As you might expect, the best way to protect your unborn baby is to protect you - the expectant mom.  Is the seat belt safe for pregnant women?  Is there any risk to the baby by wearing the seat belt for an extended period of time?

Your baby is protected by a sac full of ambiotic fluid.  This sac is quite strong and the fluid inside acts like a cushion to protect your baby.  Also, it is pliable (that is why your doctor can press around and feel your baby) so it can change shape to a certain degree.  Wearing your seat belt properly will divert the pressure points off the sac, and thus your baby would only be minimally affected, if your baby feels it at all!

So how should an expectant mom wear the seat belt.  There are two parts to the seat belt - the lap belt and the shoulder belt.  The lap belt should be worn low over the pelvic bones and not against the soft stomach area.  The shoulder belt should be worn across the chest.  Both should be worn snugly, as this is best to protect you.

Of course, if you feel any discomfort or any abnormality after using a seat belt, immediately contact your OB/GYN doctor.  It's always best to be safe when it comes to your baby.