Can You Ride Roller Coasters While Pregnant?

The highs and lows of pregnancy are already feeling like a roller coaster.

Not to mention all the do’s and don'ts.

And it can be exhausting trying to find the answers to all your questions.

Especially the less obvious ones, like can you ride on roller coasters while pregnant?

Well, just because you’re pregnant doesn’t mean you have to skip all the amusement park fun.

But it might be best to steer clear of those really extreme rides.

Here's all you need to know about riding roller coasters during pregnancy.

In this article: 📝

When should a pregnant woman not ride a roller coaster?

The official advice is to give roller coasters and other big rides a skip when you’re pregnant.

Because every pregnancy is so different, this news may either bring relief or a severe case of FOMO.

Some mamas might be unable to think about roller coasters because their pregnancy nausea is so bad.

Other mamas might feel as eager as ever to get their hearts racing on some dizzying rides.

But whatever category you fit into, it’s best to avoid roller coasters until your baby is born.

That’s because all the stops and starts, jerks, and jolts can pose a risk to your unborn baby.

What happens if you ride a roller coaster while pregnant?

Well... we don't really know.

No scientific evidence gives us a clear idea of what might happen if you ride a roller coaster while pregnant. [1]

But all theme parks — from Disney World to Universal Studios, Six Flags to Busch Gardens — have signs recommending that it’s best to sit out certain rides if you’re pregnant.

That’s because certain rides often have jerky movements, stop-start motions, and sudden drops.

And, as embryologist Navya Muralidhar says, "They can also increase blood pressure and cause stress on the abdomen.".

We know from car accidents that this kind of impact on the body can cause serious pregnancy complications and even pregnancy loss. [2]

One complication of a jarring jolt of this kind is placental abruption. [3]

This is where the placenta, the organ that nourishes your growing baby, starts to come away from the uterus wall early.

It’s a serious condition that can cause excessive bleeding and result in the baby being born with low birth weight.

In more severe cases, placental abruption can cause premature birth and even stillbirth.

So sorry, mama, it’s best to sit rollercoasters out for a few more months to keep you and your baby as safe as possible.

The cons simply outweigh the pros.

Can you go on rides in early pregnancy?

In the first trimester, while the placenta is still developing, there is less chance of placental abruption.

But it’s probably still best to avoid anything that might stress your body and baby.

During early pregnancy, both you and your growing baby experience massive changes and developments, so it’s a time when you may want to be extra cautious.

It’s also when pregnancy nausea may be at its peak, so the very thought of a roller coaster may not be that appealing.

Can you go on roller coaster rides in late pregnancy?

The further your pregnancy progresses, the more vulnerable your growing belly becomes.

Besides the risk of placental abruption, riding on a roller coaster can increase your heart rate and cause abdominal stress. [4,5]

Also, the bigger your belly gets, the trickier it is to avoid bumping into things and fitting into roller coaster safety straps.

Navya explains, "Pregnancy alters your sense of gravity, making you more prone to losing balance.".

What rides can I not go on while pregnant?

Sorry to be a killjoy, mama-to-be, but some roller coasters and theme rides that might be a bit too much for your body right now.

Here's the lowdown:

• Thrill rides that yeet you around like a ragdoll: Think roller coasters, spinning teacup, and anything with jerky movements.
• Bumper cars: Bumping around in those cute little cars might seem fun, but it's best to avoid them while pregnant.
• Water slides: While the idea of cooling off might be tempting, water slides can involve some pretty hard landings.

So which rides can you go on?

Think carousels (pregnancy-safe selfies, anyone?), those cute little train rides, and maybe even a haunted house (pregnancy hormones might make it extra spooky!).

Ultimately, it’s your choice—listen to your body.

If something feels off, skip it!

Your comfort and the safety of you and your growing babe are top priority.

Roller coasters while pregnant: the final word

So, the long and the short of it is that when it comes to roller coasters and pregnancy, it’s best to play it safe.

But you don’t have to sit everything out.

There are plenty of other rides and activities that are much safer for pregnancy and don’t jerk and jar your body.

Once you return to the park after you’ve had your baby, you’ll be able to enjoy the rides again.

Quick tip before you head off to Six Flags or Disneyland, mama-to-be—make sure you're staying safe in the sun, too.

We know lots of people like to head off to theme parks as soon as it's sunny, so don't forget to top up your sunscreen!