The subject was raised regarding cycling while pregnant with the general opinion being that it was a valid excuse not to ride and others going so far as to state that cycling whilst pregnant can cause miscarriage. I then piped up with a story I believed to be attributed to the American Connie Carpenter Phinney that I read in Bicycling magazine back in the 90's. Basically she went into labour and for whatever reason, hubby wasn't home, didn't think to call a cab etc she cycled to the hospital to have her baby.
Well of course someone had to say provide a link or it never happened. Unfortunately I wasn't able to find a link I did however find a bike camp that is being run by Connie Carpenter Phinney and her husband Davis Phinney and I sent off an email explaining the situation regarding the forum thread and asked if she would be so kind as to confirm or deny the story.
I was very surprised when a mere 4 1/2 hours later I received a eply from Ms Carpenter Phinney to my enquiry.
I will post both emails below.
My email.
Her response.Greetings Ms Connnie Carpenter Phinney,
I was wondering if you'd be able to help me please? There is a discussion going on in a cycling forum I'm a member of claiming that cycling while pregnant causes miscarriage. Now if I remember correctly Bicycling magazine in America ran an article or at least a news item stating that you rode yourself to hospital whilst you were in labor and then preceded to have an argument with the doorman at the hospital as he wouldn't let you bring your bicycle inside. I have tried searching for a link to the story online and haven't been able to find anything. I would really like to be able to prove these people wrong and show them proof that it is in fact possible to cycle whilst pregnant. I have mentioned what I believe to be your story but without a link or possibly a reply to my email they wont believe me.
Would you be so kind as to reply to my email and confirm or deny the story? I'd be very grateful if you could.
Thankyou for you time
--
Regards
Nathaniel
She most certainly did not disappoint! Anyway there you have it. Yes it is possible to cycle whilst pregnant although it may take a former elite cyclist to be brave enough or fit enough to ride herself to the delivery room.Sorry that story is not mine but my good friend and former elite cyclist - Miji Reoch's - bicycling 8 miles to the hospital while in labor -through the streets of Philadelphia. She delivered a healthy baby girl (I'm pretty sure the bike was eventually secured in a safe place).
Honestly, it's impossible to say that cycling causes miscarriages. I have seen many women adjust their cycling positions and ride frequently while pregnant.
Hope that helps - and sorry to disappoint!
connie
I hope that answers everyones questions.