Pregnancy and travel

What you need to know about traveling while pregnant

Have problems with pregnancy and travel; however, the information below is intended to make your journey as safe and comfortable as possible.

Is it worth traveling while pregnant?

As long as there are no pregnancy-related complications or problems, it is generally safe to travel at any time during pregnancy. The ideal time to travel while pregnant is during the second trimester. In most cases, you get over morning sickness in the first trimester and a few weeks after the third stage of pregnancy, when you tire more easily.

Air travel during pregnancy

Whether you travel by car, bus or train, it is generally safe to travel while pregnant. however, there are some things to consider to make your journey safer and more comfortable.

It is extremely important to fasten your seat belt every time you get into the car. Be sure to use both the lap and shoulder straps for the best protection for you and your child.
Keep the airbags activated. The safety benefits of an airbag outweigh any potential risk to you and your child.
Buses tend to have narrow aisles and small toilets. This mode of transport can be more difficult. It is safest to stay in your seats while the bus is in motion. If you need to use the toilet, be sure to hold on to the rails or seats to keep your balance.
Trains usually have more space for navigation and walking. Toilets are usually small. While the train is in motion, it is important to hold on to the rails or the backs of the seats.
Try to limit the time you spend locked up in a car, bus or train. Keep the travel time around five to six hours.
Use rest stops to take short walks and stretch to keep your circulation going.

Is air travel safe during pregnancy?

Air travel is considered safe for pregnant women. however, the following ideas can make your journey safer and more comfortable.

Most airlines allow pregnant women to travel until their eighth month. Travel during the ninth month is generally allowed if there is permission from your doctor.
Most airlines have narrow aisles and small bathrooms, making it more difficult and inconvenient to navigate the restroom. Due to the potential for turbulence that can rock the aircraft, be sure to hold on to the backs of your seats as you navigate the aisle.
You can choose an aisle seat that will allow you to get up more easily to get to the toilet or just stretch your legs and back.
Fly on major airlines with pressurized cabins and avoid smaller private jets. If you must travel in small aircraft, avoid altitudes above 2000m.
Although doubtful, the risk of deep vein thrombosis may be further reduced by wearing compression stockings.

Pregnant women with uncomplicated pregnancies avoid travel from the 37th week of pregnancy until delivery.

Women with complicated pregnancies and risk factors for preterm birth, such as multiple mothers, are advised to avoid travel from 32 weeks before delivery.

Risk factors that justify a trip include:

Severe anemia
Cardiac disease
Respiratory disease
Recent hemorrhage
Current or recent bone fractures

Sea travel during pregnancy

Travel by sea is generally safe for pregnant women; boat movement can increase morning sickness or cause nausea again.

There are several considerations to make your journey safer and more comfortable:

Contact the cruise company to make sure there is a doctor on board in case of pregnancy complications.
View the route and stops to determine if there is access to medical facilities, if necessary.
Make sure all motion sickness medications are approved for pregnant women and that there is no risk to the developing baby.
Seasickness bandages use acupressure points to help prevent indigestion and can be a good alternative to medication.

International travel during pregnancy

Traveling abroad comes with the same considerations as traveling locally or domestically, but it also comes with additional issues that you should be aware of before embarking on an international trip.

The information below will help you assess whether international travel is currently right for you:

Before traveling abroad, it is important to talk to your doctor to discuss safety factors for you and your child.
Discuss vaccinations with your doctor and bring a copy of your medical records with you.

Diarrhea is a common problem when traveling abroad because you may not be aware of the germs and organisms in food and water from other countries. This can lead to the problem of dehydration.

Here are some tips to help you avoid diarrhea and stay safe:

Drink plenty of bottled water
Used canned juices or soft drinks as alternatives
Make sure the milk is pasteurized
Avoid fresh fruits and vegetables unless they have been cooked or can be peeled (such as an orange or a banana)
Make certain that all meat and fish has been cooked completely; if you are unsure, do not eat it

Get the most out of your travels while pregnant

Dress comfortably in loose cotton clothing and wear comfortable shoes.
Take your favorite pillow.
Plan for plenty of rest stops, restroom breaks and stretches.
Carry snack foods with you.
If you are traveling any distance, make sure to carry a copy of your prenatal records.
Wear your seatbelt and take other safety measures.
Enjoy the trip.