Going abroad when pregnant
There are a few things you need to do before you set off on your holiday. Make sure that your travel insurance covers pregnancy and emergency care for a newborn in case the baby arrives early.
Travelling by sea and air
Check with your doctor that it’s still safe for you to fly. If you’re going to be making your return journey between 28 and 32 weeks pregnant, it’s most likely that the airline will need a letter from your doctor confirming that you’re fit to fly. Airlines can have differing rules when it comes to allowing mums-to-be on their planes, so it’s best to check before you book.
This also applies to ferry crossings. Some ferry companies prefer you to seek medical advice if you’re less than 12 weeks pregnant, and provide a medical certificate if you’re more than 28 weeks. So always check with the company you’ve booked with.
When Flying
When flying – or in fact any long car, bus or train journey – it’s important to support your circulation.
The following tips may help support your circulation while travelling:
- Check if your airline provides flight socks or compression stockings, if they don’t, buy a pair beforehand. In fact, you can wear these socks for any long journey.
- Avoid coffee and tea - and remember no alcohol - but drink plenty of fluids to keep you hydrated.
- Take a walk up and down the aisles every hour or so to encourage good circulation, but hold on to keep your balance and prevent a fall.
- Flex your feet up and down regularly throughout your journey.
You may be more likely to suffer travel sickness so try a pair of travel sickness bands (which help some mums to be) or take crystallised ginger for the journey which will help any nausea. Most importantly, give yourself plenty of rest!
When you’re on holiday
Once you’ve finally arrived and unpacked, you may be desperate to head out sightseeing! But before rushing out follow our advice and you’ll holiday with total peace of mind:
- Take all your medical notes and your insurance policy
- Always carry a list of names and numbers of people who should be contacted in case of emergency, like your health care professional.
- Keep a list of the locations of nearby hospitals with you – you could get this from the local embassy, tourist board or accommodation where you are staying.
- Avoid staying in the sun for too long as your skin is far more sensitive during pregnancy.
- Avoid mosquito repellents containing the chemical DEET. Try natural alternatives such as citronella oil or use nets.
- Avoid diving and water sports, other than swimming
Should you wear a seatbelt when pregnant?
It’s a complete myth that the law allows pregnant women to choose whether they wear a seatbelt. So please, buckle up!Studies have shown that your baby and you will be far safer with a seatbelt on. Make sure that the lap belt lies snugly under your bump and across your pelvis whilst the shoulder belt should be over the top of your bump and between your breasts.
Are car airbags safe?
The quick answer is yes! However you may want to move your seat back from the dashboard or steering wheel (or tilt the steering wheel downward) so that it’s further away from your tummy in the event of an accident.