from the Journal of Biomechanics
When we hear about baby bumps, it may not be the bump mentioned in a study from the University of British Columbia Okanagan. A professor of mechanical engineering wrote in the Journal of Biomechanics that a speed bump, if taken too fast by a vehicle can pose a danger for pregnant women and their fetuses. Using data from crash tests and fundamental dynamic behaviors, researchers suggest a danger to the fetal brain, abnormal fetal heart rate, as well as abdominal pain for the pregnant woman. They found a variety of factors, such as the speed of the car as it goes over the speed bump and the size of the speed bump. They say the sudden movement may put pressure on the amniotic fluid that is protecting the fetus.