Tips for Traveling While Pregnant

If you’re thinking about taking a trip during pregnancy, you must have a lot of questions and concerns. Pregnancy is a period of great adjustment in many areas of life, and travel is surely one of them. Whether you’re looking to visit family across the country or you’re planning a fun international trip, this article will give you all the information you’ll need to travel safely and comfortably.

Consult with a Healthcare Provider

Even though travelling during pregnancy can be both relaxing and exciting, it also requires careful planning. Before you start making plans, get in touch with a healthcare provider you trust. This person will be able to give you personalized tips based on the stage of pregnancy you’re in and your overall health. Each expecting mom goes through a different journey, and some conditions that occur during pregnancy require particular precautions. Make sure you discuss potential complications like high blood pressure, a history of preterm labour, or gestational diabetes. Also, depending on the destination and the duration of the trip, you may need to obtain supporting medical documentation.

When Is the Best Time to Travel?

The quality of your trip, as well as your safety, are largely affected by the timing of the travel. For example, in the first trimester (weeks 1-12), you are very likely to experience fatigue, nausea, and morning sickness. All of that can make travel quite challenging, so if you really need to do it during this time, consider taking only short trips, and be ready for potential discomfort. The second trimester (weeks 13-28), on the other hand, is considered the best time to travel during pregnancy. Morning sickness normally decreases, and many women start feeling more energetic. As for the third trimester (weeks 29-40), you will probably find travel too uncomfortable because of the increased fatigue and the size of your belly.

Precautions During Travel

Whether you’re flying or travelling by car, there are certain things you can do to make the whole experience safer and more convenient:

Tips for Air Travel

The majority of airlines allow women to travel until they are 36 weeks pregnant, but before you book a flight, make sure you understand the policies of the airline. Next, choose an aisle seat that will provide you with easier access to the restroom, as well as a chance to get up and move around freely. It is advisable to walk around the cabin once per hour to improve circulation. Additionally, get a pair of compression stockings that can prevent swelling and reduce the risk of DVT - deep vein thrombosis.

Advice for Road Trips

Comfortable seating is definitely a priority during road trips. First, learn how to adjust your seat position to achieve maximum comfort. Make sure you have adequate legroom and back support. Next, find a quality travel pillow that suits you since a good lumbar pillow can provide additional support to your back. During the trip, take regular breaks to use the restroom and stretch your legs. On top of that, regularly take a few sips of water to stay hydrated.

Packing Essentials

Packing in a smart way is an extra step you should take towards a comfortable trip. When it comes to clothes, prioritize comfortable items that can accommodate your changing body. Pack loose-fitting and breathable clothes that offer convenience and ease of movement. As for shoes, forget about high heels and opt for comfortable footwear with good arch support. Sneakers would be an ideal choice, but if you wish to be more elegant, you can always pick a nice pair of flats or low-heeled shoes.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

Before you go on a trip, take some time to research medical facilities at the destination. Prepare a list of emergency contacts, including your Doula, healthcare provider, local hospitals, and any relevant travel insurance data. Once you have all the information ready, share it with your travel companions. 

Planning a trip during pregnancy might feel overwhelming, but it is usually completely safe until around 36 weeks, as long as it's approved by your healthcare provider. If your doctor confirms that you’re good to go, all you need to do is follow the steps listed above and enjoy the days spent travelling.