Horse riding and pregnancy?

[malodorantemelly]

I am due to go riding this pm. I never miss it for anything as I love it too much, but there is a chance I could be just pregnant, and I do not know if I should go or not?

Should I make my excuses and wait until I know for sure or should I just carry on as normal?

It's been a couple of years since I posted on this thread and I did ride whilst pregnant. Had a massive pipe-opener at about sixteen weeks or so. My mare didn't put a foot out of place and was actually quite reluctant to canter when I was pregnant, I really think she was looking after me. Last rode at 28 weeks I think and being in the saddle was more comfortable than you can imagine, it just seemed to support my pelvis perfectly!

I am in the same predicament!

I went horse riding yesterday am only 6dpo, did do jumps and canter. I am going to check out the body protectors.

Today I have slight brownish spotting and cramps was a bit worried that I had caused something but your advice has made me feel better :)

I fell off my horse when 8 wks preg with first baby. All ok. Had bleeding later which was unrelated to any equine activities. My sister rode till 6 months with all of her pregnancies. Lost one baby at 18 weeks, not related to riding. I'm now 16 weeks with second baby. Still riding, no jumping or galloping but taking it steady. I always wear back protector (and always have). As posted on here previously, if you are going to lose a pregnancy, I don't think there is a great deal you can do about it :( but if you want to keep riding think it is ok as long as you trust your horse (I've got rid of the mental one who threw me first and now have a safe and sane mare who I completely trust!)

The only thing that will stop me from riding sooner than I would like is the pain it leaves my hips in after a longer ride; everything is softening "down there" and don't wish to be crippled after a ride as have a two year old to run after!!

PS Best body protectors to get are Racesafe ones as they are made of lots of different parts that are more comfortable to fit round bump than the usual heavy duty, rigid ones. They are worn by Jockeys so offer the highest level of protection. They can be expensive but are a good buy. Also easier to make smaller once baby is out and you are back to being slim!