Can I travel during pregnancy? Is it safe?

Short answer: Travel is safe for normal pregnancies, except in the last month.

As long as there are no big concerns or complications in your pregnancy, it is generally safe to travel during your pregnancy except during the last month.  But to be safe, do check with your doctor before you travel especially if it is overseas or an exotic adventurous place. Also, if you are travelling for pleasure, be sure your schedule  is practical. You will need lots of rest, so plan for breaks between each attraction you will visit.

Most airlines allow pregnant women to travel during pregnancy except during the last month. And even in the last month, the airlines usually allow you to travel if you have a doctors certificate allowing you to travel.

The ideal time to travel during pregnancy is the second trimester - also called the “honeymoon” phase your pregnancy. In most cases you are past the morning sickness of the first trimester and several weeks from the third stage of pregnancy when you get tired.

Here are some tips for comfortable travel:

• Rest often. Take short walks and do stretches to keep blood circulating.
• Be careful while walking down the narrow aisles and using the tiny bathrooms that most airlines have. Hold on to the seats while walking so that you do not fall down during turbulence.
• It’s a good idea to sit on the aisle seat instead of the window seat. This will make it easier for you to make the frequent bathroom room trips.
• Keep healthy snacks with you at all times.
• Dress comfortably.
• Carry your pregnancy medical records with you.
• Make frequent trips to the bathroom to empty your bladder and prevent urinary infections and stay comfortable.
• Drink a lot of water to stay hydrated (healthy for you and your baby and prevents premature labor)
• Use your common sense and stay safe and make sure you eat clean food and drink clean water.
• Bon voyage and make the most of your travels. It might be a while you travel after the baby.

Nowadays, many working women also travel in buses to their offices. Wear comfortable clothing, and take a pillow along for back support. Also keep a handy bottle of water.