They say traveling makes us richer, so when you find out you’re pregnant, it’s normal to wonder if you need to curb the urge to see the world until you give birth. While many moms-to-be are restricted from traveling during pregnancy, there’s no reason not to once given the green light by your obstetrician.
But as your belly continues to grow, traveling isn’t always as comfortable as it was before. Below are four ways to simplify traveling when you’re expecting.
Stay mobile
Whether you’re traveling by car, plane or train, you need to get up and stretch your legs. Since the likelihood of developing a blood clot increases in pregnancy, it’s important to walk around every hour or so. You can also do heel pumps while sitting to keep your blood circulating as well. If you’re further along in your pregnancy, ask your doctor whether compression stockings is a good idea.
Plan ahead
As your baby bump continues to grow, you need to consider all the what if’s. Think about airline transfers, the type of cuisine the hotel offers and whether or not there’s a medical team on site. Even in the first trimester, it’s a good idea to have access to a physician, in the unlikely event you run into complications.
Make the most of the second trimester
The second trimester is probably the most enjoyable time while pregnant. Morning sickness usually resolves and you’re still able to do most things that you did before you were pregnant without a big belly. Use this time to your advantage and plan your vacations so it coincides with your second trimester. Even spur-of-the-moment weekend getaways are more enjoyable, especially since you’ll have more energy.
Think like a mommy
If you’re further along in your pregnancy, your vacation needs to be accommodating. Avoid taking trips that put you and your baby at a higher risk of premature delivery. For instance, even if you’re an exercise enthusiast, you want to take this time to relax and enjoy a little pampering. Avoid going to places where you’re at higher risk of injury or falls or won’t have the essentials you need in case you go into labor. Destination vacations are dreamy but if it’s too far off the beaten path, it might not be a good idea.
Verify your health insurance
Even if you have excellent coverage at home, it may not cover you if you need medical treatment abroad. Verify the coverage you have and if needed, add a rider that covers you, even temporarily, when traveling. Make sure that it offers emergency room visits and urgent care visits as well. You should also ensure that if you do go into labor, that you and your newborn will be covered as well.
Final thoughts
Whether you want to tour the Eiffel Tower or simply get away for the weekend, going on vacation while pregnant is possible. Just make sure you follow your doctor’s guidelines and not push yourself too hard.
