Usually, it is safe to travel during the first eight months of pregnancy. The main concerns with travel during pregnancy are access to medical care, discomfort, getting enough exercise and fluids and having a healthy diet. If you have any medical or obstetric complications, such as poorly controlled diabetes, placental problems or pregnancy-induced high blood pressure, your provider might recommend you not travel at any time during your pregnancy.
If you plan to travel, discuss the trip with your health care provider. Talk about:
Generally, the safest time to travel during pregnancy is the second trimester (13 to 28 weeks). At this time, you probably feel your best and you are in the least danger of having a miscarriage or premature labor. Avoid traveling any long distance during the last two or three weeks before your due date. If labor starts early, you will want to be close to home.
Flying is usually a safe way to travel. Most domestic airlines will allow a pregnant woman to fly up to the 36th week of pregnancy if there are no problems with the pregnancy. Each airline has policies regarding pregnancy and flying. Check with your airline when your reserve your tickets to see if you need to complete any medical forms.
Seasickness is a concern for many people traveling by sea. Your health care provider might recommend medicine that helps prevent motion sickness and is safe during pregnancy. You might also consider trying acupressure wristbands.
Be aware that the medical services on a ship are very limited.
You should not travel out of the country without discussing it first with your health care provider. Your provider might decide foreign travel is not safe for you. If it is safe, your provider will let you know what should be done before you leave and when you arrive at your destination. You might want to register with an American Embassy or Consulate after you arrive. It is important to make sure you have had all the shots you need for the countries you are planning to visit. Some immunizations cannot be given to pregnant woman.
Make sure your health insurance is valid abroad and during pregnancy. Also check that the policy covers a newborn if you were to give birth during your travels.
Be especially cautious about what you eat in countries where traveler’s diarrhea might be a problem. Diarrhea can cause dehydration, which reduces the blood flow to the placenta and your baby.
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