Travel during pregnancy

Travel during pregnancy

SOCIAL & LIFESTYLE

Holiday season is coming again. Taking a holiday when you are pregnant is a great idea, especially if this is your first baby. It's likely to be a while before you will get another chance to really relax. However, many pregnant women still have concerns regarding travelling while they are pregnant. Here are some answers and tips.

WHEN IS IT SAFE?

In general, it is safe to travel at all times during your pregnancy, as long as there are no identified complications or other concerns with your pregnancy, such as vaginal bleeding, hypertension or previous premature birth.

The ideal time to travel during pregnancy is the second trimester (third to sixth month). During the first trimester, nausea and fatigue can often make it uncomfortable during your trip. Although miscarriages are more likely to occur during the first trimester, travelling has nothing to do with it. After your eighth month, obstetricians prefer you stay closer to home, just in case there is a sudden, unexpected complication or your baby decides to make an early appearance

TRAVEL ON LAND

It is essential to buckle up every time you ride in a car. Make sure that you use both the lap and shoulder belts for the best protection of you and your baby. Wear your seatbelt with the cross strap between your breasts and the lap strap across your pelvis under your bump, not across your bump.

Buses and trains tend to have narrow aisles and small restrooms. This mode of transportation can be problematic. Remain seated while the bus is moving, and when you use the restroom, make sure to hold on to the rail or seats to keep your balance.

Try to limit the amount of travel time to six hours. During your travels, use rest stops every two to three hours to take short walks and to do stretches to minimise fatigue and dizziness and keep the blood circulating.

TRAVEL BY AIR

Travelling by air is also considered safe while you are pregnant. However, most airlines allow pregnant women to travel through their seventh or eighth month. Travelling after that is usually allowed only if there is permission from your healthcare provider. Similar precautions should be taken as for buses and trains in walking around and using the restroom during the trip. You may want to choose an aisle seat which will allow you to get up more easily to reach the restroom or just to stretch your legs and back. Cabin air pressure is usually normalised and has no effect on your pregnancy.

OTHER TIPS

Dress comfortably in loose cotton clothing and wear comfortable shoes. Always drink plenty of water (preferably bottled water). Make sure your food is clean and well cooked. No matter where you are heading to, it is important to carry a copy of your prenatal records with you in case of unexpected problems. And, for the peace of mind, consult your obstetrician to see if it is okay for the trip. Finally, enjoy the journey and have a happy holiday!


Assoc Prof Dittakarn Boriboonhirunsarn is a member of the Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital.

Do you like the content of this article?
COMMENT