Travelling while Pregnant: Safety tips and considerations

Time your Pregnancy Travel

Timing your pregnancy travel is essential to ensure both your safety and the well-being of your baby. Here's a general guideline:

First Trimester (Weeks 1-13)

Travel during the first trimester can be challenging due to morning sickness, fatigue, and a higher risk of miscarriage. If you must travel, consider doing so during weeks 6 to 10 when morning sickness might be less severe.

Second Trimester (Weeks 14-28)

Many women find the second trimester the most comfortable time to travel as morning sickness typically subsides, energy levels are higher, and the risk of miscarriage decreases. You can aim to travel during weeks 14 to 27 when you're likely to feel your best.

Third Trimester (Weeks 29-40)

Travel during the third trimester of pregnancy can be challenging due to increased discomfort, fatigue, and the risk of preterm labor. Consult your doctor before making any travel plans during this period, and if you need to travel, opt for shorter trips and stay close to medical facilities.

Tips for safe travel during pregnancy

Here are some important tips and guidelines for traveling during pregnancy:

1. Consult Your Doctor before making any travel plans to ensure it's safe for you and your baby.

2. Second trimester (weeks 14 to 28) is generally considered the safest time for travel, as morning sickness has likely subsided and the risk of miscarriage is lower.

3. Opt for destinations with good medical facilities available, in case of any emergencies.

4. Make sure your travel insurance covers pregnancy-related issues and unexpected medical needs.

5. Stay hydrated and eat balanced meal to keep your energy levels up. Carry healthy snacks.

6. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and supportive footwear.

7. Plan for frequent breaks to stretch your legs, use the restroom, and stay comfortable.

8. In case of air travels, choose an aisle seat for easy access to the restroom and movement.

9. Stay active by moving your legs and stretching periodically to prevent blood clots.

10. Avoid modes of transport that involve excessive shaking or jolting.

11. Avoid lifting heavy luggage. Ask for assistance if needed.

12. Check the airline's policy regarding pregnant passengers. Some airlines have restrictions after a certain gestational age.

13. Wear a seat belt and position it correctly. Stop every hour or two to stretch and walk around.

14. Choose destinations with good medical facilities and avoid remote or hard-to-reach areas.

15. If you're taking any medications, ensure you have enough for the duration of your trip.

16. Consult your doctor before traveling to high-altitude destinations.

Reasons not to travel while pregnant

There may be some circumstances under which your doctor would strictly ask you not to travel when you are pregnant. This includes:

1. A past record of a miscarriage

2. In case of multiple pregnancy i.e. if you are carrying twins or triplets

3. If you have high blood pressure or have gestational diabetes

4. If you have low-lying placenta or if your doctor detects any other issue with your placenta.

5. If you have open cervix i.e. the cervix has opened up more than needed before time thereby increasing the risk of pre-matured baby

Follow your doctor’s advice to the T when travelling during pregnancy. You can always go on a trip later after your baby safely and happily comes into this world.