Abdominal Pain While Horseback Riding During Pregnancy: Safety Concerns

Question
Hello, I have been riding horses my since I was 5 years old, I am 23 years old and am 29 weeks pregnant.  My doctor (who is on vacation) told me that I can ride right up until I give birth.  I have noticed from time to time severe abdominal pains when riding, should I stop doing this? And how does this affect my baby?  Please, help me! From Just Checking

Answer
Many believe that horse-back riding should be discontinued in the last half of pregnancy, even for experienced riders.

Animals are unpredictable. You have the low, but real, risk of your horse getting spooked by a dog, or a car back-firing, or something else, and getting thrown. Or if you manage to stay on and regain control of the animal, experiencing a jarring ride.

In general, pregnant women should avoid all activities where there is a chance of a hard fall, or being shaken (like a roller-coaster). Since you have experienced severe pain while riding, I advise you to stop this activity and consult your OBGYN. Since your regular OBGYN is on vacation, she most likely has someone filling in for her that you could see. This would provide you with an opportunity to get a second opinion about riding during pregnancy.