Q: Can I travel during pregnancy? 

A: In most cases, it is safe to travel until close to your due date. For most women, 14-28 weeks is the most comfortable time to travel during pregnancy. During this timeframe, most women have little to no morning sickness, and can still get around easily. After 28 weeks, it may become more difficult to get around, and less comfortable to sit for long periods. As always, you should talk with your OBGYN or health care provider before traveling while pregnant. 

 

General Travel Safety Rules While Pregnant 

Before your trip, schedule a prenatal check-up, and make sure you are up to date on your vaccinations. Some other general guidelines before travel are: 

  • Confirm with your insurance company whether you are covered outside of the United States. If you are not, you will need to purchase additional travel insurance. 
  • Carry a copy of your health records in case of an emergency. 
  • Check the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers database to locate physicians who offer medical care to travelers before you go. You must be a member to use the database, but it is free to join. 
  • Avoid places that are known to have Malaria or Zika outbreaks. 
  • Find a doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:
    – Vaginal bleeding
    – Pelvic or abdominal pain
    – Water breaks
    – Symptoms of preeclampsia appear
    – Severe vomiting or diarrhea
    – Signs of deep vein thrombosis  

 

Car Travel Safety While Pregnant 

Traveling by car requires sitting for a long period of time, which can be uncomfortable for pregnant women. These guidelines will help ensure safety and comfort for you and your baby: 

  • Wear your seatbelt at all times. It should be positioned low on your hips, below the belly. 
  • Make frequent stops to stretch your legs. 
  • Make sure your shoes and clothing are comfortable and nonrestrictive. 
  • Wear light layers that are easy to add or remove. 
  • Eat regular meals to maintain steady energy. 
  • Drink extra fluid (preferably water). 
  • Don’t hold your pee for too long. 

 

Plane Travel Safety While Pregnant 

Occasional air travel is usually safe for women up until about 36 weeks of pregnancy. Cut-off times may be earlier for international travel. Some tips for flying comfortably are: 

  • Wear your seat belt at all times, this includes when the seatbelt sign is off. Turbulence can occur at any time throughout the flight. Wear your seatbelt low on the hips, below the belly. 
  • Book an aisle seat if possible. You need to move your feet and legs often. Aisle seats make it easier for you to get up and stretch your legs or use the restroom. 
  • Avoid gas-producing and carbonated beverages. It is best to stick with water. Gas expands at high altitudes and can lead to discomfort. 

 

Cruise/Boat Travel Safety While Pregnant 

Here are some things you can do before your cruise, and while you are enjoying your vacation, to ensure you stay healthy: 

  • Ask your OBGYN what seasickness medications are safe during pregnancy. 
  • Check with the cruise line before booking to see if there will be doctors or nurses available in case of emergency. 
  • Ensure there are modern healthcare facilities at each of the cruise stops. 
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water while on the cruise, and pack plenty of hand sanitizer. 

 

International Food Safety While Pregnant 

Depending on where you are traveling, food and waterborne illness can be a very serious health risk. Pregnant women can be at risk of Hepatitis A and Listeriosis exposure while traveling internationally. To help protect yourself, you can follow these guidelines: 

  • Boil all tap water for one minute before drinking or using. 
  • Do not use ice cubes that have been made from unboiled water. 
  • Do not brush your teeth with unboiled water. 
  • Do not eat raw or undercooked meat or fish. 
  • Do not eat or drink anything made with unpasteurized milk. 

 

Zika Travel Safety While Pregnant

While travel to areas known to have Zika virus is not recommended for pregnant women, it cannot always be avoided. Here are some guidelines to help lower the risk of catching Zika while traveling: 

  • Use EPA registered bug sprays. Look for ingredients like DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. 
  • Wear long sleeves and pants that have been treated with permethrin to protect against mosquitoes. 
  • Always wear a condom while having sex with a partner who is from, or has recently traveled to, an area with a Zika outbreak. 

 

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, AWH Dallas is here to answer all of your pregnancy concerns. Feel free to contact us regarding any future travel plans.