Whitewater rafting.. Am I crazy?

Rennan7 · June 2012

We are going on a family trip to Colorado and signed up to do white water rafting (with a guide). They said kids can go and that it is a level 2-3. Am I crazy for being ok with going? I've only been once before, and it was a blast. 25 weeks preggo, but have had an extremely easy pregnancy so far and have just really started showing the last few weeks.

What do you think?

MCookie816 · June 2012

I am surprised they would let a pregnant person go, just for liability reasons.

Rennan7 · June 2012

I called and talked to them and they basically just said to ask my healthcare provider. In talks with her before, she's said I can do basically anything I'm comfortable with, exercising, softball, swimming, etc. I'm in pretty good shape... But yeah, the raft place didn't have any problem with it other than saying its a risk everyone takes, but said she'd make a note of it so that they knew.

amberthehobbit · June 2012

Rennan7:
I called and talked to them and they basically just said to ask my healthcare provider. In talks with her before, she's said I can do basically anything I'm comfortable with, exercising, softball, swimming, etc. I'm in pretty good shape... But yeah, the raft place didn't have any problem with it other than saying its a risk everyone takes, but said she'd make a note of it so that they knew.

I just got back from Colorado yesterday and my DH went white water rafting with his sister while I got a mommy-to-be massage. DH said it was not rough at all in his raft (he and his sis are very athletic) but there were other rafts where people were being tossed out.

JuliaLovesCarson · June 2012

I'm missing a (local) whitewater rafting trip with my family today because I didn't think I'd be allowed! Sounds like you've covered all your bases though. If your healthcare provider, you, and the facility are cool with it, then go for it!

sillyrocky · June 2012

I used to be a rafting guide. A class 2-3 river is not too bad. 5 is the highest that you can run. There are always risks, though, like getting tossed out of the raft. Lots of bumping and bouncing while in the raft, too. I had never taken anyone that was pregnant out on the river. It wasn't a rule, it just never happened. Talk to the guide and they can seat you in the most stable part of the raft. That's if you still decide to do it.

knitstrong · June 2012

Rennan7:
I called and talked to them and they basically just said to ask my healthcare provider. In talks with her before, she's said I can do basically anything I'm comfortable with, exercising, softball, swimming, etc. I'm in pretty good shape... But yeah, the raft place didn't have any problem with it other than saying its a risk everyone takes, but said she'd make a note of it so that they knew.

I'm not sure that whitewater rafting is what your doctor had in mind when she said "anything you're comfortable with", and I don't think whitewater rafting is the same as swimming or softball. Double check with your OB before finalizing anything.

[Deleted User] · June 2012

Im sorry. I think its crazy. I've been ans I can't remember category but I would never to it pregnant. Here is my thought it very well may be tame, but all or takes is one bad bump. I just don't think the possible risk no matter how small is worth the reward.

akating · June 2012

knitstrong:
Rennan7:
I called and talked to them and they basically just said to ask my healthcare provider. In talks with her before, she's said I can do basically anything I'm comfortable with, exercising, softball, swimming, etc. I'm in pretty good shape... But yeah, the raft place didn't have any problem with it other than saying its a risk everyone takes, but said she'd make a note of it so that they knew.
I'm not sure that whitewater rafting is what your doctor had in mind when she said "anything you're comfortable with", and I don't think whitewater rafting is the same as swimming or softball. Double check with your OB before finalizing anything.

This- They suggest pregnant women also don't ride horses because of the chance of falling off. Whitewater rafting even on a 2-3 river can be dangerous. The bumping and jossling is not something I would feel comfortable doing. And I am quite the dare devil.

On a side note, A good friend of mine was on a raft that rolled over by hitting a rock white water rafting and she was trapped under the raft. If she hadn't been a swimmer she would have died. She got out and when they threw her the safety rope it went around her neck instead of into her hands. She was strangled to the point where the whites of her eyes were blood red. She actually told me she remembers saying goodbye in her head thinking she was going to die. She was taken via helicopter to the hospital. I realize this is the exception not the rule but freak accidents have been known to happen during whitewater rafting. However they haven't really been all that common with regular swimming, softball, etc. I highly doubt your Dr was talking about white water rafting when he said you were good to do activities. Call him and be honest with what you want to do and if he approves it then go ahead.

bingqilin00 · June 2012

Jessii266:
Im sorry. I think its crazy. I've been ans I can't remember category but I would never to it pregnant. Here is my thought it very well may be tame, but all or takes is one bad bump. I just don't think the possible risk no matter how small is worth the reward.

This. It's just not worth the risk. While everything could go smoothly, there is a possibility of something going wrong. If that happened, you would feel terrible/guilty. It's just not worth it.

fromMaddockstoMccandless · June 2012

I think it's fine. I'm 18 weeks pregnant and I'm planning a trip sometime in July. My mom went rafting down the Nantahala while pregnant with me and I was perfectly healthy. I say as long as your OB is comfortable with it then you're fine. I'd also not sit in the back, just so you won't get thrown out. I went whitewater rafting for the first time as a 5-year old. I would say if it is safe for a 5-year old then it is safe for a reasonably athletic pregnant woman. This is coming from a hyper-cautious 1st time mother too. I think there is more risk from having a couple cups of coffee than from rafting - it's not an intense sport in class 2 rapids, especially with a guide.

jillychris · June 2012

Jessii266:
Im sorry. I think its crazy. I've been ans I can't remember category but I would never to it pregnant. Here is my thought it very well may be tame, but all or takes is one bad bump. I just don't think the possible risk no matter how small is worth the reward.

This. I absolutely would not take that risk.

4legsRbest · June 2012

Jessii266:
Im sorry. I think its crazy. I've been ans I can't remember category but I would never to it pregnant. Here is my thought it very well may be tame, but all or takes is one bad bump. I just don't think the possible risk no matter how small is worth the reward.

Yep! Crazy.

splashofpink · June 2012

I personally think you are being selfish . Why risk your baby's life? I wouldn't do it but to each their own.

BLuvsE · June 2012

It depends what river and what category the rapids are. I probably wouldn't do above a two...I've done up to five and it can be really rough/dangerous and the river is always a little unpredictable.

cwm11985 · June 2012

knitstrong:
Rennan7:
I called and talked to them and they basically just said to ask my healthcare provider. In talks with her before, she's said I can do basically anything I'm comfortable with, exercising, softball, swimming, etc. I'm in pretty good shape... But yeah, the raft place didn't have any problem with it other than saying its a risk everyone takes, but said she'd make a note of it so that they knew.
I'm not sure that whitewater rafting is what your doctor had in mind when she said "anything you're comfortable with", and I don't think whitewater rafting is the same as swimming or softball. Double check with your OB before finalizing anything.

Did you specifically tell your OB you want to white water raft? Rafting is way different (swimming is actually highly recommended during pregnancy so of course she'd be okay with that). I would NOT be rafting; it is not worth the risks (several pp's bring up really good points about the dangers).

allybabyo24 · June 2012

I just asked my midwife about this as my husband and I were scheduled to do an intro to white water rafting/ float trip for our anniversary. It was scheduled before I knew I was pregnant. My midwife said no. She said if it was before 12 weeks she would have been more comfortable saying yes, but bc they baby starts to come higher after 12 wks they are at more of a risk if you fall out or anything happens.

Rennan7 · June 2012

Thank you all for your input. I'm going to talk it over with my DH and see what he thinks too. If he is against it once I tell him your advice, we'll just cancel it. I'm really 50/50 on whether or not to go. Maybe I'll just go and watch and take some great pics with my new camera instead!

Still psyched to be going to CO for the first time!

MyaMaternity · June 2012

I don't think I would. What if you get thrown out or something happens that is unexpected. Maybe relax while the rest go.

[Deleted User] · June 2012

fromMaddockstoMccandless:
I think it's fine. I'm 18 weeks pregnant and I'm planning a trip sometime in July. My mom went rafting down the Nantahala while pregnant with me and I was perfectly healthy. I say as long as your OB is comfortable with it then you're fine. I'd also not sit in the back, just so you won't get thrown out. I went whitewater rafting for the first time as a 5-year old. I would say if it is safe for a 5-year old then it is safe for a reasonably athletic pregnant woman. This is coming from a hyper-cautious 1st time mother too. I think there is more risk from having a couple cups of coffee than from rafting - it's not an intense sport in class 2 rapids, especially with a guide.

I'm sorry, whaaaat? Can you link some studies that show that a couple of cups of coffee pose more risk to an unborn fetus than WHITEWATER RAFTING?! I'm interested to see that!

OP, I personally would not risk it. But like others have said, it's a personal choice. Talk to your OB and see what he/she says about it specifically and then go from there. GL!

byrne15 · June 2012

I would not go while pregnant

PolishWonder · June 2012

fromMaddockstoMccandless:
I think it's fine. I'm 18 weeks pregnant and I'm planning a trip sometime in July. My mom went rafting down the Nantahala while pregnant with me and I was perfectly healthy. I say as long as your OB is comfortable with it then you're fine. I'd also not sit in the back, just so you won't get thrown out. I went whitewater rafting for the first time as a 5-year old. I would say if it is safe for a 5-year old then it is safe for a reasonably athletic pregnant woman. This is coming from a hyper-cautious 1st time mother too. I think there is more risk from having a couple cups of coffee than from rafting - it's not an intense sport in class 2 rapids, especially with a guide.

Hmm You're an idiot. I drink a cup of coffee every morning and I've never been thrown into rocks or knocked out of a raft in doing so. OP, don't be selfish. Go get a massage instead.

akating · June 2012

PolishWonder:

fromMaddockstoMccandless:
I think it's fine. I'm 18 weeks pregnant and I'm planning a trip sometime in July. My mom went rafting down the Nantahala while pregnant with me and I was perfectly healthy. I say as long as your OB is comfortable with it then you're fine. I'd also not sit in the back, just so you won't get thrown out. I went whitewater rafting for the first time as a 5-year old. I would say if it is safe for a 5-year old then it is safe for a reasonably athletic pregnant woman. This is coming from a hyper-cautious 1st time mother too. I think there is more risk from having a couple cups of coffee than from rafting - it's not an intense sport in class 2 rapids, especially with a guide.

You're an idiot. I drink a cup of coffee every morning and I've never been thrown into rocks or knocked out of a raft in doing so. OP, don't be selfish. Go get a massage instead.

can I be your friend?

PolishWonder · June 2012

akating:
PolishWonder:

fromMaddockstoMccandless:
I think it's fine. I'm 18 weeks pregnant and I'm planning a trip sometime in July. My mom went rafting down the Nantahala while pregnant with me and I was perfectly healthy. I say as long as your OB is comfortable with it then you're fine. I'd also not sit in the back, just so you won't get thrown out. I went whitewater rafting for the first time as a 5-year old. I would say if it is safe for a 5-year old then it is safe for a reasonably athletic pregnant woman. This is coming from a hyper-cautious 1st time mother too. I think there is more risk from having a couple cups of coffee than from rafting - it's not an intense sport in class 2 rapids, especially with a guide.

You're an idiot. I drink a cup of coffee every morning and I've never been thrown into rocks or knocked out of a raft in doing so. OP, don't be selfish. Go get a massage instead.

can I be your friend?

Yes! And we can do non-stupid activities together while we're pregnant. Party!!!

Five_letter · June 2012

I would be fine with it.

akating · June 2012

PolishWonder:
akating:
PolishWonder:

fromMaddockstoMccandless:
I think it's fine. I'm 18 weeks pregnant and I'm planning a trip sometime in July. My mom went rafting down the Nantahala while pregnant with me and I was perfectly healthy. I say as long as your OB is comfortable with it then you're fine. I'd also not sit in the back, just so you won't get thrown out. I went whitewater rafting for the first time as a 5-year old. I would say if it is safe for a 5-year old then it is safe for a reasonably athletic pregnant woman. This is coming from a hyper-cautious 1st time mother too. I think there is more risk from having a couple cups of coffee than from rafting - it's not an intense sport in class 2 rapids, especially with a guide.

You're an idiot. I drink a cup of coffee every morning and I've never been thrown into rocks or knocked out of a raft in doing so. OP, don't be selfish. Go get a massage instead.

can I be your friend?

Yes! And we can do non-stupid activities together while we're pregnant.

Yay! I think a pedicure sounds fun!

Kadyra · June 2012

Scout2005:
I raft often, and I am fairly certain there are plenty of signs telling pregnant women they should abstain.
This seems like common sense to me, but maybe it's just me.
eta: Did you ask your OB? I would put money on them saying "no."

Im an ob/gyn and I'd definitely veto this. I've been rafting many times and well... Just say no. It's like going on a roller coaster, which is definitely a no no.

KNemo · June 2012

PolishWonder:
fromMaddockstoMccandless:
I think it's fine. I'm 18 weeks pregnant and I'm planning a trip sometime in July. My mom went rafting down the Nantahala while pregnant with me and I was perfectly healthy. I say as long as your OB is comfortable with it then you're fine. I'd also not sit in the back, just so you won't get thrown out. I went whitewater rafting for the first time as a 5-year old. I would say if it is safe for a 5-year old then it is safe for a reasonably athletic pregnant woman. This is coming from a hyper-cautious 1st time mother too. I think there is more risk from having a couple cups of coffee than from rafting - it's not an intense sport in class 2 rapids, especially with a guide.
You're an idiot. I drink a cup of coffee every morning and I've never been thrown into rocks or knocked out of a raft in doing so. OP, don't be selfish. Go get a massage instead.

The stupid on the tri boards never ceases to amaze me.

akating · June 2012

Scout2005:
I raft often, and I am fairly certain there are plenty of signs telling pregnant women they should abstain.
This seems like common sense to me, but maybe it's just me.
eta: Did you ask your OB? I would put money on them saying "no."

Hi Scout!! so nice to see someone I know from my last pregnancy. How is your sweet little girl doing? I am so excited to see you have another baby on the way!

akating · June 2012

Scout2005:
akating:
Scout2005:
I raft often, and I am fairly certain there are plenty of signs telling pregnant women they should abstain.
This seems like common sense to me, but maybe it's just me.
eta: Did you ask your OB? I would put money on them saying "no."
Hi Scout!! so nice to see someone I know from my last pregnancy. How is your sweet little girl doing? I am so excited to see you have another baby on the way!
TY!
Hey there! She's doing great. Congratulations on your new LO as well!

nanabanana06 · June 2012

Am I the only one who just gets this blaring sign in their head that reads placental abruption? No, I'm the only one? Ok.

RissKay · June 2012

I rode horses during the first 8 weeks of my pregnancy, and when I found out I was KU, I quit. I haven't been thrown from a horse in years, but I realize that there is a risk in any athletic excursion. I miss the horses I rode.

I, personally, wouldn't go. As awesome as it sounds, and as stable as you may feel doing this, I feel as though putting yourself in the position for something to happen wouldn't be the greatest idea.

briannaj731 · June 2012

bingqilin00:
Jessii266:
Im sorry. I think its crazy. I've been ans I can't remember category but I would never to it pregnant. Here is my thought it very well may be tame, but all or takes is one bad bump. I just don't think the possible risk no matter how small is worth the reward.
This. It's just not worth the risk. While everything could go smoothly, there is a possibility of something going wrong. If that happened, you would feel terrible/guilty. It's just not worth it.

Agrred, I think it's crazy. Why take the risk?

HappyMama30 · June 2012

I would say NO to this one. You just can't predict the outcomes of an event like that. Swimming at the beach? Yes, you can predict you will be fine. Even a leisurely bike ride. But, I was sure the "continue what you already do" comment from books and Docs would not be referring to things that are on the dangerous level (sky diving, horse back riding, mountain biking, and... river rafting). I'd vote no on this one.

elizb137 · June 2012

I'm sorry I can't believe you're considering this to be honest. It's just not about you anymore, and you can't do things that will "probably" be fine KWIM? I just think it's ridiculous to do something where there are some pretty big risks to your baby. And I think it's all a little common sense as well. Plan something else while your DH does this.

Aussiemummy · June 2012

I wouldn't even consider going white water rafting while pregnant.

mummy2B28 · June 2012

WOW! This is something that I have always wanted to do as well. I think that if you feel it is something that carries a minimal risk to you and baby, go for it!

If it were me I would be too afraid of going over while pregnant and would wait...just in case, but I am pretty cautious...Only you can make the right call for you!

IAM3Bs · June 2012

Personally, I wouldn't, only because I've been knocked out of a raft before and it wasn't pleasant. I remember being bounced into a couple of rocks, and then having to climb back into the raft, which was hard enough not pregnant...with a 25 week belly it would be nearly impossible.

Plus, your belly may go through a significant growth spurt between now and the time you go (mine literally popped out overnight,) and it severely changes your natural balance. While staying in a raft might have been easy pre-pregnancy, your body is not going to be in it's natural state of balance.

Not only that, the jolting around could cause you massive spine pain in the days/weeks following- and as another poster said... has a chance for a placental abruption.

I think I'd take lots of pics on your new camera and just enjoy being outside, but skip the rafting til you're no longer pregnant.

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