It is very important to take care of yourself and your baby at every step of your pregnancy. There are always concerns associated with pregnancy and the kind of activities you are allowed to do. One among them is travelling. With complete precautions and proper information on when to travel, most pregnant women can travel during pregnancy.
When can you travel?
Whether you are travelling or not, there is always a risk of miscarriage during the first trimester of pregnancy. If travelling is on your calendar, the second trimester would be the ideal time. If you have any concerns about traveling, it is better to consult your doctor. If your pregnancy has no complications, then there is nothing to hold you back from travelling. Here are few general tips for you and your baby to ensure a safe travel:
Air Travel: Check with your airline policies, as most of the airlines do not give permission to travel after 35 weeks as the likelihood of going into labor is high. Or they might ask for a letter from your doctor confirming your due date to rule out any risk or complications associated. There is no harm in flying when you are pregnant, but it is advisable to talk to your doctor before you make that plan.
Travel by Sea: It is generally safe to travel by sea for pregnant women. Check with the cruise line to identify the health care provider and medical facilities in the route. Carry medications for sea sickness approved for pregnant women by your doctor.
Car travel: Never forget to wear a seat belt while traveling in a car. You should wear a cross strap between your breasts and a lap strap below your bump and across your pelvis. Keep yourself hydrated. Eat natural foods like fruits and munch on energy giving foods like nuts. Use rest stops at frequent intervals for a short walk. Never drive yourself alone and avoid making long trips.
Bus Travel: This mode is the most challenging. Take care to see if you are seated comfortably when the bus is moving. They have narrow aisles and also lack a rest room. It is better to avoid bus transportation for longer hours of journey.
Train Travel: This mode of transportation is comparatively comfortable when compared to car travel or bus travel. It has more space to move about, walk around and relax.
Food and Drink: To avoid food and water borne infections, it is better to carry your own food and water while travelling and especially during pregnancy. Also, check with your doctor on the medications that can be taken if you have a stomach upset or traveller's diarrhea.
By whatever means you travel, do not forget to carry your medical records. It might turn out to be very helpful in case of an emergency. And if travelling alone, do have your emergency contact numbers like your doctor, friend or a family member. Also, pen down a list of things that need to be carried and take necessary precautions.
