Last updated on March 27th, 2024 at 08:50 pm
Are you pregnant and itching for a vacation? Well, start planning because unless your doctor advises you against it, you can travel when pregnant. Whether you are itching for a short babymoon nearby, want to travel to a faraway destination, or want a beach vacation this summer, you can. You must prepare for the vacation to ensure you and the baby stay healthy.
Before the baby arrives, traveling with your partner or friends is the perfect way to destress. It allows you to have unhinged fun and spend quality time with your loved ones. The key to having a healthy and safe pregnancy is following a few steps. Read below to find out what tips you should follow for safe travel.
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Travel during the weeks you are most comfortable.
Most pregnant women say that they are comfortable traveling between 14 and 28 weeks, that is, during the second trimester. It is because mid-pregnancy is when you get your energy back. You are also able to enjoy food and keep it down. In the first trimester, nausea peaks, or you must rest completely due to certain conditions.
The doctors usually do not advise traveling during the last trimester, especially after you hit the ninth month. As the baby grows, you feel more tired and sleep-deprived, so resting is better than traveling. But all bodies and pregnancies are different. Travel when you feel comfy, but avoid high-risk months.
Pack comfortable dresses.
Traveling for a baby moon or with friends means enjoying yourself and having a gala time. To ensure you can do this, being comfortable with what you wear is essential. Ensure you pack stylish but comfy outfits, like maternity dresses. They are flowy, trendy, and extremely comfortable. Other great outfits are kaftans, loose t-shirts with shorts, rompers, and maxi-length dresses. Pack comfy shoes, beach outfits, and cover-ups, too.
Have a safety plan.
When you decide to travel, the first thing to do is get permission from your doctor. Only start planning if your OB/GYN is on board with your travel. Also, do not make impromptu trips. Plan well to ensure the safety of both the mother and baby. It includes locating nearby hospitals near the hotel or resort you are staying at.
Locating nearby pharmacies and other prenatal care, you may require during the trip. Knowing all this beforehand ensures you are not searching for things frantically when a complication arises. Lastly, keep an open communication line with friends or family during emergencies.
Choose your travel mode wisely.
When choosing the destination, keep in mind the transportation, too. You want to choose a mode of transportation that is comfortable for you. The best mode that many couples prefer is by road. A road trip lessens the stress and gives you enough time to stretch. It is the least demanding. The only thing to remember is to travel only six hours a day while taking enough breaks in between. The other mode is air travel, but it is advisable never to travel by air during your third trimester. It is because it increases your chances of premature birth. When traveling by air, remember to never lift heavy objects, sit in the aisle seat, and have documentation from your doctor approving your travel.
Always have your medical reports with you.
Never travel without your medical reports, tests, and doctor’s number. You never know when you will be hit with an emergency and need these things. Also, ensure you carry your medications, prenatal vitamins, supplies, and anything else you take during pregnancy. You do not want to spend most of the vacation searching for these supplies.
Stay hydrated and eat well.
While traveling by air or car, remember to drink water. Dehydration can cause swelling, and you do not want that. Drink juice or coconut water to ensure your legs or arms do not get swollen or bloody. When you reach your destination, continue to stay hydrated. Also, during the vacation, enjoy your favorite foods. However, ensure you do not consume anything bad for you. Try to eat a balanced and nutritious diet.
Relax
You are traveling before the baby arrives to relax and rejuvenate. So, do that only! Do not stress. Get in the pool and enjoy the water. Read a book or watch the sunset on the beach. Visit beautiful sights at your destination and spend quality time with your partner.
So, are you ready to travel? Given your health and medical history, up to 32 weeks of traveling is safe. Never plan to travel to any destination without your doctor’s permission. Always carry your file. If you feel discomfort at any time, check in with a doctor. Be prepared and enjoy this phase before a busy but magical phase starts.
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