It is generally safe to travel during pregnancy as long as there are no complications or concerns identified. The ideal suggested time is the second trimester, and the latest is before 36 weeks. This is because expecting women are past the morning sickness of the first trimester and not as fatigued as post 36 weeks.
Travelling while pregnant can be enjoyable, as long as you take some precautions and essentials with you. Being prepared when travelling is always essential, and here is the pregnancy Must-Haves for Travel:
- Medical Necessities & Documentation: Always speak to your gynaecologist or healthcare provider to be entirely sure your travel is safe for you and eligible to travel. They know you and your pregnancy experience so far and will be able to give you personalized advice on what sort of travel is and isn’t a good idea. It is recommended to carry your medications and prescriptions in case of emergencies. On international trips, make sure you discuss the requirement of any necessary vaccines you may need.
- Anti-Nausea Products: Many women are prone to motion sickness and nausea even after the first trimester. Ensure you carry anti-nausea remedies and products like ginger tea, citrus lollies, anti-nausea prescriptions and motion sickness bands. You never know what may help you feel relieved.
- Compression Socks: Pregnancy takes a toll on the legs. Because of the weight, an expectant mother has to carry. You can feel swollen feet and aching legs on your legs due to your pregnancy. Swelling may not go away completely until the baby is born. One way to relieve both symptoms is to wear compression socks. Long compression socks ensure graduated compression and relax swollen feet and legs.
- Comfortable Shoes: It is essential to wear your most comfortable attire while travelling. Back pain and swollen legs are joint in pregnancy. Wearing comfortable and cushioned footwear will be easy for the feet and provide relief from aching feet. Opt for a wedge or block heel instead of pointy heels if you need to wear heels.
- Pillow: Depending on what you want to use the pillow for, always carry it along while travelling. If you have back pains, you might want to carry a lumbar support pillow. An alternate is neck support or a mouldable pillow, which you can squish in any way till you feel comfortable.
- Pregnancy Support Belt: A pregnancy support belt or a Belly support band is a great support when you have to stand in security lines or walk across airports as hauling luggage can harm your lower back while travelling. This helps in easing the back pain and lower abdomen pain. It is comfortable enough to wear the belt beneath the clothes all day.
- Healthy Snacks and Water: Keeping a bottle of water handy will remind you to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day. Staying hydrated during long travels will prevent swelling and help maintain that gorgeous pregnant glow. Another important thing is to pack enough healthy snacks, so you always have something to curb your appetite if there’s a long wait for a restaurant or you get stuck in transit or someplace remote with limited offerings.
Pregnancy can be exciting and challenging at the same time in your life. One of the biggest challenges while being pregnant and travelling is maintaining your health. Also while travelling, make sure that you get someone to accompany you. We hope this article was helpful for you to pack your maternity essentials and be comfortable throughout your journey.
Author Bio:
Rory Donnelly
Rory is the R&D Director and passionate entrepreneur, fascinated by the workings of the human body and natural solutions for common health problems. He’s single-minded in his aim to make Copper Defence a brand that’s recognized across the globe, by partnering with global brands to make these high-tech materials easily accessible for everyone. If you’d like to get in touch, email Rory at Rory@copperclothing.com or visit copperclothing.com for copper-infused clothing, pet accessories and more.
