Traveling to new and exciting places is a great experience, but when you’re pregnant, you have to be extra cautious about where you go and what you do. One common concern is whether you can travel to high altitudes when pregnant. The answer isn’t always straightforward and depends on various factors.
At high altitudes, the air is thinner, meaning there is less oxygen available. This can lead to you tiring more easily, and more importantly, your baby may not receive enough oxygen, potentially impacting their growth and development.
Understanding the Risks of High Altitude Travel During Pregnancy
While there is limited research specifically focusing on high altitude travel during pregnancy, understanding the potential risks is crucial. One study involving women who frequently traveled to and exercised at high altitudes during pregnancy didn’t find a significantly increased risk of complications. However, the authors emphasized the need for further research to confirm its safety definitively.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises pregnant women to avoid staying at altitudes of 8,500 feet or higher for more than a few days. They also recommend avoiding sleeping at altitudes above 12,000 feet if possible. To put this in perspective, Denver is at 5,280 feet, which is generally considered safe. However, Pikes Peak, exceeding 14,000 feet, might pose a risk.
It’s important to note that every woman responds differently to high altitudes during pregnancy. The symptoms of altitude sickness often mimic those of pregnancy, such as dizziness, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, headaches, and trouble sleeping. This can make it difficult to distinguish between altitude sickness and typical pregnancy discomfort. If you feel you’re not getting enough oxygen at higher altitudes, your baby might be experiencing the same.
What to Do If You Experience Altitude Sickness During Pregnancy
If you start feeling unwell while traveling at higher altitudes, the best course of action is to descend to a lower altitude. If your symptoms persist even after descending, seek medical attention immediately.
The CDC also recommends avoiding strenuous physical activity at high altitudes during pregnancy, unless you are already accustomed to exercising at such elevations. Activities like skiing or hiking may need to be avoided altogether, or you may need to acclimate for a longer period before participating.
Specific Concerns for High-Risk Pregnancies
One significant concern about traveling to high altitudes during pregnancy is the remoteness of these locations and the potential distance from medical facilities. This can be particularly worrisome for pregnant women with pre-existing conditions.
If you have hypertension, preeclampsia, or any other high-risk pregnancy condition, traveling to high altitudes may exacerbate your condition and put you far from necessary emergency care. It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider before making any travel plans.
Research indicates that repeated exposure to hypoxia (oxygen deprivation) during pregnancy can increase the risk of preeclampsia and negatively impact the baby’s growth. However, a short trip to a high altitude, without experiencing noticeable altitude sickness, is generally not a cause for concern.
Considerations for Women Living at High Altitudes
Women who live at altitudes above 8,500 feet undergo physiological adaptations over time. These include higher levels of red blood cells, increased numbers of small blood vessels, and elevated levels of oxygen-storing proteins in their muscles. These adaptations help their bodies function more efficiently in oxygen-deprived environments.
Babies born to mothers living at high elevations tend to be smaller than those born at lower altitudes. Pregnant women residing at high altitudes also face a two to three times higher risk of preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). However, for women whose ancestors lived at high elevations for generations (such as in Bolivia, Peru, or Tibet), the risk of growth restriction is reduced due to evolutionary adaptations, although their babies may still be smaller on average.
Making an Informed Decision About High Altitude Travel During Pregnancy
Traveling to high altitudes during pregnancy requires careful consideration and planning. Understanding the potential risks, listening to your body, and consulting with your healthcare provider are essential steps. If you’re planning a trip to a higher elevation, take extra time to acclimatize, avoid strenuous activities, and be aware of the nearest medical facilities.
Ultimately, the decision to travel to high altitudes when pregnant is a personal one. By being informed and proactive, you can make the best choice for your health and the well-being of your baby.
