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Travelling while pregnant can be taxing, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little research and adequate preparation, you can significantly reduce any discomfort along your journey. Here are five things you should do to make travel during pregnancy easier.
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Consider the Timing
For most women, pregnancy is associated with its fair share of nausea, fatigue, and discomfort. However, the good news is that not all three symptoms will span the entire nine months of the pregnancy. In the second trimester, for example, morning sickness will most likely not be troubling you as much. If possible, then, it would be best to take advantage of this and schedule your travel between the 14th and 27th weeks of your pregnancy.
During the third trimester, your physician may advise against travelling altogether. Generally, avoid any travel after 35 to 38 weeks of pregnancy, and always follow your doctor’s advice before jetting off.
Several airlines require pregnant women who are expected to deliver within 30 days of take-off to produce a note from a physician. So, before purchasing your ticket, acquaint yourself with the airline’s policy on pregnant passengers.
Pick a Suitable Destination
A humid or hot climate may be unsuitable for your health. If you choose a tropical environment, in particular, it’s important to ensure that your means of transport and hotel are air-conditioned. Also, stay hydrated and limit your exposure to the sun.
If you are going to a high altitude destination, it’s advisable to seek the opinion of your healthcare provider. When travelling to regions that require extra vaccinations or areas that have a high prevalence of infections, always seek advice from your doctor.
Get Travel Insurance
Sign up for a reliable travel insurance policy. While a lot of policies cover pregnancy as standard, thereby making it unnecessary to declare your status to the insurer, you can still report any medical conditions associated with the pregnancy. Always check the terms and conditions of any policy just for peace of mind.
If you are travelling abroad, consider an insurance plan that has medical evacuation. The insurance will help you if any pregnancy complications arise and you need to return home for medical supervision. Generally, travel insurance covers most of these eventualities.
Find the Correct Dietary Balance
A proper dietary balance should be maintained at each stage of your pregnancy. Even when travelling, the quality of your meals doesn’t have to be compromised. Try to maintain your regular diet, even if it forces you to carry snacks.
If you have a specific diet which requires you to avoid certain foods, consider notifying the airline in advance to have a special meal prepared for you. It might also be a good idea to avoid eating street food once you’ve arrived at your destination to avoid possible stomach complications.
Finally, ensure that you have enough protein, fruit, and vegetables as these provide adequate nutrition for you and the baby. It may sound obvious, but don’t forget to drink water to remain hydrated!
Carry Your Updated Medical Portfolio
Always carry your updated medical portfolio with you. These medical records will help emergency responders ascertain any allergies or conditions you may have as quickly as possible whenever the need arises.
When preparing for your trip, try to determine the location of your destination’s nearest medical facility in case you are ever in need of assistance. It’s always best to be prepared!