TRAVEL DURING ANTENATAL PERIOD

Travel in Pregnancy…your Questions answered

Can I travel in pregnancy?

With proper precautions, vaccinations and travel insurance, it is safe for most women to travel safely if their pregnancy is uncomplicated

When is the safest time to travel in pregnancy?

The best time to travel is the mid pregnancy (4 to 6months). Early pregnancy is usually disturbed by nausea vomiting and tiredness. The chances of miscarriage are also higher in the first three months. Travelling in the late pregnancy can be uncomfortable as the weight of advanced pregnancy may destabilize her movements and make her feel exhausted

Can I fly during pregnancy?

Flying is neither harmful to the mother or to the baby but the health issues or pregnancy complications should be discussed  with your midwife or doctor before you fly.

Long-distance travel (longer than 4 hours) carries a small risk of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis (DVT)). In order to avoid that drink plenty of water and get up and move about inside the aircraft regularly – every 30 minutes or so. You can buy a pair of graduated compression or support stockings which will help reduce leg swelling.

Some airlines have restrictions in flying after 28weks and you may need to provide a FIT TO FLY certificate from your doctor.

Can I go on long trips by Car?

It is best to avoid long travels but if you need to then please make stops at regular intervals and stretch out.  You can also do some flexing and rotating of your feet and wiggling of your toes. Wear your seatbelt with the cross strap between your breasts and the lap strap across your pelvis under your bump, not across your bump. It is better not to take a long trip alone in pregnancy

Can I travel in ship during pregnancy?

 It is better to check the ferry company’s policy before you book as many companies have their own restrictions and may not give clearance tp take women with advanced pregnancy (often beyond 32 weeks). If the trip is a long one then it is always better to check if there are onboard facilities to deal with pregnancy and medical services at the docking ports.

Vaccination before travel in pregnancy

If you need to travel to an area which needs inoculation according to the guidelines then you have to take the jab.

Vaccines (inactivated or non-live) are safe to be used in pregnancy and some vaccines may be considered in pregnancy if the risk of infection outweighs the risk of vaccination