When you are pregnant and already frustrated due to the raging hormones, sudden mood swings, back pain, and swollen ankles, adding travel into the mix can be a challenging experience. There is a list of dos and don’ts that you need to prioritize when you are pregnant and considering traveling.
Be it for work or even for leisure; there are a few non-negotiable factors that every pregnant woman and their partner need to remember to ensure a smooth travel experience for themselves.
As a leading Gynecology clinic in India, this Queen’s Gynecology guide should give you all the details you need to know about traveling during pregnancy.
In this Article
When is the Right Time to Travel when Pregnant?
While making travel plans, the most common question that we receive from our patients is about the “ideal time to travel when pregnant.”
The safest period would be during the second trimester since the chances of miscarriage are significantly less during this period, and you are also not “too pregnant” to travel. The first trimester is generally when we advise our patients to take things easy and focus on their well-being, getting enough rest, and eating the right food.
Related Blog :- Air Travel During Pregnancy
Traveling during the third trimester isn’t prohibited, but as you approach your due date, there are restrictions with air travel by most air carriers. So, if you are considering flying to a different state, you’d have to check the air carrier’s rules and regulations for pregnant flyers before you make your plans.
If you are pregnant and traveling via car or train, the ideal period would be during the second and maybe the early weeks of the third trimester.
Choosing the Travel Destinations Wisely
When talking about traveling while pregnant, there are several factors that we have to keep in mind. For example, if you are a working woman, getting to work each morning is also coined as “traveling.”
Similarly, if you want a break and plan a vacation, that would count as traveling, too. If you are traveling for leisure, we recommend choosing the travel destination wisely.
You don’t want to pick spots that involve many physical or strenuous activities like hiking, trekking, etc. Also, if you are considering traveling internationally, you’d have to ensure that you aren’t visiting places that require travelers to get vaccinations for certain viruses and diseases before you travel.
Be Mindful of the Modes of Transportation
Another factor you need to remember when traveling during pregnancy is selecting the right and safe mode of transportation. Pregnancy and carrying an additional few pounds around your belly is bound to take a toll on your physical well-being.
The last thing you want is to travel in cramped and uncomfortable transportation. Also, if you are considering air travel, you must check with the airline regarding their specific policies and guidelines for expectant mothers.
Cars are an excellent option for exploring the place you are traveling to because they offer you more flexibility in terms of movement and the space you get.
Packing all the Essentials
Traveling while pregnant means you have to pack thoughtfully and ensure you don’t forget any essentials. From comfortable clothing to supportive footwear, you must be mindful of many things.
When our patients ask us about traveling, we often encourage them to make a checklist while packing because some patients need to remember their medications, supplements, etc., while packing for their trip. As much as your clothes hold importance for your trip, your medications do, too.
So, always start with a checklist and then pack the items accordingly. It should streamline the packing process for you.
Related blog :- Daily Lifestyle Things to Do and Not to Do During Pregnancy
Prioritizing Eating Well and Staying Hydrated
Food and water are two essentials you can’t brush to the side, irrespective of whether or not you are pregnant. If you are traveling and not paying attention to what you are eating, it can exacerbate some of the pregnancy symptoms like indigestion, heartburn, and constipation.
Besides the diet, even the amount of hydration you get as a pregnant woman while traveling is vital to prioritize.
Carry an adequate supply of water and healthy snacks to stay energized. Be cautious about food and water quality, especially when exploring street food. Stick to well-cooked, hygienic meals to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
Take Rest When Needed
Traveling doesn’t mean you have to be active and up on your feet every day you are there. Pregnancy is an extremely tough experience, so the last thing that you want is to add to that stress by being on your feet all day.
What you should prioritize instead is taking breaks, putting your feet up, relaxing, and having slow days even when you are on vacation. Sometimes, it is ideal that you embrace a slow life and simply bask in the moment instead of being in the mindset of “Go, go, go!”
Don’t Forget the Travel Insurance Coverage
We often don’t pay attention to the importance of travel insurance coverage, but when you are pregnant and traveling, it is paramount that you focus on sorting out those specifics.
Securing comprehensive travel insurance is a non-negotiable aspect of traveling during pregnancy. What you want to do before availing of any travel insurance is cross-check that it covers pregnancy-related complications and emergency medical expenses so you can avail of the benefits accordingly.
If you already have medical insurance, you can always enquire about their travel medical insurance as an add-on feature.
Also, another tip that we often suggest to our patients when traveling is to research and identify local healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics with maternity services. This can come in handy in times of crisis.
Conclusion
Traveling during pregnancy in India can be a rewarding experience with proper planning and consideration. There is a lot of misinformation surrounding traveling for pregnant women, which is what we have tried to clarify and set straight in this article.
With careful preparation, pregnant women can explore diverse landscapes and cultures in the world while prioritizing their well-being and the health of their expected child. If you want more details or to schedule an appointment with our OBGYNs at Queen’s Gynecology, please contact us directly at +91 9654999888.
