Travel safe with an extra passenger
Elizabeth Stein, a women's health expert and Certified Nurse Midwife, lends advice on holiday travel tips for pregnant women:
Wherever you go
Most important of all, keep your Medicare card and important phone numbers with you. If you go into labour or your water breaks while you're away from home, call your midwife or doctor so that they can direct you to the appropriate hospital and have your medical records sent.
It is ideal to be near your midwife or physician, and the hospital you plan to deliver at throughout your entire pregnancy. If a woman goes into premature labour (between 24-34 weeks), the baby's health will depend on the available technology and a qualified neonatal staff.
Related: POTENTIALLY PREGNANT
By plane
If you are considering plane travel, discuss your plans with your midwife or physician ahead of time to determine if it is a safe choice. Check with your airline to see if they require a letter of medical or obstetrical clearance if you are close to your due date. Most airlines, as well as midwives and physicians, strongly discourage flying after 35 weeks of pregnancy, when the mother is full term. Onboard, walk up and down the aisle every 45 minutes to an hour. Eat, drink and use the toilet continuously.
By car
When travelling by car, keep your seat belt on at all times. The proper way to wear a seat belt during pregnancy is lap belt under the abdomen; the shoulder strap should be worn coming down between the breasts, securely fastened on the side. Stop the car every hour or so to walk and get the blood flowing in your legs, as well eat, drink and use the toilet.
Other tips
Wear support stockings (also known as compression stockings), especially during travel. Sitting for a long period of time can put pregnant women at risk of blood clot formation. Support stockings can greatly reduce this risk.
After 35 weeks, which is clinically full term, you are better off staying home - eating, drinking, resting and keeping track of your baby's movements - rather than travelling. A better choice is to invite your friends and relatives to join you.
