Travel tips for pregnant traveler

Plan the timing of your Trip

Pregnancy as any woman who has undergone pregnancy can vouch, has its fair share of nausea, discomfort and fatigue. Traveling during ones pregnancy is challenging, however the good news is that the typical pregnancy symptoms do not span the entire pregnancy period of nine months. The second trimester is usually the best to travel as one is likely to have overcome the morning sickness and has not yet felt the onset of increased fatigue that is usually most evident in the third trimester.

Logistics for ones travel

Before booking ones airline tickets, confirm with the airline as to how late in your pregnancy they allow pregnant travellers. Most airlines allow travel up to 36 weeks, but some airlines might have an earlier cut-off period. Since it is expected for feet to get swollen during long flights, it is important to wear comfortable shoes and loose clothing. The chances of blood clots during pregnancy travel is higher, therefore it is recommended that you do leg exercises even while seated. You might also want to wear compression stocking during the flight, but the traveller should get medical advice regarding this. If a pregnant lady is going on a cruise, it is important to confirm with the cruise line on their travel policy if they have specific guidelines for pregnant women. Most cruise providers will not allow travel after 24 weeks of pregnancy, and might insist on a authorisation to travel letter from a doctor indicating fitness to travel.

Travel with a copy of your medical records

Irrespective of your travel itinerary, a pregnant travel should travel with a copy of one’s prenatal records and medical notes. It is also important to be aware of the nearest hospital or medical facility during ones travel.

Travel with light baggage

Even though light to moderate exercise is encouraged during pregnancy heavy weight lifting is definitely to be avoided. During ones travel if pregnant, the baggage should be kept light so as to minimise any heavy lifting, especially hand carry bags that need to be lifted up in to overhead bins in the airplane.

Take frequent breaks during ones travel

It is important to travel keeping in mind that pregnancy causes exhaustion and therefore planning for this situation. Along with the physical changes that the body undergoes having a baby grow in the belly, pregnancy is also stressful and can cause insomnia for some women. This also leads to more exhaustion. A pregnant person will not be able to all the things that one could do prior to pregnancy, and this has to be acknowledged.

Food and water precautions during pregnancy

It is safest to eat only cooked food and when it is served hot. It is not a good idea to eat cold food or food that has been sitting at room temperature such as in a buffet. It is also not prudent to eat raw or undercooked meat or fish. It is safest to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, however they should be washed properly in clean water. It is not recommended to eat unpasteurized dairy products. It is safe to drink water or sodas that are canned or bottled and sealed. It is not safe to drink anything with ice in it as the ice may be made with contaminated water.