Traveling During Pregnancy

Becoming pregnant after struggling with infertility is a roller coaster of emotions. Of course, there’s the incredible happiness, gratitude, and excitement. On the other hand, there’s also the gripping fear and anxiety, constantly worrying about every little thing that could potentially go wrong during a pregnancy.

While that’s certainly understandable, it’s important to realize that you can (and absolutely should) live your normal life. Also, for the most part, do the things that you’ve always enjoyed doing. This includes traveling. Although, you should take some extra precautions.

Is it Safe to Travel While Pregnant?

According to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), it is safe for most healthy pregnant women to travel.” This is true, “until close to their due dates.” The ACOG also recommends that you try to schedule your travel between 14 and 28 weeks. This is when you generally feel your best during the pregnancy. Morning sickness has often subsided by then, the signature third-trimester fatigue hasn’t yet set in, and it should still be relatively easy and comfortable to move around. The risk of both premature labor and spontaneous abortion is also the lowest mid-pregnancy.

Most commercial airlines typically allow pregnant women to fly up to 36 weeks of gestation. However, some doctors and other healthcare professionals advise pregnant women to stay closer to home during the third trimester. It is during those last few weeks of pregnancy that women are most likely to experience false or preterm labor and high blood pressure. Being within a few hundred miles of home allows you to get to your regular doctor quickly if necessary.

If you have a high-risk pregnancy with identified signs of vaginal bleeding, threatened miscarriage, or preterm labor, you should avoid flying altogether during your pregnancy. Certain conditions could be exacerbated by air travel and you could require emergency medical care. Thus, it’s best to seek your doctor’s advice.

Pregnancy Travel Tips

If you have made the decision to travel during your pregnancy, that’s wonderful! Our primary concern at Viera Fertility Clinic in Melbourne is that you and your baby-to-be remain safe while traveling.

Research doctors and medical facilities at your destination before leaving. In the event that you do require prenatal care while you’re away, already having this information will be incredibly valuable. Ask your doctor for referrals.
Schedule a prenatal checkup just before you leave, to ensure there is nothing to be concerned about.
Stay hydrated. This can’t be emphasized enough. You already know the importance of drinking plenty of water during pregnancy, but while traveling it is even more important to ensure you don’t get dehydrated.
On a long plane or car ride, don’t forget to get up to stretch periodically. This helps circulation and prevents blood clots.
Consider choosing an aisle seat. You will have more room, as well as easier access to the bathroom and simply getting up to stretch.
When possible, choose major airlines as opposed to regional ones. Larger airlines typically have larger airplanes and will generally be more comfortable.
Be aware of the effects altitude and climate changes can have and don’t overdo it. Get plenty of rest!

A Note on International Travel

Although it’s perfectly safe to travel during pregnancy, you may want to reconsider international travel. Think about your destination and the level of medical care available there, as well as any required vaccines. As there are so many variables here based both on your individual pregnancy and your intended travel destination, the best thing to do is discuss it at length with one of the doctors at our Melbourne fertility clinic.

At Viera Fertility, we understand it can be a bit overwhelming to think about traveling while pregnant. However, we encourage you to do it – carefully – if it’s something you enjoy. It can be a wonderful experience as long as you follow our guidelines and most importantly, listen to your body. The priority is for you and your developing baby to be safe, as well as for you to be comfortable with the decision and arrangements you and your doctor make.

If you have any specific concerns about traveling during pregnancy, call Viera Fertility at (321) 751-4673 or contact us online. Safe travels!