How to use public transport safely while pregnant

When you are pregnant, you have to be careful in everything you do, to avoid causing harm to yourself or your baby. Take extra precautions when travelling, especially on public transports, which is generally riskier, especially if it is a long journey. If you are taking a bus, and the roads are bumpy, or that the bus can get very crowded, then it is better to avoid travelling by bus. If you are in your first and third trimesters, you need to be extra careful as well, because these are the crucial months of pregnancy.

Here are some safety tips you can follow when travelling on public transports

1. Always try to get a seat

If possible, never stand in a moving bus or train, including MRT, LRT and KTM, because there is always a risk of losing your balance and falling, due to the sudden speed or inertia. Even if you are holding onto a rail, there is always a risk of being pushed or bumped into accidentally by another passenger. Never be shy about asking for a seat as there should be priority seats reserved for pregnant women, but if there are no more available seats, ask someone else politely for their seat or wait for another commute. It is also ideal to choose a comfortable seat, such as one in the middle of the bus (safer in case of any crash). Aisle seats are good for more leg space and for moving around with ease.

2. Move around when safe

With that being said, if you are on a long journey, it is also important to move around during stops, whether for bathroom breaks or to relieve your muscle stiffness. Stretch your arms and legs as sitting for long hours can cause swelling and risks of blood clots. However, never try to board a moving transport.

3. Don’t travel alone

Whether for a short commute or long journey, it would be safer if you can travel with a family member, relative or friend, to get support and help from someone you trust, when you need it. Or have someone wait for you at the end of your journey, or at least, keep your emergency contact on you at all times.

4. Always be alert and cautious

As most public transports do not have seat belts or airbags, be vigilant at all times, especially if a ride gets rough, to brace yourself in case of crashes, accidents or emergency brakes. Best if you can avoid taking unreliable public transport entirely, as constant jerks and jolts are not only uncomfortable, but also not good for your baby’s health, and taxing on yours as well.

If you are planning to take public transport during pregnancy, do check with your doctor first to plan properly. If you have pregnancy complications or concerns, then best to avoid it altogether by asking someone to fetch you or even ordering a Grab ride.