How should the seat belt be worn during pregnancy? The lap belt should fit snugly over the upper part of the thighs. The diagonal band should go over the abdomen , pass between the breasts and be well supported in the middle of the shoulder, without any slackness. A well-fitted seat belt will protect the baby from possible injuries in the event of a road accident, because it will: Prevent the stomach from colliding with the dashboard or steering wheel; Distribute the force of impact through the most resistant areas of the mother's body —the pelvis and the shoulder. Also keep in mind… If the pregnant woman is traveling in the front passenger seat and this is as far back as possible, the seat belt will be lower over the thighs and she will travel more comfortably. During pregnancy: Do not drive or travel by car for long hours. Take breaks, get out of the car and walk around a bit to 'stretch your legs'. Avoid driving on rough terrain. Have a regular drive, avoid jumps. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
