Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful phases for any woman. As a woman you are lucky to be blessed by nature to nurture life. Motherhood is a rewarding feeling for any woman, regardless of a woman’s position in society.
The idea of traveling during pregnancy may seem like a daunting task. When it is difficult to get comfortable in your own bed, you may think that there is no way for you to handle it on a plane or train or somewhere strange. But there may be some urgency and you may need to travel or it may just be a pleasure trip with your partner during that much needed time together.
Any decision to travel during pregnancy should be made in consultation with your gynecologist, as he or she will be fully aware of how much risk you and your baby are at and which mode of travel during pregnancy is best for you. The best time to travel is probably half of your pregnancy, between 14 and 28 weeks, that is, during your second trimester. This is when the risks of common pregnancy emergencies are lowest. If you have medical or obstetric complications, such as poorly controlled diabetes or pregnancy-induced high blood pressure, or bleeding from an abnormally localized placenta, your doctor may recommend that you do not travel at any time during your pregnancy.
When traveling while pregnant, no matter what mode of travel you take or where your destination is, these tips will make your trip easy, comfortable, safe, and relaxing:
- Choosing your destination wisely is important. Try to choose destinations closer to your home and where you know that good medical facilities are available nearby.
- It is best to avoid traveling to areas where vaccines are required during pregnancy. You should also avoid traveling to areas where there is a risk of mosquito-borne diseases, such as malaria, dengue, and now the Zika virus!
- Whether you’re traveling by car, bus, plane, or train, try doing a few simple stretches every hour or so to help minimize swelling, stiffness, and leg cramps.
- Buses tend to have narrow corridors and small bathrooms, making it more difficult to get around. It is safest to remain seated while the bus is in motion. If you must use the bathroom, be sure to hold onto the rail or any other fixed structure like a seat for balance.
- Trains generally have more room to navigate and walk, but since toilets are often small, it is essential to hold onto the rails or seat backs while the train is in motion.
- Having a good hygienic food and water during the trip is essential. Include plenty of fiber and fruit. Drink plenty of bottled water and fruit juices for smooth bowel movements and keep the body hydrated. Avoid salty, spicy and fried foods.
- Aim to travel light and pack comfortable clothes and low-heeled or flat shoes.
- Proper sleeping posture is necessary while traveling by train, bus, or plane. Make sure your lower back is well supported. It is always preferred to sleep on the left.
In addition to regular business hours and meetings, your job may also involve some trips to remote stations or overseas destinations. Pregnancy certainly restricts your movements to some extent, but it doesn’t have to affect your work-related trip or traveling with your family. Walking away is the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy a moment with your partner, family or friends before your baby arrives.
Traveling has become an integral part of today’s hectic urban life. Even if you are pregnant, you can still enjoy the holidays, just like anyone else, by adhering to simple care!
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