Traveling with your bump

Lifestyle

Nov 17

Summary:

Pregnancy can take a massive toll on your mental and physical health - relaxing and taking time for yourself is essential! And what better way to relax than to take a vacation? Read more for a list of tips and tricks to make traveling manageable while pregnant!

The Basics:

If you are planning to fly, most airlines allow pregnant people to fly up to 36 weeks, some restrictions are earlier and some require a doctor’s note. We recommend talking to your healthcare provider before traveling. Make sure to plan for any health emergencies, check that there are health facilities available and your insurance is valid.

During Travel:

Wear loose and comfortable clothes to maximize comfort and movement
If you’re flying, try to stand up frequently and get some movement during the flight. If you can't get up and walk, try to extend your legs and feet while in your seat to help prevent the development of blood clots.
If you’re driving, remember to stay hydrated and take as many stops as needed for bathroom breaks and for short walks.
Make sure to pack plenty of healthy snacks and water for your trip--especially if you are driving.

Food and Water Safety:

To help prevent foodborne illness, you can eat food that is cooked and served hot-- if it's been at room temperature try and find a different snack.
Drinking fluids that are served from sealed bottles can help prevent GI complications from contaminated water - this pertains to ice as well.
Pack your own snacks and water just in case there aren’t any safe food choices.

Things to look out for:

If you have any of the following symptoms while traveling seek medical care: vaginal bleeding, persistent headaches, blurriness or changes in vision, or severe vomiting or diarrhea.
Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns or questions about safety.

References:

Wwwnc.cdc.gov. 2021. Pregnant Travelers | Travelers' Health | CDC. [online] Available at: <https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/pregnant-travelers> [Accessed 17 November 2021].

Walentiny C. Schwangerschaft und Reisen [Pregnancy and traveling]. Dtsch Med Wochenschr. 2009 Mar;134(12):594-8. German. doi: 10.1055/s-0029-1208092. Epub 2009 Mar 10. PMID: 19277936.

Vouga M, Chiu YC, Pomar L, de Meyer SV, Masmejan S, Genton B, Musso D, Baud D, Stojanov M. Dengue, Zika and chikungunya during pregnancy: pre- and post-travel advice and clinical management. J Travel Med. 2019 Dec 23;26(8):taz077. doi: 10.1093/jtm/taz077. PMID: 31616923; PMCID: PMC6927317.

Antony KM, Ehrenthal D, Evensen A, Iruretagoyena JI. Travel During Pregnancy: Considerations for the Obstetric Provider. Obstet Gynecol Surv. 2017 Feb;72(2):97-115. doi: 10.1097/OGX.0000000000000398. PMID: 28218771.

Acog.org. 2021. Air Travel During Pregnancy. [online] Available at: <https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2018/08/air-travel-during-pregnancy> [Accessed 17 November 2021].

Taylor Laws