This blog post was updated on October 10, 2018.
Congratulations! There’s a wee one on the way, but that doesn’t mean you have to slow down your traveling just yet. Many women travel safely and happily while pregnant. Here are five things to consider while planning a trip when you’re expecting.
1) Consult with your physician. Before planning a long trip or a trip involving air travel, make sure you get the thumbs up from your doctor. General guidelines state that a woman should not fly after the 36th week of pregnancy (and most airlines strictly enforce this rule). However, there may be other health factors that limit a pregnant woman’s ability to safely travel by plane. Depending on your destination, there may be vaccines you need to have or other health-related concerns. Your physician will be able to clarify these issues and solutions, leaving you feeling confident and ready for your trip.
2) Stay nourished and hydrated. It’s very important that pregnant travelers stay on top of their hydration and nutrition while traveling. Always carry a water bottle and pack a variety of snacks for the plane, car or train. If you are traveling in the first trimester and experiencing morning sickness, keeping food in your stomach and staying well hydrated may help in staving off nausea and allow you to enjoy your trip to the fullest.
3) Wear comfortable shoes. Now is probably not the time for stilettos and wedges. Even though it may be tempting to put on fancy (read: uncomfortable) shoes for a dinner out, this could lead to foot pain and fatigue, which could definitely change your evening plans. Give your feet the support they need to support you and your baby during your trip.
4) Be sure to rest. It is a good idea to build rest time like a nap or sitting poolside with lemonade and a good book into your schedule. Don’t overschedule yourself, that way you won’t have to cancel plans if you find that you are tired. Factor in transportation time when planning your day. A two hour trip to the museum can easily turn into a three hour trip when you account for driving and parking time. Of course, your energy level will depend on many factors, not least of which is how far along you are in your pregnancy.
5) Limit your exposure to extreme temperatures. Extremely hot and cold temperatures can wreak havoc on your system.Do your body a favor and always dress appropriately for the weather. Wear a hat and sunscreen if you are spending time outdoors, and limit the time you spend in direct sunlight.
Wishing you a safe, fun trip, mama-to-be!
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