Can I go near horses when pregnant?

[alixxx1]

Hi as titled... can i go near horses and ponies in their stables when pregnant? Is there any risk? Won't be riding. Thank you.

There is a small risk in everything, including driving your car etc.

I have horses and am still riding cautiously (at 22 weeks). I have stopped jumping, but will decide when the time is right to call it a day. (Last pregnancy, it was when my bump really popped out I felt unbalanced on the horse - and therefore at risk of falling if they misbehaved.) This is a very personal decision - and made on the fact, I've ridden all of my life and I know my horses very well. I wouldn't be getting on someone else's horses at 22 weeks pregnant for example! ;-)

In terms of being near them and handling them, the only risk is an accident e.g. being kicked, stood on etc. In which case, act with the usual precautions - be wary of the back end (the legs can go a long way) and don't offer to lead a horse that is especially pushy/unmannered. But I was mucking out and handling my horses in early labour last time (mainly as it needed doing, not because I was being a hero!)
They are great for your mental health and wellbeing - I feel such a sense of calm with my horses, so I would say go for it, just be sensible about not doing anything out of your comfort zone :-)

I can't think of any reason why not, just be careful around their back ends in case of kicks, but ideas that's general advice not specific to pregnancy!

And thoroughly wash your hands. I know sheep can carry diseases that can cause miscarriage, but I didn't think there's any risk with horses.

Of course you can, just make sure you wash your hands after touching them.

I’m the same, I stopped riding last time when I didn’t fit in the saddle any more.

All I would add is if you’re familiar with horses and know their body language and behaviours then you should be fine, but if you’re just visiting a friends horse it’s fine to give them a carrot or a polo and a pat over the stable door but I would avoid handling them. But horses are not know to transmit worrying diseases, cats and chickens are actually higher risk for pregnant women!

I have a horse, I rode until the end of the first trimester (only in walk). I’ve continued to look after him and do his stable etc throughout the second trimester. The only thing I don’t do is lift his heavy hay nets. He’s old and perfectly safe to be around. I think it depends if you can trust the horse

No you become allergic whilst growing a baby