Safe and Fun Travel During Pregnancy
Travel during pregnancy is possible with a bit of extra planning
Being pregnant doesn’t mean you have to sit at home waiting for the baby to be born. Travel during pregnancy can be a great time to create special memories before adding a newborn to your family. Of course, some women may have work travel. Our Austin and Dripping Springs OBGYNs reassure women that all traveling while pregnant requires is a little extra caution and consideration.
The ideal time to travel during pregnancy
When is the best time to travel during pregnancy? The second trimester is typically recommended. By then, most women have moved past morning sickness. They can easily walk, sit and sleep, and are not yet too uncomfortable. Also, most complications occur during the first and third trimesters.
Before you travel
Before making any plans, meet with your OBGYN to discuss your trip with your doctor, including your destination, mode of transportation, and duration of your trip. Your doctor will provide recommendations on vaccinations, potential concerns and specific advice.
If your OBGYN approves your plans, ensure you have access to your medical records. Identify doctors and hospitals at your destination that accept your health insurance. On a cruise, look into the medical care available both on the ship and at the ship’s ports. If you’re traveling abroad, check with your health insurance provider to determine the coverage available to you at your destination. You may consider purchasing medical travel insurance.
When travel is a “no-go”
Travel is not recommended for some pregnant women, including those with certain preexisting health conditions, such as gestational diabetes and high blood pressure, or those pregnant with multiples. Our Austin and Dripping Springs OBGYNs recommend that all women stop traveling by 28 weeks. In fact, many airlines and cruise lines don’t allow women to travel late in pregnancy.
Feel your best on your trip
When traveling while pregnant, follow these simple steps for safety and comfort.
Dress in loose, comfortable layers.
Have snacks and anti-nausea medication. Even if you’re past morning sickness, pregnant women can be more sensitive to movement.
Drink plenty of water. It’s easy to get dehydrated, especially on an airplane.
Avoid sitting in one position for too long. Pregnant women have a higher risk of developing blood clots, and sitting for long periods of time increases that risk. If traveling by car, stop every 60 to 90 minutes. On a plane, make an effort to stand up or walk the aisle. Flexing feet, bending knees, and making ankle circles while seated is helpful. Ask your doctor about wearing compression socks.
Keep your hand sanitizer and face mask with you. Airborne illnesses such as flu, RSV and COVID can be dangerous for pregnant women. Practice good hygiene, especially in crowded spaces.
With a little extra preparation and planning, travel during pregnancy can be fun and safe. Whether it’s a “babymoon” or work travel, contact our Austin and Dripping Springs OBGYNs for a pre-travel appointment.