Driving while in labor?

Have any mommies driven while in labor or is anyone considering driving herself to the hospital when the time comes?

I didn't really think it was an option (seen too many movies) but when I was discussing the fact that DH cannot drive for medical reasons with my dentist who is also PG, she said she drove when in labor with her 1st DS. Her water broke when she got home from work, so she called her DH and then drove to pick him up at the train station so he could come to the hospital with her.

I kind of figured I wouldn't be able to focus on the road too well b/c I expect to be in blinding pain, but now I wonder if I could do it. I am posting to find out if I am actually nuts. I was thinking I would keep a few family members on call for when I go into labor so they could come chauffeur DH & I to the hospital, but I really don't like that idea and just figured it was my only option. I like the idea of it being just us.

TIA!

Re: Driving while in labor?

Personally I wouldn't risk it. I would call a family member or close friend first, then maybe a cab.

Perhaps a limo! I'd like to go in style!!

Re: Driving while in labor?

Posted by dapnkap
Perhaps a limo! I'd like to go in style!!

Re: Driving while in labor?

I could not have done it. The potholes were killing me and I had to close my eyes every time we hit one (and silently curse DH for not trying to avoid them).

Re: Driving while in labor?

I went in when I was 3 cm, but I was not in active labor. I def. could have driven myself if I had to. But I think it def. depends on the cirucumstance!

Re: Driving while in labor?

Good lord no.

I was pulling myself out of the passenger seat by the "oh sh!t" handles on the way to the hospital.

I had to close my eyes through my contractions.

No way I could have driven.

Re: Driving while in labor?

No freakin' way. Make other arrangements - your safety is far too important to try to drive yourself there.

Message edited 1/22/2008 5:44:37 PM.

Re: Driving while in labor?

I drove while in early labor, but by the time I was going to the hospital, I don't think I could have done it.

Re: Driving while in labor?

Posted by leighla

Good lord no.

I was pulling myself out of the passenger seat by the "oh sh!t" handles on the way to the hospital.

I had to close my eyes through my contractions.

No way I could have driven.

Re: Driving while in labor?

I drove myself to the hospital in early labor too. Then I was sent home.

As far as I remember, I probably *could* have made it when I was in labor, but I wouldn't opt for it.

If you are in early labor, get yourself to the hospital and hang out there. I think if you have the means to get home, the hospital will send you. But if you stay there, I am sure they would be cool with that too

Re: Driving while in labor?

I know for a fact that your DH knows as man people as I do that drives!!!! Tell him to hire a driver as a standby!!!!

Message edited 3/16/2008 4:27:17 PM.