Healthwise: Pregnancy and Travel

Thinking about a summer time get-away but worried about traveling because you’re pregnant? Relax. Barring hypertension, a history of miscarriages, diabetes or bleeding, conditions which must be monitored closely, most obstetricians will give a thumbs-up to travel.

Traveling during pregnancy can be fun and comfortable as long as the expectant mom takes into consideration a few important things.

• Plan a trip during the second trimester, weeks 14 to 28. The risk of miscarriage in the first trimester has passed and it is before the possibility of premature labor in the third. In addition, the nausea and fatigue will have lessened or ceased by this time.

• Try to plan relaxing vacations as opposed to major tours.

• Avoid sitting for extended periods of time when traveling. Try to walk, stand, or stretch at least every hour or two. On a plane or train, even a short stroll up and down the aisle will get your circulation moving and help avoid swelling in your feet and legs.

• Drink at least one liter of water every two to three hours to avoid dehydration. Be sure to make frequent trips to the restroom to keep comfortable and avoid a urinary tract infection.

• Keep a bag of high fiber, nutritious snacks on hand such as granola bars, raisins, apples, carrots, bran muffins and crisp rye bread.

• Wear loose and layered clothing, along with comfortable shoes.

• Carry a small pillow to place under your back to avoid strain.

• Keep a copy of your prenatal record (obtained from your obstetrician) with you at all times. As a part of your travel plans, be sure to schedule an examination shortly before your departure date. If you are traveling a long distance, locate the nearest hospital to your travel destination that handles births.

• If traveling by car, be sure to place the seat as far back as possible. Make sure the seat belt fits properly; the top strap should be placed between your breasts and the lower strap across your hips.
If traveling by air, try to arrange for a seat with more legroom. Seats by the emergency doors or aisle seats usually provide the most leg room. Avoid a plane with an unpressurized cabin.

With the proper precautions and permission from your obstetrician, you can leave for vacation with more peace of mind and have a relaxing, fun getaway.