Travel safely with your baby bump
Monday July 06 2009
MOST women can continue to travel safely well into their pregnancy as long as they take precautions. If your pregnancy has no complications, the best time to travel is between 14 and 28 weeks of gestation.
- Find what healthcare facilities there are at your destination in case you require medical attention.
- Take your medical records with you so you can give doctors the relevant information if necessary. Have a check-up before you travel and don't go unless you get the all-clear from your doctor.
- Make sure you have travel insurance to cover your pregnancy for any eventuality. Consider possibilities such as premature birth and the cost of changing the dates of your trip if you do go into labour.
When to travel? The first three months are a sensitive stage, with the risk of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. But if you feel well and you've discussed it with your doctor, there's no reason why you can't.
After week 28, the biggest factor in deciding to travel is the risk of going into early labour.
If you decide to go away, consult your doctor, who will determine your risk of a premature birth.
Here are some general tips to ensure you and your baby stay healthy:
- Air travel -- each airline has its own policy so check before buying your ticket. Most require a certificate after 28 weeks.
- Vaccinations -- vaccines are not recommended because the virus or bacteria in the jab could harm the baby. Anti-malaria tablets are not considered safe for pregnant women.
- Car travel -- fatigue and dizziness are common during pregnancy so it's important to drink regularly, eat natural, energy-giving foods (fruits and nuts) and stop repeatedly for a break.
- Travel by boat -- ferry companies have their own restrictions and may refuse heavily pregnant women (often beyond 32 weeks). Be sure to check their policy before booking.
- Food and drink -- be mindful of food and water-borne conditions such as stomach upsets and traveller's diarrhoea (TD). Some medicines for treating stomach upsets and TD aren't suitable during pregnancy.
- Eilish O'Regan
