Travelling during pregnancy is generally considered safe, but there are a few things to keep in mind. The second trimester (weeks 13 to 26 of pregnancy) is typically the best time to travel, as the risk of pregnancy complications is lowest during this period. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before travelling to ensure that it is safe for your specific situation. It is also crucial to have a plan in place for any medical emergencies that may arise while travelling.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Best time to travel during pregnancy | Second trimester (between 4 and 6 months) |
Risk of miscarriage | Higher in the first 3 months |
Flying | Considered safe; check with your doctor or midwife first |
Travelling by sea | Generally safe; check for healthcare providers on board |
Travelling by car | Avoid long journeys; wear a seatbelt |
Vaccinations | Avoid most live vaccines; ask your GP about specific travel vaccinations |
Zika virus | Do not travel to affected areas if you are pregnant |
What You'll Learn
- Travel by air is considered safe for pregnant women, but there are some precautions to take
- Travel by sea is generally safe, but there are some extra considerations to make
- Travel by car can be safe, but it's best to avoid long journeys
- Vaccinations for travel while pregnant
- Food and drink safety while travelling
Travel by air is considered safe for pregnant women, but there are some precautions to take
Consult Your Doctor or Healthcare Provider:
Before booking your flight, discuss your travel plans with your doctor or midwife. They can assess your individual health status and advise you on any necessary precautions or restrictions based on your pregnancy stage and medical history. This consultation is especially crucial if you have any pre-existing health conditions or pregnancy complications.
Choose the Right Time to Travel:
The second trimester (weeks 13 to 28) is often considered the best time to travel during pregnancy. By this time, morning sickness has usually subsided, and the risk of pregnancy complications is lower compared to the first trimester. Additionally, you'll have more energy and mobility before entering the more physically challenging third trimester.
Understand Airline Policies:
Different airlines have varying policies regarding pregnant passengers. Most airlines restrict travel during the last month of pregnancy, but some may impose restrictions as early as 28 to 36 weeks. Check with your specific airline to understand their guidelines and requirements, such as requesting a letter from your doctor confirming your due date and fitness to fly.
Manage the Risk of Blood Clots:
Pregnancy increases your risk of developing blood clots, and flying can further elevate this risk due to prolonged sitting and lower cabin humidity. To mitigate this risk, wear compression or support stockings, stay adequately hydrated, and move around at regular intervals during your flight. Booking an aisle seat can make it easier to walk around and stretch your legs.
Prepare for Medical Emergencies:
Before your trip, identify healthcare facilities near your destination in case you need urgent medical attention. Carry your maternity medical records with you to provide relevant information to healthcare providers, if needed. Ensure your travel insurance covers pregnancy-related eventualities, such as medical care during labour, premature birth, or changing your return trip date if necessary.
Additional Travel Tips:
- Avoid gassy foods and carbonated drinks before your flight to prevent discomfort.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing to enhance your comfort and blood circulation.
- Keep your seatbelt fastened during the flight, positioned under your belly and between your breasts.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- If you suffer from morning sickness, consult your healthcare provider about taking nausea medication.
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Travel by sea is generally safe, but there are some extra considerations to make
Travel by sea is generally safe for women during pregnancy. However, there are some extra considerations to make your trip safer and more comfortable.
Firstly, the motion of the boat may accentuate any morning sickness or make you feel nauseous. To mitigate this, seasickness bands use acupressure points to help prevent an upset stomach and may be a good alternative to medication.
Secondly, it is important to check with the cruise line to ensure that there is a healthcare provider on board in case there are any pregnancy complications. Additionally, review the route and port-of-calls to identify if there is access to any medical facilities if needed.
Thirdly, make sure any medications for seasickness are approved for women who are pregnant and that there is no risk to the developing baby.
Finally, as with any travel during pregnancy, it is important to take your maternity medical records with you so you can give doctors the relevant information if necessary. It is also a good idea to check what travel vaccines may be needed for your destination and to ensure your travel insurance covers pregnancy.
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Travel by car can be safe, but it's best to avoid long journeys
Travelling by car while pregnant is generally considered safe, but it's best to avoid long journeys. Long car journeys can be uncomfortable for your legs and back, especially during pregnancy. Being stationary for long periods increases your risk of developing a blood clot in your legs.
If you're travelling by car, it's important to stop and take breaks at least every 2 hours. Get out of the car and stretch your legs, knees and ankles. This will help to keep your blood flowing and reduce any stiffness and discomfort. Wearing compression stockings while on long car journeys can also increase blood flow in your legs and help prevent blood clots.
Tiredness and dizziness are common during pregnancy, so it's important to stay hydrated and eat natural, energy-giving foods like fruit and nuts. Keep the air circulating in the car and wear your seatbelt with the cross strap between your breasts and the lap strap across your pelvis under your bump.
Road accidents are among the most common causes of injury in pregnant women, so it's best not to travel alone. You could also share the driving with your companion.
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Vaccinations for travel while pregnant
Vaccinations are an important consideration for pregnant women who are planning to travel. While pregnancy creates an altered state of health that requires practical contemplation before travel, vaccinations can protect both the mother and the unborn baby.
Inactivated vaccines, which cannot cause disease as they cannot replicate, are generally considered safe for pregnant women if the risk of disease is high. These include the flu vaccine and the Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) vaccine, which are specifically recommended for pregnant women. The COVID-19 vaccine is also considered safe for pregnant women and is recommended by various health organisations.
On the other hand, live vaccines are usually avoided during pregnancy due to a theoretical concern that they could infect the unborn baby. Examples of live vaccines include measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox, and yellow fever. However, if travel is unavoidable and the risk of disease is high, expert advice should be sought, and a risk-benefit analysis should be performed to determine whether the benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks.
Pregnant women should discuss their travel plans and vaccination needs with their healthcare provider well in advance of their intended departure date. This will allow them to receive destination-specific advice and make informed decisions about their health and the well-being of their unborn child.
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Food and drink safety while travelling
Food and water safety is an important consideration when travelling during early pregnancy. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:
- Always wash your hands before eating or preparing food, after using the bathroom, after changing diapers, after contact with animals or sick people, and before and after touching raw meat, poultry, fish, and seafood.
- If you are travelling to a destination with limited access to clean drinking water, only drink water that has been boiled or disinfected, or opt for commercially sealed bottled water.
- Avoid using ice unless it is made from purified or disinfected water.
- Do not use iodine-based water purification systems as iodine can affect your baby's development.
- Avoid unpasteurized dairy products such as raw milk and soft cheeses, as well as unpasteurized juice and cider.
- Ensure that all eggs, meat, and fish are thoroughly cooked. Avoid raw or undercooked options.
- Stay away from non-dried deli meats such as bologna, roast beef, and turkey breast.
- If you develop persistent traveller's diarrhoea, consult a health care professional as soon as possible. Do not use bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol).
- Drink plenty of bottled water or canned juices and soft drinks.
- Ensure that any milk you consume is pasteurized.
- Avoid fresh fruits and vegetables unless they have been cooked or can be peeled, such as oranges or bananas.
- If you are unsure about the safety of the food, it is better to avoid eating it.
Remember to consult with your healthcare provider before travelling, as they can provide personalized advice and recommendations based on your specific needs and health status.
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Frequently asked questions
In most cases, it is safe to travel during early pregnancy. However, it is important to consult your healthcare provider beforehand and ensure that you have a plan in place for any medical emergencies.
The second trimester is generally considered the safest and most comfortable time to travel during pregnancy. By this time, nausea and fatigue from the first trimester have usually subsided, and you are still relatively mobile.
Yes, it is important to consult your healthcare provider and discuss any medical conditions or pregnancy complications you may have. Additionally, ensure that you have adequate travel insurance and that your insurance covers any pregnancy-related medical care.
Yes, it is recommended to avoid travelling to areas with outbreaks of illnesses or diseases that can harm both you and your fetus, such as the Zika virus or COVID-19.
Some vaccines are generally considered safe during pregnancy, such as the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines. However, it is important to consult your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of getting vaccinated while pregnant, especially if you are travelling to an area with specific vaccine requirements.