You don’t know what travelling as a pregnant woman will feel like? You don’t know what to expect? Stay calm. This article contains relevant information on what to do and what to expect during travel, regardless of the trimester you are in.
Changes take place in a woman’s body during pregnancy. Although pregnancy is a very exciting event, it can come with its peculiarities regardless of the countless physical changes that may occur. Due to fluctuations and regulations in the hormonal levels, emotions are bound to run high and low during this period!
The period during pregnancy does not necessarily have to be some sort of confinement period! there are different travel destinations suitable for de-stressing and relaxation. Here are a few essential tips on what to do and what to expect as a result of this change in status and you will just be fine.
How to Pack for a Trip during Pregnancy
Yes! You’re right, even the packing list changes. In addition to the regular things that make up your packing list, you will need to include the following into your travel pack:
- Pre-natal vitamins
- comfortable leggings
- Morning sickness soother (if you’re in the first trimester)
- Nausea relief
- Nutrient-packed snacks and other things your doctor might recommend.
Before you embark on that planned travel, it is of utmost importance that you visit your doctor to ask these essential questions revolving around:
- Activities to be avoided and why.
- Food and drinks to be avoided and why.
- Pregnancy vitamins should you be taking.
- Medicines for heartburn, thrush, constipation, food poisoning.
- Destinations to be avoided and why.
- Vaccinations to be taken.
- Most common pregnancy complications and what to look out for.
- What to do in the case of suspicions of miscarriage.
- Tips for long flights.
Travelling during your first trimester
The First Trimester is a delicate period that constitutes the first three months of pregnancy. Morning sickness, nausea, and frequent tiredness can occur during this period—but this does not stop any trip you wish to embark on. Here are some things you can do when travelling during your first trimester.
If you frequently have morning sickness, you can:
- Drink plenty of water – It helps your body cope with the demands of pregnancy
- Do not consume too many spicy foods – Eat little portions which are not spicy or creamy.
- Be active – Your activities should be very mild. Avoid intense aerobic sessions.
- Avoid noxious odours – It can trigger vomiting if you condone it.
- Use anti-nausea aids – Ginger lollies and peppermint tea have been proven to be helpful
- Stay comfortable – loose, naturally fitting shoes and dresses will do you good!
Travelling during Your Second Trimester
The second trimester spans 13-27 weeks. During this period for many, morning sickness is usually subsided with an increase in energy levels. At this stage, the baby bump is usually visible. If you’re at this stage and planning a trip to one of your favourite places in the world, here is what you can do to make things easy:
- Gets a doctor’s note confirming the details of your pregnancy and certifying that you are safe to travel.
- Check your airline or cruise liner’s policy on pregnancy.
- Get vaccinated to protect you against diseases rampant in your travel destination.
- If you’re not a fan of warm climates, you should probably ensure the climate in your travel destination is just perfect by looking out for the weather reports. Usually, during pregnancy, the body temperature rises, making you prone to perspire more.
- Check out the travel conditions with the airline you wish to fly with. Make sure your budget is up to the task.
- The front section of the plane has more room than the back. You might like to request special reservations. You might also like to prefer a seat to alleviate nausea.
Travelling during Your Third Trimester
The third trimester (between weeks 28-40) is a sensitive time during pregnancy. Most airlines won’t let passengers on board after 36 weeks. If you’re at this stage and you plan traveling, here are some things you can do:
- Know the airline policy of the airline you wish to travel with.
- Cruise lines can be quite restrictive when it comes to pregnancy travel.
- A medical certification attesting to the fact that you and your baby are fit to travel will be required.
What to know about road trips?
Road trips are perfect for those last few months of pregnancy. However, caution is required. Do the following:
- Drive Easy: do not embark on road trips via uncomfortable vehicles.
- Wear your seatbelt unapologetically during pregnancy. I know you are a very careful person – but just in case an accident occurs, a seat belt can save your life and that of your unborn child. Male sure your seatbelt is not tightened over your abdomen, across your chest, and hips. Let it hang loosely.
- Do not be scared of the airbag. The American Congress of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) suggests leaving at least 10 inches between your breastbone and the steering wheel.
- Take frequent breaks as you travel. Do not travel at a stretch because you will require frequent restroom stops. You will also need to stretch your tired and aching muscles (if there are any).
- Get a proper backrest or head support. You can use a pillow to achieve this. You need comfortable shoes, do not overlook that!
There you have it, your ultimate travel guide specially made for you. Travelling during pregnancy is not a herculean task, you just need to follow this guide and you’d be all right. Last but not the least, make sure to buy a good travel insurance that provides the right coverage.
