The holiday season is upon us, which means a lot of traveling is in store for some people. It is said that Thanksgiving and Christmas are two of the most traveled days of the year. Everyone is caught up in the holiday cheer and gallivanting through all of the hustle and bustle.
If you’re pregnant and have plans to travel this holiday season, there are important guidelines that should be followed during these busy times; whether it is by air or road.
Is It Safe To Fly During Pregnancy?
According to the Mayo Clinic, generally air travel is safe during pregnancy. There is always an exception to the rule though, so it’s recommended that you consult with your doctor before making any final decisions. Women who are experiencing a high-risk pregnancy may want to find other means of travel.
Below are a few tips pregnant women should be mindful of when traveling by air during pregnancy.
Tips for Air Travel During Pregnancy
- Check the airline’s policy about safe travel during pregnancy
- Each airline has their own regulations about having pregnant women on board and it is important you follow the rules to ensure safety for everyone.
- Choose your seat carefully
- An aisle seat will ensure maximum space and comfort.
- Wear your seat belt
- Make sure to tighten below the abdomen to ensure safety for you and your baby.
- Promote circulation
- Get up frequently to walk about the cabin. (It is important to remember you should only get up when permitted by the pilot.)
- Stay hydrated
- Make sure you drink plenty of fluids. The humidity and air quality can cause you to become dehydrated very easily.
Traveling By Car During Pregnancy
Traveling by car while pregnant is less of a risk than traveling by air. If you are going to be in the car for a long period of time, make sure you plan accordingly. Seat belt. WebMD suggests always wearing a seat belt, making sure the lower belt rests on your lower lap, while the shoulder strap runs between your breasts and over your shoulder. It is very important to make sure the belt does NOT go over your abdomen to ensure protection to your baby. Air bag. The proper use of an air bag is equally important to help protect you and your baby in the event of an accident. As soon as you sit down, move your chair back as far as possible with a slight incline to increase the distance between your chest and the air bag. Bathroom breaks. Lastly make sure you take frequent stops for bathroom breaks and walks to help promote circulation. With that said, it is recommended that you stop every 2 hours.
Safe Traveling During Pregnancy
Overall, traveling during pregnancy is safe, if you have an uncomplicated pregnancy. It is important to be conscious of your surroundings to ensure others around you aren’t causing any problems that might affect you and your baby. Download a pregnancy app as an extra “ security blanket” to help ease any unanswered pregnancy questions. Our favorite one is the “My Pregnancy Today” pregnancy app. By joining a forum, you can get advice from moms-to-be that have experienced similar situations.
If you are unsure if you are a prime candidate to travel while pregnant, we encourage you to speak with your obstetrician or family doctor before making any decisions. If you live in the area, call us and schedule an appointment with one of our Board-Certified pediatricians or family practice doctors to learn more about safe travel during pregnancy. We will gladly assist you. Now that you know about safe travel during pregnancy, pass it on!