Travelling Around When Pregnant

Just because you find out you are pregnant, doesn't mean you have to stay indoors for the whole nine months. If you have travel plans you shouldn't have to cancel everything to prepare for your pregnancy. If you are looking forward to a long journey try to reschedule it to within your second trimester. During your first trimester you may experience some upsetting morning sickness which can cause problems during long trips. During your third trimester there is the risk of labor so if you have to travel around this time you need to ensure you will be within a reasonable distance from medical services.

Wherever it is you are traveling you need to ensure that should the worst happen, you are prepared for it. Follow these quick and easy steps to journey preparation whilst pregnant and you'll make sure your holiday is as safe and risk free as possible.

1. Research the medical services available at your destination. If flying abroad, make sure your doctor refers you to an appropriate medical professional at your destination.

2. Always take your prenatal chart with you where ever you go. This contains all your pertinent medical data.

3. Make sure you have the right type of medical/travel insurance. Not every standard policy covers pregnancy and may exclude some world locations so make sure you get the policy you need. This may mean having to pay out extra on premiums.

4. If travelling by plane call up the airlines you will be using and find out what their pregnancy regulations are. Different airlines have different rules about admitting pregnant women including how many weeks on you can be before they refuse boarding.

5. If you have to travel by plane during the first trimester, book a seat towards the middle of the plane over the wing. This area of the plane has the smoothest ride so will reduce your need to reach for a sick bag during the journey.

6. Talk to your doctor before making any travel plans that take you out of the country or that involve a long, journey duration. This includes both car and plane travel and is especially important if you are experiencing any pregnancy complications or have a history of DVT.

7. Ask your doctor for a letter if you plan to fly. When the airline sees that you are pregnant they will request a letter stating your due date from your doctor and that you are fit and healthy to travel.

8. Don't eat a large heavy or greasy meal before you travel. Stick to light snacks like crackers or apples that will help to settle your stomach and eat small meals. This will help prevent and reduce morning sickness and travel sickness during your journey.

It is important to talk to your doctor in detail about all your travel plans whilst pregnant. Your doctor will need to know what is happening and when, as well as possible risks to you and your unborn baby.