To travel, a pregnant woman must take some precautions. Plane, car, train, boat, tips for leaving with peace of mind… Here is useful information to know before planning a trip during pregnancy.
Traveling pregnant, whether by car, bus, plane, boat or train, is quite possible if the state of health of the future mother allows it. On the other hand, if it is a pathological pregnancy, with certain complications, the doctor can veto a trip during pregnancy. It is therefore advisable to consult the practitioner who follows you beforehand to know the risks incurred, and if not, if you are able to travel, the precautions to take before traveling. In addition, according to transport companies, from a certain stage of pregnancy, pregnant women may be refused boarding.
Until what month of pregnancy can you travel pregnant?
It all depends on the state of health, the destination chosen and the duration of the trip of the mother-to-be, but in general, up to 6 months of pregnancy a pregnant woman can travel. Indeed, it is not advisable to make long trips in the third trimester of pregnancy, especially when approaching the term of pregnancy.
The ideal time to travel would also be during the 2nd trimester of pregnancy. In all cases, seek the advice of a health professional, gynecologist, midwife or doctor. Finally, remember to consult before leaving to check that everything is going well, especially to check the condition of the cervix.
Why should long car journeys be avoided during pregnancy?
THE long car and bus journeys are not recommended for pregnant women. Indeed, the seated position is not comfortable pregnant and we tend to force on the legs. But above all, between the accelerations, the brakes and the possible jolts when the road is in poor condition, the uterus is solicited.
The ideal: leave less than 300 km away or make stops so as not to stay in the car or on the bus for too long. So if your destination is far away, it is better to choose another way of transportation, train or plane.
Can a pregnant woman travel by plane?
Pregnant women can fly, at least, until the third trimester of pregnancy. Some airlines refuse to support future mothers from 7 months of pregnancy. To guard against the slightest risk, it is best to consult your doctor or midwife and ask them for a permission to travelespecially if you have diabetes or high blood pressure.
Is the boat authorized to travel pregnant?
Boat trips are allowed during pregnancy, again if the state of health of the mother-to-be is compatible for travel. Shipping companies, including Corsica Ferriesmay ask you to submit a medical certificate authorizing the trip.
Namely that the movements of the boat, the waves or even the smell of gasoline can sometimes accentuate nausea in some pregnant women.
Can you take the train when you are pregnant?
Yes, it is possible to take the train when you are pregnant. This means of transport is generally air-conditioned, it does not cause jolts, the seats are wider than on an airplane and the passenger does not have to remain seated all the time.
Be careful though, because not all trains meet the same comfort criteria. So find out before departure whether there is a restaurant car and whether the train is air-conditioned. Also try if possible to take a ticket that takes you directly to your destination and avoid connections. If you’re traveling at night, book a berth so you don’t arrive tired.
Where to travel pregnant?
The choice of travel destination is important when you are pregnant. If you suffer from pregnancy ailments, opt for a relaxing destinationcombining comfort, tranquility and easy access to medical care, as in the countries in Europe: Spain, Portugal, Denmark, Italy, Greece.
Even in France, you can find ideal destinations during pregnancy: the Gulf of MorbihanTHE southern resortsmountainous regions such as AlpsTHE Pyrenees, without gaining too much altitude because not recommended during pregnancy. Avoid the countryside, itinerant trips by bike, hike or trekking, which can be a little too strenuous for a pregnant woman.
Which countries should I avoid during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, countries where the climate is too hot are avoided if possible, which can cause or exacerbate hot flashes or swollen legs. The same applies to certain tropical countries exposed to infectious diseases with risks for pregnant womenthose with high transmission of malaria (sub-Saharan African countriesSoutheast Asian countries) or which are the focus of dangerous infections, those where the hygienic conditions are not optimal or even the countries in which the medical structures are rare.
What documents do you need to take when traveling pregnant?
When you are traveling pregnant, in addition to your identity papersdo not forget to take your pregnancy diary which includes all the medical follow-up of the future mother. Inside, there is some information that can be very useful if the pregnant woman needs to carry out a check on her vacation spot. In general, you find:
- Blood test results.
- Ultrasounds.
- Blood group card.
- Vital card and European health insurance card
- Number of your attending physician or gynecologist.
Also consider take all your medications and any prescriptions that go with them, which you will keep in your handbag in case of loss of luggage (you can never be too careful!). And before you leave, it can be useful to ask your doctor to write prescriptions and other medical papers in English. Also find out about the medical structures close to your holiday destination and write down the information so that you have them available if needed.
What to put in your first aid kit when traveling pregnant?
When travelling, take only medicines recommended by your doctor. Indeed, self-medication is strongly discouraged during pregnancy. Here is a non-exhaustive list of medications to have with you when traveling, without forgetting the famous thermometer in case of suspected fever:
- Antispasmodics in case of contractions.
- Iron to prevent anemia if prescribed by your doctor.
- An antacid medicine to prevent frequent acid reflux during pregnancy.
- A medicine for diarrhoea.
- Paracetamol in case of headaches or low fever.
Our tips for stress-free pregnant travel
To travel peacefully while pregnant, here are some tips to put in place for the comfort and safety of the future mother:
- Wear light and comfortable clothing. If it’s hot, stay barefoot and try to elevate your legs if possible.
- Move the seat back as far as possible to stretch your legs and be comfortable. If you’re driving, adjust the steering wheel and back up so your stomach is as far away from the steering wheel as possible.
- Provide a cushion to support your backeven a pillow for your neck.
- Take breaks regularly to walk a little (every 1h30).
- Drink water as often as possible.
- Avoid taking winding or bad roads.
- Always keep an antispasmodic with you in case of contractions.
When traveling by car or bus, the most important thing for the safety of the future mother: don’t forget to fasten your seat belt. Put the lap as low as possible, at the level of the pelvis so that it does not press on the stomach, and the other part of the strap, as usual, between the breasts.