From the Guidelines
It is generally safe for a pregnant woman to go on a boat, but certain precautions should be taken to minimize risks. Pregnant women should choose stable boats, wear a properly fitted life jacket at all times, stay hydrated, apply sunscreen, and avoid rough waters or high-speed activities 1. It's advisable to stay within reasonable distance of medical facilities, especially in the later stages of pregnancy. Motion sickness can be more pronounced during pregnancy, so medications like Dramamine (dimenhydrinate) may be used following package instructions, though consulting with a healthcare provider first is recommended.
Some key considerations for pregnant women going on a boat include:
- Avoiding activities that involve physical contact or danger of falling, as recommended by the 2019 Canadian Guideline for Physical Activity throughout Pregnancy 1
- Being aware of the potential risks associated with boating, such as exposure to elements and distance from medical care
- Taking precautions to prevent falls and injuries, such as holding onto stable objects when walking on the boat
- Staying hydrated and taking regular breaks to rest and stretch
The second trimester is often the most comfortable time for boating as morning sickness has typically subsided and mobility is still good. Women with high-risk pregnancies, placental issues, or those at risk of preterm labor should consult their healthcare provider before boating 1. The main concerns with boating during pregnancy include potential falls from boat movement, exposure to elements, and distance from medical care rather than the activity itself.
In terms of physical activity during pregnancy, the 2019 Canadian Guideline for Physical Activity throughout Pregnancy recommends that pregnant women accumulate at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week, and incorporate a variety of aerobic and resistance training activities into their routine 1. However, it's essential to note that boating may not be considered a high-risk activity for pregnant women, and with proper precautions, it can be a safe and enjoyable activity.
Ultimately, pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider before engaging in any new physical activity, including boating, to discuss any potential risks and benefits and determine the best course of action for their individual situation 1.
From the Research
Safety of Boat Travel During Pregnancy
There are no research papers provided that directly address the safety of boat travel during pregnancy.
Motion Sickness Prevention
However, several studies have investigated the prevention of motion sickness, which may be relevant to pregnant women traveling by boat:
- Transdermal scopolamine has been shown to be effective in preventing motion sickness at sea 2, 3, 4.
- Dimenhydrinate and cinnarizine are also commonly used to prevent motion sickness, but their effectiveness may vary 5, 6.
- A comparison of seven commonly used agents for prophylaxis of seasickness found that scopolamine Transdermal Therapeutic System (TTS) users exhibited slightly more visual problems and the agent tended to be less effective 6.
Considerations for Pregnant Women
While there is no direct evidence on the safety of boat travel during pregnancy, pregnant women may still want to consider taking precautions to prevent motion sickness:
- Consult with a healthcare provider before traveling by boat, especially if experiencing morning sickness or other pregnancy-related symptoms.
- Discuss the use of motion sickness medications, such as transdermal scopolamine or dimenhydrinate, with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment 2, 3, 4.