Avian influenza biosecurity advice for shoots and participants
This guide provides practical advice on biosecurity measures designed to help prevent the introduction and spread of avian influenza within gamebird release, and shooting environments.
Shooting while pregnant
Read our guidance below for pregnant women who are considering participation in shooting activities involving firearms.
While there is no clear and consistent guidance from the medical professions or scientific evidence to suggest that shooting while pregnant is unsafe, pregnancy is personal to each woman and therefore you should always consult your GP and midwife first.
Secondly, you should consider the risks below and how to mitigate them.
Thirdly, the general rule of thumb is not to start any new physical activity while pregnant. Therefore we would not recommend engaging in shooting sports for the first time while expecting.
While we have set out the documented risks and mitigations, the ultimate decision rests with the expectant mother and her medical practitioner.
Key health and safety considerations
Noise exposure
- Firearms produce impulse noise levels exceeding 140 decibels, well above safe exposure limits for adults and children.
- The foetus begins to detect sound at around 14 weeks’ gestation and by 24 weeks may respond to external noise.
- While the maternal body offers some sound insulation, until more is known about the extent of the impact of impulse noise it should be assumed that such noise poses a risk to foetal auditory development.
Lead exposure
- Ammunition and range environments may result in lead exposure via airborne particles or surface residues.
- Exposure to lead can be harmful, especially to unborn babies and young children, even in small amounts, and may impair neurological development.
Recoil and physical strain
- Firearm recoil affects the shoulder, torso and upper body.
- Pregnancy-related hormonal changes loosen ligaments, increasing the risk of muscle strain or joint injury.
- A shifting centre of gravity and reduced balance may compromise shooting posture and increase the risk of injury.
Recommendations and safeguards
While there are potential risks, many can be reduced or managed with appropriate precautions. Consider the following guidelines if choosing to participate in shooting activities during pregnancy.
Medical consultation
- Speak with your doctor, midwife or obstetrician to evaluate the risks based on your specific health and stage of pregnancy.
Ammunition and air quality
- Use lead-free ammunition whenever possible.
- Use outdoor ranges or well-ventilated indoor ranges to reduce exposure to fumes and lead particles.
- Use personal protective clothing and equipment to prevent inhalation or absorption of lead particles such as a respirator and gloves when shooting indoors.
Hygiene and handling
- Avoid cleaning or handling firearms that may have been exposed to lead or other substances found in ammunition and gun-cleaning products.
Follow strict hygiene protocols
- Wash hands thoroughly after using a firearm.
- Change clothing promptly to avoid lead transfer.
Further alternatives
- Consider laser-based or simulated shooting systems to enjoy the sport without exposure to noise or toxic substances.
- Dry-fire practice involving aiming and trigger exercises without live rounds.
- Consider subsonic cartridges to help reduce noise.
- Consider lighter loads to reduce recoil.
- Consider moderated shotguns and rifles to reduce noise.
- Consider recoil-reducing pads.
- Where possible, avoid fully panelled stands as they tend to amplify and concentrate noise.
Physical comfort and safety
- Wear comfortable, maternity-appropriate clothing that supports movement.
- Avoid shooting positions or equipment that transmit recoil to the abdominal area.
- Choose ranges or environments with flat, stable terrain to reduce fall risks.
- Take frequent breaks, stay hydrated and avoid overheating.
Game meat consumption
- Follow the Food Standards Agency advice regarding the consumption of game meat.
Final note
Pregnancy is a time when day-to-day activities are reviewed and adapted, and participation in shooting should always be approached with professional guidance. The safest course is to have a thorough conversation with your doctor or registered healthcare professional in order to consider your own circumstances and health status.
This document is intended for information only and does not replace medical advice. For personal advice, please consult your doctor.
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