Traveling when pregnant

„I can’t wait to go on holiday. It’s going to be such a great trip. But wait, I’m pregnant. Can I travel?” Yes, you can. There is no reason why not as long as you’re feeling all right., though many women prefer not to in their first trimester when the chance of miscarriage is generally higher. But whenever you decide to travel, no matter the trimester of pregnancy, before you pack check with your doctor and tell him all about your travel plans and he will give you the OK and tell you what your travel options are. Here are some suggestions that may help you in planning the best and safest trip for you and your baby.

The plane is usually the best and, again, safest, choice of traveling if you have a longer trip in mind. But first, when you book the plane tickets ask about the airline’s rules when it comes to pregnant women. Some companies require a health bill from your doctor which says that you are fit to fly, especially if your pregnancy is approaching the due date. And some may not even allow pregnant women on board in their last weeks. If everything goes according to plan, book your tickets on the aisle so that you may get up without disturbing anyone. You will have to get up to stretch your legs at least every two hours because the blood circulation in your lower body – pelvic region and legs – can slow down if you sit for too long. Also, you will go the bathroom quite often as you have to drink plenty of water to keep you hydrated because the air on the plane can be very dry.

If you are taking the car to the intended destination, there are a few things you have to consider in order to have a safe and nice trip. First, plan your route very well to identify the places where you can stop to stretch your legs – the same rule applies as on the plane – and the places where you can go to the bathroom. Take with you something light to eat , fruit and vegetables, for when you get hungry, and water or something else to drink to prevent dehydration. If you like to drive and want to do it on the trip, take somebody that can also drive with you so that he can replace you when you get tired and also to keep you company. But if you have car sick then stay in the passenger’s seat and look at the horizon. In the car one way to keep you safe is by wearing the seat belt, so always do. Adjust the seat belt so that it won’t disturb you: put the lap belt below your belly, low and not very tight. Never wear the belt across or above your belly because it can harm you and the baby if, God forbid, you have an accident. Use the shoulder belt, too, comfortably arranged between your breasts. The air bags provide extra protection, so turn them on. But always use the seat belt too, because without it the air bags are dangerous.

A cruise is always a wonderful way to visit new places and meet new people. But if you’re pregnant it may not be such a good idea because you can get sea sick very easily. Talk to your physician what you can do if water is the only way to get to your destination. Also, there are some sea companies that don’t allow women in their last trimester on board, so check before you buy the tickets. And make sure that the boat you are on can provide emergency medical assistance if anything goes wrong.

These are some of the specifics of every type of traveling and now here is some general advice. Wear light, airy, comfortable clothes and shoes (your feet might get swollen) and apply a sun screen lotion to protect your skin. Always, but always, take with you a copy of your medical file, with all your medical test up-to-date and your doctor’s telephone number. If your due date is near and you are traveling, take out an insurance that will cover the costs if your pregnancy is in danger or the expenses of delivering and natal care. One more thing: if you are in an accident during your trip, no matter how small it is and how good you feel, go to a hospital immediately so that your condition can be checked by a doctor.

There is no reason why not to enjoy a beautiful holiday with your loved ones, the last maybe before giving birth and staying home to take care of the baby. Just take all the precautions necessary for your travel and choose the best way to travel for you. Travel safely and have a nice time!