Safe Travels during Pregnancy

You’ve been planning all year for a much needed vacation when the wonderful news is received: you’re pregnant! One of your first thoughts may be relating to any concerns about the effects that traveling may have on the safety of your baby as well as your own health.

It is certainly your turn for great news, for the APA (American Pregnancy Association) says that, as long as there are no complications to your pregnancy, it is generally safe to travel throughout your pregnancy. There is a best time, which is during the second trimester; any morning sickness should now have passed in the first trimester, while the heaviness and fatigue common during the third trimester has not yet descended.

You may wonder how the different modes of transportation may affect you. According to the APA, traveling on land by car, bus or train is relatively easy on the expectant mom. Remember always to use both the lap and shoulder seat belts when in an automobile, and be sure the airbags are left on. Bus travel can prove to be a challenge, with their typical narrow aisles and cramped bathrooms. Trains usually have wider walkways, so when possible, choose this mode of travel over a bus. It is best for any of the land transportation options to keep travel times to a minimum of five or six hours, breaking up this time when possible with stretches.

Traveling by air is also considered to be a safe choice. Keep in mind that most major airlines have their own restrictions, which may allow air travel through the eighth month of pregnancy. It is advisable to check with your specific airline to know their policies ahead of time; some require a doctor’s permission in writing for travel during the ninth month.

Pregnant women can also safely enjoy taking a cruise. The potential for motion sickness could be heightened; let the cruise line know in advance of your condition, and find out about health care providers on board.

Traveling while pregnant can generally be done safely with few worries. Talk to your obstetrician before traveling, and plan accordingly for your condition to have the best experience possible.