Amusement parks are a time honored tradition in the summertime. If you have older children, you may want to take them to an amusement park, but worry about your growing baby. There are some precautions you can take to enjoy your day at the park safely.
In most parks, signs are posted warning riders of potential health dangers. These warnings are often directed toward pregnant women and people with heart problems. Look for posted signs before boarding any ride. If there is a warning sign, sit that one out.
While large parks such as Disney and Busch Gardens have signs, smaller parks may not. For this reason you can’t assume a ride is safe, just because there is no posted warning signs. In this case, you will need to observe the ride and use your best judgement. When in doubt, sit it out for the sake of your baby.
You should definitely avoid all roller coasters. In addition avoid any other rides that throw off your center of balance, as this can pose a danger to your baby. Very bumpy rides, such as the bumper cars, are best avoided as well. Sometimes rides that spin can make you dizzy and sick. This increases your risk of falling and hurting yourself or the baby when you are exiting the ride.
There is a good reason for taking precautions at the amusement park. Some rides can increase the risk of miscarriage. The extreme shaking and bumping of some rides can cause the placenta to tear away from the uterus and cause bleeding. The increased risk of falling is another potential danger.
With some common sense, you can enjoy your day at the amusement park without endangering your baby. While you are thinking of safety, remember to protect yourself from the sun, overheating and dehydration. Use a sunscreen and wear a hat to protect your skin. Drink plenty of water and escape to the shade or browse the gift shop for a break from the heat.
Related Articles:
Sun Safety Tips for Pregnant Women
Are You Drinking Enough Water?