Travel During Pregnancy

No need to cancel your travel plans because you are pregnant. However you must follow some simple rules. In most cases it’s safe to travel until final month of your pregnancy. You must consult with your doctor to find out if you have any problems that might need to be addressed prior to embarking on a long trip.

When and Where to Travel

The best time to travel is mid-pregnancy (14 to 28 weeks of pregnancy). Because many women are past the morning sickness phase of early pregnancy. Later on in the pregnancy, it becomes harder to move around or sit for a long time. You are also coming to a time of increased risk of preterm labor or early labor (labor that starts before the end of the 37th week of pregnancy).

Getting There

When choosing how to travel, think about the fastest way and most comfortable way to get there, especially if you are embarking on a long trip.

By Land

If you are planning a short trip, a large car or people mover can be a good way to travel. Break the trip into easy short drives with frequent stops to stretch. No more than five or six hours of driving each day are ideal.

Car safety advice doesn't change for pregnant women. You should wear your seat belt every time you ride in a car or people mover, even if it has an air bag. For your safety and your baby’s safety we highly recommend the use of Tummy Shield during the whole duration of the pregnancy, even if you are travelling as a passenger.

If your travel is by bus or train, there are a few things to keep in mind. Buses have narrow aisles and small bathrooms.

Trains have more space for walking, but the bathrooms are often just as small.

Don't worry that a bumpy ride could bring on labor — it won't.

By Air

Travelling by air is always safe during pregnancy. Most airlines allow pregnant women to fly until about a month before their due dates. Don't worry about walking through the metal detector at the airport security check. It will not harm you or your baby. It’s recommended to reserve an aisle seat. This will make it easier to get up and stretch and take a short walk around every hour or so. You also won't have to climb over others to get to the bathroom.

By Sea

Travel by sea is not the ideal way to travel for pregnant women, but if you must, check with cruise company as to the rules for pregnant women on board and ask if they have a doctor or a nurse on board. Ask your doctor about safe medicines for calming seasickness.

Foreign Travel

If you are planning a trip out of the country, consult with your doctor before purchasing your tickets. When planning your trip, it’s highly recommended that you visit the following sites: www.smartraveller.gov.au , www.travelclinic.com.au, www.travelbug.gov.au . Remember a disease that's rare in Australia, United States or Europe may be common in other areas. As a result, some countries require visitors to get vaccinations before they travel there. It's best to get vaccines before you get pregnant. Unfortunately, you are not always able to plan that far ahead. Some vaccines are safe during pregnancy. Discuss the shots you need with your doctor.

Unsafe Food and Water

Eating and drinking in a foreign country maybe safe for the locals, as their bodies are used to whatever is in the food, however, for a first timer specially a pregnant one it may not go down too well. One of the most common effects is vomiting and diarrhoea which is not a major problem if you are fit and well and not pregnant, if you are pregnant it becomes a major concern as vomiting and diarrhoea will deprive your baby from desperately needed fluid and nutrients.

Medical Care

Even if you are perfectly healthy before going on a trip, you never know when an emergency will arise. We strongly recommend you take high cover insurance and if possible locate nearest clinic or hospital to where you are staying.