Traveling during pregnancy is going to be more challenging than usual because of all the pregnancy symptoms and physical limitations, especially with a pandemic going on, but is still totally possible You will need to do some planning in order to guarantee that your vacation is both safe and comfortable. In this post I am going to give you some proven to work tips that will save your life this holiday season with your plans for traveling while pregnancy.
Pregnancy Travel Tips. Tips for Traveling During Pregnancy.
What is Permitted when it Comes to Traveling During Pregnancy?
You should be able to continue traveling up to approximately one month before your due date if you are enjoying a healthy pregnancy without complications. If, on the other hand, you have a history of premature deliveries, your obstetrician may advise you to avoid all travel throughout the third trimester of your pregnancy.
However, just because you think you are ready to travel because you feel good, does not necessarily guarantee that you will be able to travel. Even before the pandemic, many cruise lines don’t let expecting mothers board the ship beyond week 23. Several airlines won’t let pregnant women fly domestically after 36 weeks. And It’s possible that you won’t be allowed to fly overseas if you are in your third trimester of pregnancy, especially after 36 weeks.
On average, the safest time, and best time to travel overall during pregnancy is the second trimester. In the beginning of your pregnancy, you may have feelings of nausea and fatigue that make it difficult for you to travel for long distances or to enjoy yourself once you arrive at your destination. And during the third trimester you might encounter other issues that might prevent you from traveling, besides the fact that you might also feel tired and more uncomfortable with a big baby bump.
So here you have the best Tips for Traveling During Pregnancy.
1. Pack Nutritious Snacks for the Trip.
You shouldn’t let the fact that you’re away from home stop you from making an effort to maintain a regular and healthy eating routine. It’s possible that by the time you’re in your second trimester of pregnancy, you won’t feel as queasy as you did earlier, but you could still have some sickness. You can combat those symptoms by eating consistently but in little amounts throughout the day.
You can easily take a variety of nutritious options, such as:
- Whole-wheat crackers.
- Pasteurized cheese bites.
- Fruit (dried or fresh).
- Vegetables bites.
- Seeds and nuts.
- Yogurts.
- Granola bars.
- Cereals made with whole grains.
On the day of your trip, try to avoid eating items that are fried or spicy, as these can make motion sickness even worse and create gas in the intestines. Do not consume any dairy products that have not been pasteurized, any meats or fish that have not been cooked or cured properly, and always wash fresh produce very thoroughly before consuming.
2. Get up and do some Stretching Regularly.
Because pregnant women have a greater chance of developing blood clots, they should try to avoid sitting still for extended periods of time. Put on clothes that are loose fitting and make sure to keep the blood flowing in your legs. Whether you’re flying or driving, be sure to take pauses along the way. To walk around and stretch your legs. Additionally, even while you are seated, you should flex your toes and point them as much as you can. Keep in mind that any movement counts, even if is in a chair. It is also recommended wearing compression stockings. These stockings can prevent blood from collecting in your lower legs and reduce swelling in your feet and ankles.
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3. Choose your Seat Wisely.
- When flying you should select an aisle seat, and if possible, near a restroom. In the event that your seat has not been reserved for you, you should request pre-boarding.
- When you’re already feeling sick to your stomach, the last thing you need is to start getting motion sickness as well. If you’re driving, sit in the front seat to reduce your risk of being sick.
4. Stay Hydrated.
Maintaining a healthy level of hydration can assist in lowering the risk of developing blood clots, as well as reducing the risk of edema in the hands, legs, and feet. What’s more, dehydration makes worse the jet lag symptoms like weariness. Hydration will also assist with the swelling in your nasal passages, which is a common pregnancy symptom caused by hormones and can make you feel stuffy all the time.
5. Avoid Constipation.
The best way to prevent constipation during travel is to make sure you get enough of the three things that are proven to be the most effective remedies for the condition: fiber, lot of fluids, and moving regularly.
6. Obey Nature’s Calling.
By delaying trips to the bathroom, you could be increasing your risk of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI) or constipation. Therefore, don’t postpone, go to the restroom as soon as you feel that you need to.
7. Protect Yourself and Buckle up.
If you want to feel more comfortable while driving, tuck the seat belt’s bottom strap under your baby bump. Keep the seat belt’s top strap off to the side of your belly, but still across the middle of your chest, where it would typically rest. This will give you the most support. If you are already on an airplane and the seat belt does not fit you properly, you should ask an attendant for an extender.
8. Avoid Unnecessary Lifting and ask for Assistance if you Need to.
If you want to avoid the hassle of lifting large luggage, invest in a rolling suitcase. A bag that rolls is quite convenient, and if you don’t already own one. Ask your travel companion or a member of the cabin crew for assistance in placing your belongings in the overhead compartment or the trunk of the vehicle. If you’re feeling fatigued or are in a rush to make your connection, request assistance in the form of a wheelchair or an electric cart while you’re at the airport. And don’t overpack. Put only the essentials in your carry-on.
What Should You Do in Advance to Get Prepared for Your Trip When You’re Pregnant?
Get a Travel Insurance Before the Trip if you Have to.
In the event that a pregnancy-related problem forces you to alter your vacation plans, make sure you have trustworthy travel insurance. If you are going to be traveling outside of the country, you should think about purchasing travel medical insurance in case you need to return home fast for medical treatment. If your current health insurance plan does not cover medical care received in a foreign country, purchasing medical travel insurance may be beneficial; nevertheless, before leaving on your trip, you should verify that your plan covers expenses internationally.
Check with the Airline about Regulations they Might Have for Pregnant Passengers.
Call the customer service number for your airline to find out whether there are any particular regulations in place for pregnant passengers. If you are planning to travel during your third trimester of pregnancy, you should check with your airline before booking your flight. Some airlines have restrictions on how late in your pregnancy you can board a plane (the cut-off date for some airlines is 34 weeks), and others require a note from your doctor stating that it is safe for you to fly. Keep in mind that the limitations may be varied for different airlines and depending on whether you are traveling domestically or internationally. Therefore, always before proceeding with any booking, check with the airline first.
Choose Wisely your Destination.
Make sure that both your accommodation and your mode of transportation have air conditioning, that you drink plenty of water, and that you stay out of the sun before you make any plans. It is important to check with your practitioner before traveling to an area with a high altitude. The same should be done before entering any areas where there is a possibility of contracting potentially harmful infections (including water, food and mosquito borne diseases like the Zika virus). Visit the website of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for information on the health of visitors, including a list of nations that the CDC advises against traveling to during the COVID-19 epidemic.
Create a Pregnancy Kit and Have it at Hand.
Make sure that you have a sufficient supply of prenatal vitamins to last the duration of the trip. It is highly recommended that you have a copy of your medical history with you wherever you go, but this is especially important if you are leaving the country. Check with your doctor what over the counter or prescribed medications you can take during pregnancy.
For some necessities to create a kit click this link.
Make Sure you Have Medical Backup Plan in Place.
If you are going to be gone for an extended period of time, you should keep the contact information of an OB-GYN in the area that you are going ready. Utilizing the American Medical Association’s (AMA) Doctor Finder tool will allow you to discover a physician wherever you are in the United States. Contacting the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers, which may provide you with a directory of English-speaking physicians located all over the world, is a good idea if you are going to be traveling outside of the country. In the event that you find yourself in urgent need of medical attention you should contact the United States Embassy or Consulate in the area for assistance. There need to be a number that you can call for assistance in the event that you have medical travel insurance.
When should you visit a doctor when you are traveling if you are pregnant?
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should go to the nearest hospital or medical clinic in the area that you are visiting.
- Abdominal or pelvic pain.
- Vaginal bleeding.
- Contractions.
- Preeclampsia symptoms can include a headache that won’t go away, changes in eyesight, swelling of the face or hands, and facial or hand edema.
- Leg discomfort and/or swelling.
Related Posts you might want to read!
First trimester of pregnancy. The checklist.
How to Conceive a Girl Naturally.
25 Most Common Pregnancy Questions Answered.
Final Thoughts about today’s topic: Tips for Traveling During Pregnancy.
Even while it is usually believed that traveling during pregnancy is safe for the majority of mothers-to-be, you will still need to take certain measures before making any arrangements, and you will also need to obtain the okay from your practitioner first. The day before the trips perhaps is good if you take the day off. Get some rest and do the things that brings you joy. So you can feel relaxed and ready for the journey right ahead of you, especially if the traveling time is long. Hopefully, these tips are helpful.
Zadi, xo
Disclaimer: The medical information on this post is for educational and entertainment use only. Under no circumstances, this information is to replace your doctor’s advice or to treat any disease. For proper care, always visit your doctor.
