Balancing a laptop on your increasingly shrinking lap isn't easy — but it hasn't proven to be dangerous either. Although a few studies have shown a link between the heat emitted from a laptop and a decrease in a man's fertility, most experts agree that such low levels of heat don't pose a risk to a developing fetus.

Neither is there a known radiation risk to your baby from using a computer or a laptop.

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Key Takeaways
  • Laptops are safe. Experts say the heat and radiation from this device won't affect your baby-on-board.
  • Sit up straight! Hunching over a laptop on your growing belly can lead to an achy back. Your best bet: Place it on a table or desk for maximum comfort.
  • Do what feels best. It's perfectly fine to be extra careful and skip resting your laptop on your belly (peace of mind = priceless).

But to play it safe, you might want to keep the laptop away from your lap and off your belly — which would be a tough balancing act anyway.

After all, the computer isn't called a bellytop. Besides, by perching your laptop on a desk or table during your pregnancy, you'll probably end up with less back strain — and fewer typos too.

We've got more safety tips on the What to Expect app, plus expert guidance and trusted advice for every stage of your pregnancy.

The bottom line? You're safe to keep typing away on your laptop while you're pregnant, so take that off your "to-worry-about" list. Using a laptop won't hurt your growing baby.

Don't work too hard,


Heidi Murkoff