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AIBU?

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Original poster

Comments at Christmas cause I choose to carry on riding whilst pregnant

238 replies

Pladii · 30/12/2025 16:31

In my early 20s I found horse riding. The routine, being out in nature, forming a bond with animals does my mental health absolute wonders.

I am newly pregnant. Just beginning to show and have decided I will continue riding my boy who is an absolute gentleman. We adore one another and I trust him.

We went to stay with my husband’s side for Christmas. And it got brought up over the actual main meal! I was mortified! Granny begged me not to. And my sister in law said “it’s just not worth the risk”. She doesn’t understand why I’m chancing it. MIL kept quiet (not like her).

I am only accepting a level of risk that I am comfortable with. I wouldn’t dare a ride a horse I didn’t know.

It’s my body. I think it’s a bit rubbish for my decision to be questioned so publicly. Made me feel like I am doing something wrong.

Dh and I are doctors. I’ve made a decision as an adult woman. That should be it.

OP posts:
NuffSaidSam · 30/12/2025 16:39

catpigeon · 30/12/2025 16:34

My in laws said that they were safe on motorbikes until somebody else decided to drive into them.

Are you suggesting the OP refrain from driving/being driven throughout her pregnancy?

Jinglejells · 30/12/2025 16:39

well it would be your mistake to make. Not sure why you would even want to take a chance even if the risk was 1%

brennanbones · 30/12/2025 16:39

YANBU
my dad had a go at me for riding after spinal surgery

I asked how many injuries I had from riding
“a black toe” he said
and how many from being alive
”you broke your ankle on the stairs and your foot. Oh your other one getting out of bed. And… ok you’re probably safer on a horse”

Tattiana · 30/12/2025 16:39

I think it’s entirely up to you. It is infuriating that people believe you are public property the moment you become pregnant.

MaJoady · 30/12/2025 16:38

catpigeon · 30/12/2025 16:33

You do you, but I certainly wouldn't be doing a risky sport

And here comes another one to layer on the judgement!

I rode until I was 19 weeks pregnant. Very trusted horse, only in the school and no jumping were my personal rules. I'm fact the motion of a horse walking did wonders for the pain and stiffness in my hips and back. I stopped when I stopped feeling my core being effective.

In my experience, most horse riders ride in early pregnancy and it always non-riders who aren't able to calculate the risks who are most judgemental about it.

TeaDrinkings · 30/12/2025 16:37

Carry on and ignore the "advice". Us horse owners have good core strength generally, as you know.
You know your body and your horse. You know not to take unnecessary risks where you are more likely to fall. It is always controversial amongst those who don't understand horses and horse ownership. I have known people ride at almost 9 months. Only stopped because they struggled to mount!

Illbefinejustbloodyfine · 30/12/2025 16:37

Yanbu OP. I say that as someone who chose NOT to ride during pregnancy. The horse i had at the rime was not a saint, and i was 37. So totally different circs. Had i been pregnant in my 20s, with the horse i had in my 20s, i absolutely would have carried on.

ShesTheAlbatross · 30/12/2025 16:37

I think if you’re an experienced rider with a horse you know that probably reduces the risk from the level for an average woman, which is probably what the general advice of various medical bodies to avoid it is based on.

I wouldn’t have done it. That doesn’t mean you are wrong. And I certainly wouldn’t tell you not to if you were my relative/friend.

catpigeon · 30/12/2025 16:37

Pladii · 30/12/2025 16:35

I only ride my horse in a highly controlled environment. Not riding on public roads

Well carry on then If you want to, I can't see the point of the thread

Original poster
Pladii · 30/12/2025 16:35

I only ride my horse in a highly controlled environment. Not riding on public roads

OP posts:
Kayoh · 30/12/2025 16:34

YANBU but welcome to a lifetime of motherhood where every other decision you make is scrutinised and judged. I recommend you develop a thick skin and practice politely but firmly stating your decisions so everyone knows they are a done deal.

catpigeon · 30/12/2025 16:34

My in laws said that they were safe on motorbikes until somebody else decided to drive into them.

catpigeon · 30/12/2025 16:33

You do you, but I certainly wouldn't be doing a risky sport

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