Let’s talk about one of the most frequently asked questions “Is traveling safe during pregnancy?” Well the answer is yes, if your pregnancy is going fine and healthy, then traveling is no more an issue and it’s safe to travel. All you need is some precautions and things to consider while traveling. In general, the second trimester is the best time to travel because early pregnancy symptoms fade away and labor has time. In this article, we’ll talk about it in detail including what you should do and what you shouldn’t do while traveling during pregnancy.
DO’S OF TRAVELING WHILE EXPECTING
Do check pregnancy restrictions: Before booking your flight and cruise line, do check their pregnancy restrictions, as most airlines don’t allow after the 35th week and most of the cruise don’t allow after the 24th week of pregnancy. These restrictions are because at this time you are at high risk of early labor.
Do hydrate yourself: Do consider keeping yourself hydrated while traveling which is very important during pregnancy. Well, hydration not only helps you feel good but also helps you to protect you from heat strokes. So keep drinking plenty of fluids as it helps you regulate blood flow to the uterus.
Do take medical clearance: Make sure you have your written record of your due date and medical condition by your doctor especially while traveling through airline or cruise line. Because some get it asked and checked. So always carry your medical clearance record with you while traveling.
Do carry compression stockings: Compression stockings helps to regulate blood circulation around your legs and hence prevent blood clotting, which is the main issue while traveling through long distance. So do carry your stockings with you and do a little walking and feet stretches.
Do carry your medical kit: It’s good to carry your prenatal supplements, medicines as described by your doctor, mosquito repellent, and toilet seat sanitizer to prevent infection. No matter you need it or not, but its always a good choice to carry it with you while traveling. Do consult your doctor and take your flu vaccine if needed.
DON’TS OF TRAVELLING WHILE EXPECTING
Don’t eat outside: Try to avoid outside and unhygienic foods as much as you can when you are expecting, as this may increase your chances of infection and bloating. Just pack up your snacks like almonds, dried fruits, granola bar, and home-made meals with you when you are traveling. Just little precaution while traveling will make your journey happier.
Don’t forget to carry your little things: Don’t miss those essentials that make your journey more comfortable i.e. your own water bottle, neck pillow, comfortable footwear, support belt, panty liners, and other things as per your requirement.
Don’t indulge in activities which have risks: If you are traveling and going out for some theme park party and cruise outing, don’t forget to check out the risk factors of their activities. Like ice-skating, diving in, water slides, bungee-jumping adventure, and many other activities are not meant for pregnant women.
Don’t travel if you don’t feel so: For traveling and going out, you have to leave your comfortable room and home, so if you are not feeling good, it’s better to avoid traveling especially alone. Don’t push your limits, listen to your body, and then travel. Travel, only if you are completely ok and comfortable to travel.
THINGS TO REMEMBER WHILE TRAVELLING THROUGH CAR
Traveling through car while expecting is the safest and comfortable option, as you can take small breaks and stretches whenever you feel so. Some of the things that you should consider while traveling through car when you are expecting are as follows:
- Ask your driver or your partner or whoever is driving to drive slow and safe.
- Always remember to wear your seatbelt but wear it above your abdomen not over your abdomen.
- If you are driving, try to maintain some distance between your belly and your car wheel.
- Take frequent breaks to stretch your legs and use the washroom if you are traveling for long distances.
- It’s better to talk to your doctor even if you have minor car-hit while traveling.
- Wear loose and comfortable clothes while traveling.
- No doubt air bags will help you a lot in case of a car accident, but it’s better to move your passenger seat as back as possible or sit at the back in general for further protection.
THINGS TO REMEMBER WHILE TRAVELLING THROUGH AIRLINE
In general, you can fly till 35th week of your pregnancy in domestic flights and maybe sooner for the international flights. Because air traveling in last weeks of pregnancy may instigate premature labor. So, do confirm the pregnancy restrictions before booking your ticket. Some of the things that you should consider while traveling through airlines when you are expecting are as follows:
- – Be there on time so you don’t have to rush.
- Always carry your medical certificate with you, they may ask you for this.
- Pregnant women with a multiple pregnancy, gestational diabetes, placenta abnormality, high blood pressure, or risk of miscarriage should avoid traveling through airline especially internationally.
- Avoid carbonated drinks or other foods that may cause bloating/indigestion before taking your flight.
- Always fasten your seatbelt under your belly.
- Drink plenty of fluids and keep yourself well hydrated throughout the journey.
- When your flight is going smooth, it’s a good option to take a few steps to stretch your legs and ankles.
- Try to prefer an aisle seat over the window seat. It gets comfortable for you to stretch, walk, and go for washroom easily.
Just be smart to select the time of your traveling and your destination. Make sure you select the destination of your travel which is not too hot or humid because during pregnancy you are at high risk of heat stroke. So keep yourself well hydrated and wear comfortable clothes. Avoid exertion and take proper rest after reaching your destination. Just little preparation and precautions can give you a happy journey experience. Good luck and have a safe journey!