Article Summary
- Travelling is generally safe for women with uncomplicated low-risk pregnancies; however, even women at low risk can have unexpected medical complications while travelling.
- The best time to travel is during your second trimester as women generally feel well during this time and the risks of miscarriage and preterm labour are lower during the second trimester.
- When deciding whether or not to travel during pregnancy, it is important to consider the potential risks of pregnancy complications and details of travel medical insurance and airline regulations.
Is Travelling Safe During Pregnancy?
Travelling during pregnancy is usually safe, especially if you’re healthy and have a low-risk pregnancy.1 The best time to travel during pregnancy is between 14 and 27 weeks (your second trimester).1 At this time, morning sickness has usually improved and you’re less likely to experience a miscarriage or go into early labour.1
Chat with your healthcare provider before you travel.1 Discuss your travel plans and ask your healthcare provider if there’s anything you should bring on your trip based on your medical needs.2 Depending on your destination, you may need extra vaccines before travelling to protect you and your baby.1
Preparing for Travel When You’re Pregnant
Do you have everything you need before you start your journey? Make sure you pack comfortable, loose-fitting clothes.2 You may also want to pack long-sleeved shirts, pants and closed-toe shoes.2 Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat and insect repellent to protect you from pesky bugs.2 If you take medication, make sure you bring enough for your entire trip.2 It is important to consider the potential risks of travel (see below), travel insurance, airline regulations and medical care options at your travel destination in case you need it.2
Air Travel During Pregnancy
The best time to fly when you’re pregnant is during the second trimester since you can easily move around and your morning sickness has likely improved.1 Avoid flying if you’re near the end of your pregnancy and most airlines don’t allow flying after 36 weeks pregnant.1 You might also need to avoid flying if you have placenta-related problems or are at risk for early labour.1 Listen to your healthcare provider’s advice and don’t fly if they’ve advised you not to.1 If you have to fly frequently for work, talk to your healthcare provider to make sure it’s okay for you to do so.1
When you’re seated on the plane, try to wear your seat belt as much as possible in case there’s turbulence and keep it under your belly.1 To stay comfortable during your flight, you might want to book an aisle seat.1 Sitting in an aisle seat will make it easier for you to get up and move around the plane.1
When you’re pregnant, you’re at a higher risk of developing blood clots in your legs.3 You should try walking around at least every two hours to prevent blood clots.3 You can also try wearing compression stockings or stretching or moving your legs in your seat.4 Don’t forget to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated while travelling.4
Some airlines don’t allow travel once you’re in your third trimester, so check the airline you’re flying with if you need to travel at this time.1 The airline you’ve chosen may also require documentation of your due date.1 Make sure to get this documentation from your healthcare provider and carry it with you.1
Travelling by Car During Pregnancy
Travelling by car is generally safe throughout your entire pregnancy, but you should speak with your healthcare provider if you plan to take a long road trip.1 You should try to avoid driving over four hours a day.1
When you’re on the road, it’s important that you always wear a seatbelt.1 To stay comfortable and safe, strap the lower part of the seatbelt under your belly and remove any slack in the seatbelt.1 Place the shoulder belt between your breasts and around your belly, not over it.1 You should also put your seat as far back as possible and tilt the seat back slightly so that there’s more space between your chest and the airbag.1
On the road, try to stop for a bathroom break every two hours.1 This is also a great time to walk and stretch your legs.1 You might also want to try wearing compression stockings to improve circulation in your legs.1 And don’t forget to stay hydrated on your road trip.4
Now that you know about travelling during pregnancy, it’s time to set off on your adventure. Learn more about what to expect during your pregnancy or get tips on how to travel with your baby once you welcome them into the world.
- https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/pregnancy-parenting/pregnancy/safety-during-pregnancy/travel-during-pregnancy
- https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/healthlinkbc-files/pregnant-traveller
- https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=zc1539
- https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/health-safety/travelling-pregnant