Have you always been on the go? Worrying about not being able to travel while pregnant? Does work or other responsibilities require you to travel all the time? The good news is that for most pregnant women, traveling while you are pregnant is considered safe! Just as long as you and your baby are healthy, it should be alright to travel until the 36th week of your pregnancy!
How To Travel While Pregnant?
It’s best to consider the time you are traveling and your mode of transportation. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the safest time to travel is around the second trimester (between 14 to 28 weeks).
The common pregnancy problems usually occur in the beginning and end of your pregnancy. By your second trimester, the pregnancy blues and morning sickness will be gone. In addition, it’s still comfortable to move around and be active compared to your third trimester.
Whether you are traveling by car or by plane, you should take the necessary precautions to make your trip as safe as possible for you and your future baby. If you are traveling by car, try to make each drive as short as possible. Put the seatbelts at a comfortable position, with the shoulder belt off to the side of your belly and between the center of your chest.
However, if it’s by plane, it’s good to be mindful of the time when you are booking your flight. Most airlines require pregnant women to be at least be less than 28 weeks before traveling. Some of them may even ask for your doctor’s medical certificate to make sure it’s safe for you to travel. Consult your ob-gyn before going on any flight while you’re pregnant.
Travel Tips Before Going On Your Trip
Have the ease and comfort of traveling, all while being safe, by taking these important tips to mind before going on your trip:
- Go for a checkup with your ob-gyn before embarking on any travel plans
- Be aware of your due date. This will help you plan out in advance when it will be the safest to go on a trip.
- Prepare over-the-counter medicines that you may need during the trip like pain relievers, digestive medications, first aid kit, and prenatal vitamins.
- Be up to date with your vaccinations and avoid going to places that are high-risk for certain infections.
- Find the fastest way you can travel to your destination.
- Consider buying travel insurance, in case of an emergency.
Worried about going on trips when it’s time for you to breastfeed? Learn more about the preparations for travel while pumping breastmilk.
