Health advice and common to-dos to make traveling during pregnancy a breeze
Traveling during pregnancy can be an exciting adventure, but not without its health risks. Whether you are planning a babymoon vacation or need to travel for work or family reasons, it’s important to prioritize your health and safety during this special time. To help make travel as smooth as possible, here are some common questions and advice for traveling while pregnant.
Is traveling during pregnancy safe?
For most women with uncomplicated pregnancies, traveling while pregnant is generally safe. However, the best time to travel is usually during the second trimester (14 to 28 weeks), according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. During this period, morning sickness has typically subsided and energy levels are higher.
Additionally, the risk of miscarriage is lower and preterm labor is less likely compared with the third trimester. During third trimester, doctors may recommend avoiding long trips based on the patient’s health history or risk for conditions such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes or blood clots.
Flying while pregnant
Flying while pregnant requires some specific considerations. In general, we don’t usually recommend flying while pregnant after 34 weeks. This is when preterm birth is more likely to occur, and an airplane is not the ideal place for a delivery.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists these other considerations for pregnant women flying:
- Air travel increases exposure to communicable disease.
- The immobile, confined position can lead to swelling in the feet, ankles and abdomen in pregnant women.
- Wearing loose fitting clothing and comfortable shoes can help, and an aisle seat can give you slightly more room.
- Take short walks during the flight, wear compression socks, stay hydrated, and eat light snacks to manage nausea and maintain energy levels.
Moreover, some airlines don’t allow travel after 36 weeks or may require a doctor’s letter stating whether flying is advised. This restriction can be different for international flights.
No matter how you are getting to your destination, prior to traveling during pregnancy it’s important to consider the duration of the trip, mode of transportation and any travel restrictions for the destination. Avoid traveling to areas with known health risks or destinations that require vaccinations or medications that may be harmful during pregnancy. We also advise that after 34 weeks, you should always stay within two hours of reaching the hospital where you want to deliver.
What should I discuss with my OB-GYN before traveling?
Before embarking on any travel during pregnancy, it’s crucial to have an open and thorough discussion with your obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN). This conversation should cover several key areas:
- Destination risks. Share travel plans, including destinations and activities. An OB-GYN can assess the potential health risks associated with specific locations, such as the prevalence of mosquito-borne diseases like Zika virus or malaria (see more below).
- Vaccinations. Ensure vaccinations are up to date and discuss any additional vaccines recommended for travel, considering their safety during pregnancy. We continue to recommend that pregnant women be vaccinated for COVID-19. Depending on the destination, vaccines for hepatitis A and B, typhoid and meningitis might be recommended. However, certain live vaccines (such as MMR or yellow fever) are generally avoided during pregnancy.
- Medical history. Provide a complete medical history, including any preexisting conditions or complications during previous pregnancies. This information helps an OB-GYN tailor recommendations and precautions accordingly.
- Medications. Discuss the safety of any medications you are taking and whether adjustments or additional precautions are necessary during travel.
- Emergency plan. Develop an emergency plan in case of unexpected health issues while traveling, including contact information for local healthcare providers at the destination and instructions for seeking medical assistance.
Which diseases are a concern for pregnant women?
Zika virus
- Reason for concern: Zika virus can cause birth defects such as microcephaly and other neurological complications in babies if contracted during pregnancy.
- Treatment or precautions: There is no specific treatment for Zika virus. Prevention involves avoiding mosquito bites through protective clothing, mosquito repellents and staying in accommodations with screened windows and doors.
Current Zika virus health notices
Malaria
- Reason for concern: Malaria can lead to severe complications during pregnancy, including miscarriage, stillbirth and low birth weight.
- Treatment or precautions: Avoid travel to malaria-endemic regions if possible. If travel is necessary, take appropriate antimalarial medications prescribed by a doctor, use insect repellent, sleep under mosquito nets and wear protective clothing.
Dengue fever
- Reason for concern: Dengue fever can be passed to a fetus and may lead to complications such as preterm birth and low birth weight.
- Treatment or precautions: There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue fever. Use insect repellent and wear protective clothing.
Traveler’s diarrhea
- Reason for concern: Traveler’s diarrhea can lead to dehydration, which is concerning during pregnancy.
- Treatment or precautions: Hydration is key. We may recommend oral rehydration solutions and medications to relieve symptoms.
Flu (influenza)
- Reason for concern: Pregnant women are more susceptible to severe illness from the flu, and traveling can increase exposure. Flu itself can lead to complications such as pneumonia, preterm labor and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
- Treatment or precautions: Get the flu vaccine, practice good hand hygiene and avoid close contact with sick individuals. Tamiflu is safe in pregnancy.
COVID-19
- Reason for concern: While less prevalent than during the pandemic, COVID-19 is still around and presents dangers for both mother and child. Some areas of the country and world experience more cases than others.
- Treatment or precautions: The CDC and our OB-GYNs continue to recommend COVID-19 vaccinations for pregnant women. Follow best practices to limit exposure, even with the vaccine.
What should someone pack to be prepared?
- Medications and prenatal vitamins.
- Medical records including insurance and vaccination cards.
- Emergency contacts including doctor information.
- Travel approval letter, if required.
Any tips for more comfortable traveling during pregnancy?
In general, women should plan for frequent restroom breaks, bring comfort items and wear comfortable clothes.
If traveling during pregnancy by car, take breaks every few hours to stretch and walk around to reduce swelling and prevent blood clots. Use a lumbar pillow for back support and wear loose, comfortable clothing.
On a cruise, choose a cabin mid-ship to minimize motion effects. Stay active with walks around the ship, and consider gentle activities like yoga or the pool. Make sure to bring sunscreen, as skin may be more sensitive to the sun in pregnancy.
Any other advice for safe travel?
Generally, practice common sense and healthy habits as if at home. Stay hydrated, eat well and take regular breaks. Most importantly, listen to your body, rest when needed and seek medical attention if you feel unwell.
Overall, traveling during pregnancy can be a memorable experience with proper planning and precautions. With the right precautions and planning, everyone can have a safe and enjoyable trip.
Bon voyage!