Traveling while pregnant requires careful planning and awareness. With proper precautions, most women can travel safely throughout much of their pregnancy. This guide provides essential information to help you make informed decisions and ensure a safe and comfortable trip.
Whether you are planning a relaxing vacation or traveling for work, understanding the potential risks and necessary precautions is crucial. Always identify healthcare facilities at your destination in case of urgent medical attention. Carrying your maternity medical records can provide doctors with the relevant information if needed.
Best Time to Travel During Pregnancy
Many women find that the second trimester, between 4 and 6 months, is the ideal time to travel. During the first 12 weeks, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue can make travel unpleasant. Additionally, the risk of miscarriage is higher during the first three months, regardless of travel. The final months of pregnancy can also be tiring and uncomfortable, making mid-pregnancy the most suitable time for travel.
Flying While Pregnant
Flying is generally safe for both you and your baby. However, consulting with your midwife or doctor about any health issues or pregnancy complications before flying is important.
The likelihood of going into labor increases naturally after 37 weeks (or around 32 weeks if you are carrying twins). Some airlines have restrictions on flying during the later stages of pregnancy, so it’s essential to check their policy.
After week 28, airlines may request a letter from your doctor or midwife confirming your due date and that you are not at risk of complications. This letter might incur a fee and take several weeks to obtain, so plan accordingly.
Long-distance travel (over 4 hours) poses a small risk of blood clots (Deep Vein Thrombosis – DVT). If flying, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and move around every 30 minutes or so. Graduated compression stockings can also help reduce leg swelling.
Travel Vaccinations and Malaria Tablets
Most vaccines containing live bacteria or viruses are not recommended during pregnancy due to potential harm to the baby. However, some live travel vaccines may be considered if the risk of infection outweighs the risk of vaccination. Consult your GP or midwife for specific advice. Non-live (inactivated) vaccines are generally safe during pregnancy. Some anti-malaria tablets are also unsafe, so seeking advice from your GP is essential.
Zika Virus Considerations
Zika virus is primarily spread by mosquitoes and can cause problems if you’re pregnant. It is not recommended to travel to areas where the Zika virus is present, including parts of South and Central America, the Caribbean, the Pacific Islands, Africa, and Asia.
Always check the risk for your destination before traveling: Find out more about the Zika virus risk in specific countries on the Travel Health Pro website
Car Travel During Pregnancy
Avoid long car journeys if possible. If unavoidable, take regular breaks to stretch and move around. Perform exercises in the car, such as flexing and rotating your feet and wiggling your toes, to keep blood flowing. Compression stockings can also help prevent blood clots on journeys longer than 4 hours.
Stay hydrated and eat natural, energy-giving foods, like fruit and nuts. Ensure good air circulation and wear your seatbelt correctly, with the cross strap between your breasts and the lap strap across your pelvis under your bump. Road accidents are a common cause of injury in pregnant women, so avoid traveling alone if possible and share driving responsibilities.
Sailing During Pregnancy
Ferry companies have specific restrictions and may refuse heavily pregnant women, often beyond 32 weeks on standard crossings and 28 weeks on high-speed crossings. Check the ferry company’s policy before booking. For longer boat trips, such as cruises, ensure there are onboard facilities to handle pregnancy and medical services at the docking ports.
Food and Drink Safety Abroad
Take precautions to avoid food- and water-borne illnesses, such as stomach upsets and traveler’s diarrhea. Some medications for these conditions are unsuitable during pregnancy. Always check if tap water is safe; if in doubt, drink bottled water. If you become ill, stay hydrated and continue eating for your baby’s health, even if you lack appetite.
Ensure you follow a healthy diet in pregnancy and know which foods to avoid.
Traveling while pregnant can be a rewarding experience with careful planning. Prioritize your health and safety, consult with healthcare professionals, and be aware of potential risks to enjoy a worry-free trip.
