Your Questions Answered
Is it safe to travel during pregnancy?
In general, travel during pregnancy, including air travel, is safe up to 36 weeks. The healthy pregnancy should be able to tolerate most of the activities that a woman can manage prior to pregnancy.
However, there are certain situations where this may not be a good idea. Pregnant women who have underlying medical conditions, such as hypertension, poorly controlled diabetes or other chronic conditions should consult with their provider. In addition, certain pregnancy complications would make it unwise to travel. All of these situations should be evaluated fully before considering travel.
Long hours of travel by air or car are associated with immobilization. This results in swelling of the feet and ankles that is worsened during pregnancy. Prepare for this! Wearing support stockings and actively moving the lower extremities can be helpful... Getting on your feet and walking about the cabin in a plane or taking frequent rest stops in the car can also help. Because air turbulence cannot be predicted, pregnant women should wear their seat belts at all times.
All of us become fatigued when traveling-pregnant or not. So plan your trips accordingly so there are opportunities for rest. Don’t expect to feel your best when you arrive.
When traveling it is a good idea to have a plan if any problems arise. Certainly, call your provider and discuss the problem. If you are traveling to unfamiliar areas, know where the nearest physicians or hospitals are. Having a plan can make you feel a bit more in control. Above all, discuss any concerns with your provider at home before you leave.
A word of advice about traveling. In early pregnancy look ahead to the end of your pregnancy-maybe the last six to eight weeks. Figure out what work or family obligations might occur at that time. Plan not to do some of them so you can let people and family know. If you are due around Christmas, for example, this might be the year to have it at home and visit Aunt Sadie or Grandma after the baby is born. After all, this time of your life is all about you and your baby. Your needs come first!