breaks and stay hydrated. If it is 90 degree weather you should probably postpone mowing for a cooler time. If you start having contractions stop what you are doing immediately and lay on your left side for an hour while keeping hydrated. If the contractions stop you should be ok, but do not go back to mowing. If they worsen call your doctor immediately and head for the nearest hospital. You may also want to make sure you have an empty bladder when you are mowing, because a full bladder may feel like contractions.
So basically you need to remember to be safe, listen to your body, and consult your doctor when needed.
- Be safe
- Consult Doctor
- Listen to your body
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