Driving after giving birth

[Jooles2017]

I'm just wondering if there are any rules about driving after giving birth? I know with c-section it's advised not to drive for 6 weeks & alot of insurance companies won't cover you during this time, but does anyone know about driving after a natural birth?

[roxannacar]

You can check with your insurance but I don't think there's any specific guidance. Was driving after a few days as I was comfortable enough to do an emergency breaks and wasn't taking any pain killers that can affect concentration

[roxannacar in reply to roxannacar]

Oh I had a 3rd degree tear needing stitches.

[Hidden]

I've had two natural births, episiotomies both times (cut and stitches) and I didn't want to drive for about two weeks (hubby was on paternity leave so he could drive me). Giving birth is hard work for the body, give it a chance to recover, but I think legally if you feel able you could drive straight away.

[Jooles2017]

Thank you ladies, much appreciated. I'm just a bit concerned that my partner will be expecting me to drive straight away but I guess I'll just have to see how I feel & say no if I'm not upto it! I'm not willing to put our LO at risk if I'm not ready! Xx

[roxannacar in reply to Jooles2017]

Why would your partner expect you to do this? Also surely you can try avoid going out all of you don't feel ready. You do need time to catch up on sleep etc and it can be pretty knackering at the start. I'd make sure you stock up on provisions before. If you have time cook and ofreeze stuff before hand. If not even shopping can be done online a lbs a few cheeky take aways are allowed. You shouldn't be pushed to do anything you don't want to do

[Georgina_D]

No laws as far as I know as long as you are comfortable and fully in control of your car.