Some people suppose that pregnant women should not travel as it is unsafe. Travelling while being pregnant is indeed different from before, expectant mothers may frequent the restroom and have concerns over early labour. Other pregnancy symptoms include on-and-off nausea and sudden leg cramps. These could result in the travelling journey being slightly harsher and challenging than before. Despite so, it is safe for women with low-risk pregnancies to travel, but it is best to consult the doctor above everything.
Moms-to-be just have to pay notice and take note of a couple of things to ensure a smooth and stress-free trip. Below are four essential tactics for your pregnancy travel.
1. Plan the timing of the trip wisely
When you are expecting, the second trimester, which is from week 13 to week 28, is the best suited time to travel. The first trimester may consist of morning sickness and nausea, while during the third trimester, it may be uncomfortable for you to travel due to the size of your tummy. Therefore, the second trimester is usually the best time to travel before your baby arrives.
2. Select your destination with care
As much as it is important to choose the right period to travel, the destination is also one that you should consider with care. As an expectant mother, you want to ensure that the destination you are going to is safe; one that has good air quality and low risk of infections or diseases. You may also want to avoid a country with extremely hot and humid weather, however, if you do visit such a country, do ensure that you keep yourself hydrated and stay in air-conditioned areas as much as possible. Another wise tip is to avoid going to countries that require travel vaccinations while pregnant. Above all, do make sure that you get your doctor’s approval before travelling.
3. Choose your seat wisely
As mentioned above, one pregnancy symptom is a very active bladder. Therefore, make sure to opt for an aisle seat on flights, to make frequent bathroom trips less of a hassle. When travelling by car, lessen your chances of motion sickness by sitting at the front seat.
4. Dress and pack light
As an expectant mother, it is easy for you to get tired. Thus, it will help if you pack light to relive yourself from any laborious work. You should also stay relaxed and comfortable by dressing light and loose.
5. Eat healthily and stay hydrated
Moms-to-be should remember to drink up as staying hydrated helps to prevent swelling of hands and legs, as well as blood clots. It is also easy for them to be hungry, therefore, it is advisable to pack some healthy snacks, like granola bars and whole-wheat crackers, along. Avoid deep-fried and spicy food, they can result in making nausea worse.
6. Move around frequently
Being pregnant means that you are at a higher risk of blood clotting should you stay seated for a long period. Make an effort to move around occasionally and remember to do some stretching as well — these help in making you feel better and more energised.
While you are seated, try to flex and move your toes whenever possible. Avoid wearing tight-fitted clothing, loose clothing helps keep the blood flowing in your legs.
7. Get travel insurance and medical backup
Insure yourself, apply for reliable travel insurance should you change your plans, as a result of pregnancy complications. Consider medical evacuation insurance if you are traveling abroad, in case you need to return home quickly under medical supervision. During such situations, air ambulances will be dispatched to transport the patient back home for urgent medical attention, putting your safety above all.