Expecting a baby is an exciting and special time. Women feel energized and empowered when they observe miraculous body changes. The body knows exactly what to do and healthy personal choices help support this amazing natural process. Travel is sometimes considered a way to celebrate, however safety and comfort needs can be prioritized if you plan to travel during pregnancy.
The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) suggests the best time to travel is between 14-28 weeks. Cruise lines and airplanes caution about having pregnant ladies aboard. Traveling can sometimes cause problems. Be careful about standing too long waiting in line as you may feel faint. If you do feel so, sitting down and having a cold sweet drink can help. Try to avoid carrying too much weight. Travel to other countries later in third trimester can lead to hospitalization or delivery far from home. Seatbelts, of course, are always advised. Long car trips can become complicated when women need to frequently make trips to the bathroom. Water intake requirements increase to approximately a gallon of water a day, preferably from bottles. Once you arrive, try to avoid doing too much physical activity right away. Your skin may be more sensitive to the sun, so wearing a large hat and putting on sunscreen can help. Anticipating hunger and the need for frequent snacks and healthy meals is essential so planning ahead is important. Travel is not always easy. Preparing ahead of time with food, water bottles, sensible footwear and thoughtful creative ideas are required, appropriate and fun.
American popular culture shows us professional athletes competing while pregnant such as the LPGA star golfing at top level tournament in third trimester and the performing artists at the Super Bowl halftime show demonstrate how a woman with an enlarging abdomen and a healthy fetus can gracefully do just about anything. However, sometimes activity modification to prevent a fall, accident or injury in pregnancy is not only medically recommended to optimize outcome but also may be more comfortable. Being able to anticipate common discomforts and to minimize potential complications in pregnancy needs to be carefully considered and is something to discuss with both family and the health care team. If you have an urgent question, you are able to reach us by calling our office even while away from home.
-Dr. Jennifer Jagoe