Research medical facilities at your destination. Women in the last trimester of pregnancy should look for facilities that can manage complications of pregnancy, toxemia, cesarean sections and neonatal emergency needs.
If you will need prenatal care while you are away, arrange for this before you leave. Consult with your physician to determine the best way to handle this.
Know your blood type. If you are traveling out of the country, check to make sure blood is screened for HIV and hepatitis B in the areas you will be visiting.
Check on the availability of safe food and beverages, including bottled water and pasteurized milk, at your destinations.
Arrange to travel with a companion if at all possible.
Try to rest as much as possible while away. Exercise and activity during pregnancy are important, but try not to overdo it.
Treating Travel Sickness & Recognizing Complications
Travel sicknesses (such as motion sickness) can be heightened during pregnancy, but pregnant women should try to avoid antinausea medications (unless prescribed by your doctor). Here are some things that may help:
- Speak with your doctor about taking Ginger capsules (250 mg/dose). Ginger has long been associated with alleviating nausea.
- Carry a handkerchief with a few drops of essential oil (lemon for example) on it. Breathe through it to help with relieve nausea.
- Heat can increase the nausea. If possible, avoid sitting next to others when traveling, or at least sit next to the aisle. Wear lightweight clothing and layers so you can take layers off as needed to remain cool.
- Make sure you eat something before and perhaps during your trip. Dry foods like crackers and dried fruits, such as raisins or apricots, are good choices to carry with you. Other options include cereal bars, nuts and trail mix. Small, frequent snacks also tend to help.
If you experience any of the following complications while traveling, you should seek immediate medical attention:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Contractions
- Impaired vision
- Ruptured membranes
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Passing clots or tissue
- Headaches
- Excessive swelling of your legs
Traveling by Car
Whether it's a cross country trip or just a short drive, follow these guidelines every time:
- Always wear a seatbelt. Position the lap portion of the belt snugly under your abdomen and across your upper thighs. The seat belt should NOT cross your abdomen.
- Air bags are just as safe during pregnancy as they are at any other time, so don’t turn them off. To minimize the risk of injury during airbag deployment, sit as far back as possible—at least ten inches away from the dashboard or steering wheel.
- Pull over at least once every two hours to stretch your legs and move around. You’ll probably need to stop and use the restroom this frequently anyway.
- If you are in a car accident of any sort, regardless of severity or how far along you are in your pregnancy, you should be checked out by a doctor immediately, even if you feel fine.
Traveling by Bus or a Train
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