PREGNANCY AND TRAVELING

Whether you are taking a trip across town or across the country, traveling during pregnancy can be safe and enjoyable. Comfort should be the first concern. Morning sickness may be a limitation when traveling during the early months of pregnancy. Pleasure from the trip may be lessened if you are feeling tired or ill. Try to schedule a trip after the fourth month of pregnancy because most symptoms of morning sickness are gone by this time.

Whatever your mode of transportation--car, train, bus, or plane--here are a few tips to make your trip more enjoyable:

Always wear a seat belt. Fasten a shoulder belt so that the strap is between your breasts and to the side of your abdomen. Make sure the lap belt is below the bulge of your abdomen and fastened snugly. A seat belt increases your safety as well as your baby's.

Move around frequently. Do not sit still for longer than an hour at a time. If you have to sit for a long time, alternate pointing and raising your feet often. Get up and stretch your legs frequently. Do not drive for longer than 6 hours each day. Pull over every hour or so for a short walk. Walking and moving your arms improves blood flow in your body. This prevents blood clots from forming in the legs and pelvis.

Drink fluids to stay hydrated. Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water a day. Carry a water bottle with you while traveling, especially in planes, and in a hot, dry climate.

Eat healthy meals and snacks. Meals may be unpredictable while traveling. Carry snacks with you. A bagel with peanut butter and raisins, along with an apple or carrot sticks, can substitute for a missed meal.

Elevate your feet as often as possible. Use pillows behind your back or under your knees to get comfortable.

Use common sense. Do not try to handle heavy luggage. Ask for help.

Know where medical facilities are. Get the name of a local prenatal provider to contact if necessary and know where the nearest hospital is located. Have the information in advance.

Airline travel is almost always safe during pregnancy. But travel is not recommended if an emergency situation could occur. These include:

hypertension during pregnancy
poorly controlled diabetes
sickle cell disease
high risk for premature labor and
problems with the placenta

Most healthcare providers recommend that women can fly up to their 36th week; the 35th week for international flights. Some airlines may limit travel in the last few months of pregnancy. Be sure to check with the airline when planning a trip.

Low cabin humidity and changes in cabin pressure can cause increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, or breathing problems for pregnant women. Another concern is the formation of blood clots, especially during longer flights. All travelers should try to minimize risks by increasing blood flow to the legs. Suggestions include wearing support stockings, walking every half hour, flexing the ankles, and moving the lower legs to increase blood flow. To ease discomfort, avoid gaseous foods and drinks before flying.

When planning a trip during pregnancy, always check with your provider to be sure it is safe for you to travel. Avoid traveling any long distance during the last 2 or 3 weeks before your due date. If labor starts early, you will want to be close to home.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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