Riding While Pregnant

Last Updated on February 22, 2022 by Allison Price

Justine Davies is The Expert – Justine is a journalist, doctor and rider who understands the demands of juggling a busy life with caring for horses.

It is up to the individual to decide whether or not to ride during pregnancy. However, there are always risks of injury.

It is up to you to decide whether or not to ride while pregnant. Many riders, including Sylvia Loch think it’s too risky. Professor Michael Rogers, an obstetrician at Prince of Wales Hospital in Hong Kong, wrote that horse riding does not cause any complications in a healthy pregnancy.

Imagine the scene: you place your horse in the field, and he trots up to his friend, tail raised, mane flowing. His friend questions him and he replies, “My rider has given birth – I have no work for the next nine months.” You, on the other hand, won’t be as keen to give up one of your favorite pastimes.

Three main reasons women should be cautious about riding while pregnant are: First, horse riding is an exercise. Women are often confused about how much to exercise during pregnancy. Women have been told for at least 150 years that they should do only light stretching exercises during pregnancy. Until recently, however, it was also recommended that women take a month off after giving birth to recover.

It is now accepted that exercising during pregnancy can be beneficial for both the mother and baby. However, most doctors are cautious and won’t recommend that pregnant women do any exercise other than walking, swine, or yoga.
Many women exercise vigorously during pregnancy, such as running or aerobics. Doctors have concluded that, except for a history of miscarriage or early labour, this is unlikely to cause any harm. Horse riding is an exercise and shouldn’t be considered harmful during pregnancy.

Riding While Pregnant

Another thing that worries pregnant women is the percussive nature of horse riding. This, along with the open pelvis position, may lead to miscarriage. It’s hard to know if horse riding can cause miscarriage. No one has ever compared the miscarriage rate in women who ride during pregnancy. If you have miscarried in the past, it is best to not ride during pregnancy.

The risk of injury is the third most important concern for pregnant women considering riding horses while they are still in labor. Horse riding can lead to injury. Both you and your baby could be injured if you fall from a horse, or are the recipients of a kick.

Fact: If you ride while pregnant and experience swelling in your hands, feet, or face, consult a doctor.

Be kind to your self

Even though riding is an integral part of our lives we must recognize that horses will often be jumping with joy if we take a break from riding.
A horse’s riding experience is similar to riding a bicycle. Once they are taught, they don’t forget. Although they might pretend to forget from time-to-time!

If you have to give up riding for any reason, it’s okay. You and your horse will soon be back on the saddle.

It doesn’t matter what sport you choose, the most important thing to remember is that you should be fit enough to ride.

Allison Price
Allison Price

I’m Allison, born and raised in San Diego California, the earliest memory I have with horses was at my grandfather’s farm. I used to sit at the stable as a kid and hang out with my Papa while he was training the horses. When I was invited to watch a horse riding competition, I got so fascinated with riding!